CODA ~ The Raw Led Zeppelin Experience

Canada is known for its maple syrup, strangely coloured money, and hockey. When you think of Led Zeppelin you don't think of Canada do you? But surprise, there is a hidden gem in Canada.. CODA - The Raw Led Zeppelin Experience.  Formed in January 2006, CODA has been playing consistently throughout the Greater Toronto area ever since.

Calling Toronto, Ontario, home, CODA performs the Led Zeppelin classics with pride, heart and soul. They admire and respect the music and the musicians behind it. There's no costumes, no wigs, just straight rock and roll by guys who love to play the music. They've rubbed shoulders with Jason Bonham and the Golden God himself, Robert Plant. They are first, fans of the music, then musicians. When you combine the two, as a fan at one of their shows, you will experience something you won't soon forget.

I was excited to reach out, to my 'neighbours', to do this interview. They embraced the opportunity and I couldn't be any more excited to share their answers with you all. Without further ado, may I present to you...CODA - The Raw Led Zeppelin Experience.

Robert Miniaci - Vocals.. Paul Mathur - Bass/Keyboards.. Rick Mercer - Guitar.. Kelly Mauricette - Drums

LZUFP~ There are many Led Zeppelin tribute bands from all over the world. What is it like being one of the very few Canadian ones? What do you think makes you stand out to the counterparts?

Robert:  For me it's an honor to be one of the few Canadian Led Zeppelin tribute bands around.  Although there are more of us Canadian Led Zep tribute bands out there than I would like! LOL! Competition is fierce! With that said, it makes it difficult to set yourself apart from the others.  There are those who assume the costume look. There are also those who are going after the live feel, as well as those who are claiming a note for note band.  What CODA is doing, is bringing a bit of the studio rendition, mixed with live recordings taken from various touring years. Whether it be 1970, 1971, or 1973, etc. With certain songs, I like to do a little storytelling. As an example, I like to mention how Robert and Jimmy loved Joan Baez's version of 'Babe I'm Gonna Leave You' so much, they covered the song on the very first Led Zeppelin album.

Kelly:  It's a great thing being one of the few Canadian ones out there. Shows Canada has got talent lol! CODA stands out because nothing is hacked when we play. It's all pre-studied from the live, to the boots to the studio recordings.

Paul: I was looking for a tribute band that was doing either Led Zeppelin, Yes, or Alice Cooper. I answered an ad that CODA placed in Now Magazine online and that's how I found my first choice. When we played together the four of us clicked musically and after playing a number of shows with the boys, I knew that this was the right band for me. CODA is different than many Led Zeppelin tribute acts in that, we do not try to look like Jimmy, John Paul, John and Robert...we are much more interested in sounding like them in our own way.  It's four guys playing our hearts out to recreate the live, raw and heavy Led Zeppelin experience.

LZUFP~ Kelly, you mention in your bio on the official CODA website that you were surprised that you didn't need a big drum set to pull off the Bonham sound. What song do you credit for being the main reason you wanted to play Zeppelin material?  If you could magically play along with Bonzo to one song, which would it be and why?

Photo by Lee-Ann Wylie

Kelly:  It would have to be 'The Song Remains the Same' the movie. Seeing that movie just made me do a complete 360 turn in playing on a 'smaller kit' and learning Bonham's style of drumming. I would have to say 'Kashmir' because of the drive and spiritual/magical sound it has behind it.


LZUFP~ Growing up not far from Toronto, I would listen to Q107. I also grew up watching Muchmusic. Nowadays, the radio and video channels have strayed from the real rock and roll. How does that make you feel that currently it's all about the hip hop, rap, pop music? Would you like to see more classic rock artists on it, to expose a whole new generation to it?

Robert: Well, I have no problem with Hip Hop/Rap/Pop music at all. As long as it's good. Meaning, a good feel to the music or lyrics that speak to you on a personal or global level. Music comes in different forms. What is most important about music is when it speaks to a generation. That is what gives it a legacy, that will give it its own life to connect to following generations.  I grew up with Muchmusic, when it was born. When it began, it was all about music videos. I loved coming home from school to see the latest video and what it would be all about. Then digesting it and discussing it with my friends. Now it seems it's all about Jersey Shore and the Real World shows! LOL! But every now and then a group will come out with a decent Rock song, and you will hear in their music something reminiscent of Led Zeppelin. Then in an interview you will hear them say how Led Zeppelin was an influence on them. Their fans will take that and discover Led Zeppelin on their own. Dave Grohl is a perfect example of that.

Paul: As the demographics change so does the broadcast of commercial music. The younger generation has a way of discovering the great music from the 60's and 70's on their own terms. I think it is much cooler that they discover this on their own so when they do find something special it is theirs and they have their own relationship with it. That was the way I felt when I found my favourite bands in the 70's. There are so many really cool bands out there now that I am discovering through my kids, bands like Animal Collective, Wolfmother, Cancer Bats, Billy Talent, Structure, Suicide Silence, Devil Wears Prada, and on and on. Kids have to find the music that they can relate to and it is best when they find it on their own means as that makes it even more special, magical and personal when they find it.

Kelly:  I don't listen to that type of music since it really does nothing for me. But I think some stations should go back to the roots of classic rock and get the younger crowd familiar with what and where it all started.

LZUFP~ Robert, you take on the role of Robert Plant, but in your own way. What do you say to the people who ask why you don't grow your hair, dye it, or wear a wig? What is the one song you enjoy to sing the most?

Robert: If I had the patience to grow my  hair long I probably would, although my wife wouldn't be happy! LOL! Personally, I don't have an issue with tributes who assume the costume. As long as it's done professionally and they don't over due it. For me, it has always been about the music. The sound, the intensity, the subtle, the passion, the electric magic.

If I gave you one song that I enjoy singing most I probably would be lying. There are just too many Led Zeppelin songs I love too much to nail it down to one single song. I don't know, too difficult to answer. But what I can say is that singing the different songs brings about different feelings and different energies in me to make that song come alive.

LZUFP~ You guys are friends with Sam Rapallo. I became familiar with Sam, when back in August 1990, he started publishing 'Electric Magic-The Led Zeppelin Chronicle'. I'm proud to say for three years I collected those issues and still enjoy looking through them. What is it like being friends with Sam, who is respected in the Led Zeppelin community and for his work as webmaster for LedZeppelin.com? Has knowing him helped you to recreate the Zep magic in CODA even more so?

