Robert Plant's latest project, Saving Grace, defies conventions as it eschews the expected path taken by many rock stars of his stature. Unlike those who would opt for a nostalgia-fueled tour of their hit songs, Plant and his ensemble have instead opted for a more unconventional approach.
The result is a diverse and intriguing collection of music that combines traditional folk songs with cover tracks that showcase Plant's eclectic tastes. There are also several Led Zeppelin tracks, but these are not the familiar versions fans might be expecting. Instead, they're radically rearranged to feature unconventional instruments such as an accordion and cello.
What's most striking about Saving Grace is the way the spotlight seems to shift throughout the performance. While Plant's voice is still in remarkable form, he often cedes the stage to other band members, including multi-instrumentalist Matt Worley and vocalist Suzi Dian. This collaborative spirit results in music that feels genuinely collective, with each member contributing their unique perspective.
The sound can be both eerie and exploratory, with instruments like the mandolin adding a surprising level of texture to certain tracks. Dian's exceptional vocals are particularly noteworthy, and her presence in the spotlight is never overshadowed by Plant's. In fact, it often feels as if she's the focal point, while Plant recedes into the background.
This approach has allowed Saving Grace to tap into something truly special – music that genuinely feels like a collaborative effort, rather than simply a showcase for one star. As Plant so aptly puts it, they're "exploring the possibilities," and the results are nothing short of astonishing.
The result is a diverse and intriguing collection of music that combines traditional folk songs with cover tracks that showcase Plant's eclectic tastes. There are also several Led Zeppelin tracks, but these are not the familiar versions fans might be expecting. Instead, they're radically rearranged to feature unconventional instruments such as an accordion and cello.
What's most striking about Saving Grace is the way the spotlight seems to shift throughout the performance. While Plant's voice is still in remarkable form, he often cedes the stage to other band members, including multi-instrumentalist Matt Worley and vocalist Suzi Dian. This collaborative spirit results in music that feels genuinely collective, with each member contributing their unique perspective.
The sound can be both eerie and exploratory, with instruments like the mandolin adding a surprising level of texture to certain tracks. Dian's exceptional vocals are particularly noteworthy, and her presence in the spotlight is never overshadowed by Plant's. In fact, it often feels as if she's the focal point, while Plant recedes into the background.
This approach has allowed Saving Grace to tap into something truly special – music that genuinely feels like a collaborative effort, rather than simply a showcase for one star. As Plant so aptly puts it, they're "exploring the possibilities," and the results are nothing short of astonishing.