How to honor the legacy of a band deemed sacred? To tread on holy ground is perilous, and must be done with the intent and spirit of a disciple—Pay attention to the intricacies of the magic, explore the far ends of the innovation, strive for ever-growing ability, and let the purity of the love for the music drive it all.
The musicians of Zepparella came together through a common passion for the music of Led Zeppelin. Armed with the desire to incorporate the vocabulary of their heroes into their own, they decided to dive into the music.
Nearly five years have passed, and Zepparella continues to develop. The musicianship grows as they dig deeper into the wealth of challenges, and the stage show gets ever more transcendent as the relationships between the players tighten. Anna Kristina (vocals), Gretchen Menn (guitar), Nila Minnerok (bass) and Clementine (drums) bond in a way that is palpable to the audience, and this connection gives them reign to explore their own improvised magic within the framework of Zeppelin’s mighty songs.
The band has toured consistently throughout the Western United States. 2009 brought them on a tour to the East Coast, and the early part of 2010 already has them in Wisconsin, Utah, Colorado, Florida, Louisiana, and Texas, with more yet to come. They have shared stages with the likes of KISS, Y&T, and The English Beat. They’ve rocked private parties that found neckties and undergarments left behind, old-fashioned casino showrooms with tables overturned, rock clubs, lodges, the Seattle Music Experience, the Sundance Film Festival, the Harmony Festival, celebrations, holidays, weddings, and ships.
Everywhere they go, the Zeppelin love washes in waves out of the doors of the venues. Initial skeptics are quickly converted. Followers recount the number of shows they’ve seen, and the regulars notch 40, 50, over 100 shows on their belts, traveling between states to see the shows.
The band has released two live albums. The debut, Live at 19 Broadway, was released on Bonny Boy Records in the Bay Area in 2005. A Pleasing Pounding was released on the great indie rock label What Are Records? in 2008. The next one is on the horizon.
ZEPPARELLA PO Box 330372 San Francisco, CA 94133
www.zepparella.com Management/Booking: [email protected] Band contact: [email protected] Zepparella - Times-Standard Online Page 1 of 1
was, and they explained that his name was Steve Zepparella and he had a beard. Turns out that it was former Hitch, and current (though on hiatus) Magnum Drummer Steve Bohner. Sarah Godlin For the Times-Standard
Posted: 09/03/2009 01:27:08 AM PDT Clementine was once in another tribute band called With the recent fly through from the Sad Wings of AC/DShe. They covered John Denver songs. Destiny, the area might be yearning for another Kidding. She was also in the national metal band tribute band. It'd be nice if this time it was full of BOTTOM, whom she toured with through Humboldt hard rocking ladies. Voila; Zepparella. These four as well. Vocalist Anna Kristina is a Bay area stage women knock out Led Zeppelin's hits in a non actor who started as a jazz musician, Nila Minnerock campy, righteous way, and have been for so long is a seasoned bass player who played in BOTTOM as that they truly make the famous songs their own. well, Gretchen Menn is a dazzling guitar player who played for three years in AC/DShe, the Phil Collins Page, Plant, Jones and Bonham are some extremely tribute band. That's another joke, but really, also a big shoes to fill, but the women of Zepparella throw good idea. Please contact me if you are interested in themselves into it, studying their individual starting one up. predecessor to further their own art. Clementine, the groups drummer, was surprised how completely she The group has been going strong for a double fell into the role. couple of years, and though the Zepparella members are truly bout it-bout-it for Led Zeppelin, you can't ”It's trippy to get into someone's mind so blame them for having side projects where they completely. I feel like I know (John Bohnam). I have aren't playing entirely in a dead British man's had dreams where we are walking arm in arm with shadow. Clementine has a side project called The each other,” said Clem. Solid. They will be playing a show at Nocturnum Thursday, September 17. The San Francisco band is no stranger to Humboldt County. Zepparella has played here a bunch, and ”It's a band I started because I realized I should Clem, before she was in Zepparella had played here also be playing drums in an original project. We are with other groups. playing here soon with Sticks and Stones. They are an instrumental, blow your face off, rock band,” said ”Some of our favorite shows have turned out to be Clem. in Humboldt. Once in 2000 the rear axle of our tour van broke and someone from Arcata let us stay at his Catch Zepparella in their entire glorious splendor at house for days until it was fixed. He basically gave The Red Fox Tavern on Sunday, Sept., 6. The doors us the run of his house for three days, we'd drive open at 9 and you can purchase tickets online at In him to work in the morning and he let us use his Ticketing which you can reach through car. It was one of the nicest things anyone has ever theredfoxtavern.com Also, I am serious about the done,” said Clem. Phil Collins tribute band: [email protected] .
This being a small town, and me having been here for a while, I inquired as to who the mystery hero
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ZEPPARELLA - A PLEASANT POUNDING
WHAT ARE RECORDS
METAL TO INFINITY
As ow ner of a Metal w ebzine, I definitely am not asham ed start digging into the past - I mean to go back in times, let's say late 60's / early seventies. An era, actually the beginning of m y m usical interest in Classic Rock and Hard Rock. Yeah, it w as j ust like a new w orld opened up for m e. As a very young aged kid find out w hat the real w orld has to offer those days, it w as quite an experience... hanging out w ith older brothers, be sure they show ed m e the w ay and the rest w as up to m yself. That w as the start for m y m usical journey through space and tim e, quite shortly after I knew that Rock m usic w as m y cup of tea and there I m oved on... searching for bands on tape and vinyl, first there w ere the Classic Rock bands follow ed by seventies Hard Rock outfits, as years passed by I rolled into the w orld of Metal as well... decades later now, I'm most of all hooked on the mighty forces of US Metal music - I have to adm it, I still like Classic Rock like I did those days back into the early 7 0 's. Okay, so far m y som e background about m yself... m ain point is to spread the w ord of an Am erican female quartet named Zepparella.
Four good looking w om en w ith, in the first place, a burning passion for the band Led Zeppelin - secondly they have a special gift ( probably descend from above) , m ore specifically Zepparella plays songs from their idols like no one else did before. About cover bands, I have to adm it that som etim es particular groups aren't w orth to see daylight but w ith this band, it's not the sam e - it's totally different! You can feel the passion right on†¦ you can't reach the talents of a legendary band like LZ but you can com e in the neighbourhood, do you get the picture? Nothing sounds better than the original stuff - what Zepparalla brings on is quite unique. The sim ilarities w ith m ighty Led Zeppelin are phenomenal.
The vocals ( and harm onica parts) are done by Anna Kristina... alm ost an im possible task to com e close w ith Robert Plant's vocal use - w ell, check out Zepparella's front lady and m ake up your m ind. I 'm sure you w ill be astonished! W e all know guitarist Jim m y Page, the charism atic individual w ho offered uncountable, dazzling guitar tunes back then - believe m e or not, Zepparella's six string w izard Gretchen Menn com es pretty close concerning
http://mtibelgium.00freehost.com/ZepparellaCDreviewApleasantpounding.html 9/3/2009 ZEPPARELLA Page 2 of 2 musical resemblances. And so the story goes on, bassist Nila Minnerok's bass roars like John Paul Jones and John Bonham 's drum w orks lingers on strong w hile Clem entine gives aw ay their knowledge about hitting skins, cymbals,...