Kelly:   Actually Rob was friends with Sam in high-school. I hooked up with Sam in 1990 and also subscribed to his Led Zeppelin magazine and formed a band called 'The Chosen Few' which was Zeppelin, originals and blues. We then found Rob as a singer. The band was together for about a year. Sam is the God of Zeppelin, just amazing!! We keep in touch with Sam from time to time. Rob has been to his house and Sam came to see me when I had shattered my tibia, a great friend indeed. Knowing Sam, has helped us in meeting Jason Bonham. I emailed Sam to see if he could bring Jason to one of our shows. He did not get back to me because he wanted to surprise the band. Next day, we had Jason watching the band for an hour and half! We also got to sit down and talk to Jason. Was truly an honour and CODA was on cloud nine so to speak for a few days.

Photos by Dominic Marchese

Robert: Hey Michelle, that's great you know of Sam. Sam and I met in grade nine, I remember it clearly. Also, I remember our telephone conversation we had when he had the idea to create a fanzine dedicated to Led Zeppelin. But way before that, I remember many after school days where we headed to the music room and began our musical love for Led Zeppelin. It was Sam who introduced me to the bootlegs. I believe I got most of the Electric Magic issues. I don't want to take up too much space here, but I have a lot of stories of Sam who brought Jason Bonham to our show. It was amazing really. Jason is such a nice guy, we were there just talking about music, talking about Led Zeppelin, taking pictures and having a couple of laughs.  I remember our photographer friend, Dominic Marchese who has come out to a lot of our shows taking pictures, was there that night when Jason was there. As we were all posing, I turned to Jason and said, "see Jason, we even have our own personal Neil Preston" (Led Zeppelin photographer), to which he let his head drop and laughed. Finally, Sam and I have always shared that passion for Led Zeppelin. I guess because of that, the magic has found its way into CODA.

LZUFP~ Do you all remember the moment when you first played a Zep song? Which song was it and what was it about that moment that made you all realize that it worked and that was what you guys wanted to do? Who came up with the name CODA for the band?

Paul: The first Led Zeppelin song I played was 'Black Dog' in 1976 as the lead vocalist in my first band called 'Dark Star'. I was thirteen and my voice hadn't changed yet so I was able to hit all the high notes with ease. We played our one and only show at my school and I was instantly hooked on performing heavy music in front of an audience. We also played Thin Lizzy, Rush and and original song, and my first lyrical creation, called 'Set Up'.

Kelly:   It was 'Rock and Roll', our first song. We all just completely jelled. I came up with the name CODA. It's not copyrighted, it's a symbol in musical terms which mean 'the end of'. Four characters in the name, four members.

Robert: Well, I'm not sure what the first song we played together was, maybe the other guys can recall. But, I do remember Kelly calling me one day, asking if I'd be interested in coming out to jam a bit. It had been sometime since I did, but it went quite well, and I could see the guys were getting excited that the music was happening. In regards to band names, we were throwing a couple around. I think I ended up choosing CODA, although I really liked Presence, I know it had been used.

LZUFP~ Rick, the first time you heard Zeppelin, what was it about Jimmy's playing that stood out and made you want to play the music? Are there certain elements to Page's playing that you try to replicate when on stage with CODA?

Rick: When I first heard the music of Led Zeppelin and Jimmy's guitar playing, I was intrigued as to how energetic the music sounded. That sweet Les Paul in the hands of the master himself, could range from a subtle warm neck pick up tone to a full bodied humbucker bridge pick up, delivering a ripping lead solo at any given time. Jimmy Page plays with true heart and soul. His willingness to not be restricted to only studio lead solo arrangements during live performances shows his ability to play how and what he feels on stage. I very much enjoy the bluesy feel to their live shows as well as the way Led Zeppelin would often 'change up' song arrangements with a wide range of very cool riffs. During a live performance with fellow band members of CODA, I try to capture that real live feel on the guitar, whereby nothing is limited to just the studio lead solos and rhythms. There is only one "Page" in musical history - 'JIMMY PAGE'.



LZUFP~ You guys have had the honour of meeting Robert Plant and Jason Bonham. If you could jam with them, Jimmy or John, which song would you want to do and why?

Paul:  For me it would be 'Achilles Last Stand' for all of its power, magic and drama.

Kelly:   I think it would be 'Stairway to Heaven'. It would show the magical moment with Jimmy on the 12-string and Jones on the keyboard and bass-pedals.

Robert: If I could jam with Jimmy, again another tough question. I think though that I would choose, mmm, 'Dazed and Confused'. I would choose this because of the Page/Plant voice/guitar interplay going on. Plus, how amazing would it be to be on the same stage while Jimmy is dragging the violin bow across the guitar strings. Sooo amazing!

Photo by Dominic Marchese

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?

Robert: Well, I feel with the first generation of fans it took hold of them. As time went on and these fans started having children of their own, maybe mom or dad put on side one of Zeppelin IV and the kids probably went, "holy shit that sounds amazing! Who is it?". I mean, musicians love it for the playing level and the music just rocks. My nephew who is a drummer and a music fan is only 24. He reminds me of me all those years ago. It all comes down to falling in love with Led Zeppelin, it really is passion for me. Performing it, listening to it. It's all there. I will listen to a live version of 'Black Dog' or 'Heartbreaker' and hear Robert sing something slightly different or a different delivery and I'll think to myself, "I've got to do that at tonight's show!"

Paul:  The music of Led Zeppelin is timeless as are all great artistic masterpieces. Their writing, arranging, orchestration, choice of instruments and production is pure genius and genius knows no boundary of time. Their music is just as relevant now as it was in the 60's and 70's. When I play with Coda, the music feels so fresh and I get to infuse my own musical style and voice into it as I play their music night after night. That keeps it alive for me.

LZUFP~ Paul, aside from playing with CODA, you have your own band (The Paul Mathur Project). How do you approach the music and playing differently? Obviously, you're playing your own music, but in regards to the technical stuff, tuning etc, is it very different than the Zeppelin material?

Paul:  Great question! When working on my own music there are no boundaries. I get to create the song, arrange and play all the instruments, write the lyrics, sing the vocals and produce and mix the finished product. I also get to explore many musical styles from progressive rock, pop, soft rock, jazz, and even a little classical. That completely satisfies my creative songwriting, multi-instrumental, vocalist side. When I play with CODA, I totally focus on my bass playing and keyboard playing and interacting with my band mates in a real time live environment which is extremely exciting as my philosophy has always been that a band is a living entity on stage that is bigger than the sum of all the parts.When the four of us play on stage together we create a fifth element that is CODA - The Raw Led Zeppelin Experience. The crowd goes yeah and we go BASH!!!



LZUFP~ Probably an impossible questions to answer, but give it a shot. What is your favourite Zeppelin track to play? Whether it's a personal reason or if you want to get technical, the arrangement etc?

Kelly:   Mine would be Kashmir because of that thundering drum sound and phase-shifter on the kit.

