Gretchen Menn

From the friendly skies, to the rocking stages and everywhere in between.

When you hear the name Gretchen Menn, what comes to mind? Guitar virtuoso, Led Zeppelin, beautiful?  Well, if you answered any of those, you would be correct.  She has assumed the role of Jimmy Page in the all-female band Zepparella for the last nine years. But there is more that makes up this extremely talented young woman.

When your father is Don Menn, (who was an editor-in-chief of 'Guitar Player' magazine) it only makes sense that music would play a part in your upbringing. Gretchen's parents were great supporters to both her and her equally talented, beautiful sister Kirsten. She would be exposed to many genres of music at an early age and would eventually make a name for herself in the music world by being one of the very few outstanding female guitarists out there.

Graduating from Smith College with a degree in music, she would then take to the skies as a pilot, flying regional jets for an airline company. The decision to go back to flight instruction would be a great benefit both to her music and for her fans.

Her incredibly talented guitar playing has taken her down the 'Highway to Hell' with AC/DShe to a 'Stairway to Heaven' with the all female Led Zeppelin tribute band Zepparella. (Interview with Zepparella to follow)

Keeping busy with other projects, 'Sticks and Stones' and 'Lapdance Armageddon', Gretchen released her first solo album 'Hale Souls' in the summer of 2011.  Gretchen was very generous to provide a copy of her album to us. While listening to it, I was instantly captivated by what was coming out of the speakers. It is my honour to provide a review of 'Hale Souls' following this interview.

I had the incredible opportunity to have Gretchen take some time from her very busy schedule to do an interview with me. She shared her musical influences, love and respect for fellow musicians, friends and family to the news that she's working on her second solo album. I am pleased to present to you our exciting interview with the lovely Miss Gretchen Menn.

Photo by: Max Crace

LZUFP~ Your father, Don, was an editor-in-chief of 'Guitar Player' magazine. Did that have any influence on the guitar being your choice of instrument? Do you recall what the first instrument you picked up was?

Don Menn with Gretchen & Kirsten. Photo provided by Gretchen Menn.

Mary Ellen Culver with Gretchen & Kirsten.
Photo provided by Gretchen Menn.

Gretchen: Music was always available and celebrated in my childhood home. We had a piano, and my sister and I were encouraged to explore it. I did have requisite piano lessons for a few months when I was five. I remember liking the lessons, but I was too active of a child to sit still for long enough to really practice, and my parents were not the types to force it.

I didn't know exactly what my father did until I became interested in guitar on my own.  As a child, I had reduced my parent's jobs to the shortest, simplest explanation so my dad was a "writer" in my mind. It wasn't until I had started really getting into music that I found out more about my dad's work and that he knew a lot about music and guitarists. 

LZUFP~ I read that while you were in school obtaining a degree in music, you did a project on Frank Zappa. What was it about Zappa that you found so intriguing and fascinating? Is there something specific from him that you take away and use in both your solo career and with Zepparella?

Gretchen: Yes, I went to the more classically-focused Smith College Music department, and beseeched one of the more forward-thinking professors, Raphael Atlas, to oversee my work in a special studies on the music of Frank Zappa. I made my case, and Raphael and the music department agreed. My work for the semester involved papers on a more general overview of Zappa's work and career, as well as in-depth harmonic and structural analyses of 'The Sheik Yerbouti Tango' and 'The Girl in the Magnesium Dress.'
Zappa was a fearless creative force. His drive and work ethics were amazing, and I love the expanse of his artistic aesthetic--from his interweaving of humor in music with almost pop sensibility, to his more compositional abstract, and orchestral works. He didn't let genre define or restrict him. Zappa is one of my greatest heroes for unbridled creativity and being an artist who forged and followed his own musical path. 

LZUFP~ Did you have a big support system in place, to encourage you to do what you loved, playing guitar? Were there any moments that you were worried about "not making" it? Did you have a 'back up' plan at any time, incase this wasn't meant to be?

Gretchen & Don Menn-Photo by: Andy Alt

Gretchen & Don Menn
Photo by: Mark Manion

Gretchen: My family has always been supportive. I realized from day one that it was nonsensical to get into music for financial motivations. Many people complain about how hard it is to make money in the music industry, and I wonder why they would have thought otherwise. the industry was suffering long before I even started playing guitar, so I never expected fame or fortune, and I always realized I would probably need a secondary source of income-especially if I wanted the artistic liberty to pursue music that might not be mainstream. My worries have never been about 'making it', but about trying to learn and grow as a musician to have the type of fluency that allows for free creative expression.

