SoSo

“SoSo” is a continuation of Dread Zepplein's tradition with a maturity and breadth of sound that has become the Dread Zeppelin hallmark. The title cleverly begs for jokes about the CD being “so-so”. Far from mediocre “SoSo” is a demonstration of their peculiar genius for making Led Zeppelin and Elvis standards fresh. This is what Tortelvis calls “pure innertainment.” Butt Boy's chops are as tight as ever throughout “SoSo”. “Black Mountain Side” is a freewheeling variation on a theme in contrast to the original acoustic. Fans of Butt Boy's shredding style won't be disappointed either. Be sure to turn up “Heartbreaker” to appreciate a master of the fretboard at work. Long-time Dread Zeppelin member Spice produced “SoSo” with passion and every song benefits from his ingenuity. The “Immigrant Song” is a standout, an expertly mixed song from beginning to end. Beginning with Tortelvis' wailing war cry over a full-throttle tempo the song evolves into a driving mix of guitars, bass and keyboards. The song is at full force when “In the Ghetto” is masterfully added giving a new twist on a Dread Zeppelin classic. “The Rain Song” is the most impressive song on “SoSo”, destined to become a show-stopper. The band obviously relished this opportunity to make it over in their style. The arrangement is perfect, complete with keyboards mimicking the orchestral-like Mellotron of the original. The guitar, bass and percussion all perfectly complement the song as it builds into a Phil Spector-like wall of sound. Tortelvis' gives a bravura performance that is as close to an aria that is ever likely to be found in a rock ballad. Tortelvis' voice has gained in resonance and range over the years and this song is a perfect vehicle for his talent. After more than 20 years of making music together Dread Zeppelin has nothing to prove to their fans but that doesn't mean they've stopped trying to entertain. The affection the band has for each other is evident throughout the recording. “SoSo” is not so-so. It's great and at times brilliant. Dread Zeppelin does it again.