Photo by Dominic Marchese

Robert: You're right. A tough question indeed. But one thing I like is doing a song not normally done, like 'Bron-Y-Aur Stomp', and I can notice the Zeppelin fans in the audience really appreciating that. A couple of friends might turn to each other and you can see they are like, "Yeah, wow!". Although a song like 'Achilles Last Stand', which we have done, but not on a regular basis, is a song that truly keeps you on your feet. Gotta be on the ball for that one!

Paul:  My favourite Zeppelin track to play on bass is 'Song Remains the Same' as it is progressive, powerful and has a lot of changes allowing me to cut loose and shred out on my bass. My favourite Zeppelin track to play on keyboards is 'No Quarter' as it invokes a very dramatic backdrop for the audience to experience. My favourite Zeppelin track to play on acoustic guitar is 'Black Country Woman' as it has such a lovely barn room stomp quality to it and I love strumming that one on my 12-string.


LZUFP~ When compiling a setlist, which songs do you fight for to have on the list, and which ones don't get added for either personal reasons or for technical reasons?

Robert: Another good question. Yes, sometimes it's a challenge putting a setlist together. Led Zeppelin have so many wonderful songs that it's sometimes difficult to choose what you're going to add and what to leave out. What we usually do is of course, keep the popular staple songs that we all know and love. What we like to do is, we may have a certain setlist together that we'll play. Then when we return to a club to play on rotation we'll change it up for the audience as well as for ourselves. A song we've never done is 'Carouselambra', and sometimes I'll tease the audience and say, "...this next song is called Carouselambra..." A fantastic song but one we've never tackled. Now there's a challenge.

Kelly:   Nope, it's usually easy when we pick songs. We usually go with the mood, size or depending on the surroundings. For bigger clubs there is a room for adding in acoustics etc, to the set. For smaller clubs we like to keep them rocking non-stop so we will keep to the short Zeppelin songs. If it's outside festivals, then we just give them a straight show with the more known Zeppelin songs that you would hear on the radio.

Paul:  I like the heavier numbers like 'Nobody's Fault But Mine', 'Achilles Last Stand', 'Wanton Song', 'When the Levee Breaks', as well as the more progressive ones like 'The Song Remains the Same', 'Rain Song' and 'No Quarter'. Those are the ones I always push to get on the set lists. I would also like to get 'Trampled Underfoot' and 'In My Time of Dying' down with CODA in the near future. Those are two future songs that I would probably push for.

LZUFP~  How far would you like to take CODA? Internationally? Is there a bucketlist that you all have for CODA and what would be the #1 item on the list?

Paul:  I would like to see us playing Concert Theatres, opening for bigger acts and playing outdoor festivals throughout Canada, the States as well as further Internationally. My bucket list would be to play an outdoor weekend festival for a very large crowd and then hang out with all the bands and fans for the entire weekend.

Kelly:   I would like to take CODA all over Canada and somewhat in the States if possible. We all have jobs and this is just a hobby for us.

Robert: I would love to go International. Nothing like celebrating the music of Led Zeppelin with all our Zeppelin brothers and sisters far and wide. Personally for my own bucketlist, and I think I may have achieved it. Passing the torch. What I mean is, igniting the flame of Led Zeppelin's music in someone else. CODA gets fans of all ages to our shows. So when a kid of 19 comes up to me and says they are fans of Led Zeppelin, but after hearing us perform all these different songs some of which they had no idea were Led Zeppelin songs, I see the energy in their eyes. I see the excitement in them, because I know someone out there is going home and they are going to search for a song we did and they are gonna love it. That might inspire them to begin singing along or pick up a guitar and start learning the song. Maybe one day they will perform these songs for their own audience. For me, that is a real special moment.

LZUFP~ Final thought. What would be your advice to anyone who would want to start up their own Led Zeppelin tribute band?

Paul:  Search for the right chemistry between all band members. That is the most important element. You need to find band mates who will watch out for each other and band mates that can become your musical brothers and sisters. It is like a marriage requiring trust, respect, communication and compromise. A band is a living entity designed to play live to obtain fuel and purpose to continue. Once you find the right members the rest just falls into place on its own.

Kelly:   I would say practice hard, do your homework on Led Zeppelin's sound and equipment that they used. And do it for the passion and feeling. Think of when you're playing in front of people, that this is the way Zeppelin would of sounded live today if they were still around.

Robert: My advice to anyone wanting to start up a Led Zeppelin tribute band, it would have to be, just make it real. Let it come from the heart, let it come from the soul. Just like the members of Led Zeppelin themselves, just feel the music. Listen first to all the albums and get very familiar with them. Then slowly listen to the countless live concerts out there. Start from the beginning. The 1969 tours. Make your way through all their years of touring. 1970, 71, 72, 73, 75, 77, 79, 80! Absorb it all. Listen to the evolution of the band and their performances. Just sit back and listen, and I promise you'll be amazed at the magic you're hearing.

Magic indeed. Led Zeppelin as a band, may have disbanded prematurely in 1980. But thanks to tribute bands like CODA, a newer generation can experience the music of one of rock's greatest bands. 

It's one thing to have some guys playing the music of Led Zeppelin, but when you have four guys who truly respect, admire and love the music, it makes it all that much better. Each performance, CODA gives it their all. They honour the legacy of Led Zeppelin, through hard work, passion and the intense dedication to give each fan in the audience the Raw Led Zeppelin Experience. If you have the opportunity to witness the electricity that CODA brings to the stage, grab it and cease the moment and take a walk down memory lane all while listening to some great musicians  paying tribute to Led Zeppelin.

Thank you to Lee-Ann Wylie for the photo of Kelly.  Thanks to Coda for all other photographs.

Thanks to Dominic Marchese for his great photos. You can check out more of his work on his website:
Unforgetable Images - Dominic Marchese Official Site.

Be sure to check out Coda's official website for tour dates, booking information, biographies, photo galleries and more.

Coda - The Raw Led Zeppelin Experience Official Website

Check out Coda on:

Coda - The Raw Led Zeppelin Experience Official Facebook Page
Coda - The Raw Led Zeppelin Experience Official Myspace Page
Coda - The Raw Led Zeppelin Experience Official Twitter

Coda videos here: 
Coda's Vimeo Channel

Coda - The Raw Led Zeppelin Experience Promo Video
Whole Lotta Love
Stairway to Heaven
Kashmir

Rick Mercer information can be found here:
Rick Mercer - Reverbnation
Rick Mercer - CBC Music
Rick Mercer - iTunes

The Paul Mathur Project can be found here:

The Paul Mathur Project - CBC Radio 3
The Paul Mathur Project - Reverbnation
The Paul Mathur Project Official Myspace Page


Extra special thanks to Kelly, Robert, Paul and Rick for an exciting interview. I have learned so much about you all, your love of Zeppelin and the great pride and dedication you put into each show. It's great to see my fellow Canucks 'Getting the Led Out'.

