Led Zeppelin: Celebration Day news updates

Led Zeppelin continue to shoot down reunion rumors, get justifiably annoyed at ... Entertainment Weekly (blog) Yesterday, the surviving members of Led Zeppelin (plus honorary member Jason Bonham, son of late drummer John) pulled back the curtain on Celebration Day, the concert film that captures the group's sorta-reunion performance at the O2 Arena in London ... See all stories on this topic »

Led Zeppelin premiere 'Celebration Day' Washington Post Led Zeppelin set the record straight about the chance of a reunion at the premiere of their film “Celebration Day” in New York. Associated Press. Correction: Clarification: RELATED. The FOLD · E-mail · Save/Share · Embed · Comments · Permalink ? See all stories on this topic »

ShowBiz Minute: AMA, Led Zeppelin, One Direction The Associated Press Sign in or sign up now! Alert icon. Loading... Published on Oct 10, 2012 by AssociatedPress. Rihanna and Minaj lead American Music Awards nominees; Jimmy Page says 'no' to Led Zeppelin reunion; One Direction, NFL's Drew Brees join Pepsi for ad. See all stories on this topic »

Led Zeppelin rules out reunion tour for now CBS News Led Zeppelin will not be reuniting any time soon. That message came through loud and clear Tuesday with sarcasm, stoic silence, and even the occasional barb at reporters that dared to ask. Just the mere mention of the topic set lead singer Robert Plant ... See all stories on this topic »

Led Zeppelin together again in 'Celebration Day' film, but says no to concert ... Plain Dealer Enlarge Associated Press entertainment staff Led Zeppelin together again Tuesday, Oct. 9, at the Museum of Modern Art in New York. The band was there to promote the upcoming release of "Celebration Day", a concert film of their 2007 London O2 arena ... See all stories on this topic » Plain Dealer

Led Zeppelin Makes Rare NYC Appearance for Celebration Day ComingSoon.net There are many days when this is the greatest job ever, and Tuesday, October 9, was one of those days as ComingSoon.net got to be in the same room with the legendary rock group Led Zeppelin, as they made a rare appearance in New York at the Museum ... See all stories on this topic » ComingSoon.net

Big time Led Zeppelin fans are London-bound TVNZ The phone call was from a radio station telling him he had won the only two tickets in New Zealand to the London premiere of Celebration Day, a movie documenting Led Zeppelin's 2007 reunion show. The three living members of the band will all be at the ... See all stories on this topic »

Led Zeppelin Frontman Vs Media antiMUSIC.com Led Zeppelin frontman Robert Plant lost his patience with a mainstream wire service reporter during a press conference in New York yesterday. The band held the event to promote the release of their new 'Celebration Day' reunion DVD but things took a ... See all stories on this topic »

Blogs Led Zeppelin

Led Zeppelin came to NYC for a press conference, film premiere ... By brooklynvegan Led Zeppelin at MoMA - 10/9/12 Speaking of Led Zeppelin, they (Robert Plant, Jimmy Page, John Paul Jones, and the late John Bonham's son, Jason) were also in NYC yesterday (10/9) for a press conference at MoMA, hours before their... brooklynvegan

Jimmy Page Isn't Feeling Led Zeppelin Reunion By Kim LaCapria Jimmy Page has spoken out about the possibility of a Led Zeppelin reunion, and it doesn't look very promising for fans of the classic rock band. Jimmy. The Inquisitr

Led Zeppelin: Not a Whole Lotta Love at Press Conference ... By Roger Friedman Apparently the Led Zeppelin press conference on Tuesday was a bust. The band is finally putting out a DVD from its December 2007 reunion show in London. But. Showbiz411

Led Zeppelin testy about reunion | reunion, led, zeppelin - Celebrity ... By By TIMOTHY MANGAN Led Zeppelin singer Robert Plant participates in a press conference ahead of the worldwide theatrical release of "Celebration Day", a concert film of their 2007 London O2 arena reunion show, at the Museum of Modern Art on Tuesday, Oct. 9, ... The Orange County Register -...

Jimmy Page says 'no' to Led Zeppelin reunion - San Antonio ... Just the mention of the topic set off lead singer Robert Plant at a news conference for the band's upcoming concert film, "Celebration Day." [...] at the film's premiere later in the evening, guitarist Jimmy Page set the record straight, sort of, about ... National/International Headline...