My responsible plan B after graduation with a degree in music was to go to flight school and get my pilot's licenses. I flight instructed for about a year before getting hired to fly a regional jet for an airline. I left the airline after a year, as I realized there was no way to pursue music the way I wanted while living the life of an airline pilot...and airline flying isn't exactly the type of thrill that drove me to want to learn to fly in the first place. So I left the airline, went back to flight instructing, and made music my top priority.

LZUFP~ How do you go from playing classical guitar to hard hitting rock in your first band, the AC/DC tribute band AC/DShe? Having been to a few AC/DC concerts myself, the energy is raw and contagious. What was it like playing those classic AC/DC songs in full Angus attire as well?

Gretchen: I have always loved rock music--it was what got me interested in guitar in the first place. The reason I started on classical guitar was because Phillip de Fremery, the classical guitar instructor for Smith College, was reputed to be fantastic. I always loved classical music, and I was thrilled to start with that level of focus and discipline, and to get to learn from a truly wonderful teacher. I studied electric guitar concurrently, mostly on my own, and applying much of the left hand technique from classical guitar as well as the theory I was learning in my classes at Smith. I would also take a lesson or two once in awhile from various teachers.

Photo by: Mark Manion

It was a big shift to step into Angus Young's shoes, and a fun challenge! It mandated a level of athleticism and projected confidence that helped me get used to being on stage quickly and get over any initial shyness. But I have always loved AC/DC, so the desire to learn and love of the music was already there. I developed an even deeper appreciation for the music and Angus' playing, though, and it was delightful and at times startling to see the energy and audience reactions to the music. 

LZUFP~ Aside from Zepparella, you've had some solo projects. Example: 'Sticks and Stones', 'Lapdance Armageddon', and your self-titled work. Sounds like you keep fairly busy. Do you find time to do "you" things? What are some of your favourite pastimes when not on stage playing guitar?

Gretchen: 'Sticks and Stones' and 'Lapdance Armageddon' were both collaborative projects with some very talented other musicians who taught me a lot--

Sticks and Stones Photos by: www.thepathtoall.com 

Mickael Tremel (guitar) and
Sam Adato (drums) in Sticks and Stones, and

Jude Gold (guitar), in Lapdance Armageddon.

Lapdance Armageddon Photo by: Max Crace

I hate saying anything is over, as both bands meant a lot to me, and there are still friendships and appreciation for my bandmates, but both bands have been inactive for a number of years. For the moment, my solo project and Zepparella keep me very busy. 

I honestly can't think of a better "me" time than playing guitar or working on compositions. I tend to be so busy that the concept of a pastime feels foreign--I am always trying to extract more hours out of any given day! But in terms of other activities...I do try to keep a full and balanced life, and  my relationships with friends and family are very important to me. I love literature, and usually have a few books going at any given time. Right now, I am reading Dubliners by James Joyce, Counterpoint by Johann Joseph Fux, and am rereading A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens. I usually do some sort of physical activity pretty consistently--yoga, gym workouts, walks or hikes or running. I love continuing to study music, and will often do exercises for counterpoint, 4-part harmony, modulations, etc. 

LZUFP~ What is in your guitar collection? Do you have a favourite guitar, and what is it about it, that makes it your fave?

Photo by: Max Crace

Gretchen: I have a Music Man Silhouette and two Silhouette Specials--the Silhouette was my first guitar (the blue burst featured in the video for "Valentino's Victory Lap"), and Music Man guitars always feel like home to me. 

Oleo Strut video shoot. Photo by: Bryan Perido

The white Silhouette Special that was in my other videos ("Oleo Strut", "Scrap Metal" and "Fading") is my primary guitar now, and the one I have hanging on my wall at home for practicing. 

Performing with Zepparella.
Photo by: Will Bucquoy

I also have two Les Pauls, which are mandatory for Zeppelin, as well as a Danelectro (for "In My Time of Dying"). 


