Payne's Pretzels

Robert Plant, the fellow who wouldn't reform Led Zeppelin. Will this be how Mr Plant will be ever remembered? When Planet, Page, Jones and Bonham Jr. graced the stage of the O2 Arena two years ago, the magic was returned. Sure, Plant's voice isn't what it was but after forty years of the business, what would you expect? Instead of heeding to the calls for the old Zeppelin to take flight again, Plant stuck to his solo projects, such as today's featured clip with Alison Krauss.

The fruits of their labours, Raising Sand was one of the most critically acclaimed of their respective careers. It's easy to see why Plant wouldn't want to return to the days of old – it leaves the dignity of Zeppelin in tact (almost) and allows him to try new things and songs that suit his new vocal range. With the live show of Raising Sand, this rather fantastic cover of Black Dog was thrown in. It's no bombastic rocker like the original but it has a certain charm. It seems the perfect partner to Rich Woman, the opener of their album. It trundles along until the rather blistering solo at 2:20, a nice unexpected surprise.

For fans of groove, or fans of Led, you will enjoy this one. It's one of my favourite finds from the past year!