Web

Led Zeppelin gets tense with reunion questions - Yahoo! Music From Yahoo! Music: If the members of Led Zeppelin plan on reuniting, they have a funny way of saying it. music.yahoo.com/.../led-zeppelin-gets-tense-reunion-questions... News Jimmy Page's hopes for Led Zeppelin reunion tour dashed: Robert Plant curses ... New York Daily News Plant's outburst arrives on the heels of an admission to Rolling Stone by former Zeppelin guitarist Jimmy Page that a reunion isn't in the cards. He echoed the statement after Plant, saying that December will mark five years since the band has played ... See all stories on this topic » New York Daily News Jimmy Page doesn't see Led Zeppelin future Contactmusic.com Jimmy Page doesn't see Led Zeppelin future. Jimmy Page ''doesn't see'' any more Led Zeppelin concerts happening as they'd already be talking about them if there were to be any more shows. Jimmy Page ''doesn't see'' any more Led Zeppelin concerts ... See all stories on this topic » Contactmusic.com

Jimmy Page says 'no' to Led Zeppelin reunion San Jose Mercury News NEW YORK—Led Zeppelin will not be reuniting anytime soon. That message came through loud and clear Tuesday with sarcasm, stoic silence and even the occasional barb at reporters who dared to ask. Just the mention of the topic set off lead singer Robert ... See all stories on this topic »

Page rules out Led Zeppelin reunion The Press Association But at the film's premiere later in the evening in New York, guitarist Jimmy Page set the record straight, sort of, about a potential reunion. "I think it's disappointing for people when the answer is no," he said. But he later added: "That's what it ... See all stories on this topic »

Jimmy Page doesn't see Led Zeppelin future stv.tv Jimmy Page doesn't see Led Zeppelin future. Bang 10 October 2012 06:00 BST. Tweet Facebook Tweet Google. Jimmy Page ''doesn't see'' any more Led Zeppelin concerts happening. The legendary musician - who reunited with bandmates John Paul ... See all stories on this topic » Jimmy Page rules out Led Zeppelin reunion at premiere of band's ... They're one of the most iconic British rock bands of all time, but any fans hoping for a musical reunion are going to be disappointed. www.dailymail.co.uk/.../Jimmy-Page-rules-Led-Zeppelin-reun... Jimmy Page Says He Doesn't See Led Zeppelin Reuniting Again ... At a recent London press event, singer Robert Plant, bassist/keyboardist John Paul Jones and ... abcnewsradioonline.com/.../jimmy-page-says-he-doesnt-see-le... Photo Gallery: Joe Walsh (and Jimmy Page) at NYC's Iridium Jazz ... Joe Walsh performed with the Les Paul Trio last night at the Iridium Jazz Club in New York City. It's not uncommon for some big names to drop by ... www.guitarworld.com/photo-gallery-joe-walsh-and-jimmy-pa... Jimmy Page says 'no' to Led Zeppelin reunion - Yahoo! Finance From Yahoo! Finance: Led Zeppelin will not be reuniting any time soon. finance.yahoo.com/.../jimmy-page-says-no-led-zeppelin-reuni... News Robert Plant Leaves Door Open for Led Zeppelin Reunion ABC News (blog) The three surviving members of Led Zeppelin — Robert Plant, Jimmy Page and John Paul Jones — as well as late Zeppelin drummer John Bonham's son, Jason, gathered at New York's Museum of Modern Art to chat with the press and address the ... See all stories on this topic » ABC News (blog) Robert Plant Calls Reporter a 'Schmuck' The Associated Press Led Zeppelin met the New York media on Tuesday to promote their new concert