Follow us at:
Led Zeppelin ~ Ultimate Fan Page Official Facebook Page
Led Zeppelin ~ Ultimate Fan Page Official Twitter
Led Zeppelin ~ Ultimate Fan Page Official Tumblr

Contact:
Ledzepufp@gmail.com

Led Blimpie

Taking a bite out of the competition one song at a time.


What do you get when you combine a group of guys with the desire to play some of the classic tracks from one of the world's greatest rock bands with an appetite for a favorite New York eatery's sandwich? Led Blimpie folks. 

Growing up in New York City, guitarist Thor Fields remembers how a childhood eatery set him on the rock and roll highway.

Fast forward to 2005 and Led Blimpie took its first flight. I had the great honor of interviewing these fun, hard working guys. They provided me with some entertaining insight into what keeps this blimp afloat.

Photo by Bjorn Bolinder

Thor Fields: Guitar

Jon Conver: Vocals

Matt Nonnenmacher: Drums

Joe Nerve: Bass

Frank Picarazzi: Keyboards, Backing vocal (not pictured)







LZUFP~ Can you provide a little history about the band. When you all got together and decided that this is what you wanted to do?

Thor Fields:  Led Blimpie is about total passion and homage to the music of Led Zeppelin.  We are fans first and foremost.  I think that's what people love about our shows.  It's not about recreating something from the past.  The music is just as alive and valid today as it was 20, 30, 40 years ago.  I formed the first incarnation of the band in 2005.  Having been in a bunch of original projects, I noticed how the crowd always got SO much more into it whenever we played a Zep tune.  I got addicted to that energy; the rapport between the audience and the stage.  It's very powerful.

Jon Conver:  I can't speak on the entire history of the band...I joined the band about 2 years ago after they were already established with a fan base.  I replaced their old singer when I auditioned for the band after a co-worker recommended me to Thor.  I've also always wanted to sing in a Led Zeppelin band.  I worked in Times Square when I first moved to NY and always caught the tribute shows at BB Kings.  I remember seeing a Zeppelin tribute there and thinking I could do what the singer was doing and more.  This band just kinda fell into my lap.

Photo by Cal R. Carter

Frank Picarazzi:  I came into the band at the early stages, in November of '05.  At that time, the lineup was completely different, except for Thor, who is really the heart and soul of the group.  The group was raw, not as polished as it is now, but from the first rehearsal it was evident that everyone involved loved playing this music and did so with a lot of passion and intensity.  For me it was such a treat to play these songs, especially on keys, which at that time was a new venture for me (I'm originally a drummer).

LZUFP~ Who came up with the name 'Led Blimpie'? Is there a story behind the name?

Thor Fields:  It was a light bulb moment for me if you know what I mean.  You see, when I was about five years old, I lived across the street from NYC's first Blimpie sandwich shop located on 55th St. and 8th Avenue.  We had a fire escape with a direct view of the restaurant across the street and every day, I would see this huge, fat man sit at a table by the window and devour a large sub.  In those days, the Blimpie restaurants had this cool wallpaper with characters traversing the world in blimps while delivering sandwiches.  I used to daydream that the fat man I saw everyday was one of those characters come to life.  I became a child-actor, performing on Broadway, television and film.  As I entered adolescence and developed a passion for the music of Led Zeppelin, I taught myself to play guitar, learning all the songs note-for-note.  Years later while trying to come up with a band name, I happened to be walking past that same Blimpie Sandwich shop where I grew up and that's when the light went off in my head.

Photo by Shade Rupe

Frank Picarazzi: My assumption is that it was a take on the word 'blimp', which of course is another name for zeppelin.  At some point, silliness took over and the concept was stretched to the sandwich chain 'Blimpie'. It works out well because the iconic sub sandwich can be used in so many different settings; my favorite is the one of a Blimpie sub over the old man's back from Zoso, so instead of hauling sticks, he's carrying a delicious, spicy sub sandwich.

LZUFP~  'The Sandwich' seems to play an inportant, but fun part of the marketing of the band. Who came up with this concept? Is it in fact a real sandwich and have you tried it?

Photo by Cal R. Carter

Thor Fields:  I came up with the concept and yes it is all about fun! The 'Blimpie' in Led Blimpie refers to the famous New York City sandwich shop, which itself refers to a blimp.  There's also a bit of a pun with 'Lead Belly" who was the blues man who first recorded a centuries old tune and called it 'Gallis Pole'. The song can be traced back to 1697 but is best remembered today as 'Gallows Pole' by the version on Led Zeppelin III. The sandwich on the parodies is not from the restaurant.  It was a real sandwich that I created with  my friend, Bill, photographed and devoured myself! Take a closer look, it even has strawberries on it!! We have a sense of humor about it all.  We are very serious about the music; getting it right, delivering it to the fans but without all that ego non-sense that goes along with being in a rock band.

Jon Conver: I think it was in reference to the original line-up being heavier guys.  It was a way of not taking the whole thing too seriously. Also the sandwich looked like the Hindenburg.

Frank Picarazzi: Thor always chastises me when I walk into rehearsal with a Subway sandwich.  But seriously, have you ever tried their cookies? They're off the CHAIN.

LZUFP~ When you decided to use the beloved Zeppelin pictures and album covers with the inclusion of the sandwich, were you worried that you would get some backlash for trying to make a parody out of Zeppelin?  If so, what would you say to those who were upset about it?

Thor Fields: Have a closer look.  Actually, most of them are not actually Zeppelin's artwork at all. In some cases I've hired an artist to make a similar illustration, like on our 'Zep I' parody and also the Apollo Logo.  In others, I've recreated similar artwork using photoshop.  Most Zeppelin fans get the joke immediately and the response is almost always positive.  Wear a Led Blimpie t-shirt out on the street and you'll see exactly what I mean!  I was never concerned that it would offend a Zep fan.  I was a little worried in the beginning that the Blimpie sandwich company might try to stop me.  But they recently contacted me and asked us to be a part of their 50th year celebration which is happening next year.

Jon Conver:  People are always gonna have a reaction to anything you do - especially if it's involving something they have strong feelings about.  The parodied artwork is both tasteful and ridiculous, at the same time.  It's just another thing that says we don't take ourselves too seriously.  If someone was really upset about it, I'd probably tell them to 'calm down and get over it'.

Frank Picarazzi:  Not in the slightest. Anyone who hears us play, and hears how much preparation and dedication we put into the arrangements and the performances, would know immediately how serious we take the music. The humor angle is just a fun bit of entertainment.