I still have the SG I played in AC/DShe. I have a gorgeous Sadowsky nylon string electric that is my newest baby, and a cool hybrid between an electric and a classical guitar--very up my alley! My classical guitar is a Kenny Hill Ruck model, and I have a wonderful custom steel string OM model from Santa Cruz Guitar Company. A wonderful fan from Italy had a custom guitar built for me--it is small, like a Steinberger, and quite a work of art. 



LZUFP~  You released 'Hale Souls' a couple years ago. Is there a new release in the future? Your sister Kirsten's beautiful soprano can be heard on 'Fading'. Could we see future Menn sisters collaborations in the future?

Photos of Gretchen and Kirsten Menn by: Peter Jensen

Gretchen: Yes, I am working on my next album right now, and very excited for it! My gorgeous sister, Kirsten, will be making some appearances on this one as well. My hope is to have it out in the next few months.

Photo by: (L) Don Menn. (R) Gretchen Menn

LZUFP~ When it comes to composing, in an age of technology and everything computer, how do you compose new material? Do you use software or sit with paper and a guitar?

Photo by: Bryan Perido

Gretchen: I do all you mentioned--I write with the guitar in hand, as well as on staff paper and with a music notation program called Sibelius. I like all approaches for different reasons. My rule for myself is that all yields to the creative impulses  and I am always writing. The nice thing about writing on my guitar is I don't have to go back later and learn what I wrote...but on the other hand, there is something very cool about writing with no technical considerations or restrictions. No matter how much I might try to lead with my ears when writing on the guitar, it is impossible to take the preferences of my hands entirely out of the equation. Furthermore, learning something I composed away from the guitar often helps me grow as a guitar player and be most free as a composer. 

LZUFP~ Who are some of your greatest influences? Have you met and/or worked with any of them, and if so, do you have any special encounter stories you could share with us?

Steve Morse & Gretchen. Photo by: Mark Manion

Gretchen: The guitar player who first inspired me to pick up the instrument was Eric Johnson, soon followed by Steve Morse. Frank Zappa became an inspiration for his creativity and compositional approach. I have always loved Jimmy Page, Eddie Van Halen, as well as Django Reinhardt. I got almost maniacally into Jeff Beck a few years ago, and that hasn't stopped. Jason Becker is amazing and incomparable--not just for his staggering virtuosity, but also as a composer and brilliant melodist. I have recently been amazed by the work of Daniele Gottardo, who very effectively incorporates virtuosic electric guitar into an orchestral and compositional context. All of my heroes continue to inspire and amaze me, and I have been fortunate to meet most of them. I have not met Jimmy Page or Eddie Van Halen (or Django Reinhardt, obviously!). 

One of my most treasured childhood memories was of getting to sit next to Frank Zappa in his studio as he composed. My dad was writing a special issue for Guitar Player Magazine on Zappa, and he brought Kirsten and me with him to LA for the interviews. I was wandering around the labyrinthine Zappa house, looking for Kirsten and Diva (Frank's youngest daughter), and poked my head into Frank's studio. He was alone, working at his desk. I apologized for interrupting  but rather than being irritated or waving me off to find the other girls, he invited me in, pulled out the chair next to him, and let me watch as he worked, explaining a bit about what he was doing. It was years before I started playing guitar, and much of it was over my head, but I tried hard to understand what he was telling me. I realized that it was a very special moment, and also knew that I wouldn't fully comprehend the significance of it until later. 

LZUFP~  Do you have a bucketlist? If so, what would be a couple things on that list?

Gretchen: My sister and I once calculated we would need about six lifetimes to do all the things we feel are absolutely imperative! A few examples, though...? I'd love to learn and become proficient in aerobatics (that was what made me want to learn to fly in the first place)...travel to Venice, Prague, Vienna, Japan...learn to tango and swing dance...compose and have music performed by a full orchestra...disappear someplace beautiful and off the grid for a year to immerse myself in deeper study of music...

~.:.~

During this interview, I learned a lot about Gretchen. Both professionally and personally. Her family and friends are dear to her heart. No ego in sight, this down to earth, kind-hearted woman is doing something that she loves...and in an outstanding way. 

Very special thanks to Gretchen for such a wonderful interview. She was very generous with her answers and providing the photos.  It was also our honour, to have precious family photos provided by Gretchen and the permission to use them in this interview. Thank you Gretchen. 