film 'Celebration Day.' When asked whether the film might be the prelude to a reunion, Robert Plant called an AP reporter a 'schmuck' for asking the question. (Oct. 9) ... See all stories on this topic » Gary Barlow, Robert Plant: music's grumpiest men Gigwise Today seems to have been a very grumpy day for some men in music. Gary Barlow is not happy about the X Factor, Robert Plant squashes a journalist in New York and Morrissey still hates the Royals. Gigwise is therefore taking some the time to look at ... See all stories on this topic » Robert Plant calls a reporter a 'schmuck' Brisbane Times Robert Plant calls a reporter a 'schmuck' (01:12). When asked whether Led Zeppelin's new concert film 'Celebration Day' might herald a reunion, singer Robert Plant gives a surprising answer. 10/10/12. Return to video ... See all stories on this topic » Robert Plant Leaves Door Open for Led Zeppelin Reunion at NYC Press ... WFJA Classic Hits and Oldies 105.5 FM Celebration Day, the new concert film documenting Led Zeppelin's December 2007 reunion show at London's O2 Arena, premieres Tuesday night at New York City's Ziegfeld Theatre. Prior to the event, the band's three surviving members — Robert Plant, ... See all stories on this topic » Jimmy Page says 'no' to Led Zeppelin reunion, but leaves door open at NY ... Newser Led Zeppelin, from left, bassist/keyboardist John Paul Jones, guitarist Jimmy Page, singer Robert Plant, and drummer Jason Bonham participate in a press conference ahead of the worldwide theatrical release... (Associated Press) ... See all stories on this topic » Wire Entertainment - Music News Sacramento Bee Led Zeppelin singer Robert Plant participates in a press conference ahead of the worldwide theatrical release of "Celebration Day", a concert film of their 2007 London O2 arena reunion show, at the Museum of Modern Art on Tuesday, Oct. 9, 2012 in New ... See all stories on this topic » Jimmy Page Says "No" to Led Zeppelin Reunion NBC Southern California John Paul Jones, Jimmy Page, and Robert Plant attend the "Led Zeppelin: Celebration Day" press conference at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City. Page dispelled rumors about a potential reunion. advertisement. Click Here! Led Zeppelin will not be ... See all stories on this topic » Blogs Robert Plant at HSBC Arena Oct. 18th - The Rio Times By Nathan Walters Robert Plant, of the legendary rock band Led Zeppelin, descends onto Rio next week with The Sensational Space Shifters for an October 18th performance. The Rio Times Web Jimmy Page sees Joe Walsh, Robert Plant lashes out at journalists ... Robert Plant wasn't in a celebratory mood for the premiere of Led Zeppelin concert film “Celebration Day.” The rocker hit MoMA for a strangely contentious press ... www.nypost.com/.../poison_plant_for_zep_film_0buRRXIUiq... Robert Plant calls reporter a 'schmuck' - Yahoo! News Watch the video 'Robert Plant calls reporter a 'schmuck'' on Yahoo! News. news.yahoo.com/.../robert-plant-calls-reporter-a-schmuck-308... Robert Plant Calls Reporter a 'Schmuck' | www.accessatlanta.com ... film 'Celebration Day.' When asked whether the film might be the prelude to a reunion, Robert Plant called an AP reporter a 'schmuck' for asking the question. www.accessatlanta.com/videos/ap/entertainment/.../vfnHX/ Robert Plant calls reporter a schmuck : Stltoday Led Zeppelin met the New York media on Tuesday to promote ... www.stltoday.com/.../vmix_5f2f18d6-12d7-11e2-828b-0019...