You w ill find back nine com positions on Zepparella's latest output ''A Pleasant Pounding'' w hich is actually a collection of songs played during live perform ances. As for the songlist on the album , they choose for a few real Classic Ones like 'I m m igrant Song' or 'Dazed And Confused' - also they bring on a few songs, ( for som e people) 'unknow n ones' I guess such as: 'Tram pled Under Foot', originally released early 1 9 7 5 as single. More is com ing by songs like 'Misty Mountain Hop' ( original released as single in 1 9 7 1 ) - 'Custard Pie' from ''Physical Graffiti'' album 1975, ...
As you can see, Zepparella doesn't play only the ones everyone should have to know ... their m ission is clear, playing Led Zeppelin songs as perfect as possible and w ith sim ilarities very close to the originals. According to m e, they have succeeded in their m ission w hich is, show ing their respect and dignity for a legendary Rock band. Perform ed w ith a burning passion and a great looking vision for vintage rockin' m usic - Zepperalla can be proud on it. Here some sound files / visuals via Myspace right HERE. MY POINTS: 85 / 100
RETURN TO MTI INDEX
http://mtibelgium.00freehost.com/ZepparellaCDreviewApleasantpounding.html 9/3/2009
Page D4 Wyoming Tribune Eagle Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Celebrate Lincoln’s bicentennial Civil Rights Film Series: Mighty Times, The Legacy of Rosa Parks The Wyoming Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Commission invites everyone, especially Witness the story of Rosa Parks, who sparked a revolution by those who share President Lincoln’s birthday, to a celebration at the state capitol on sitting still, this Sunday at 3 p.m. for free at the Unitarian Thursday, beginning at 9:30 a.m. Gov. Dave Freudenthal will kick off the event, followed Universalist Church, 3005 Thomes Ave. by a presentation by Lincoln portrayer John Voehl. The party will move to the Wyoming State Museum for birthday cake and the unveiling of a traveling exhibit featuring The film, donated by the Southern Poverty Law Center’s Teaching President Lincoln. The celebration is free and open to the public. For more details call Tolerance project, is geared toward those in the third grade Mark Junge at 634-7462. through adults. For more information, call 632-7521. Get the Led out with Zepparella
SEE THIS GIRLS GROUP DURING ITS LONGEST Zepparella TOUR SO FAR. An all ladies Led Zeppelin tribute band By Karen Cotton When: Feb. 14, 9 p.m. [email protected] Where: Oriental Theater, 4335 We all need a Led Zep- W 44th Ave. Denver, Colo. pelin fix from time to time. Tickets: $10-$12 Since the legendary band isn’t reuniting any time More info: All ages, soon, consider catching Zep- http://cervantes.baselineticketin parella live instead. g.com or www.zepparella.com Zepparella is an all ladies Led Zeppelin tribute band from San Francisco. threat.” The first leg of their tour is in the Rocky Mountains and Q: Why did you choose to they’re playing at the Orien- cover Led Zeppelin? tal Theater in Denver on Clementine: “A couple of Valentine’s Day. things. The players John The band’s drummer, Bonham and Jimmy Page Clementine, took some time made us want to play the in- to talk about the band’s ori- struments that we do. That’s gins and their new album “A a great education. Pleasing Pounding.” “Also, the music allows us to stretch out musically in Q. How long have you all different parts and impro- been jamming together? vise, so it keeps it fresh al- Clementine: “We’ve been ways.” together for about three years. When we started, we Q: Do you have a favorite had a different singer for song that you play on stage? eight months. Clementine: “‘Dazed and Zepparella, an all-ladies Led Zeppelin band, is made up of members, from left, Clementine, Gretchen, Anna and Nila. Courtesy “Then, when Anna Kristi- Confused’ spotlights each na joined the band, that’s member really great.” Q: How often do you tour? Clementine: “‘A Pleasing Clementine: “Yeah, Q: What do you like most when everything started and Clementine: “This is the Pounding’ and it includes everyone has an original about covering Led Zep- that was three years ago.” Q: How did the members longest tour that we’ve done Zeppelin songs like ‘Immi- project or two. Some times pelin’s music? of Zepparella meet? so far. We try to get out a few grant Song,’ ‘Sick Again,’ the original projects open Clementine: “The educa- Q: How do you get permis- Clementine: “The bass weekends a month, up and ‘Dazed and Confused,’ ‘In for Zepparella.” tion of it, and it’s about the sion to cover a band like Led player Nila (Minnerock) and down the coast. This is our My Time of Dying.’ connection between the Zeppelin? I have been playing in bands first venture beyond Neva- “The record was recorded Q: Will the original groups players for this band. We re- Clementine: “They just for about 12 years or so, then da. at a show at the Red Devil open for this tour? ally love the way Led Zep- give it to us. We haven’t had the guitarist Gretchen and I “It was just time to go fur- Lounge in San Francisco in Clementine: “No, that’s pelin communicated a problem. We have two live were in an AC/DC band to- ther west.” October of 2007.” not the case this tour. These between the four players, albums and we had to get gether about six years ago. are places that we haven’t each player was integral, so permission for both of those. Anna we met through a mu- Q: What’s your newest al- Q: Do you also work on been before, so we’re at the we really love that about the They don’t see it as any tual friend.” bum? your own originals? whim of the promoters.” band.” Wine: Tastings do not have to be costly
Continued from D1 wrong way, you just have an “It has a nice black cher- varietals from the state,” says it is the only organic, open mind and have fun ry, plum vanilla and toffee Rader said. “Flying Fish of- Fair Trade, bean-to-bar pairings, each person typi- with it.” flavor,” Rader said. “One fers cherry, plum and rasp- chocolate factory in the cally takes little sips of wine With Valentine’s Day ap- thing that sets Root: 1 apart: berry flavors with a hint of United States. to see how it interacts with proaching, a tasting can be Chile is unique because the cinnamon. It’s made in Co- Some of Theo Chocolate’s various chocolates. done by just a couple, but grapes grown are engrafted lumbia Valley, Wash.” varieties include Fig Fennel “You usually have a fair the results may be mixed. root stock, which are unique As for the chocolates, Rad- and Almond Dark Choco- amount of wine left,” Rader “If you want to do some in the market and that con- er recommends Theo Choco- late, Ghana Dark Chocolate said. “Consider having a sort of Valentine’s date, to tributes to their pure fla- late, a well-known company Bar, Coconut Curry milk tasting party before lunch or make it interesting you vors. It’s a full bodied red based in Seattle. chocolate, Hazelnut Crunch dinner, so you can enjoy the would want to do one bottle and an everyday drinking “They do interesting stuff milk chocolate, Venezuela rest of the wine with a with a couple of different wine.” with their chocolate and are Limited Edition Dark meal.” chocolates, or a few differ- Flying Fish Merlot comes a Fair Trade company, so we Chocolate Bar 91 percent. For a large group, it’s nice ent chocolates,” Rader said. from Washington State. thought it made for an inter- They range in price from to have two to three bottles. Wine and chocolate can equal “But, one bottle doesn’t give “Washington State built its esting combination,” Rader $3.25 to $5 a bar. It’s also a good idea to fun. Michael Smith/staff you a chance to see the reputation on merlot, and said. stick to red wines and to range and two bottles is a lot it’s one of the most popular Theo Chocolate’s Web site choose a few different types ed corn chips or plain crack- for two people,” she said. – for instance, zinfandel, ers, water crackers, to It is a lot more fun, she DLP Digital Cinema® in all Auditoriums Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot cleanse the pallet,” Rader said, to do wine-chocolate or a Syrah, which is also said. “Chocolate has cocoa tasting with a larger group. known as a Shiraz. fat in it, so you can cleanse “You can taste more wines ¨ “So, you can see how the your pallet in between and experience more fla- wines all taste differently chocolates.” vors,” she said. 3410 CONCORD Call & Ask About $Our with the chocolates,” Rader 638-SHOW AT EAST PERSHING Super Bargain Matinee 4.25 Hosts should keep in mind Wyo .com allValentine shows between Specials 4pm - 6pm said. that everyone has a different BUY TICKETS ONLINE AND PICKUP AT LOBBY KIOSK When you’re selecting the level of knowledge when it Some inexpensive FRONTIER MALL chocolates, you also want a comes to wine. variety. suggestions for STADIUM 9 “Some are novice and oth- 3* 123$66(6%$6('217+(%(676(//,1*%22. 