Led Zeppelin’s rise to global fame was already well underway by the time they finished their first U.S. tour. With each album and performance, their legacy solidified. However, their fourth studio album, often referred to as “Led Zeppelin IV” or simply “Zoso,” marked a monumental leap in their musical evolution. This album remains a cornerstone of rock music, not just because of iconic tracks like “Stairway to Heaven,” but due to the band’s ability to blend genres and push boundaries. In this review, we’ll explore what makes “Zoso” such a standout, and why it has left an indelible mark on rock history.
The journey to “Led Zeppelin IV” was anything but conventional. By 1971, the band had already achieved massive success but was still eager to prove themselves, especially after facing harsh criticism from the music press. Their previous albums had received mixed reviews, despite commercial success. With “IV,” the band was determined to silence the critics by delivering something innovative and timeless. Jimmy Page, the band’s driving force, collaborated closely with the other members, including Robert Plant, John Paul Jones, and John Bonham, to create a work that would transcend their earlier sound.
What sets “Zoso” apart is its incredible versatility and richness. The album effortlessly weaves together elements of hard rock, blues, folk, and country. It’s a testament to Led Zeppelin’s ability to mix musical styles while maintaining their signature power and energy. The opening track, “Black Dog,” features one of rock’s most memorable guitar riffs, while “Rock and Roll” captures the raw energy of the band. Each song on the album is a masterpiece in its own right, from the folk-inspired “The Battle of Evermore” to the deeply emotional “Going to California.” These songs showcase the band’s range and musical prowess, making “Led Zeppelin IV” more than just a hard rock record.
One of the album’s most defining tracks is “Stairway to Heaven,” a song that has become synonymous with the band’s legacy. More than just a ballad, the track is an ambitious composition that builds in intensity, showcasing Page’s genius for creating layered, complex music. The song’s soaring solo and mystical lyrics have made it a defining moment not just in Led Zeppelin’s career, but in the history of rock music. It remains one of the most covered and discussed songs in the genre, a testament to its lasting influence.
The album’s closing track, “When the Levee Breaks,” also stands out for its eerie atmosphere and powerful drumming. The song was inspired by an old blues tune and the devastating flood of the 1920s, with Page capturing the haunting sound by recording Bonham’s drums beneath a staircase in the mansion where they were recording. This attention to detail, combined with the band’s raw energy, creates an atmosphere that is both chilling and captivating, cementing the album’s place as a timeless classic.
“Led Zeppelin IV” not only helped to solidify Led Zeppelin’s place in rock history but also shaped the future of rock music itself. The album’s influence can still be felt today, with many bands taking inspiration from its groundbreaking sound and bold approach to music. The band’s decision to release the album without their name on the cover, opting instead for four symbolic characters representing each member, only added to the mystique and allure of the album. This level of self-mythology, combined with the unforgettable music, ensured that “Zoso” would remain a defining moment in the history of recorded music.