Led Zeppelin: Celebration Day film reviews

Here are early reviews of Led Zeppelin: Celebration Day - I will be updating this page more as I receive them.  You might want to bookmark this page so you can check back.

ultimateclassicrock.com  "For two solid hours, the viewer is witness to full-on Led Zep sonic fury."

triplem.com.au  "Three things stand out from the outset. 1) Robert Plant is still an amazing vocalist, incredible is not pushing it. 2) Jimmy Page is still one of the best guitarists in the world, he steals the show and not one of his band-mates mind. 3) Jason Bonham is a star, his Dad was smiling down on him that night.
    "I have not forgotten JPJ, here is a man who onstage is the ‘quiet one’ but still over the 2 and half hours manages bass, piano, keys and more. He does it effortlessly and without fuss or need for a spotlight. He nails."

uncut.co.uk/  "Unlike, say, Martin Scorsese's Rolling Stones' concert film Shine A Light, Celebration Day isn't looking to say anything profound or particularly meaningful about Led Zeppelin. Curruthers' proficient film is a testament to the physical endurance of these men, and a satisfying reminder of the brilliance of that show in 2007."

Led Zeppelin: Celebration Day news updates

Led Zeppelin, 'Celebration Day' - Film Review Ultimate Classic Rock 'Celebration Day' makes a huge statement befitting the career of Led Zeppelin, and this film exceeds in the most triumphant ways. This movie will definitely add to their legend and should become a “must have” for all lovers of great rock and roll music. See all stories on this topic »

Led Zeppelin refuses to answer reunion questions Metro.us Don't ask Led Zeppelin if they're getting the band back together. Numerous reporters tried yesterday at a press conference promoting the release of their concert film, "Celebration Day," but the British rock gods dodged and weaved. "We've been thinking ... See all stories on this topic »

Led Zeppelin Press Conference for Celebration Day - MoMa NYC - 10/9/12 ... YouTube Led Zeppelin answers questions about their rehearsals for their 2007 concert at London's O2 Arena. John Paul Jones says they rehearsed for a six-week period, give or take. Robert Plant answered that they had been thinking about all sorts of things ... See all stories on this topic »

Led Zeppelin gets tense with reunion questions The Associated Press NEW YORK (AP) — If the members of Led Zeppelin plan on reuniting, they have a funny way of saying it. During a news conference Tuesday promoting their 2007 reunion concert film, "Celebration Day," the band became uncomfortable with a question about ... See all stories on this topic »

Photos: Classic rockers flock for Zeppelin flick Vancouver Sun ... Zeppelin's film “Celebration Day” in New York October 9, 2012. Photograph by: CARLO ALLEGRI , REUTERS. A few famous friends came along for the show as iconic British rockers Led Zeppelin debuted their new concert film Celebration Day. Take a look. See all stories on this topic »

Robert Plant calls a reporter a 'schmuck' (01:12) The Age Robert Plant calls a reporter a 'schmuck' (01:12). When Led Zeppelin members are asked whether their new concert film 'Celebration Day' might herald a reunion, Robert Plant gives a surprising answer. 10/10/12. Return to video ... See all stories on this topic »

Led Zeppelin - Celebration Day - Kashmir teaser - YouTube CLICK HERE TO BUY CINEMA TICKETS for 17th October, 2012: http://bit.ly/ RJwqY9 CLICK ... www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Iqu2BHgyRg

WATCH LED ZEPPELIN'S "CELEBRATION DAY" PRESS ... On September 21, John Paul Jones, Robert Plant and Jimmy Page reunited for a press conference to announce the worldwide theatrical screening of ... www.undercover.fm/.../17073-watch-led-zeppelin-s-celebratio...

Led Zeppelin's "Celebration Day" to be shown in Utah movie ... The Led Zeppelin movie-concert "Celebration Day" will be shown in movie theaters on Oct. 17. Led Zeppelin took the stage at London's O2 Arena on December ... www.sltrib.com/.../celebration-led-zeppelin-jordan.html.csp

Watch Led Zeppelin's Celebration Day" press conference - Wbab.com The Legendary 2007 Live Concert - Available For The First Time Ever On December 10, 2007, Led Zeppelin took the stage at London's O2 Arena to headline a ... www.wbab.com/news/entertainment/music/...led.../nSXHL/ Jimmy Page Says He Doesn't See Led Zeppelin Reuniting Again WFJA Classic Hits and Oldies 105.5 FM At a recent London press event, singer Robert Plant, bassist/keyboardist John Paul Jones and guitarist Jimmy Page were evasive when the subject was brought up. Now, in a new interview with Rolling Stone, Page has put his two cents about the chances for ... See all stories on this topic » Jimmy Page sees Joe Walsh Robert Plant lashes out at journalists ... Robert Plant wasn't in a celebratory mood for the premiere of Led Zeppelin concert film “Celebration Day.” The rocker hit MoMA for a strangely contentious ... www.nypost.com/.../poison_plant_for_zep_film_0buRRXIUiq... Led Zeppelin Gets Tense When Asked About Possible Reunion ... By pvictorwins Led Zeppelin Guitarist Jimmy Page (credit: Al Jones, 1010 WINS) ... At one point, guitarist Jimmy Page mentioned that the reunion concert was five years ago and that if there was a chance they were reuniting, you would have heard. “Seems ... CBS New York Jimmy Page says 'no' to Led Zeppelin reunion, but leaves door open at NY ... Washington Post But at the film's premiere later in the evening, guitarist Jimmy Page set the record straight, sort of, about a potential reunion. “I think it's disappointing for people when the answer is no,” Page said. But he later added: “That's what it is now ... See all stories on this topic » Jimmy Page says 'no' to Led Zeppelin reunion Uniontown Herald Standard Jimmy Page says 'no' to Led Zeppelin reunion. Story · Comments · Image (7). Print: Create a hardcopy of this page; Font Size: Default font size: Larger font size. Previous Next. Jimmy Page says 'no' to Led Zeppelin reunion. Evan Agostini ... See all stories on this topic » Page Stops Zeppelin Reunion Rumors Gibson Now Jimmy Page has put those rumors to rest once and for all. Page told Rolling Stone in an interview: “I think if there had been any more concerts to be done, we'd already be talking about them. So I don't see it... [Celebration Day] is a testament to ... See all stories on this topic » Gibson KFIX Rock News: Jimmy Page Talks “Celebration Day” hays Post Led Zeppelin guitarist Jimmy Page recently sat down with Rolling Stone to talk about the upcoming release of “Celebration Day”, the film, DVD, and CD of the band's 2007 reunion concert at London's O2 Arena. Page recalls walking off stage after the ... See all stories on this topic » Jimmy Page saysno to Led Zeppelin reunion Saloncom To the dismay of fans, the guitarist of rock band Led Zeppelin quelled rumors of a reunion show--for now, at least. www.salon.com/.../jimmy_page_says_no_to_led_zeppelin_reu... hays Post