1400 DELL RANGE BLVD. • 307-634-9499 “But, stay away from ers are more sophisticated,” '5(:%$55<025(-(11,)(5$1,6721-867,1/21*%(1$))/(&. wine, chocolate STADIUM SEATING IN ALL AUDITORIUMS (chocolates) that are sweet Rader said. 6&$5/(77-2+$16621-(11,)(5&2112//<*,11,)(5*22':,1 1:10, 4:00, 7:00, 9:50 PINK PANTHER 2 PG DLP that have caramels or A host can make it simple The key to keeping a wine 12:25 2:40 4:55 7:40 9:55 marshmallows in them,” and chocolate tasting from PINK PANTHER 2 (PG) 123$66(667(9(0$57,1 UNDERWORLD: RISE OF THE LYCANS 5 ,'5(4 THE UNINVITED PG-13 DLP and have three different 12:25, 2:35, 4:45, 6:55, 9:10 1:00, 3:10, 5:25, 7:35, 10:00 12:20 2:30 4:45 7:20 9:35 Rader said. “But, do some- wines and chocolate bars. becoming expensive is to GRAN TORINO R DLP CORALINE 3-D 3* 123$66(6)(( SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE 5 %5,1*,' choose high quality wines 12:30 4:10 7:15 10:00 thing with nuts, or chili pow- “Guests can try the first 12:20, 2:40, 5:10, 7:30, 9:55 1:40, 4:10, 6:50, 9:20 26&$5120,1(( that are available for an eco- PAUL BLART: MALL COP PG DLP der, or with curry, or a fig wine with all three bars, PUSH (PG13) 13&+5,6(9$16 '$.27$)$11,1* PAUL BLART: MALL COP (PG).(9,1-$0(6 12:05 2:20 4:40 7:10 9:45 and fennel bar.” then the second and the nomical price. 1:55, 4:30, 7:15, 10:00 12:35, 2:45, 4:55, 7:10, 9:25 NEW IN TOWN PG-13 DLP 12:10 2:30 4:50 7:30 9:50 Also try dark and milk third,” Rader said. “It’s in- The following wines all re- THE READER 5 %5,1*,'.$7(:,16/(7 HOTEL FOR DOGS (PG) HE’ S JUST NOT THAT INTO YOU 6:45, 9:40 26&$5120,1(()25%(673,&785( 12:40, 3:00, 5:20 PG-13 DLP chocolate, or chocolate with teresting to notice how the tail between $10 and $15: 12:35 4:00 7:00 10:00 Flying Fish Merlot 2006, TAKEN 3* 123$66(6/,$01((621 DEFIANCE 5 ,'5(48,5(''$1,(/&5$,* TAKEN PG-13 DLP nuts. wine and chocolate changes 12:30, 2:50, 5:00, 7:20, 9:30 7:40 12:45 4:20 7:35 9:55 “An easy tip: If you take from one wine to the next.” Root: 1 Cabernet Sauvignon THE UNINVITED (PG13) NO PASSES GRAN TORINO 5 %5,1*,'&/,17($67:22' PUSH PG-13 DLP 2007 and Fat Bastard Pinot 12:55, 3:05, 5:15, 7:25, 9:35 1:45, 4:20, 7:05, 9:45 12:40 4:15 7:05 9:45 the chocolate bar when it’s If a guest is a novice wine CORALINE 3D PG DLP INKHEART 3* %5(1'$1)5$6(5 in the wrapper still and drinker, they can say Noir 2007. 1:30 4:15 7:00 9:30 “Fat Bastard has nice 1:25, 4:05 307-635-2923 break it up in the wrapper, whether or not they like a Cole Square 3 517 COLE SQ. SHPG. CNTR. strawberries, a hint of rose FREE ADMISSION WITH POPCORN PURCHASE! you can dump the chunks certain wine paired with a CINEMA CLUB IS BACK! $&/53"-t4)08t"%.*44*0/ NEW REDUCED ADMISSION out onto the plate, or you can certain chocolate. on the nose, nice red fruits $1.00 • ALL SEATS • ALL SHOWS SERIES STARTS >=:JM9JQ)0 9$/.<5,( (PG13)...... 6:45 on the palette, strawberries, SHOWS BEFORE 6:30 PLAY FRI-SUN keep it in the wrapper and “If you’re a more ad- K=9KGFLA;C=LKGFK9D=FGO 5(92/87,21$5<52$' 5 26&$5120,1((...9:20 let people grab a piece,” vanced wine drinker, you raspberries and cherries ?=LL@=>MDDK;GGHGFDAF= %('7,0(6725,(6 (PG)...... 7:20 PUNISHER R 9LOQGEGNA=K&;GE 7+(81%251 (PG13) ...... 9:35 2:00 4:25 7:00 9:00 Rader said. can write down what you and is made in France,” YES MAN PG-13 The host should give think like, ‘I can taste a lot of Rader said. 2:05 4:35 7:05 9:05 MARLEY & ME PG everyone a glass of water. blueberry and plum,’” she Root: 1 is a Cabernet KL9JLAF?>JA<9Q2;GF>=KKAGFKG>9K@GH9@GDA;L@=AFL=JF9LAGF9D>JA<9QL@=)+L@ 2:00 4:30 6:50 9:00
“I also recommend unsalt- said. “There is no right or Sauvignon from Chile. © 2009 Movie Palaces Inc. All Rights Reserved ALL SHOWTIMES INCLUDE PRE-FEATURE CONTENT • www.carmike.com 8 - STEPPING OUT Jackson Hole News&Guide, Wednesday, February 18, 2009 Female rockers to rip full Zeppelin spectrum –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Who: Zepparella What: All-female Led Zeppelin cover band Socially When: 9:30 p.m. today and Thursday conscious sounds Where: Mangy Moose Saloon, Teton Village How much: $10 Also this week at the Moose, music –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– fans can catch Salem – a self-described By Abbie Beane amalgamation of funk, hip-hop, jazz and Afro-Cuban sounds, infused with socially Gretchen Menn and Clementine – conscious messages. who has officially dropped her last The show is slated for 9:30 p.m. Friday, name – grew up listening to the and tickets cost $10. hard-rock sounds of Led Zeppelin, The band features Todd Anders and “woodshedding” as they call it. Johnson, who is all at once a drum- PHOTO COURTESY ERIN BARNES mer, singer, composer, producer and This is when musicians go to the Gretchen Menn, from left, Clementine, Nila Minnerock, Anna Kristina are backyard woodshed to practice with educator. Zepparella, an all-female Led Zeppelin tribute band. Zepparella will make its Johnson, performing internationally a particular intensity and passion. Mangy Moose debut tonight and stick around for Thursday night. “Zeppelin was some of the first for more than 20 years, also features music that got me into guitar,” “I was into the bluesy jazz vibe,” Throughout their four-year his- prominently in the snow-riding scene. Menn said. “I feel their music em- she said. “But Zeppelin spoke to me. tory as a band, the members of Zep- A snowboarder himself, Johnson’s bodies the whole spectrum of hu- It was the universality of Zeppelin. parella have been presented with compositions can be heard in skiing man emotion. Though I also love It’s improv, fluid, funky, soulful. Zep- two inherent, potential stumbling and riding films produced by Warren AC/DC, they express a narrow view pelin changes it up a lot and even blocks: being a tribute band and be- Miller. Johnson also has played at the X of the human experience in com- brings jazz influences into their ing an all-female band covering an Games and at US freeskiing events. parison. writing.” all-male ensemble. “Zeppelin speaks to any mood, any Through a mutual friend, Kristina “I can look at it as I just happen to A bumpin’ good time experience, and has different levels heard that Zepparella was looking for be in this gender and love guitar, not of intensity. You can also get a [well- a lead singer. thinking about gender intertwined If Wednesday through Friday fail to rounded] musical education in gui- “Zeppelin was the only rock music I with that,” Menn said. satiate your hunger for Moose music, the tar.” was willing to do,” she said, noting the “But I love how women could be band Bump rolls into Teton Village on Sat- Years later the two women came serendipity of the opening. “I found empowered by that. For men, there’s urday and will stay for Sunday night. together to form Zepparella, an all-fe- it a universal, beautiful union of ex- always the opportunity to sexualize Both shows start at 9:30 p.m., and tick- male Led Zeppelin tribute band that traordinary