The Menn Sisters
Photo provided by: Gretchen Menn

Shortly after publishing, Gretchen sent me another precious childhood photo that her mother had found. A young Gretchen, with her mom's violin and bow in hand. "A harbinger of things to come?" said Gretchen. I just had to include it, alongside a recent photo. 

(L) provided by Gretchen Menn. (R) Photo by: Mark Manion

Gretchen continues to work on her upcoming second solo album. She also continues to perform alongside her friends in Zepparella. As we eagerly wait for new music, be sure to check out her album 'Hale Souls'. 



LZUFP's 'Hale Souls' Review:

Photo by: Eric Shamlin. Design by: Max Crace

Track Listing:
1. Scrap Metal
2. Oleo Strut
3. Déjà Vu
4. Valentino's Victory Lap
5. Fast Crowd
6. Is It Not Strange
7. Captured Barricade
8. Walking Shadow
9. Struck Sleepless
10. Fading
all songs by Gretchen Menn
©2011 Mach Zero Music

Gretchen Menn: Guitars
Stuart Hamm: Bass
John Mader: Drums
Emily Palen: Violin (tracks 8-10)
Angeline Saris: Bass (track 1)
Jude Gold: 2nd Guitar (track 5)
Kirsten Menn: Vocal (track 10)

Produced by: Gretchen Menn/Jude Gold

At first listen you may think it's just an incredibly well written, performed and produced instrumental album. But a more careful listen and there really is something that grabs hold of your soul and won't let go. It's not one of those guitar albums that hit you like a ton of bricks, but more like an album telling a story from the first heavy rock chords of the opening track to the haunting strings and vocal in the album's closer.

The album is not just rock and roll heavy guitar licks. But a great collection of diverse instrumentals that take the listener on many different rides.

The album starts off with two strong rock and roll tracks.

'Scrap Metal' and 'Oleo Strut' give the listener a little taste of what Gretchen can do with a guitar. 'Scrap Metal' also features fellow Zepparella bandmate Angeline Saris on bass.

At first, 'Deja Vu' teases the listener, making them believe they will catch their breath with a slowed down track. But then just a little over a minute into the song, it picks up and begins to speed up the ride.

The hypnotic opening riff of 'Valentino's Victory Lap' keeps the listener till the very end.

Mid way through the album, we have the wonderful addition of Jude Gold's guitar in 'Fast Crowd'. Jude who previously played with Gretchen in the band Lapdance Armageddon, meshes with Gretchen's playing and has the listener tapping their feet throughout the whole song. Once again, a track that shows Gretchen's diversity when it comes to composing music and performing.

'Is It Not Strange' is not strange at all. The song allows the listener a bit of a break, almost melancholy-like before introducing the listener to the next part of the ride.

'Captured Barricade', the latest song to be released as a video, definitely captures the listener, makes them hold on and enjoy the ride.

While this is Gretchen's solo album, she allows the talented Emily Palen to shine on her own, in the violin solo track 'Walking Shadow'. Emily's playing keeps the listener mesmerized throughout the next two songs.

The album's closer, 'Fading', pairs Emily's violin with Kirsten Menn's beautiful soprano voice. Resulting in, as I mentioned before, a haunting, yet beautiful track..perfect way to finish off Gretchen's first, but not the last, solo album.

The riffs, the chords, the notes all blend perfectly. There was something magical that emanated from the speakers to this listener. It was apparent, while listening to the album who Gretchen's influences are. The songs flowed perfectly, all while each having their own identity and genre. We also need to mention the outstanding rhythm section of  Stuart Hamm on bass and John Mader on drums. They truly do compliment Gretchen's guitar playing.

'Hale Souls' combines bits and pieces of classical, acoustic, rock and even baroque styles. She's not trying to be the fastest guitar player, not trying to copy what other guitarists do. What she is doing, is playing with heart, soul and passion. She's doing it her way.

I highly recommend this album to anyone who wants to enjoy a great rock and roll ride with additional surprises along the way.



~.:.~

For more information on Gretchen, her releases, tour dates etc, be sure to check out her official website: gretchenmenn.com

Check out Gretchen's Youtube channel:
Gretchen Menn - Youtube

For more information on Zepparella, including tour dates, media, etc, check out their official website: zepparella.com

For information on Gretchen's sister, Kirsten Menn, be sure to check out her official website: 
kirstenmenn.com

To check out more work by some of the photographers who have allowed their photos to be included. 