Led Zeppelin news links

Led Zeppelin Clash With Reporters at New York Press Conference RollingStone.com Led Zeppelin clashed with reporters at a press conference this afternoon at the Museum of Modern Art while promoting Celebration Day, an upcoming film capturing their 2007 reunion concert at London's O2 arena. The conference started out as congenial, ... See all stories on this topic » RollingStone.com

Led Zeppelin gets tense with reunion questions Uniontown Herald Standard Led Zeppelin gets tense with reunion questions Associated Press | 0 comments. If the members of Led Zeppelin plan on reuniting, they have a funny way of saying it. During a news conference Tuesday promoting their 2007 reunion concert film, "Celebration ... See all stories on this topic »

Led Zeppelin talks new concert film; no reunion planned NYDailyNews Loading... Alert icon. Sign in or sign up now! Alert icon. Loading... Published on Oct 9, 2012 by nydailynews. The three surviving members of Led Zeppelin talk about the upcoming concert film 'Celebration Day' and say there is no plan for a reunion. See all stories on this topic »

Quick Hits: Ke$ha, Black Keys, Led Zeppelin, Pharrell / Jay-Z / Frank Ocean ... FMQB Ke$ha announced on Monday that she will release an illustrated memoir entitled My Crazy Beautiful Life on November 20. The book will give Ke$ha fans insight into the 25-year-old's thoughts and reflections on her fast rise to fame. "In less than three ... See all stories on this topic »

Zeppelin reunion talk makes for tense news conference TbNewsWatch.com Led Zeppelin singer Robert Plant participates in a press conference ahead of the worldwide theatrical release of "Celebration Day", a concert film of their 2007 London O2 arena reunion show, at the Museum of Modern Art on Tuesday, Oct. 9, 2012 in New ... See all stories on this topic »

Director's story of Led Zeppelin reunion gig film Celebration Day The Sun MORE than 20million people wanted tickets for Led Zeppelin's famous reunion gig in 2007, but only now will most of them get the chance to see the amazing show. And it is all thanks to one man hiding the footage away for five years. Dick Carruthers took ... See all stories on this topic » The Sun

Australian Rock Band TRACER Announces 2013 UK Concerts Broadway World The new, as-yet-untitled album will be produced by Kevin Shirley (Led Zeppelin, Iron Maiden, Slayer, Silverchair, Cold Chisel), and is planned for late March/early April release. Tracer?s 2013 UK tour starts at London?s Scala on Tuesday 9 April ... See all stories on this topic »

Led Zeppelin Reunion Unlikely Noise11 Led Zeppelin Reunion Unlikely. by VVN Music on October 9, 2012. Led Zeppelin fans need to pickup the new concert film, Celebration Day, when it's released on November 19 as that very well may be the last time you'll see the group in concert. Led ... See all stories on this topic » Noise11

David Blaine wraps up high-voltage stunt in NYC KFDA Led Zeppelin gets tense with reunion questions · Led Zeppelin gets tense with reunion questions. If Led Zeppelin plans on reuniting, they have a funny way of saying it. If the members of Led Zeppelin plan on reuniting, they have a funny way of saying it. See all stories on this topic »

Jimmy Page: Led Zeppelin Reunion Won't Happen Starpulse.com (blog) Rocker Jimmy Page has reiterated there are no plans for Led Zeppelin to reunite onstage even though the bandmates have come together to promote the concert movie release of their one-off concert five years ago. Page and bandmates John Paul Jones and ... See all stories on this topic » Starpulse.com (blog)

Jimmy Page Recalls Celebration Day Reunion antiMUSIC.com Jimmy Page spoke with Rolling Stone about the concert, saying he recalls walking off stage after the reunion concert feeling "really high. That's the truth. It was a serious test, and we passed it, all of us. And we had an extraordinary communion on ... See all stories on this topic »

Alchemy: Led Into Gold (Part 2)

..when it is cast ... does fully perfect them in the very projection...