women.” women on stage. But when you back ets cost $7. will make its Mangy Moose debut at Zepparella has added a Rocky that up with musical skills, integ- Bump captures the hard-hitting new 9:30 tonight and Thursday night. Mountain tour this year, including rity and passion, then you become Detroit electronic music scene, also influ- Eventually the band, based in San Jackson Hole for the first time. irrefutable.” enced by the soulful Motown sound. Francisco, added Nila Minnerock on Group members plan to play long Menn admits that being a tribute So far, the band has put out four al- bass and Anna Kristina on vocals, sets on both nights, allowing the band band can lead to inadvertent parody, bums. Members are Yorg on guitar, keys while Clementine plays drums and to truly gel with the audience. though the intent is to honor a be- and vocals; Clint Carpenter on drums Menn fills the role of lead guitarist. Menn said the band recently has loved group. and sequencer; Dan Einheuser on bass; Each of the women has her own been performing “When The Levee “We try to take the literal out of it,” and Chris Sterr on guitar, lap steel and musical history to tell. Breaks” with great success, and plans Menn said. “Especially since we’re an vocals. Although Kristina’s formative to try out the new favorite on the all-female Zeppelin cover band, peo- Bump prides itself on its gritty, under- years were jazz based, Zeppelin did Moose crowd. Its album resume con- ple might expect we’re not an exact ground roots and “unique brand of intel- not present a communication break- sists of Live At 19 Broadway (2005) replica. The goal is to take the music ligent art rock,” band members said. down. and A Pleasing Pounding (2008). into its own realm.” galleries&museumsjacksonhole 1 Cayuse Western Americana 3 Images Of Nature Gallery works of landscapes, wildlife, Native American and traditional western themes are featured. Mountain Specializing in high quality Cowboy and Indian Representing exclusively the work of acclaimed wild- Trails also hosts renowned bronze sculptor, Vic Payne, antiques. Great selection of chaps, spurs, beadwork, life photographer Tom Mangelson. Dedicated to with exciting new works in progress. 150 Center St. textiles, and antique and new hitched horsehair the preservation of Nature and the respect of wild- 307-734-8150. items. Vintage buckles, early western and Native life, Mangelson has traveled all over the world to 6 National Museum of Wildlife Art American jewelry, old photography, art, prints, and bring back unique portraits of wildlife and stunning lithos are featured and historic Jackson Hole, Teton sceneries. The gallery also offers posters, books, Overlooking the National Elk Refuge, this archi- Park and Yellowstone items. Exclusive local repre- screensavers, videos and note cards featuring his tecturally stunning building houses the nation’s sentative for Clint Orms buckles and Susan Adams work. The #1 gallery in Jackson. 170 N. Cache, premier collection of fine wildlife art. With more cowgirl jewelry. Next to Jackson Hole Hat Company. 307-733-9752. than 4,000 items in the collection and changing 255 N. Glenwood. 307-739-1940. exhibitions, there’s always something new to dis- 4 Kismet Rug Gallery, LLC cover. Featuring Robert Bateman, Albert Bierstadt, 2 Fighting Bear Antiques Antiques to contemporary, small to oversize, soft Rosa Bonheur, William Merritt Chase, Bob Kuhn, Esta blished in 1981, specializing in quality 19th and pastels to vibrant jewel tones, modest to gener- Georgia O’Keeffe, and Carl Rungius. Children’s early 20th century American furniture. The gallery is ous budgets- Kismet has a rug for you. We have an gallery. Museum Shop. Rising Sage Café. nationally recognized for its authentic Mission and extensive collection of outstanding Herizes, Serapies, Kids free. Open Daily. 3 miles north of town. Thomas Molesworth furniture, early Navajo rugs, fine Killims, Sultanabads, Gashgaies, Caucasions, 307-733-5771. WildlifeArt.org. Native American beadwork and Western Americana. Kashans, Kermans, Qum, Tabrizes, Sarouks, Bijars, 7 West Lives on Gallery Located 4 blocks south of the Town Square at 375 S. turn of century tribal pieces as well as fine collectable Cache. Open Mon-Sat 9:00-5:00, Sun by appoint- pieces. Open Mon-Sat, 10-6, Sun 11-4. One block off Discover an impressive collection of fine arts reflect- ment only. 307-733-2669. www.fightingbear.com the Town Square. 140 E. Broad way. 307-739-8984. ing the rich heritage of the American West. Featuring PERRY Western, wildlife and landscape art in original oils, 5 Mountain Trails Gallery acrylics, watercolors, and bronze. We represent over MERCILL TOWN PARKING LOT Moun tain Trails’ rich tradition in bronze sculpture 50 local, regional, and national artists. We can help 1 GILL and original oil paintings is unsurpassed. An out- you fill your walls and pedestals with fine art from standing collection of impressionistic and realistic both living and deceased artists. Conveniently locat- ed at 75 N. Glenwood across the street from the Wort 3 CENTER Hotel. 307-734-2888 GLENWOOD 5 8 Wild West Designs Show room/ Gallery 7 TOWN DELONEY A 15,000 sf extravaganza on 3 floors featuring a BROADWAY SQUARE stunning array of unique western home furnishings, 8 4 western furniture art, world class antler lighting art, 6 original western fine art and unique gift accesso- MILLWARD PEARL ries. Featuring the furniture creations of local artists and artisans including many from throughout the West. Specializing in “custom” quality antler light- KING SIMPSON ing. 140 W. Broadway (just west of Mountain High
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ZEPPARELLA (A Pleasing Pounding) CD
I'm generally quite skeptical about cover bands. Mostly those bands fail in trying to capture the spirit of their idols, but there are a few exceptions. One of them is ZEPPARELLA, an all-female band featuring ex-members from Bottom, and 'A Pleasing Pounding' is their second live album, that has been released in 2008 by What Are Records?. I suppose, that you already know that ZEPPARELLA are paying tribute to Led Zeppelin, and not to Barbarella but I really like the idea behind the name as well as the altered version of the "Swan man" symbol. Now it's a woman, who's wearing a bra, panties and holds a Gibson Les Paul in her hands. I love this kind of humour! The song selection here is very good, because they have chosen also some more unknown tracks like 'Sick Again', 'Custard Pie', 'Trampled under Foot' or 'In My Time of Dying', which are all from Led Zep' sixth album 'Physical Graffiti'. Of course, here are also a few well- known songs like 'Immigrant Song' and 'Dazed and Confused', but fortunately no 'Stairway to Heaven' and 'Whole Lotta Love'. The musicianship is top-notch and the passion of the band for Led Zep is clearly felt throughout the included nine songs. I like the vocals of Anna Kristina more than the one's from Robert Plant, and maybe even Led Zep haters will like ZEPPARELLA more than the original. By the way, she's also a good harmonica player. There's plenty of guitar firepower on 'A Pleasing Pounding', while the rhythm section is tight as hell and the driving force behind ZEPARELLA. Personally I would say that most of the here included versions have more power than the old songs, what makes 'A Pleasing Pounding' to an extremely enjoyable experience. The production is crisp and loud, so that the album rolls on all cylinders. For fans of Led Zep this is an essential release. (KK) www.zepparella.com www.whatarerecords.com
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Wild afternoons on the water
Rick Polito Marin Independent Journal
Article Launched:08/16/2007 03:37:25 AM PDT
The amps are plugged in. The sound check is complete. The fans are high-fiving and back slapping at the bar. But if the four women ready to rock the room as Zepparella go backstage, they're going to need life preservers.