Max Crace: Official Website
Will Bucquoy: Official Facebook Page
Peter Jensen: Official Website
Mark Manion: Official Website



Follow Led Zeppelin~Ultimate Fan Page on:

Official Facebook Page
Official Twitter Page
Official Tumblr Page

Contact:
Ledzepufp@gmail.com

Hats Off To Led Zeppelin

It's been said, and agreed by many, that Led Zeppelin would not have been what they became, without their manager, Peter Grant. It was Peter's belief that the artist could generate more revenue and a larger, loyal following based on touring and album sales, while avoiding releasing singles and appearing on television shows. In order for someone to experience the greatness of Led Zeppelin, they had to see it for themselves live. For twelve years, Mr. Grant made sure that Zeppelin was in control, successful, treated with respect and loyalty. He became known as the fifth member of Led Zeppelin and continued to be thought of that way until his untimely death in 1995.

Fast forward a few years and a tribute band that was going out and playing the music that they loved and respected would soon have a greater connection to Led Zeppelin, than just the music. 

In 2012, 'Hats off to Led Zeppelin'  would soon have their promotion and management handled by Bandwagon Productions, and none other than Warren Grant, Peter's son. Warren decided that his return to music promotion would start with a group of guys who wanted to get out there on stage and perform the legendary rock band's music in front of audiences who loved it the most. The band proudly claims that, that Warren is the fifth member of 'Hats off to Led Zeppelin'.

The next year,  The Agents Association of Great Britain crowned 'Hats off to Led Zeppelin' as the UK's Number 1 tribute act to Led Zeppelin. If that wasn't impressive enough, they are also the only UK tribute band officially endorsed by amplifier giants, Marshall.

I reached out to Kevin, requesting an opportunity to interview 'Hats Off To Led Zeppelin' for our blog and Facebook page. The band graciously accepted and proceeded to provide me with some wonderful links, pictures and an exciting interview. I learned a lot about these guys and their passion for Led Zeppelin and the love of playing the music to their fans. 

Hats Off To Led Zeppelin

Jack Tanner: Guitar

Peter Eldridge: Vocals
Kevin Oliver Jones: Bass, Keyboards
Simon Wicker: Drums

LZUFP~ How does it feel to not only be the winners of the 2013 UK National Tribute Awards but to be the only UK tribute act to be endorsed by amplifier giants Marshall, a prestigious honor, what is that like to have such accomplishments?

Photo: Elizabeth Mahoney-Marshall Factory 18Aug2011

Kevin:  To have been recognized by a major international company as Marshall Amplification as being worthy of becoming endorsees of their equipment is absolutely amazing for any band or artist.  To have achieved this in what was our first proper, full year is unbelievable.  We are very proud to be promoting Marshall all over Europe, and to have their backing for what we do.To have been voted the UK's number one tribute to Led Zeppelin by a major UK organization is also incredible again considering how long we have been together and also how long our 'competition' have been going.  Most of the other tribute bands in the UK have been together for over 10 years and for us to come on the scene and achieve so much in such a short time is nothing short of phenomenal.

LZUFP~ Peter, you are no stranger to performing in front of fans. From  your performances in 'Rent' to 'We Will Rock You', how is it different, (or is there a difference), preparing yourself to get on the stage for those productions compared to performing Zeppelin classics?  Do you have little rituals you do before each show? Can you share what those are?

Peter: Very easy to answer this one ... no real difference in preparation, as long as I have a couple of ciggies before the gig, then I'm good to go!!


LZUFP~ Jack, what was it about Zeppelin and in particular Jimmy's style of playing that made you want to learn the Zep catalogue? Do you recall what the first Zeppelin song you learned was? Which songs do you enjoy to play the most live, if you can narrow it down, be it because of arrangement, a challenge to play or just plain fun to play?

Jack:  Being a little bit more mature than the others, I grew up during their heyday, so their music pervaded my subconscious I suppose. 'Whole Lotta Love' (albeit by Alexis Korner) was the theme tune for a British TV show "Top of the Pops" which was the must watch chart show for years. It was also used on the radio chart rundown so it was everywhere. The riff is relatively easy to play and never gets boring so you can just keep it going forever! Everyone loves it! In terms of style, I think where Page excels, is not so much in technical ability as in feel. He was the most diverse of players from hard rock to soulful blues, delicate folk and even elements of classicism. He could be sloppy but, like punk rock a few years later, it didn't matter. He was so connected to the music. That's why I love him - total freedom and abandon.

