I have long been a fan of Robert Plant’s musical explorations outside of Zep and so when I have been able, I have taken the opportunity to see him a few times now.
A gig at the Roundhouse in London a few years back to see Robert with the Sensational Space Shifters was a particular highlight for me. North African rhythms and the chance to hear instruments that one might not normally encounter at your average gig.
So it was with delight that back in the summer I learned that Robert would be doing a gig in Brighton in November of this year, just a hop on a local bus with concessionary pass for me, deep joy. I went online to buy a ticket but for some reason I seemed not to be able to conclude the purchase, “I know” I thought, “I’ll go in to town and buy direct from the venue box office”, I needed some new guitar strings so it made perfect sense to tie in a little visit to the main music store just around the corner from the venue.
Imagine my disappointment when I went the next day, only to be told that it had sold out! Surely not? Overnight?
I cheered myself up slightly with a visit to the music store where I was able to buy the strings I wanted and have a mooch around the acoustic guitar showroom. However when I returned home I was curious to see if seats were still being shown as available online…they were, so I had another bash at buying one and sure enough I was successful!
I was going to see Robert’s ‘Saving Grace’ with Suzie Dian at the Dome Theatre.
As usual, he didn’t disappoint, full of good humour and looking completely comfortable with the thought that this was the first gig of this November tour. Robert and Suzie’s voices harmonised so well and with a few alternative versions of ‘Friends’ ‘Gallows Pole’ ‘Four Sticks’ the whole band was a treat to see and hear. I’m sorry dear reader that I didn’t take a note of all the numbers they did, however I know this info is out there on various Zep related platforms.
I was surprised by quite a few ‘Whole Lotta Led’ fans that recognised me, and it was a pleasure to share some happy memories with those that came to talk to me before the gig, or at half time. They had seen us in Portsmouth, Southampton and Brighton over the years.
A brisk walk to the bus stop afterwards and my timing was perfect, 3 mins only before my bus home was due…..very rock n’ roll hahaha.
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