And they won't be the only things rocking the San Francisco Bay Music Cruise.
The swells coming through the Golden Gate inject a whole new rhythm into the music mix. Gretchen Menn knows it well. Menn is the guitarist, "the Jimmy Page" of the all-woman Led Zeppelin interpretation. The waves add another dimension, she says.
"I don't play anywhere near as drunk as Jimmy Page," says Menn. "The unsettled footing really helps with that."
Menn isn't backstage. She's hanging out by the back deck with everybody else. A nightclub on the water, the weekly Sunday cruise out of Sausalito is a more intimate experience than the average musical venue. At Zeparella's early June show, the band and its loyal fans could not have been closer.
Anna, "just Anna," is the vinyl-slacks-clad lead singer.
In her platform boots, she's not so sure about the rolling decks, but she likes the up-close-and-personal contact on the cruise. "It's like a living room," she says. Even if it is a little early for Zepparella.
"We consider this a morning gig," says the Robert Plant stand-in. "Anything that happens before 9 p.m. is clearly a morning gig."
The fans don't mind. Zepparella, four women who surrender nothing to the legendary British band, have a loyal following. They're lining up on the dock when Capt. Brad Alvis directs them to "Raise your right hand and say 'I'm going to have a goddamn good time!'"
Todd Arend is quick to take the oath. He's more of a headbanger than an old salt, but he's clearly excited about his first hard-rock cruise. "There's no stage to keep us apart," he proclaims.
That's the kind of band loyalty that keeps the Sunday night cruises afloat, says Gerry Robertson, the owner of the charter company. Robertson has a long history in and around the music business.
"With the bands we get on board, most of the time they have a following," Robertson says. That following can vary, a lot. The week before Zepparella, the band was the Mother Truckers. "We do everything," Robertson says. "We do rock. We had the country guys on last week. Then we get these big band sounds."
Robertson's musical pedigree goes back to the early 1970s, when he was a roadie and ran the production company for Santana. Later, he participated in Journey's germination, but the music business couldn't compete with the sea.
"I bailed out and I went sailing," the 56-year-old said. "I got on my sailboat and just took off."
Last year he brought the two worlds back together. The Sunday music cruises started in the spring of 2006. Robertson likes it. Even if the dancing can be tricky. "It's fun because you're kind of moving around," he says of his nightclub. "The boat's doing its thing and everybody's kind of doing their thing."
Zepparella are clearly doing their own thing with Zeppelin's rock 'n' roll as the Empress pulls away from the dock in the late afternoon. The deck is not crowded and the fans are mostly ensconced in the leather couches, but the fists are raised and pumping when Anna brandishes the mike for "Communication Breakdown."
"Come on G!" she shouts to Menn as the guitarist fires up the frets on her Jimmy Page-authentic sunburst Les Paul.
It goes on like that. Zepparella is a high-energy show.
Towards the bow, four middle-aged women, the ones who brought a Ziploc of ear plugs, are bobbing with the boat and the bass beat. Paul Margarit, who boasts he has seen Zepparella "at least 50 times," alternates between the air guitar and the air drums.
Steve Borne came in from Fresno for the show. http://www.marinij.com/portlet/article/html/fragments/print_article.jsp?articleId=6630821&siteId=234 8/20/2007 Page 2 of 2 "This and shopping at Ikea," he says.
Susan McCabe, a 54-year-old "lunch lady" from Martinez, never heard of the band but she's enjoying the show. "Anything with a boat and water and I'm there," McCabe declares. "A bar helps."
It's a typical response, the captain observes. People leave a lot behind when they leave the dock. "Bam! they get on a boat and all of a sudden they're a celebrity."
Whatever celebrity status Zepparella can claim - and among their "posse" it goes deep - it all dissolves when the volume comes down for dinner. They're waiting in the line at the buffet with everybody else for the ravioli and chicken.
The boat brings the fans and the band together. "As the booze hits, more stuff is going to happen," Anna declares, steadying herself on an overhead beam as Zepparella rips through "Livin' Lovin' Maid."
The cruise goes on. They hit the high notes. The dance floor fills up for "D'yer Maker." They ease up to the dock with "Whole Lotta' Love" at full volume.
The band rocks.
The boat does too.
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Led Zeppelin never looked this good All-female band puts own style on classic metal By Tim Parsons Lake Tahoe Action They’re loud. They’re pretty. They rock. This must be a fantasy come true for guys who are heavy metal fans: a band of four beautiful women who exclusively play Led Zeppelin songs. Meet Zepparella: The drummer Clementine said the group began after they started practicing Zeppelin songs. She and guitarist Gretchen Mann, who had played with Clementine in AC/DShe, learned so many songs they decided to form Zepparella. Nila Min- nerock, a longtime member of Clemen- tine’s first band, Bottom, another all- female group, is the bass player. Singer Anna Kristina rounds out the San Fran- cisco band. “We started out learning the songs as exactly as we could but when we play live we go off on tangents,” Clemen- tine said. “Musically, it is so much fun, and the songs have so much room to Drummer Clementine, above, and guitarist Gretchen Mann, below, know how to rock. — Photos by Alex Close move around in them we can still be us.” And the crowd, no doubt, likes to Zepparella watch them move around. “The audience is always so awesome When: Saturday, Jan. 6 at 8 p.m. with us,” she said. “We've accumulat- Where: MontBleu Showroom ed a group of die-hard fans who travel Cost: $14 wherever we play.” Mann doesn’t play a double-neck Buy tickets: 1-800-648-3353 guitar like Jimmy Page, but she does or at all Ticketmaster locations or at use a bow. Kristina’s singing voice the door sounds like a mix between Robert Plant and Heart’s Ann Wilson. The play songs from every Zeppelin album The group is versatile too. They will with the exception of “In Through The open for themselves Friday, Jan. 5 in Out Door.” They don’t play any of the Nevada City. The quartet comprises acoustic songs or ones that had key- another band called The House of board. More, which plays all original materi- Clementine, who formerly went by al. the name Phyllis Rudd, said her expe- “It gives us an opportunity to fulfill rience with AC/DShe helped prepare both sides of ourselves,” said Clemen- her for Zepparella. tine, who is looking forward to coming “AC/DShe gave me a real precision to Tahoe in the wintertime. the goes will with (the drumming of “I like the snow, but I like the lodge Zeppelin’s) John Bohnam,” she said. more,” she said. “People talk about the power of him Zepparella played at the River but the grooves are amazing. I know he Ranch near Tahoe City last summer. was really influenced by Motown. I “They’re a pretty cool show to see,” really hear it in the Lemon Song. I try said North Shore entertainment writer to make it really groovy.” Alex Close. “Sexy. Damn sexy.”
