The all-female tribute band Lez Zeppelin is bringing a multimedia production of Led Zeppelin’s famous Physical Graffiti to Ludlow Garage. The double album will be performed in its entirety, honoring the 50th anniversary of its release.
Lez Zeppelin was formed in 2004 and founded by guitarist Steph Paynes. Since then, the group has reached levels that surpassed expectations from 20 years ago. Their ability to pay homage to Led Zeppelin’s legacy while creating authentic renditions of long-coveted songs is unique and admirable, as they tour throughout the U.S. and bring the renowned music of legends to places like Japan and Mumbai, India.
The tribute band’s self-titled studio album was released in 2007 and consists of one song from each of Led Zeppelin’s first six albums, plus two original tracks. The album was produced by Eddie Kramer (Led Zeppelin, Jimi Hendrix) and kicked the band off for the future release of Lez Zeppelin I in 2010. The band’s most recent album, The Island of Skyros, was released in 2019, accompanied by a four-piece string quartet on tracks like the famous “Immigrant Song.”
Lez Zeppelin even garnered praise from Led Zeppelin founder and guitarist Jimmy Page in 2013 after he attended one of their shows in London. “They played the Led Zeppelin music with an extraordinary sensuality and an energy and passion that highlighted their superb musicianship,” Page said, according to Lez Zeppelin. The current members of the band are Marlain Angelides (vocals), Steph Paynes (guitar), Leesa Harrington Squyres (drums) and Joan Chew (bass and keys).
After performing at venues like Madison Square Garden, as well as at festivals like Bonnaroo and Isle of Wight, the quartet has brought the essence of Led Zeppelin’s powerful and electrifying sound to crowds far and wide. More than remastering the classics, they have even added their raw takes with original tracks like “On the Rocks.” Through their passionate and authentic performances, the all-female band has showcased their ability to perform in a way that honors the legendary group and promotes their musical aptitude in an exciting new way.
Lez Zeppelin plays Ludlow Garage at 7:30 p.m. on Jan. 3. More info: ludlowgaragecincinnati.com.
This story is featured in CityBeat’s Dec. 25 print edition.
This article appears in Dec 11-24, 2024.