~The Mirror of Alchemy, by Friar Roger Bacon  

Mage Music 23

A table of alchemical symbols
from Basil Valentine's
The Last Will and Testament, 1670

Alchemy was the forerunner of chemistry, with a metaphysical twist that modern chemists eschew. Like any good scientist, an alchemist researches to find out what might work and what might not, and why. After gathering the tools and the raw materials, both chemist and alchemist combines and manipulates the components in precise ways with the intention of producing a specific end product.

Today chemists might be trying to create the world's next greatest breakthrough in personal deodorant or the ultimate biodegradable plastic. Alchemists, on the other hand, seek to create perfection in life and soul via discovery of a catalyst (an Elixir, according to Roger Bacon, a.k.a. the Philosopher's Stone) that takes imperfect matter and makes it perfect. The methodology of the alchemist is like today's chemist, in that it is very calculated and precise, and many records are made of every step so the process can be duplicated. Unlike today's chemists, however, alchemists' intentions are not merely to produce gold, but to produce a catalyst that will perfect anything, including the human soul.

Microcosm vs Macrocosm
Chemists intentionally limit their focus to the task at hand. Issues of the larger world are basically irrelevant to the chemical processes. Theirs is a microcosmic view.

Alchemists, on the other hand, take the macrocosmic view. Their physical labors are intended to impact the world of the non-physical and their work is multi-layered (multi-realitied) and complex. Far from experimenting to simply discover chemical reactions that produce a single physical property or object, the alchemist chooses each alchemical element not only for its physical properties but because the element embodies other qualities in the Universe, and the intention is to generate results on many levels. The physical generation of gold simply provides evidence of success in creating perfection from the imperfect components, and the catalyst that has been generated can then be used to create perfection of the soul.

The Alchemy of Music
Mage musicians are obviously not alchemists - at least as far as their music is concerned. They don't stand on the stage with flasks and burners, boiling and steaming noxious chemicals - but they are mixing components with the intention of creating perfection from imperfection.

2007 O2 Concert
movie trailer image

Jimmy Page spent many years as a session musician and with various bands sampling materials, practicing techniques and assessing other musicians, as revealed in Dave Lewis' playlist from Part 1, last week on this blog. This week's playlist, also from Dave Lewis' book, Led Zeppelin: A Celebration (Omnibus Press, 1991) is entirely Led Zeppelin music.  It represents the results of years of research, an alchemical-like selection of components that are meticulously blended and heated to the perfect temperature to create the elixir of Mage Music, music that is transformed to something more.

Through the careful selection of gifted musicians who could and would push the envelope, with the added ingredient of Jimmy Page's own incredible talent with guitar and in the studio, and with Mr. Page's powerful desire and intention, Led Zeppelin opened an alchemical door and Mage Music stepped through.

♪ 

Future post :
Led Into Gold (Part 3), with more of David Lewis’s History of Guitar Master list
The Chicken/Egg quandary (the neurophysics of music)

♫ 

YouTube Playlist - Led Into Gold - The Led Zeppelin Years

Individual songs 

1969 Dazed and Confused (studio) Album: Led Zeppelin. Dave says: "From its sonic signalling intro, right through to its mesmerising climax, 'Dazed And Confused' remains one of [Jimmy Page's] most complete performances."
1969 Whole Lotta Love (studio) Album: Led Zeppelin II. Dave says: "Every inch of drama is compressed into the arrangement... "
1970 Since I've Been Loving You (studio) Album: Led Zeppelin III. Dave says: "...[Jimmy Page] had by now switched from the Telecaster back to a Gibson Les Paul guitar and the choice of instrument brings a sustained fluency to his playing, particularly during the tortured solo, that is quite breathaking. "
1970 Tangerine (studio) Album: Led Zeppelin III. Dave says: "A perfect illustration of the light and shade of [Jimmy Page's] expansive style. "
1973 No Quarter (live) No Quarter MSG -The Song Remains The Same. Dave says: "...this track took on an extra dimension when played live as it became an extended vehicle for John Paul Jones and Jimmy Page not only to flex their respective talents but to play off each other by weaving melodies together."
1975 In My Time Of Dying (studio) Album: Physical Graffiti. Dave says: "...a showcase for Page's bottleneck banshee wailings. "
1975 Kashmir (studio) Physical Graffiti. Dave says: "...a clear example of the potency of the Led Zeppelin chemistry..."
1976 Achilles Last Stand (studio) Album: Presence. Dave says: "...a new level of urgency and intensity..."