Lake Tahoe Action January 5 - 11, 2007 ÐÐÐ page 8 .
Tahoe World - Zepparella to rock River Ranch Aug. 17 Page 1 of 4
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“It’s sort of a feeling of power onstage. It’s really the ability to make people smile, or just Username to turn them one way or another for that duration of time, and for it to have some effect Password later on. I don’t really think it’s power... it’s the goodness.” Remember me — Robert Plant, Led Zeppelin
Clementine, the drummer for Zepparella, Lost Password? No account yet? Register spoke (or rather, e- mailed) on behalf of Zepparella in anticipation of their Aug. 17 show at River Ranch:
TW: How long has the band been together? And where are you from? CLEM: Zepparella has been together with this line-up for over a year. We had another singer for about eight months before Anna joined the band, but when she joined the magic happened. Band members are Gretchen Menn/guitar, Anna Kristina/vocals, Nila Minnerock/bass and Clementine/drums. The band is based in San Francisco.
http://www.tahoe-world.com/content/view/330/62/ 10/31/2006 Tahoe World - Zepparella to rock River Ranch Aug. 17 Page 2 of 4
I met Gretchen while we were playing in AC/DShe, which we did for 2-3 years. Nila and I have been playing together for nine years; we were in the NYC band BOTTOM for that time. That band ended in 2005, after a tour in which Gretchen played second guitar. Anna is popular Bay Area singer/actress whom we met through a friend.
TW: What originally brought you all together? And why Zeppelin? CLEM: The band started as a practice project for me and Gretchen. I had always wanted to learn the Zepp catalog since Bonham is my favorite drummer, and when I mentioned that to Gretchen she said she wanted to learn the songs with me. Pretty soon after starting to learn the stuff we realized that if we were going to spend the time, we might as well do it on stage. Also, playing with a guitarist playing Page is great but I knew that having John Paul Jones and Plant there would get us that much deeper into the music. Nila and I have been a rhythm section for 9 years, so it had to be. We met Anna last year and she really was the icing on the cake. From the first time we played together, it was just right.
TW: Have you played in Tahoe before? If so, what did you think? CLEM: I love Tahoe, so beautiful, such happy smiling faces everywhere! Zepparella hasn’t been there yet, and we can’t wait. Gretchen lived in Truckee for a few years, so she’s excited to see some friends.
TW: You play mostly Zeppelin songs I assume, but do you throw in some originals as well? CLEM: We started our original project, The House of More, because we felt a strong pull to take advantage of the spark we discovered playing Zeppelin. We’re all multi-dimensional musicians who play in many other projects and are songwriters, so much as we love playing Zeppelin it’s never enough. We also just want to be on stage every day, for as long as possible, so we joke that THOM is just a way to get people to let us up there longer.
We just finished our first THOM album, and it’ll be ready for release at the end of summer. We keep the bands separate on stage, so we don’t break into THOM songs in the middle of a Zepparella set. Zeppelin’s too wonderful to sidetrack from! The House of More opens for Zepparella at many shows though.
TW: How do you keep things interesting when you mostly play songs from only one band? CLEM: Zeppelin is a perfect project for this, because you just can’t play the songs the same every time. Zeppelin didn’t do it, and the songs are so great and there are so many places to stretch out that it would be a crime to play them like that. We come up with stuff sometimes in the van on the way to the show … “in the bridge of Trampled Underfoot, why don’t we try breaking down to bass and drums tonight … ” and then we get up there and try it out. I’m not going to say it always works!
http://www.tahoe-world.com/content/view/330/62/ 10/31/2006 Tahoe World - Zepparella to rock River Ranch Aug. 17 Page 3 of 4
But playing live should be organic, and there’s such a strong connection between the players that it just overtakes us. I hear Anna doing something new and suddenly something comes out that I didn’t expect, and we go somewhere new. You hear live Zepp recordings, and that’s what they were doing. It wasn’t perfect, but it was beautiful because they were truly in the moment on stage.
That being said, we take a lot of time when we bring a song into the set to learn the album version as exact as possible. We can’t stretch out until we understand the basics of the song. And if Gretchen wasn’t playing, say the Heartbreaker solo note for note, everyone, including us, would be disappointed. We pick the places to be us while truly respecting the great originals.
TW: What makes for a great live show? And what can the crowd do to help? CLEM: When the gear is working, the sound is dialed, the whisky is flowing and the crowd is happy, the band is happy. The crowd just needs to show up! It’s our job to make it a good show, and we do our best to make it a night they’ll remember. We love it when people are singing along, dancing. Playing Zeppelin is just the funnest thing ever.
TW: Two days after the Zepparella show in Tahoe, AC/DShe will also be playing Tahoe. Why does Zepparella rock harder than AC/DShe? CLEM: Oh, is this one of those Battle of the Bands articles?! Awww, we don’t play that way. Both bands work their asses off to get people on their feet and have a great time. Both Zeppelin and AC/DC are unbelievable bands that made a mark on music forever. How cool is it that there are nine women in the world who want to bring these great songs to clubs so people can rock till they drop!
TW: Anything else you’d like to say? CLEM: Zepparella has a live recording out on Bonny Boy Records from a 2005 Halloween show in Fairfax, Calif. That’s available on our website and at the shows. We also have a song on a Century Media/Liquor and Poker Records compilation of female tribute bands called “Girls Got Rhythm.” That’s being released August 22. We may have copies to sell by the time we hit Tahoe.
Zepparella will play the River Ranch in Tahoe City (on the Truckee River by Alpine Meadows Road) on Thursday, Aug. 17 at 9 p.m. Doors open at 8 p.m. and tickets are $12 in advance. Tickets are available at: River Ranch, Joby’s, New Moon Natural Foods, Squaw Valley Community Market, Mad About Music, Tahoe Records & Tapes, Tahoe Hemp Company; www.renegadeshows.com; 530-583- 2801. This is a 21 and over show. Comments
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AUGUST 17 Thursday Showtime starts at 9 p.m.
TICKETS $10 in advance adults 21+
River Ranch Lodge Alpine Meadows, CA
AUGUST 1199 Saturday Showtime starts at 6 p.m.
TICKETS $25 in advance all ages welcome
Truckee Regional Park Truckee, CA
AUGUST 20 Sunday Showtime start at 10 p.m.
TICKETS COVER CHARGE adults 21+
The Village at Squaw’s Zenbu O lympic Valley, CA
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Tucson Weekly : Music : Intent and Approach Page 1 of 4
PUBLISHED ON JUNE 29, 2006:
Intent and Approach
Zepparella pays tribute, while their alter ego performs original material
By GENE ARMSTRONG
The drummer for Zepparella, the San Francisco-based, all-female Led Zeppelin tribute band, has recurring dreams in which she finds herself strolling about arm- in-arm with John Bonham, just shooting the breeze.