LZUFP~ We'd like to know a bit more about who makes up the band:

Thor Fields: First and foremost, each member of Led Blimpie plays himself. We don't try to recreate the original members of Zeppelin. I knew I wanted to put together a Zep tribute and knew that I wanted to stay away from the "impersonator" aspect that so many bands do.  When I go to see a band play live, I really don't want to watch someone posing and playing a role. I want to see the musicians GET INTO the music and make it their own. Are you aware of the term 'the Uncanny Valley'? It's a term used in the field of human robotics and computer animation that describes the feeling of revulsion felt when one observes something that looks and moves ALMOST, but not perfectly, like a natural human being.  That's what I always felt whenever I saw a dress-up band.  The closer an impersonator gets, the weirder it looks to me.

Each musician in Led Blimpie brings something special and unique to the performance...we just happen to be playing the Zeppelin repertoire.  Our fans get to rock out to the music they love while getting to know the guys in the band. It's a win win situation.

Photo by Bjorn Bolinder

Jon - Famous already in his own right with his other band 'Alchemy' and even playing the role of 'Tommy'. What does he bring to the role of Robert Plant?

Thor Fields: Jon's got an incredible vocal range and this huge rock-star personality on stage, yet, so professional and easy to work with behind the scenes. He picked up blues-harp after joining the band and man! He can play that thing like it's a part of his body. Total commitment, focus and high energy.

Jon Conver: "Famous" (chuckles) I like that. I bring an actor's understanding of Robert Plant as an undeniable musical, sexual presence. His androgyny, his fashion sense...there are bits of other singers' mannerisms in my performance as well. Roger Daltrey, Axl Rose, Mick Jagger for instance.




Joe - Who has played with Bumblefoot and his own band 'The Nerve', what do you think is the key element about his playing that brings the magic that John Paul Jones brought to Zeppelin?

Photo by Bjorn Bolinder

Thor Fields: Joe has an incredible sense of 'pocket' and a unique way of communicating it. I can be playing something I've played a thousand times and Joe will give me some new little clue and all of a sudden the piece is brand new again! 'Royal Orleans' is one example, for instance.

Jon Conver: Joe brings an understanding of musical style beyond our own. He can tap into funk, punk, metal when he needs to and that helps us shape the groove of the music. He's like the groove doctor who can diagnose the missing element.

Joe Nerve:  Jones' ability to write exactly what is needed to bring the best to each song, and to be able to inject feel that you no longer hear in the popular music kids are listening to today.  He plays simply when it's needed, and tears it up when it should be torn up.  'Ramble On' is pure genius to me...and learning 'The Lemon Song' brought me to a whole new level of respect.  In the breakdown, he does close to 3 minutes of heartfelt soloing over simple 12 bar blues, and never once repeats a single riff or phrase.  And he does something different than that live every time also.  I love when musicians are continually creating and renewing themselves, and their music.  It keeps the music alive.

Photo by Bjorn Bolinder

Matt - Zep were known for having that strong rhythm section that kept it all together.  Bonzo was the keeper of the beat. What qualities, or special techniques do you hear and see that Matt has to assume the role as John Bonham?  How do both Matt and Joe work together to provide that tight backing team that enhances both yours and Jon's role in the band?

Matt Nonnenmacher:  As far as I can remember, my drumming was ALWAYS associated with Led Zeppelin to some extent from the very first time I sat behind a kit.  I totally remember that the very first beat I EVER played was from 'You Shook Me' (Led Zep I), when I was 14 years old.  Afterwards, I spent entire afternoons working (hard) to learn Zeppelin songs note for note, including the 'Moby Dick' drum solo and these famous bass drum/floor tom triplets, the very staple of Bonham drumming style.
Because this technique requires a very high velocity and endurance of the right foot, I was naturally tempted to switch to a double bass drum pedal - out of laziness - but my parents (and I still thank them for this today) refused to buy me one unless I got higher grades in school.  This seemingly unimportant fact had two major consequences in my life:

1) I learnt to play the bass drum triplets with the right foot only, faithful to Bonham's spirit (unlike his own son Jason, by the way, who shamelessly uses a double bass pedal); and
2) I got good grades, obtained a PhD and became a scientist.

As for our association with Joe, it is pretty simple really. Since drumming for all these years has messed up my hearing, I usually do not understand what he tells me, so I just nod to his comments and keep on doing the same thing.  It has been working pretty well so far:))

Jon Conver: Matt's unbelievable!  He just loses himself within the songs.  Bonzo was the anchor of Zeppelin and Matt is the same in this band.  I lose myself in the songs listening to him.  Bonzo played heavy and tight and Matt is the same.  Joe and Matt lock into one another so that Thor and I can improvise, but we always look to Matt to bring us back to the form.  I like to think Thor, Joe and I give him license to improvise often also.  Zeppelin was all about unplanned magical moments that happened from night to night.

Thor Fields:  Matt is the best. That is all. :)

Thor - When did you discover Zeppelin and realize you wanted to learn and play the music? What are some things that you think the other guys would say about you and what you bring to the band?

Thor Fields:  I was a teenager in the 80's and I wasn't too keen on the music I was hearing on MTV at the time.  I was into the rock of the 60's and 70's.  I was 15 when a friend played 'Black Dog' for me on an old 45rpm vinyl single.  I remember it as if it was today!  I couldn't believe what I was hearing. The energy! The music starting and stopping like that. The call and response! We must have cranked that thing 15 times in a row.  There was something hilarious about it to me.  The virtuosity and audacity of it all. Being exposed to Zeppelin was like a magical door opening up for me.
The other guys would probably say that I am a bit obsessed.

Photo by Bjorn Bolinder

Jon Conver:  No one knows the music of Zeppelin better than Thor.  I don't think Jimmy Page knows the music of Zeppelin as well as Thor knows it.  It's literally in his blood. He knows the story behind any song we play, the form, what inspired it, when it was recorded, the production techniques, everything.  What's awesome about that knowledge is that it allows him to make educated decisions about how to approach the songs. We can stay faithful to the spirit of the songs and still find our own arrangements. He can find the formula in the most unpredictable of songs and give you the map.  He knows every nuance and sometimes how every part was played.  I have yet to see him scared to attempt anything Page ever played.  That fearlessness is inspiring.

Sometimes performing as a four-piece band, on occasion, depending on schedules and the size of the gig, they transform to a five-piece band.  Enter Frank Picarazzi on keyboard and backing vocals. Frank, a rock & roller at heart, is an accomplished percussionist, vibraphonist and arranger in everything from classical, jazz, fusion to pop. His compositions have been performed from Boston to New York to Italy. He has even played Carnegie Hall!

LZUFP~ There are times you perform as a 4-piece and sometimes with the addition of Frank Picarazzi, as a 5-piece. What does Frank bring to the band?  

