Album Info
| Artist: | Led Zeppelin |
| Album: | IV |
| Gatefold: | Yes |
| Released: | Australia, 1972 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Black Dog | |
| Written-By - John Paul Jones | ||
| A2 | Rock And Roll | |
| Written-By - John Bonham, John Paul Jones | ||
| A3 | The Battle Of Evermore | |
| Guest [Appears By Courtesy Of Island Records] - Sandy Denny | ||
| A4 | Stairway To Heaven | |
| B1 | Misty Mountain Hop | |
| Written-By - John Paul Jones | ||
| B2 | Four Sticks | |
| B3 | Going To California | |
| B4 | When The Leevee Breaks | |
| Written-By - John Bonham, John Paul Jones, Memphis Minnie |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
- We are a small independent record store located at 91 Plenty Rd, Preston in Melbourne's North (Australia)
- We buy and sell new and used vinyl records - if you have a collection you'd like to sell please click here.
- All pictures of the second hand/used vinyl records are actual pictures of the album in stock.
- We ship Australia wide for a flat rate of $10 for standard shipping or $15 for express post.
- Free Shipping for orders $150 and over.
- You can also pick up your order in store, just select Local Pickup at the checkout.
- We also ship internationally - prices vary depending on weight and location.
- We ship vinyls in thick, rigid cardboard mailers with a crushable zone on either side, and for extra safety we bubble wrap the records.
- We almost always ship in stock vinyl next business day (excluding pre orders)
- We are strongly committed to customer satisfaction. If you experience any problems with your order contact us so we can rectify the situation. If the record arrives damaged or doesn't arrive we will cover the cost of replacing or returning the record.
- If you change your mind you have 30 days to return your record but you must cover the cost of returning it to the store.
- You can contact our Melbourne record shop at (03) 9939 3807 or at info@funkyduckvinyl.com
- Happy Listening!
Description
**Album Review: Led Zeppelin - IV**
Released on November 8, 1971, Led Zeppelin's untitled fourth studio album, commonly referred to as "Led Zeppelin IV," stands as a monumental achievement in rock music. The album is a quintessential example of the band's ability to blend hard rock with folk and blues influences, creating a sound that is both timeless and innovative.
**Historical and Cultural Significance**
"Led Zeppelin IV" is often hailed as one of the greatest rock albums of all time. Its release came at a pivotal moment in rock history, as the genre was evolving and expanding its boundaries. The album's impact was immediate and profound, solidifying Led Zeppelin's status as rock legends. It has been certified 24× Platinum by the RIAA, making it one of the best-selling albums in the United States. Globally, it has sold over 37 million copies, underscoring its universal appeal.
The album's cover, featuring a painting of an old man with a bundle of sticks, is iconic in its own right. The decision to release the album without a title or the band's name on the cover was a bold move, emphasizing the music over commercial branding. This choice reflected the band's confidence in their artistry and their desire to let the music speak for itself.
**Standout Tracks**
The album opens with "Black Dog," a track that showcases the band's signature blend of blues and hard rock. The song's complex time signature and Robert Plant's powerful vocals set the tone for the rest of the album.
"Rock and Roll" follows, a high-energy tribute to the early days of rock music. Its driving beat and infectious riff make it a perennial favorite among fans and a staple of the band's live performances.
"The Battle of Evermore" introduces a folk element, featuring a duet between Plant and Sandy Denny of Fairport Convention. The song's mystical lyrics and mandolin accompaniment create a haunting atmosphere.
The album's centerpiece, "Stairway to Heaven," is arguably Led Zeppelin's most famous song. Its gradual build from a gentle acoustic introduction to a powerful electric climax is masterfully executed. The song's enigmatic lyrics and Jimmy Page's iconic guitar solo have cemented its place in rock history.
"Misty Mountain Hop" and "Four Sticks" continue the album's exploration of diverse musical styles, blending rock with elements of psychedelia and world music.
"Going to California" is a beautiful acoustic ballad that showcases the band's softer side, with Plant's introspective lyrics and Page's delicate guitar work.
The album closes with "When the Levee Breaks," a blues-infused track featuring John Bonham's thunderous drumming and a memorable harmonica riff. The song's production, with its heavy use of reverb and echo, creates a powerful and immersive listening experience.
**Critical Reception**
Upon its release, "Led Zeppelin IV" received widespread critical acclaim. Critics praised the album's eclectic mix of styles and the band's musicianship. Over the years, its reputation has only grown, with many considering it a masterpiece of rock music. It frequently appears on lists of the greatest albums of all time, including Rolling Stone's "500 Greatest Albums of All Time."
**Awards and Accolades**
While "Led Zeppelin IV" did not win any major awards at the time of its release, its enduring legacy is evident in its continued influence on musicians and its presence in popular culture. The album's songs, particularly "Stairway to Heaven," have been covered and referenced by countless artists, further cementing its status as a cultural touchstone.
In conclusion, "Led Zeppelin IV" is a landmark album that captures the essence of Led Zeppelin's innovative spirit and musical prowess. Its blend of rock, blues, and folk elements, combined with its timeless appeal, ensures that it remains a vital part of the rock music canon.