Photo: Col McG

Every tune has its challenges. Certain numbers are improvised and I both welcome and fear that. It's what makes our versions (and I think the originals) so good. The element of danger - seat of the pants stuff. Things like the guitar solo in 'No Quarter' are never the same. They are statements of my frame of mind in that moment. Then there are more technical things like 'Since I've Been Loving You', which I try to play verbatim as per the studio recording, but are still governed by this sense of being in the moment. 

To me, to have seen Led Zeppelin in the '68-'72 period must have been like seeing the punk movement in '76. Raw, powerful, and pure emotion. I can't abide impersonators because Led Zeppelin never impersonated - they were real and that's what we try to be. Real for the current age. 


LZUFP~ Kevin, being a multi-instrumentalist, it's no surprise that you assumed the role of John Paul Jones perfectly. Are there certain elements that John brought to Zeppelin, that you, yourself bring to 'Hats off to Led Zeppelin'? Which songs in the setlist do you enjoy the most to play?

Photo: Karl Tyler

Kevin:  Hopefully I do bring the same elements to 'Hats Off' as John Paul Jones brought to Led Zeppelin, but they are massive boots to fill! The guy was an extraordinary musician and is often overlooked in favour of the two 'front men' and of course Bonham! I have been involved with rock and roll theatre shows since I was a teenager where I was required to pick up and play a lot of instruments and cover other musicians at very short notice so you either learn very quickly or look very stupid. 

Photo: Sally Owers

Over the years  I have learnt  and played  bass, guitar,  keyboards, harmonica,  drums, saxophone and trombone in  professional shows so joining 'Hats Off to Led  Zeppelin' was perhaps an 'all roads lead to  here' moment ... it was destined to happen! I  am a big fan of great musicians in bands  whatever the instrument they play, and John  Paul Jones approaches a lot of the bass lines in  Zeppelin almost like counter melodies as  opposed to just playing the root note which a  lot of the music up until that time involved!  Picking a favourite setlist is impossible to do  as every time we play there is something new  to discover. I think the fact that we get to play Led Zeppelin's great music for a living is the most enjoyable thing and I hope that we do it justice!

LZUFP~ Simon, John Bonham was the backbone of Led Zeppelin, and still very loved by Zeppelin fans to this very day. How did you prepare yourself to assume such an important role within the band? You also play the Ludwig Vistalite John Bonham reissue drum kit, how important was it, to have the exact set up?

Simon:  I started out playing the drums at age 14 and played to/listened to a wide range of music, from my parents' love of '60's music, country and western, funk, soul and classical, to my sister who played things like Michael Jackson and the Housemartins and my brother who was very much into Iron Maiden and Guns N' Roses. I grew up with a wide and diverse taste in music but when a school friend of mine gave me a copy of Led Zeppelin II on cassette, I was hooked! From that moment on I wanted to find all I could about Led Zeppelin, and particularly John Bonham as I was already teaching myself how to play the drums.

As to why Led Zeppelin are my favourite band, and John Bonham my favourite drummer, it is because of the power and energy in their music, along with the diverse influences they displayed in the songs they wrote, ranging from heavy rock of 'Immigrant Song' to the country feel of 'Down by the Seaside', to the funk of 'Trampled Underfoot' and the blues of 'Since I've Been Loving You' and many more. To me, they were the ultimate meeting of all these styles of music, but with their own unique take on things, which was often raw and rough, with an incredible feel and musicality displayed by all four musicians. 
Once I started to study John Bonham, and his musical influences, I found myself seeking out 60's soul and funk albums, Buddy Rich and Gene Krupa albums and much more. The more I listened to his playing I realized he wasn't just a powerful drummer, he was a very musical drummer with a fantastic feel and groove and also could be incredibly subtle too, which of course all adds to his amazing feel. I could see why John Bonham was/is the most influential rock drummer of all time because his style became the prototype almost for all other rock drummers that came after him, although not many of them are able to capture his unique style.
  
As to how I manage to do that as best I can, that has been a long process that starts with many hours listening and playing to his music and trying to replicate exactly what he is doing, down to playing my notes in exactly the same place as his. Coupled with this I have listened to many different live recordings from the beginnings in 1968 to the end in 1980.

