What's Happening?
Robert Plant and his band Saving Grace, featuring Suzi Dian, have digitally released their four-track EP, 'All That Glitters…' on October 9 through Nonesuch. This release makes the EP accessible to a wider audience, as it was previously available only
on vinyl for Record Store Day. The EP features a mix of traditional material alongside songs by acclaimed artists Gillian Welch and Bert Jansch. The tracklist includes 'The Blackest Crow' (traditional), 'Two Coats' (traditional), 'Orphan Girl' (Gillian Welch), and 'Poison' (Bert Jansch). The band's lineup includes Plant and Dian on vocals, Tony Kelsey on guitar, Matt Worley on banjo and strings, Oli Jefferson on drums, and Barney Morse-Brown on cello. The project, which began in 2019, reflects the band's shared interest in blues, folk, gospel, and country music, focusing on interpreting existing songs rather than new Plant compositions. A video for 'The Blackest Crow,' made by Morse-Brown, was also released.
Why It's Important?
The digital release of 'All That Glitters…' is significant for Robert Plant's ongoing musical evolution, showcasing his continued exploration of folk, blues, and roots music beyond his iconic rock legacy. This move allows a broader audience to engage with his current artistic direction, which emphasizes traditional sounds and interpretations of other artists' works. For the music industry, it highlights the enduring appeal of established artists who continue to innovate and explore different genres, demonstrating that an artist's career can evolve beyond their most famous work. The EP's focus on traditional and cover songs also underscores the importance of preserving and reinterpreting musical heritage, potentially introducing these classic tracks to new listeners. This release reinforces Plant's reputation as a versatile musician committed to diverse musical expressions, rather than solely relying on his Led Zeppelin past, which can inspire other artists to pursue varied creative paths.
What's Next?
Following the digital release of 'All That Glitters…,' fans can anticipate continued touring from Robert Plant and Saving Grace, as they have been performing these songs live. The band's commitment to interpreting existing folk and blues material suggests that future releases might continue this thematic approach, potentially leading to more EPs or full-length albums featuring similar selections. There is also speculation among fans and critics about the possibility of a live album, given the positive reception of their performances. While the current focus is on covers, there is also an expressed interest from some listeners in hearing original material from this folk/folk-rock outfit. The band's collaborative nature, with Suzi Dian sharing vocal duties and other members contributing significantly, indicates a potential for further development of their collective sound and repertoire in upcoming projects.
