Robert Plant and Alison Krauss have once again joined forces to deliver a mesmerizing cover of a Led Zeppelin classic, along with 12 other new tracks. This collaboration has reignited the magic that first captivated audiences with their 2008 album, “Raising Sand.” Their latest project, “Raise the Roof,” continues to showcase their unique blend of rock, bluegrass, and Americana.
Every Friday, The New York Times’ pop critics highlight the week’s most notable new tracks. This week, Plant and Krauss’s rendition of a Led Zeppelin classic stands out among the new releases. The duo’s chemistry is undeniable, and their ability to reinterpret and breathe new life into classic songs is truly remarkable.
In addition to Plant and Krauss, this week’s playlist features tracks from a diverse array of artists, including Soccer Mommy, Tems, and Floating Points. Each artist brings their own unique sound and style, making for an eclectic mix of new music that is sure to appeal to a wide range of listeners.
Robert Plant, who has long since moved away from the spectacle of Led Zeppelin, has found a perfect collaborator in Alison Krauss. Their first album together, “Raising Sand,” won multiple Grammy Awards and established them as a formidable duo. Now, 14 years later, they are back with “Raise the Roof,” an album that is just as strong and captivating as their first collaboration.
Earlier this month, Plant and Krauss performed at Merriweather Post Pavilion in Columbia, Md. The evening was a testament to their enduring talent and the power of their musical partnership. Backed by a top-notch band, including Krauss’s brother Viktor on keyboards and guitar, Dennis Crouch on stand-up bass, Jay Bellerose on drums, Stuart Duncan on mandolin, guitar, and fiddle, and JD McPherson on electric guitar, the duo delivered a performance that left the audience in awe.
JD McPherson, who opened the show with his band, set the tone for the evening with an eight-track, 30-minute set. His performance included four songs from his new album “Let the Good Times Roll” and a cover of Iggy Pop’s “Lust for Life.” McPherson’s reimagining of Pop’s punk classic was a highlight of the night and showcased his versatility as an artist.
Plant and Krauss’s setlist featured 16 of the 19 songs from their two albums. The duo traded lead and harmony roles throughout the night, with Plant’s lively performance and Krauss’s powerful vocals complementing each other perfectly. Highlights of the evening included “Rich Woman,” “Quattro (World Drifts In),” and three Led Zeppelin covers that brought the house down.
Krauss’s lead vocals on Allen Toussaint’s “Trouble with My Lover” and Bert Jansch’s “It Don’t Bother Me” were particularly impressive. Her occasional fiddle playing added an extra layer of depth to songs like “Please Read the Letter,” a standout track from the show.
The Led Zeppelin covers were met with the biggest applause of the night. Plant’s swing rendition of “Rock and Roll” had the audience on their feet, while Krauss’s high notes during “The Battle of Evermore” were nothing short of breathtaking. The penultimate song of the main set, “When the Levee Breaks,” was a powerful and emotional performance that left a lasting impression on everyone in attendance.
As Plant and Krauss continue their tour, fans can only hope that it won’t be another 14 years before they record together again. Their musical partnership is too potent to be put on hold for so long. For now, fans can enjoy the magic of “Raise the Roof” and the unforgettable live performances that Plant and Krauss are known for.
For more information about Plant and Krauss, visit their official website. And to learn more about JD McPherson, check out his website as well.