Photo by Bjorn Bolinder

Thor Fields:  Frank brings the entire history of music to us and delivers it to us with a drummer's sensibility. He is one of those guys that can play you just about any  piece of music that he's ever heard.  And I do mean ANY! Classical, Jazz, Fusion.  He plays keyboard in Led Blimpie, but the fact that he is originally a percussionist, gives us that edge of having a three piece rhythm section.One thing I love about this band, that sets us apart from most Zep acts, is that as a 5-piece, we can properly perform a lot of the fully orchestrated album versions. Of course, we're gonna put that 'live' flavour to it regardless, but having both keys and bass grooving full-out honours the brilliance of those albums, which are masterpieces.  'Fool in the Rain' is a great example of this. We got keys and bass going at the same time, Jon plays some added percussion as well for the Samba part and I'm playing guitar with a whistle in my mouth. Sometimes we go out as a four piece and Jon plays 2nd guitar, which lends itself to those beautiful harmonized guitars, that 'guitar army' that Page did on the albums. Most Zep tributes don't do that kind of stuff.

LZUFP~ As much as the 'sandwich' is an important 'member' of the band, you have to tell us about your 'mascot' Robert Planet.  When did he hop on board the Blimpie and what could a fan expect showing up at a gig and having the chance of meeting  him?  

Photo by Kayleigh Morin

Thor Fields: Planet is hilarious! We had some mutual friends.  Someone commented, "He looks like a Fat Robert Plant, you should get him in on the act." Turns out that he is a helluva comedian and clown by trade and also a life-long Zep fan, so it was a natural fit.
Having him around is another way of poking fun at the whole tribute band/impersonator thing. I don't want to give away the act, but suffice to say that if you see Robert Planet at one of our shows, you're in for a treat.

Jon Conver:  I think he helps us not take anything too seriously and still play great shows. If you see him at a show he's gonna make you laugh, he'll get you on the contact list and he'll dance with  you. What I love about him being there, is that we work really hard to play this catalog of music, and he reminds me to have fun. I forget to do that sometimes cause these songs aren't easy.

LZUFP~ It seems that all of you have other projects, not just the tribute band. Do you seem to keep Led Blimpie more as a hobby and not so much a job? Do you have difficulties juggling everything?

Thor Fields: It's not a hobby. It's a passion. We've travelled as far as Hawaii to play gigs and we're willing to go further. We're currently mixing a nine song Zeppelin Tribute Album that we just recorded. It stands up to any that you've heard. There's a lot of competition in the Zep tribute game and so far, we are totally self-produced, so yes, we each do stay active in other pursuits...get us some representation and a tour and we're gone!

Joe Nerve: Playing music never felt like a job to me. Nor a hobby. Just something I love doing. My preference has always been to play original music, and I'm happiest when I'm playing my own music...but playing Zep comes naturally to me, and there's so much room for improvisation and putting my feel into it, that I never feel as though I'm doing covers. I also can't remember the last time I was in less than two bands at the same time, and I've juggled as many as five. As long as I'm up front with everyone involved, stay true to myself regarding my limits, and keep an accurate calendar, all works out fine.

LZUFP~ What is it about Zeppelin that you think is the reason they are still loved by so many fans around the world to this day? Can you recall your first exposure to Zeppelin and what it meant to you? What was the first Zep song you learned to play?

Thor Fields: Very simple. Led Zeppelin is the very best rock music there is. It speaks to people on a deep, ancient level. The boys were spectacular artists who were able to transmute something eternal into this material world. 'Over The Hills and Far Away' was the first song I learned note-for-note. It took me a few years because I didn't even know how to play guitar at the time. I picked up the guitar for the specific purpose of learning to play Zeppelin.

Jon Conver: I think Zeppelin was the perfect marriage of everything you could want in a band. They came along at the perfect time to fill the void the Beatles left in popular music. There's a superb sense of musicianship and taste to what they did, and it also had a sense of danger and provocativeness to it. What's not to like about it? The first song I remember hearing was 'Stairway To Heaven'. I had heard so much about it, and finally understood what all the hype was about.  The first song I learned to play was 'Over The Hills and Far Away'. I drove my mom crazy with that opening guitar figure.

Photo by Cal R. Carter

Joe Nerve: I don't remember the very first time I heard Zep (no doubt from my brother's bedroom stereo), but I distinctly remember writing one of the first things I ever did on acoustic guitar, running to show it to my brother and  him laughing and playing for me 'Babe, I'm Gonna Leave You' (which is what it was I was playing). It was the first time I consciously heard that song, but I'm sure it was subconsciously etched in my brain from my brother's blasting stereo. Pretty sure I was blasting 'The Partridge Family' at the time. Started liking Zep more than them immediately following that. Hey, I was just a dumb kid before that.

Frank Picarazzi: Plain simple, the music. It just sounds so good. I know this is an overly simplistic answer, but as I've gotten older I've learned not to complicate things. The music of Led Zeppelin was so masterfully crafted and performed, the pieces fit so well together, and the themes are timeless. The sum is greater than the whole of the parts, and those individual parts are top-of-class, so there you go.

LZUFP~  When creating a setlist for a performance, is it easy to pick the songs that you all collectively want to play? Are there some that don't make the list and why is that?

Thor Fields: We fight about it all the time! I always want to play the long epic songs. Achilles, Time of Dying, For Your Life, etc. We love to mix it up especially if we're doing a residency (recurring gig). That gives us a lot of freedom with the sets and sometimes we don't even write a set.  We just ask the crowd what they wanna hear. We throw in stuff like 'The Crunge' and 'Night Flight'. One time, a guy walked up to the stage and handed me $80 to play 'Trampled Underfoot'. Of course, we obliged. I like that! But when we play the larger venues for the bigger crowds,  you gotta give 'em what they want. The hits.

Jon Conver: We try to tailor the set to the audience, but we sometimes end up performing a song we said we wouldn't because someone requests it.

Joe Nerve:  It's tough sometimes choosing between our personal favorities, and what we think the audience will want to hear.  We're beginning to simplify the process by just letting Jon pick the songs.  He's very respectful of our requests too if there's something we're really feeling we need to play on any particular night. Many nights we don't have any set lists, we let the audience choose whatever they want to hear. It's nice to have enough of Zep's repertoire to enable us to do that.

Photo by Bjorn Bolinder

LZUFP~  If you had any of the Zep boys in the audience, what song would you want to play that would pay tribute to them and show Led Blimpie's talent?

Thor Fields: 'Achilles Last Stand' for Jimmy. Or maybe 'Carouselambra'! Zep never performed that one live. They had rehearsed it and were planning on putting it in their set when Bonham passed.  Did you know that Page and Jones rehearsed it in 2008, after the reunion when they were considering touring without Plant.  It's one of those few Zep songs that gets a bad rap. But I love it and I'd love to play it for the boys!