To the question of the drumkit, well, it has been my dream ever since I saw Led Zeppelin live in 'The Song Remains The Same' film to own a  Ludwig Vistalite drum kit in John Bonham sizes! This is the most recognizable John Bonham kit, it looks amazing on stage under the lights and is the drum kit I believe he used for the longest length of time live. I have a long term goal to own replicas of all his major kit set ups, from the late sixties Maple to the Green Sparkle finish and finally the Stainless Steel set up that he used from 1977 onward.  I also use a 38" Paiste gong and two timpani in my set up to try to achieve a similar set up to the one of 'The Song Remains the Same/Earl's Court' concepts.
I tune it for a big John Bonham type sound, but of course he never used this type of kit when recording so we go for very much a live sound rather than a studio sound for the drums. 

LZUFP~ Peter Grant was known as the 5th member of Led Zeppelin. He was the manager that so many bands wished they had. How does it feel to be managed by Peter's son Warren? Does it bring something special to the band just having that connection to a person who is admired and respected still to this day in the Zeppelin community for all his hard work with Led Zeppelin?

Jack, Kevin,Warren Grant, Peter, Simon

Jack:  Clearly the connection to the original band is a great coup for us in terms of publicity, but more than that we clicked on a personal level immediately with Warren. This gives us a calm confidence. We share the same sense of humour and he gives us encouragement to do what we do as we see fit. When he's among us it's like we've known him for years, so he truly is the 5th member.

Simon:  Absolutely it does! It was an amazing feeling to find out that Warren had contacted us and expressed a desire to work with us, we didn't need to think about. He went on tour with Zeppelin with his father and was there backstage many times and so when he told us that we were doing a great job recreating the band his father helped to become major international stars we were over the moon, also proud of that recognition from someone so closely connected to the band. Also, we are looking forward to going through his boxes of memorabilia about his dad and Led Zeppelin with a view to including some of that material, which will be exclusive to us, in the multimedia aspect of our new show. He also has some great stories about his dad and Zeppelin. 

Photo: Carla Longmate

LZUFP~ When comprising a setlist, how are the songs chosen? Is it a collaborative process when all the members suggest songs? What five songs need to be on the list, and have there ever been songs left off for whatever reason (and what were those songs)?

Photo: Ed Carter

Kevin:  Thinking up the set list is very hard because there are so many great songs, but there are some songs that we definitely HAVE to play. I think 'Rock and Roll', 'Immigrant Song', 'Whole Lotta Love', 'Kashmir', and 'Since I've Been Loving You' are the five songs that just have to be in the set. We often have a debate about taking 'Stairway to Heaven' out of the set so we can include something else but so far have not been brave enough to see how the audiences might react! For the most part our show stays the same but every year we chance it and put new songs in to keep it fresh and interesting but as I said earlier there are some songs that just have to be there, and once they are there we build our show around them, depending on what we think will work in terms of putting on an exciting show.

LZUFP~ Have you had the opportunity to play before Jimmy, Robert or John? If yes, what was that like having them there, watching you? If no, if you could be joined on stage by any of them, which member would you choose, why and what song would you want to perform with them?

Simon: Sadly we have not yet had the opportunity to perform for any of the surviving members of the band. That would be an absolute honour for us. If I were given a choice it would have to be John Paul Jones, as he is a bass player and it would be fun to get together and jam with him, but ultimately, I would love to step in and fill John Bonham's shoes with Page, Plant and Jones if they ever decide to go out on tour!

Photo: Martyn Bragg

LZUFP~ There are Led Zeppelin tribute bands all over the world. What is it about your band, do you think sets you apart from all the rest? Not only do you replicate what Led Zeppelin was known for, but you add your own personal elements to the performances, do you think that helps set you apart?

Kevin: There are lots of Led Zeppelin tribute bands out there, some very good ones, especially in the USA. What I think sets us apart from most of the bands is that we are not trying to imitate Led Zeppelin in terms of stage mannerisms/look exactly, we are four rock musicians who are playing music that we love in an exciting way in order to recreate the energy, power, magic and excitement of a typical Led Zeppelin concert. There are parts that we play that are note for note exactly from the recorded stuff, there are parts that are taken from various live recordings and there are parts that are just us improvising in a similar style to Led Zeppelin. All of this is carefully thought about in order to produce the best show that we can. 

