The Courier & Advertiser (Fife Edition)
Perth fans’ whole lotta love for rocker Plant
Rock legend wows crowd with new songs as well as classic favourites from the Led Zeppelin back catalogue
This was the stuff of dreams for Perthshire rock fans, particularly those of a certain age.
Former Led Zeppelin star Robert Plant – one of the most famous frontmen in history – played a barnstorming set at a packed Perth Concert Hall last night.
Joined by his six-piece Sensational Space Shifters, the Brummie legend performed songs from both his latest album, Carry Fire, and his mindblowing back catalogue.
Slap-bang in the middle of a monthlong UK tour, Plant was in good humour, declaring, “I remember playing the Caird Hall in Dundee and being banned for life in 1969.”
However, he showed he still has the stamina to deliver the goods live, five decades on from his breakthrough.
With his curly mane tied back and his weathered features, the rock icon looked more David Bellamy than David Bowie but retains a unique aura.
Plant credits bluegrass star Alison Krauss with teaching him a whole new set of vocal skills while they were recording their 2007 album Raising Sand.
Here his rich voice retained an impressive range and power, thankfully without resorting to some of the excessive howls of yesteryear.
The 69-year-old has worked with his band on-and-off since the early 2000s and the troupe’s close understanding was evident.
Largely blending blues with North African rhythms, their sumptuous and intoxicating sound owed much to outstanding guitar work from ex-Cast lynchpin Liam Tyson and soundtrack composer Justin Adams.
Folk star Seth Lakeman helped stir the senses on The May Queen – from the new album – with his evocative viola playing, before we were treated to some vintage bluegrass and Led Zepp throwback Gallows Pole.
Unsurprisingly, the fans greeted every song with reverential enthusiasm, none more so than finale Whole Lotta Love.
A desire to keep moving forward has marked Plant’s career.
He may have lived the fast life, but on this form he still has plenty of fuel in his tank.
For a Tuesday night in Perth this was more than a little special, and those who were there are likely to be talking about it for years to come.