"I can't begin to tell you how I feel about his Zepparella drumming," Clementine (she and her band mates with The House of More answer to first names only) says of the late Led Zep 9:45 p.m., Friday, June 30 drummer, her idol and inspiration. Plush 340 E. Sixth St. "Words can't describe how much his playing means to $7 me, how much it moves me," Clem says on her cell 798-1298 phone while driving across the Bay Bridge to a gig in the East Bay last weekend.
"He was a master player. He was an amazing musician. He had a real clear channel to his emotions, and he let them flow in his music. It's often been said that he had more soul in his left foot than other drummers have in their whole bodies."
Zepparella, which has been together for two years, has played in Tucson a couple of times in the past. The group will return to town for a gig Friday, June 30, at Plush. They'll open the show, too, playing original hard-rock tunes as their alter-ego band, The House of More.
It should be mentioned that Zepparella is a Led Zeppelin tribute band, not a cover band. There's a distinction. Unfortunately, I learned this while doing some research interview. Totally gracious, Clementine never corrects me when I continually referred to TOP ADS Zepparella as a cover band.
Porche Boxter 2001 Big Sale Porche So what's the diff? To most serious tribute bands, it's all in intent and approach. Boxter 2001,13500 Miles $19500.00 ... A tribute band exclusively performs the songs of one artist, not as an imitation nor to
http://www.tucsonweekly.com/gbase/Music/Content?oid=oid%3A83774 10/31/2006
Tucson Weekly : Music : Intent and Approach Page 2 of 4
View All Automotive replicate sonically identical versions of the artist's music, but to present a--you guessed it--tribute to the greatness of that act. A cover band performs a variety of music by other artists and isn't interested so much in paying homage to any one band as it is in getting paid by playing tunes that audiences recognize.
Clementine knows this well enough. She used to play in the AC/DC tribute band AC/DShe with Zepparella guitarist Gretchen. She also played with Zepparella's bassist, Nila, for nine years in the original metal act Bottom.
Zepparella started doing its distaff versions of songs by Plant, Page, Bonham and Jones in 2004 with a different vocalist. But not until the actress and R&B vocalist Anna took Bonecreek, Maverick over the singing (and keyboard) duties last year did the group really gel, Clem says.
Black Cherry "Once we got Anna, things really started to develop." Burlesque, Koffin Kats, Surly Wench When asked what makes Led Zeppelin and its music so special, Clem says, "I think they Pub are the greatest rock band ever, that they were individually proficient and as a group brilliant. You've got these four players who redefined blues as hard rock, playing Karaoke, North on together, making something greater than they all could have achieved separately, and Fourth more amazing sexual energy than any band could hope for."
Traditional Dixieland As for musical verisimilitude, the band strives for it, but also attempts to inject some of jazz jam session, its own personality into the classic music. China Rose "We try to learn the songs as exact as possible. Once we have learned it, though, we take Karaoke with Cathy, a little liberty. These songs are so great, because they are designed in such a way that the Eddies Cocktails musicians playing them can really explore how they feel."
Werd Em Up, Indeed, listening to Zepparella's debut album, Live at 19 Broadway, which was released Astronatilas, earlier this year on Bonnyboy Records, one is struck by the love the gals pour into Vaudeville Cabaret playing more-than-competent interpretations of "Black Dog," "Communication Breakdown," "Rock and Roll" and "Since I've Been Loving You." They're good, no All Music Events » question. But you can feel them straining to express themselves through the music, whether it's in More Rock stories Anna's soulful yowl or Gretchen's explosive guitar solos.
Rhythm & Views - "The breakdown during 'Whole Lotta Love' is different every time we play it. We have Childish Things by no idea in advance where it will go. It kind of frees you to bring something of yourself James McMurtry by into the music." JARRET KEENE (12- 08-2005) The members of Zepparella had been bringing so much of themselves to the music that last year it became apparent they needed an outlet for their original material. Thus was Perfect Ingredients - born The House of More, which in April recorded an as-yet-untitled 10-song album that Lucinda Williams' will be released later this year. songs of passion, poetry and emotion are "After so many years of being in different bands and projects, we finally stumbled in to guaranteed to reserve this situation where there is this magic chemistry, and we were writing songs, so we her a place in music thought it was a great opportunity to use Zepparella to get our original music out there." history. by GENE
http://www.tucsonweekly.com/gbase/Music/Content?oid=oid%3A83774 10/31/2006
Tucson Weekly : Music : Intent and Approach Page 3 of 4
ARMSTRONG (04- In many ways, The House of More's music is a combination of the various influences 25-2002) and background that the members bring to the table: blues, R&B, jazz, funk, metal, classic and progressive rock. Rhythm & Views - Just Like the Fambly Naturally, Zepparella gigs make a great platform from which to launch The House of Cat by Grandaddy by More, Clem says. MICHAEL PETITTI (05-25-2006) "We really like to combine them in one show. The real benefit of having two bands is that we get to be on stage longer, and that is our favorite place to be." Rock in the archives » In terms of Zepparella, Clementine admits that she and her partners have had to prove themselves, and often have do so anew at each performance.
"When you first start playing Led Zeppelin, people in the audience were very challenging. You know, you can see them with their arms crossed and looking very skeptical." Prophet and Loss A path of pain and perseverance, polemics and But usually, Zepparella wins over the skeptics with their obvious passion for and party jams has led Montreal MC commitment to the music of Led Zeppelin. And Clem says she's never had a rabid Led the Narcicyst to a life beyond borders of blood, tongue and... Zep fan corner her after a show and claim she wasn't playing the high hat or the bass Montreal Mirror (10/26/06) drum correctly. Gentle Into That Good Night Mac McCaughan embraces his "We'd welcome that, actually. Even though playing Led Zeppelin songs is like learning adulthood.... Chicago Reader (10/27/06) from the masters, we are always learning. If anybody wants to come up to us with tips, Two for the Road go ahead!" Cut Chemist explores another side of West Coast hip-hop.... Seattle Weekly (10/26/06) Although Clementine's dreams are the only place she's likely to meet Bonham, one More Music from wonders if the members have ever met any of Led Zeppelin's surviving members. AltWeeklies.com "No, we haven't," she says.
"We do have a friend--in Tucson actually--who knows John Paul Jones and Robert Plant. My ultimate dream come true would be to have Robert Plant or John Paul Jones produce The House of More."
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Good Folk - Singer-songwriter Greg Brown returns to Tucson. by GENE ARMSTRONG (01-01-2004) Messy Structured Brass - Tuba, coronet, trombone and percussion come together
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Adrienne Lake is an LA music biz refugee often described as a "fiery redhead" who has found solace among the tumbleweeds and dive bars in the dusty burg of Tucson. Come fly with her as the monkey on her back becomes rabid, surly and overfed.
A whole lotta love for Zeppelin - Catch Zepparella at Plush
2006-06-27 Adrienne Lake Worm In general, hearing the words, “Let’s go check out that tribute band, dude,” is enough to make any red-blooded indie rocker’s skin crawl. Images of beer-gutted, mulletted, middle-aged men still living in the 80s flash through the mind. A typical band guy might sneer, “They were too talentless to write their own music so they have to leech off someone else’s.”
