Another strong performance by JPJ and his “orchestra” (all ten or more of them), who played a small club only a stone’s throw outside the Capital Beltway in Springfield, VA. Actually, if you didn’t know where this club was, you would have driven by it a few times as I have because there was no signs to advertise (behind a Mobil or Exxon gas station, and next to a pizza restaurant). Good turn out (300+), the placed was packed, which I think added to the atmosphere and a rather festive, talkative JPJ. Glad to see somebody remembers “laughter!!!!”
The music!!?!! I won’t over analyze the show nor music, since so many others have!!! But, what can I stay…the 3 of them played a straight forward show, which didn’t deviate from the reviews of other shows. Zooma, Zeppelin, Scream for Help…all played with intensity and professionalism (no Quiet Riot show here!!). The highlight for me was a note or two of Ramble On, which I think was played during Bass n’ Drums.
Oh, yes I will jump on the bandwagon to admit Page and Plant made a BIG mistake by keeping this one (JPJ) off the UnLEDded tour. I am not sure what time the show ended, nor do I care. The important thing was the MUSIC, and graciousness of the host to sign autographs (of whatever was presented to him), allow pics, shake hands, etc… Something that is lacking in music these dayz!!! He was also pleased to hear I was one of 50 or so people to see his show at “the Joint” (Hard Rock Hotel) in Vegas. ROCK ON JPJ!!!!

Well, some things remain the same. The doors to the club (toilet) were open at 7pm. JPJ did his sound check with the customers waiting in the bar area. One could not see JPJ, only one could hear him (shades of Zep?!) Anyhow, JPJ hit the stage around 8:45pm. He does look good considering his age and road wear. He does rock. Oh yes, does he rock. The bassist remains the same. Thumping, sliding, moving, he does look like he is having fun. A question presented to all readers: Why such the small clubs (toilets)? Is this some sort of “back to the clubs” routine? Ole Bobby is doing the same thing. When will Pagey get the drift? The man truly can’t be making any money or the record company for that matter. Or is this some sort of reconnection for a future? Hey, don’t get me wrong. I loved seeing JPJ in a small club (toilet). I drove 5 hours for it!! But i kept on wondering, whats the big picture in all of this? Page was correct, the backbone of a band is the drums and bass.

Thomas Lozupone