Celebration Day Movie Premiere Oct 9 in Manhattan

On Oct. 9 “Celebration Day” will have its premiere at the Ziegfeld Theater in Manhattan. That event will be preceded by a news conference at the Museum of Modern Art with the founding Led Zeppelin members Robert Plant, Jimmy Page and John Paul Jones. Stepping in for John Bonham, who died in 1980, will be that drummer’s son, Jason Bonham.  Read more...

Also John Paul Jones, Jimmy Page and Robert Plant at London’s Hammersmith Apollo for a special premiere screening of Celebration Day on October 12th 2012. Very limited number of tickets available here.

You can also pre-order your copy of Led Zeppelin: Celebration Day at http://www.ledzeppelin.com/buy/
Link for the pre-order is also at the Led Zeppelin: Celebration Day tab above so you can easily find it again.

Alchemy: Led Into Gold (Part 1)

…all went into the melting pot...  ~ Jimmy Page, Interview Musician Magazine November 1990

The Alchemist in Search of the Philosopher's Stone, 

by Joseph Wright, 1771

Mage Music 22

From saints to scientists, some of the world’s most brilliant thinkers also studied alchemy, including St Thomas Aquinas, Pope Innocent VIII, Martin Luther, philosopher and Franciscan friar Roger Bacon, and Sir Isaac Newton. Philosophers, scientists, physicians, religious theorists and occultists round the world have studied and practiced the art and science for thousands of years. 

From chemistry, medicine and nuclear physics to psychology and the arts, alchemical-like research still goes on today. The goal of transmutation (changing of the form, appearance, or nature of something, especially to a higher form) is all, in a sense, the search for a Philosopher’s Stone, an object (or some other, depending on who’s answering the question) that can turn base metals into silver or gold.

Why Bother?

You would think with all those great minds invested in alchemy, there would have to be more to it than just making expensive metals. After all, you have more likelihood of success with panning for gold in a stream than you do creating it using Magick. Even the gold produced by physicists who have converted platinum atoms via nuclear reaction has only lasted for a few seconds: A lot of effort for not much result.

Of course, true Magickal alchemy is not really about gold, but rather is about something very different. Like with so many of the other Magickal traditions (shamanism, Kabbalah, Thelema, Wicca, divination, etc.), when practiced by the most advanced Mages, what you think you are seeing of the Magickal alchemy is not what is really happening.

More than just the transmutation of lead into gold, alchemy’s core is spiritual. The Magick is in the personal transmutation of the human soul to a higher, more perfect and enlightened state.

The Philosopher’s Stone is not unlike the Grail and other transformational objects, such as the Cup of Jamshid, in that they all represent hidden spiritual truth or power that enables the Mage to change not just the outer world, but the inner. The difference between the Philosopher’s Stone and the Grail or Cup, however, is that the alchemist has to discover how to create the Stone - and that, too, is hidden knowledge, just as the locations of the Grail and Cup are.

While there have always been those alchemists who just wanted to create a Stone that would enable them to transmute gold from base metal, the great thinkers understood the terminology and apparatus of alchemy to be symbolic of the higher quest, a way of talking about the search for knowledge and enlightenment without sharing the information with the rest of the world.

Remember the lesson of Lucifer: Throughout human history people have been broken on the rack and burned at the stake for using Magick openly. Being secretive has often been the safest bet for the brilliant.

The Alchemy of Music

Many of the arts have used the quest for the Philosopher’s Stone as a basis for their work, as subject and plot devices as well as a Magickal alchemical process of transmutation. Painters and other visual artists have incorporated alchemical thought and symbols in their work. Music, too, has been influenced by alchemy. In fact, of all the arts, music is perhaps the most suitable for transmutation of the soul.  That is why, in the hands of a Mage, music can be such powerful Magick.

Kimiya-yi sa'ādat (The Alchemy of Happiness)
a text on Islamic philosophy and spiritual alchemy
by Al-Ghazālī (1058–1111).

