Led Zeppelin/AL,USA 1973 Complete Soundboard Edition

The May 13th Mobile performance is a staple soundboard from the first half of ZEP’s 1973 US tour. Among the many ’73 SBDs, the clear and easy-to-listen-to sound quality has led to the creation of many items, starting with the nostalgic “MOBILE DICK.” However, the 2019 release of “DEFINITIVE MOBILE 1973” has become the definitive version that sweeps them all together. While based on a master of unknown generation, the remastering by dadgad is impressive, with an upper feel that is immediately apparent. This made it an undisputed definitive release upon its initial release, but more than five years have passed since its release. While the sound quality has certainly improved, it is also true that some of the unnaturalness typical of dadgad’s work can be found. There’s a slightly stereo-like soundscape, and there are also scattered traces of multiple different generational connections in the intros of some songs. While the album boasts a highly refined and accessible sound, is it natural? That’s clearly not the case. However, for this release, we obtained a genuine first-generation copy. The difference in sound quality is striking. The naturalness is on a completely different level from “DEFINITIVE MOBILE 1973.” Of course, the production and supervision was done by “GRAF ZEPPELIN,” and it’s obvious with just a listen. Compared to the pure sound quality of this release, it’s clear that dadgad has skillfully transformed the previous, unknown-generation copy into a sophisticated finish. Unfortunately, no matter how hard dadgad tries, it can’t match the naturalness of this first-generation release. While the sound quality is now very clear, there is a slight distortion in Plant’s vocals in places. Ironically, this is also due to the first-generation nature of this release. Previous releases had some degree of generational degradation, and noise reduction was added to conceal this. This only results in a reduction in vocal distortion, but it cannot compete with the natural clarity of this recording. For example, the Midas Touch-produced “GOIN’ MOBILE,” once touted as the definitive Mobile 73, is a prime example. Listening to this overwhelmingly upbeat sound, the Mobile soundboard is truly captivating. For example, “No Quarter” was only just introduced to the repertoire, so its intimate performance feels refreshing in a good way compared to the grandiose performances from 1975 onward. Furthermore, while the previously released dadgad version used equalization to highlight the bassline, listening to this first-generation release is surprisingly clear, even without such gimmicks. Naturally, even his unusually simple mistakes from “Rock and Roll” to “Celebration Day” are easily recognizable. The appeal of this recording is that the SBD captures the groping feel typical of the first half of the tour, but this changes dramatically with “Dazed and Confused.” From start to finish, Bonzo and Jimmy’s high-energy tactics shine through, making this one of the best takes of the song from the first half of the tour. The tension is different from the European performance in the spring, but Bonzo’s lively drumming, especially the way it dominates the entire performance, is particularly impressive. While this SBD recording only covers the ending of “Moby Dick,” its natural listening experience is a stunning achievement that surpasses the numerous previously released releases. The persuasive power of this first-generation release is undeniable, and this release, meticulously crafted and supervised by GRAF ZEPPELIN, is truly the definitive Mobil 73 release! This latest remaster from the 1st Gen recording is completely different from the previous release, with no intentional stereo presence adjustments, resulting in a flat overall balance. No noise reduction has been applied, and the frequency range has been balanced by EQ. Phase correction has been applied, eliminating any bias to one side. While the previous release had noticeable transitions in the intro, this release is completely flawless. This recording has noticeable vocal distortion throughout, but removing it would make the sound muddy, so we’ve left it as is. The reason the distortion isn’t as noticeable on older Midas recordings is because the high frequencies have been cut, creating a muddy overall sound. Live at Municipal Auditorium, Mobile, AL, USA 13th May 1973 SBD Disc 1 (59:54) 01. Introduction 02. Rock And Roll 03. Celebration Day 04. Black Dog 05. Over The Hills And Far Away 06. Misty Mountain Hop 07. Since I’ve Been Loving You 08. No Quarter 09. The Song Remains The Same 10. The Rain Song Disc 2 (55:36) 01. Dazed And Confused 02. Stairway To Heaven 03. Moby Dick SOUNDBOARD RECORDING