Jon Conver:  I'd wanna play 'Heartbreaker' into 'Black Dog'. Those are the two strongest songs we do.

Joe Nerve: For me it would naturally be JPJ. And I think I'd have to say 'Custard Pie' - probably because it's what I'm feeling at this moment.  Ask me tomorrow and I'd say something else.  I chose 'Custard Pie' because I feel it's one of the Zep songs we add our own personality to the beat. We don't change it at all, but the funk influences that Matt and I share become undeniable when we're rocking that tune. I think JPJ would be happy to see us putting our personalities in there.

It’s very evident, that the boys from Led Blimpie are doing something they all enjoy and take great pride in. The passion and love of the music shines brightly at each performance. Gone are the stage costumes and wigs. What you get in place of that, is hard work, dedication to get the songs just right, and intensity from the first song to the last. This is a true tribute band who caters to the fans. Sometimes even putting the setlist away and allowing the audience to pick the tunes. It doesn't get any better than that. Not only do they perform renditions of Led Zeppelin's music with extreme precision, but they do so, all while having fun. You will leave a Led Blimpie show knowing that you witnessed not only musicians, but fans of Zeppelin getting the led out. And remember, when you’re out there taking in a Led Blimpie show, keep your eyes open for Robert Planet...you’ll never know what to expect.

Many thanks to Thor, Jon, Joe, Frank and Matt, for taking time out of their busy schedules. Without that, this interview would not have been possible. 

Thanks to Cal R. Carter, Bjorn Bolinder, Kayleigh Morin and Shade Rupe for all photos.

Special thanks to Led Blimpie for all artwork.

Be sure to check out the links below to learn more about Led Blimpie, media and to find out when you can take in a Led Blimpie show near you. 

Led Blimpie - Official Website
Led Blimpie - Official Facebook Page
Thor's Twitter Feed
Led Blimpie Official Youtube Channel



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Chris Manning ~ The Hindenburg Project

When you think of Texas, some think of the State's successful sports teams. The music from the lone star state is very flavourful. Whether it's the honky tonk sounds of Milton Brown, Bob Wills or Ernest Tubb, Texas offers up as many music genres as cuts of meats on a bbq.  Tex Ritter, Kenny Rogers and George Strait round off the country dish of legends that call Texas home.
Surely we can't say Texas and not mention the legendary Blind Willie Johnson. By the 1970s the blues may have been forgotten, but was revived later on, thanks to artists like Johnny and Edgar Winter, ZZtop, and The Fabulous Thunderbirds.

Texas is no stranger to the rock world. Early days welcomed Buddy Holly and Roy Orbinson. A decade later, the gritty voice of Janis Joplin took the world by storm. Pantera and Drowning Pool also call Texas home. Alternative rock bands such as The Toadies and Flyleaf proudly reign from Fort Worth and Belton, respectively. 

In August of 1969, four English men landed in Texas. It may have been early on, people and critics alike not sure how to receive what they were witnessing. A critic wrote in 1969, following Led Zeppelin's performance at the State Fair Park Coliseum "..one of the most exciting and pulsating collections of sound in the rock business." It was clear that they had made their mark on the State, as well as the many musicians who would grow up and site Led Zeppelin as their own influences for the reason of getting into the music business. 

Fast forward to 2011. In Dallas, Texas a guitarist sees a vocalist's ad seeking other musicians. Although working on his own band for several  years, Chris Manning listened to some audio clips and was convinced that along with vocalist Bob Brewer, they had the makings of a great Led Zeppelin tribute band. So what did they do? They recruited bassist Randy Ranew and drummer Tom White and before you knew it...The Hindenburg Project was born.

I reached out to guitarist Chris Manning to find out more about 'The Hindenburg Project' as well as his own solo band 'The Chris Manning Band'.  

LZ~UFP: It's my honour to introduce 'The Hindenburg Project'.

Photo by Ashley King

Chris Manning: Guitar, theremin

Bob Brewer: Vocals, blues harp

Tom White: Drums

Randy Ranew: Bass, Keys, Vocals





LZ~UFP: Do you recall the band's first gig and what was about it that made you all realize this was what you guys wanted to do?

Chris Manning: Our first gig was booked at a small club in Dallas. We were slotted as the headliner along with about four other local bands, none of which were tributes. We were very prepared and well rehearsed because we had put so much time into getting it right before venturing out.  My memories of that show are actually similar to the response we still get to this day.  People are amazed at how close we can reproduce the studio versions of the songs in a live setting and of course how close Bob's voice is to Robert Plant's. 

LZ~UFP: Chris, besides 'The Hindenburg Project', you have your own band, 'Chris Manning Band'  and have also played live with the likes of Drowning Pool, George Lynch and Yngwie Malmsteen to name a few.  When playing with each mentioned band/artist what sort of mindset do you need to be in? Do you find approaching the Zeppelin songs more challenging or easier than the other stuff?

Chris Manning: It's really two different animals, because when I play with The Hindenburg Project, Bob is the front man so I don't have to worry about working the crowd.  When I play with my own band, I am the front man and since it is instrumental, my guitar is typically carrying the song's melody that is normally filled with the lead vocalist.  Playing in a Led Zeppelin tribute band requires me to always be conscious of playing in the style of Jimmy Page (in the occasional instances where I am not playing the studio versions note-per-note).  It certainly took me awhile to recognize when my own guitar style was creeping in and to learn to always play in the style of Jimmy Page.  Writing, recording, and performing original music will always be the ultimate for me but studying Jimmy Page so intently for two years now has certainly made me a better, more well-rounded guitarist and musician.

Photo by Ashley King

LZ~UFP: You have listed some guitarists such as Ace Frehley, Jimmy Page, Jimi Hendrix, and Alex Lifeson as some influences. What is it about those guitarists and their playing, either collectively or individually, that made you want to pick up a guitar and play?

Chris Manning: While my early years were inspired by guitarists like Page, Hendrix, Blackmore, and Frehley, it was the next generation of guitarists (Satriani, Eric Johnson, George Lynch) that ironically took my guitar playing to a level that years later equipped me with the chops to be able to play some of the most challenging Page riffs. Without the years of woodshedding in the late 80's and early 90's learning the styles and techniques of Satriani, Eric Johnson, and George Lynch, I would not have been able to play some of the solos that Page recorded in the late 60's!
Page and Hendrix in particular, are not only great guitarists but great musicians and there is a difference. There are guitarists who can play other people's music and even excel at it, but when it comes to writing their own music, they just can't do it.  Jimmy Page is one of the great guitarists who are also great musicians and I have learned to appreciate his genius more since starting The Hindenburg Project.

LZ~UFP: Could you please share with us, a few words about your bandmates.

