Zeppelin USA

The Cerritos Performing Arts Center turned out to be the perfect venue for Zeppelin USA, as the band trotted out a "full-production" show including laser lights, smoke effects, a wonderful large video screen, and actual performers, straight from the Led Zep Album covers, recreating their classic roles.

Lead singer Brody Dolyniuk's vocals are mindblowing. I have seen countless Zeppelin tribute bands in my time, and quite frankly, no one comes close to this guy in terms of actually sounding like Robert Plant, and overall quality of voice. That his on stage demeanor is sort of goofy and self-deprecating, didn't detract from the weightiness of his performance.

Steve Zukowsky, (as Jimmy Page) played stunning note-for-note renditions of the songs and solos, and seems to have better chemistry with his bandmates in ZUSA, than he did in his former Zeppelin tribute band. He nailed Pagey's guitar tone to a tee, and his attention to detail is fantastic, switching between several guitars, to accurately and authentically present each song.

Jonathon Gilcrest was every bit as important to ZUSA as John Paul Jones was to the real Led Zep. He handled several instruments (mainly keyboards) with the virtuosity required for the music. Drummer Pat Leon, had the requisite thud and thunder, that any Bonham-esque drummer needs to underpin the instrumentation taking place on top of it. He played Bonham's parts, pretty much "hit for hit" and provided the solid foundation required for Zep's music.

The set list included all the hits people would want to hear, with my favorite of the night being "Kashmir" replete with a 4-piece all female string section. A show ending medley sent the crowd into a giddy state. It was breathtaking. All in all, Zeppelin USA put on a show that was satisfying in every way. This band is highly recommended to both the hard-core Zeppelin fan, and the casual fan who wants to hear what it was like to be at a real vintage Zeppelin performance. One heck of a nice way to kick off the year out in Cerritos.