Photo Sally Owers

LZUFP~ What is it do you think that keeps the fans loving and admiring Led Zeppelin after all these years? Even yourselves, since you enjoy playing the music and have a great time doing so, what is it about the music that makes you want to play it?

Kevin: It's the immediacy of it, the feeling of truth mixed with the finest musicianship and imagination. Three hundred million record sales tells you something. 

LZUFP~ It has been said in interviews that the first time Led Zeppelin played together, it was magic, a 'boom' and they knew it was right. Did you all have that feeling the first time you all played together?

Jack:  It felt like there was nothing else in the world at that moment, it was massive. Awe inspiring.

Photo: Katy Easthope

LZUFP~ Most of you all have a theatre background, were there elements from those roles that enhanced the Zeppelin tribute aspect or did you have to change things, such as how you projected your voice and performed?

Kevin: Not so much on that aspect but in the way that we put on a show! A lot of 'pub' bands think that they ought to be in theatres when all they can bring to the party is their pub act in a bigger venue. It costs more to go to the theatres as opposed to the local pub so by that fact alone you have to give the audience a show ... which we do, with pyrotechnics, hand made costumes and a rock and roll set! If you give a pub performance in a theatre then people are going to stop going to see tribute acts in these venues - come and see the best!!

LZUFP~ What do you see for the future of 'Hats Off to Led Zeppelin'? Is there something on the bucketlist that one day you would all want to scratch off? 

Photo: Magic Candle Photography

Kevin: To play at the Albert Hall in front of Page, Plant and Jones ... well you did ask!!

LZUFP~ now for the impossible question, what is your favourite Zeppelin track to play? Whether it's a personal reason or if you want to get technical, the arrangement etc?

Photo: Ed Carter

Simon:  That is a difficult question to answer. I would have to say that, live, the two songs I most like to play are 'Over the Hills and Far Away', as I love that song, and 'Since I've Been Loving You' because of the dynamics, the rise and fall of the music, and the fact that I really let go on this one and just play completely from the heart. Although, as a massive fan of Led Zeppelin, I would happily play any of their songs.

Photo: Katy Easthope

Jack:  Tough as each tune presents challenges that vary from gig to gig. Some numbers just hit you somewhere deep and for me 'Since I've Been Loving You' is the one I look forward to.

Photo:Ed Carter

Kevin: I really have a soft spot for 'The Ocean' as it has a number of different musical styles in it and some great and tricky time signatures - it was one of the first Zep tunes I sat down and learned the bass line to and as such has a special place in my heart whenever we play it - it is also dedicated to their fans so it covers everything really!!







LZUFP~ For someone who has never been to your show and is wondering what it would be like, how can you describe a 'Hats Off to Led Zeppelin' show, what can the audience expect?
Kevin: A musical orgasm. 

   

As 'Hats off to Led Zeppelin' continue to tour and perform in front of audiences, the reviews continue to pour in. They've been described as 'outstanding', 'incredible', 'like the real thing'. Individuals such as Richard Cole and Dave Lewis have also attended their shows, and gave them glowing reviews.

While conducting these interviews with Led Zeppelin tribute bands from all over the world, the one thing that is a common factor, is these men, and women, do this simply for the love and respect of the music. 'Hats off to Led Zeppelin' is no exception. They understand what the music means to so many people, to this day. When they get on stage to perform such classics, they send the audiences back to a special time when they first experienced the music, the magic, that is Led Zeppelin. 

Thank you to Kevin, Jack, Peter and Simon for your time and generosity while working on this interview!



TOUR DATES

Official Promo Video:

OFFICIAL 2013 PRESS RELEASE

To keep up to date on 'Hats Off to Led Zeppelin', including tour dates, photos, merchandise and much  more, check them out on:

Official Website
Official Facebook Page
Official Twitter
Official Bandwagonproductions Website

All photos property of credited photographers. All non-credited photos courtesy of the band.

Check us out on:

Led Zeppelin~Ultimate Fan Page Official Facebook Page
Led Zeppelin~Ultimate Fan Page Official Twitter Page
Led Zeppelin~Ultimate Fan Page Official Tumblr Page

Contact:
Ledzepufp@gmail.com