Bob - how does he incorporate his own talent,  yet staying true to the role of Robert Plant?

Photo by Ashley King

Chris Manning:  Bob is an amazing vocalist with a voice very well suited for doing Led Zeppelin.  Not only can he sing Robert Plant convincingly, he is doing it without the benefit of tuning down (i.e., we are tuned to A440 standard tuning) and it is well within his range! To me, a great Zeppelin tribute begins with the singer and if he is not great, then it's hard to get past that.

Randy - What techniques does he use, in order to channel John Paul Jones into your gigs? 

Photo by Ashley King

Chris Manning:  Randy utilizes several different basses, one Fender Jazz bass and one specially equipped with a special pickup allowing him to integrate keyboards into songs like 'Misty Mountain Hop', 'Thank You', and 'Kashmir'.  He is also intimately familiar with the songs so he knows if you are playing your parts accurately!

Tom - Bonzo played with such intensity...what quality does Tom bring as the beat keeper in the band?

Photo by Suzan Ranew

Chris Manning: Tom came into the band with an extensive knowledge of the Zeppelin catalog and he has been studying Bonham since he was a teenager.  He is a powerful drummer - he actually cracked a cymbal at the last show.

Chris - Which Zeppelin song do you find the most challenging, yet rewarding to play?

Photo by Ashley King

Chris Manning: When you play Jimmy Page, you must be able to play slide, play with a bow, and play a variety of styles and that is a great challenge in addition to taking on the style of a legendary player.  So for me, playing 'Dazed and Confused' really well and performing the bow solo that combines the best elements of Page's solos is very rewarding and it will always be one of the fan's most requested songs.  If you're never played a guitar with a bow, it is a challenging experience that can produce sounds just not possible otherwise.

LZ~UFP: In the years that you have been together and performing,  you've played for many fans who love the music.  What is it about Zeppelin do you think keeps them relevant, fresh and loved, even after all these years since they disbanded?

Chris Manning: I think true greatness will reveal itself after enough time has passed and this has certainly been the case with Zeppelin.  Whether it's music history or any type of history, it takes a decade or two in order to gain a clear perspective of people and events.  Bands should be evaluated in context of the time period they produced their music.  Most of the people don't realize Led Zeppelin 1 was recorded in December of 1968 and released in January 1969, which puts them alongside Hendrix in the music timeline, except Hendrix's first release occurred in 1967.  That's amazing when you compare other music of that time period, especially guitar-centric music.  Ultimately, it boils down to the music, and Led Zeppelin produced an incredible catalog of music spanning multiple genres (blues, rock, reggae, folk, etc.) with a sound uniquely to their own.

Photo by Ashley King

LZ~UFP:  From the Zeppelin discography, which album do you find influences you the most?  Is there a particular element on that album? (i.e., the guitar, lyrics, music, etc.) As for a favourite song, is there one that you enjoy playing more than the others?

Chris Manning: I really like the first release because they were a new band and there are so many great songs.  The solos in 'Good Times, Bad Times', 'Dazed and Confused', and 'Communication Breakdown' are really groundbreaking and technically challenging for players of any era but especially then. Guitarists underestimate the technique required to play some of Page's solos and so I take a lot of pride in putting the level of detail required to give the audience the classic versions featuring Page's greatest riffs.

Photo by Michael Manning

LZ~UFP: How much improvisation goes into your solos during, say for example: 'Whole Lotta Love', 'Dazed and Confused' etc?  Jimmy has been known for changing up the solos at each show.  Do you try to do that during your performances?

Chris Manning: That's interesting because we pride ourselves on playing the studio versions of the songs, but these are two songs that have long instrumental breaks. Whenever I improvise, and these are definitely songs that require that, I try to remain as true as possible to the style of Jimmy Page. 'Whole Lotta Love' requires a theremin which can produce a wide range of sounds but in the case of both songs, I try to keep the solos to a reasonable length, as I don't think the audience prefer 15-20 minute solos like they did back in the 70s!



LZ~UFP:  Many people dream to either play with the Zep boys, or have them in attendance at one of their shows. If you could have any  member of Zep on stage with  you, which one would it be, why, and what song would you absolutely have to play?

Chris Manning: As a guitarist, I would love to meet Jimmy Page, play 'Rock and Roll', and have the opportunity to hang out with him for a few minutes.  Robert Plant now lives in Austin, Texas, only three hours from Dallas so it would be amazing to have him sit in with us for any song, but I would go with a deep cut like 'Four Sticks' or 'The Rover'.

Photo by Ashley King

LZ~UFP: Which 5 songs must be on a typical setlist?  

Chris Manning: That's a difficult question with so many great songs to choose from.  I would say 'Dazed and Confused', 'Rock and Roll', 'Kashmir', 'Black Dog', and 'Immigrant Song'.

LZ~UFP: A final question, for those who have not been to a show yet, what would you say they could expect when seeing 'The Hindenburg Project' live?

Chris Manning:  First and foremost, expect to hear the classic studio versions of the songs, performed as accurately as possible. Most people are blown away by how accurately we play the songs.  I feel there is an added degree of respect for the Zeppelin catalog by playing them accurately and true to the original recordings.  There is certainly nothing wrong with playing the live versions of the songs, but we choose to remain true to the original recordings because those are the versions the fans love and are most familiar with.  One other thing I have seen at every show we've played is people pulling out their cell phones to shoot video and I think that is a great compliment. 

Photo by Michael Manning

We recently played the House of Blues in Dallas the same night as Ratt and I didn't realize what a huge Zeppelin fan Stephen Pearcy was, but the next thing we know, he is sitting in with us for a few Zep songs! The response has been great and as word continues to get out about us, the opportunities increase.  We are still a relatively new band but we have done a lot in almost two years including shows in Galveston, San Antonio, Austin and Longview as well as about six shows at the House of Blues and we are just getting started.  

You can check out a clip from that night here.
'Wanton Song' with Stephen Pearcy




While writing up this interview, I gained a new appreciation for the guys. It's evident that they are not in it just to cover Led Zeppelin. They are in it for their admiration and respect for those four men who came together and become one incredible force in the music world. Although they may have other side projects, when they come together to get the Led out, they have one objective...to give the audience an ultimate Led Zeppelin experience.  

To learn more about 'The Hindenburg Project', including tour dates, booking information and media, check out the links below for their official website and Facebook group. You can also check out the 'Chris Manning Band' website for an insight to all of Chris' solo work.


I want to especially thank Chris for taking time from his busy touring schedule to answer our questions. 

Thanks also to Ashley King, Suzan Ranew and Michael Manning for the photos.



Important Links:

The Hindenburg Project Official Website
The Hindenburg Project Official Facebook Page
The Hindenburg Project Youtube Channel
Chris Manning Band Official Website



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