Album of the Day

On this day in 1980, the original lineup of Led Zeppelin played its final concert. The set list mixed familiar hits with “All My Love” and “Hot Dog” from the band's most recent collection, IN THROUGH THE OUT DOOR – which would likely be seen as a transitional album if the quartet had ever made it to the studio for a follow-up. Its seven songs show the group adding Latin and country touches to their powerful blues-based rock, and John Paul Jones' synthesizers are as prominent here as Jimmy Page's riffing guitars. While the group was exploring new directions, they never abandoned their core strengths -  even the rough mixes included on the Deluxe Edition of the 1979 album (to be released later this month) crackle with characteristic assurance and riveting performances. If one can't help but to wonder where Led Zeppelin would have gone next, IN THROUGH THE OUT DOOR is nonetheless a highly satisfying swan song for the legendary band.