A masterful selection of the components of any substance and the artistic touch in combining the components is part of the task of the alchemist. The alchemy of any group of people – such as in a band, and yes, I’m talking about Led Zeppelin – is such that if there is the right selection of people and an artistic touch in combining their musical output, the music can be transformed from pitch, volume, tone, rhythm and all the other acoustic factors into something much greater. In the vision of a Mage, alchemical process transmutes sound into Magick.

Although he was talking about the rapport between a bass player and a drummer, when John Paul Jones said it was “…quite uncanny sometimes; we would both pick an off-the-wall phrase and put it in at exactly the same time and it would end up totally in synch….”, he was talking about successful alchemy (Musician Magazine interview, November 1990). We know that Robert Plant, John Bonham and John Paul Jones were extraordinary musicians as part of Led Zeppelin, however it was the Mage Musician in the form of the guitarist Jimmy Page, who selected and mixed using his vision and his art, that created a musical Philosopher’s Stone of their music.

Rather than provide my own playlist, here the first ten of a playlist recommended by Dave Lewis in his book, Led Zeppelin: A Celebration (Omnibus Press, 1991). Mr. Lewis selected these songs “…to demonstrate the achievements of Jimmy Page as a guitar player.” These selections are meant to provide examples of Jimmy Page’s work spanning every stage of his career. “You will discover an aural history of a guitar master and his art,” wrote Mr. Lewis.  This first half of the playlist provides the search for the components. The second half of the playlist will appear in this blog next week and will contain the artistic touch that creates the Philosopher’s Stone.

Don’t listen to lyrics, don’t listen to style - don’t listen to anything but the guitar to get a glimpse into the evolution of this alchemist’s Mage Music. All of it went into the alchemical melting pot.

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Future posts:

Led Into Gold (Part 2), with more of David Lewis’s History of Guitar Master list
The Chicken/Egg quandary (the neurophysics of music)

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YouTube Playlist - Led Into Gold (Part 1)

Individual songs (URLs)

1963 "Your Mamma's Out Of Town", Carter Lewis and The Southerners.  Dave says:  "…young Jimmy can be heard subtly undercutting the innocent pop beat of the day with some clever acoustic picking."

1963 "Money Honey", Mickie Most.  Dave says:  "…an early and aggressive flexing of the Gibson Les Paul custom guitar Page used during his session days…"

1964 "I Just Can't Go To Sleep", The Sneekers.  Dave says:  "…Page's early deployment of guitar effects.  Fuzz, distortion and wah-wah…"

1964 "Once In A While", The Brooks.  Dave says:  "…Jimmy injects a series of sizzling runs culminating in a brief but quite brilliant solo that is years ahead of its time."

1965 "She Just Satisfies", Jimmy Page.  Dave says:  "… early example of Page's ability to manipulate a simple guitar riff and stretch it over the framework of an entire song. "  Jimmy Page plays all the instruments on this song except drums, and it appears that he sings as well.

1966 "Happenings 10 Years Time Ago", The Yardbirds. Jimmy Page sharing guitar duty with Jeff Beck.  Dave says:  "…largely responsible for the song's arrangement [Page] takes credit for the jerky rhythmic chording and the eerie police siren effects…"  The solo is Jeff Beck.  Dave further says:  "… a yardstick for some of the adventurous and unorthodox guitar arrangements that were to follow…"  John Paul Jones, bass.

1967 "Little Games", The Yardbirds. Dave says:  "…represents the subtle beginnings of the Page/Jones guitar/stricg section interplay that would manifest itself years later and to much great effect on their composition, 'Kashmir'."  Also, "On the fade-out Page, by now using a Fender Telecaster, plays a beautifully sustained note that echoes above the strings."

1967 "Tinker Tailor Soldier Sailor", The Yardbirds.  Dave says:  "…concentrate on the slashing simmering guitar chordings that drive the song along.  It's very similar to the layered effect on Zeppelin's own 'The Song Remains The Same'".  Note the use of the bow to produce "… the atmospheric, almost majestic, sound that was to become the highlight of almost every live Zeppelin concert during 'Dazed And Confused'".

1967 "White Summer", The Yardbirds.  Dave says:  "…the first flowering of Jimmy's flirtation with a finger-picked acoustic guitar," and "…the first master-stroke on a trilogy of Page studio performances that would continue with 'Black Mountain Side' and climax with 'Kashmir'".

1968 "Think About It", The Yardbirds.  Dave says "…a stepping-off point from which Jimmy Page was able to transfer his musical identity and relocate it within the framework that was to become Led Zeppelin's first album."