But that was before the modern era of tribute/cover bands existed. These days it’s not just Concerts about Super Diamond and Creedence Clearwater Revisited types. Now we have the likes of Mini- Kiss, Nudist Priest, Lez Zeppelin, Metallagher, Hell’s Belles, AC/Dshe and of course, Zepparella. 6/29/2006 The difference? All these bands decided to start playing covers out 7/6/2006 of love and respect for the music, but they all have a twist. This is a brand of tribute band that the indie rockers can actually get Search into. Mini Kiss are, well…just what they sound like they would be – Midget Kiss. Nudist Priest are again, just what they sound like… naked guys playing Judas Priest. Metallagher is Metallica fronted Today's quick hits: by a Gallagher impersonator…all self-explanatory. Lez Zeppelin, Hell’s Belles and AC/Dshe are all female, obviously. 36th Army Band But what separates Zepparella from other XX chromosome status America and acts? Christopher Cross
Band of Horses with They’re serious. And they eschew the term “tribute band.” Mt. Egypt Drummer Clementine explains, “We avoid the words ‘tribute band’ Bob Log III with because to us that conjurs up a sort of stiffness and uncreativity Old Man and Miss to the delivery of the material.” Anna Alex White & The Red Orchestra San Francisco’s Zepparella don’t have a schtick. They don’t dress up like Plant, Page and company. They don’t imitate signature moves. They just play Led Brass concert Zeppelin. And they do it well. They could have picked something a little less complex and joined the ranks of the rest of the Ramones or Sex Pistols cover bands. And that is what makes them Hardcore Junglism different from the rest of the cover bands playing the indie club circuit. No silly hijinx. No Joe Ely elaborate costumes. Just good old-fashioned rock ‘n’ roll…sans fake mustaches and midgets – that and the fact that the women’s original “heavy orchestral rock project” House of More will Joe Ely be the opening act for their June 30 show at Plush.
Steel Pulse The band’s well-spoken drummer and backup vocalist Clementine, took some time to answer a Steel Pulse few questions just before the kickoff of their western tour.
The Determined AZNB: How was Zepparella born and how did that lead to House of More? Luddites with Loren Dirks Clem: “The band (Vocals-Anna, Guitar-Gretchen, Bass-Nila, Drums-Clementine) began as a practice project for me and Gretchen in 2004 while we were playing together in an AC/DC band. Youth Diabetes We had this idea that learning the Zeppelin catalog would be a great education. Pretty soon Support Group after beginning to learn some songs we figured that if we were going to do the work, we might as go all the way and perform them on stage. Nila and I had played together for nine years in the New York metal band Bottom, so there was no way she wasn’t going to be the bass player. We started out with another singer and Anna joined the band in July 2005. She is a favorite Bay http://regulus2.azstarnet.com/blogs/subbacultcha/1848/ Page 1 of 5 AZNightBuzz.com: subbacultcha 06/29/2006 07:48 AM
Area singer and actress, and has made a living as a singer for the past eight years. We met through a mutual friend.
“Zepparella was always about trying to capture that feeling that people speak of when they saw Zeppelin live. We start with playing the songs as exact as we possibly can (although accomplishing that is going to be a lifetime process) and then we do what they did on stage – let the songs breathe. (We) try to let the songs take over and key into the conversation going on between the three other players and play like ourselves. It’s such a thrill not to know what’s going to happen, to hear Gretchen start a guitar rhythm in the mid-section of ‘Whole Lotta Love’, hear Anna pick it up, and then suddenly be playing something I didn’t expect at all.
“Nila says that sometimes as she’s playing she looks down at her fingers and has this feeling that she has no idea how they know how to do that. It’s the best kind of freedom. And I think the Which of the upcoming audience feels that energy. There’s a lot of laughing and mutual Tucson and Phoenix Gretchen adulation onstage, as well as respect for the phenomenal music summer music we’re trying to play. It’s really the most fun in the world. And at festivals do you plan this point we feel like – ‘People pay to see us do this?’ We’re the luckiest people in the world.” to attend? Ozzfest - I live for Clearly, Zepparella is not just a fun project to do in their free time or a way to get a little action. These women are dead serious about music. They are classically trained guitarists and the Prince Of teachers (Gretchen), are in other bands (Mudface-Nila, The Bedrockers-Clem) and they do Darkness. session work (Clem again). This is rarely the case with Zepparella’s peers. Warped Tour - I love my punk-rock AZNB: Over the past couple years, female cover bands have been getting a lot of press (I just summer camp. heard a all-girl Morrissey cover band called Morrishi). It sounds like you don’t accept the label KIIM-FM Freedom “tribute band” because you don’t dress in costume or mimic performances. Any other reasons? What are your feelings on the growing genre of female “tribute bands” and the like? What is the Festival - Thank God, I draw? am a country boy (or girl!). Clem: “I think that there have been more cover bands period – a veritable deluge of them – Some combination and so naturally there are more female ones. If it means that there are more women out there of two - I am a little learning instruments and devoting themselves to music, I’m all for it. Covering someone else’s bit country and a little music is an incredible learning tool, and fun. But of course the ultimate goal should always be bit rock n roll. to take those tools learned and apply them to writing and playing original music. Of course, All three - There is Zeppelin’s music gives us a lot of license to be more creative than other music would be. nothing like live music. “I don’t really care what it’s called. A good band is a good band, playing covers or not. You None - You have can’t fake that.” got to be crazy to go to a music festival in AZNB: Do you think that the extra attention that all female bands receive is a double edged the middle of summer sword or a harmless way to get your music out to more people? in Arizona! Clem: “It is double-edged. You get attention at the beginning, but Submit at the same time it’s hard to break through that novelty thing and you’re always having to prove yourself. Some of the bands I’d love to play with and in would never have a female in the band unless it was as some very supporting role. It’s just the way it is, and as time goes on and more and more women accomplish more and more, and all the young girls coming up don’t even realize there was ever an issue, it’ll change. I would love to not ever promote ourselves as a female band, but show promoters never go for it. Much as I hate to say it, it still is a novelty to see a woman just shred on guitar.”
Being that Zepparella feels that playing other’s music is a great way to become more skilled, one might hypothesize that now that these women have an album’s worth of original songs, Zepparella might slowly be put on the back burner. Nila AZNB: As you continue to record and tour with House of More, do you think you will put more of your energies into it or will you always make Zepparella a priority?
Clem: “We love playing Zeppelin’s music. It’s challenging, and beautiful, and once we figured out how to do it and people seemed to like our interpretation, it just became the most free and fun thing to do. But we’re lifers, and the real deep fulfillment will always come from our own words and music. The two bands are the best of both worlds. We want to have it all, so I don’t http://regulus2.azstarnet.com/blogs/subbacultcha/1848/ Page 2 of 5 AZNightBuzz.com: subbacultcha 06/29/2006 07:48 AM
see a time when we won’t want to do both.”
House of More’s CD is full of moody and serious songs. There is a bit of a Zeppelin influence, but it’s much more straight forward. The music is seeped in the 70s and early 80s classic rock vibe, yet they list Wilco, the Arcade Fire, the Flaming Lips, Portishead, Mogwai and Tom Waits as influences. Frankly I couldn’t find the slightest traces of these artists’ influence or spirit in the House of More’s first album, which at times had a Heart meets Fiona Apple feel.
To add to the seriousness of the approach these women have to playing music, the lyrics express themes of frustration, longing and discontent:
Waited all night for a whisper of kittens Inventing a word from the cardboard and the tacks Killed me a nightmare made into a Victrola Hung out the ivories taut on the racks
Squeeze me or shake me, but no I’m not waking me Nothing else you say will prove you more wrong Everything else in the world you can take from me Swollen Canadian cut down in prime
AZNB: What inspires you lyrically?
Clem: “The album started out as a sort of concept record, of moving from the dark to a place of hopefulness. The words to most of the songs sort of tumbled out of me while I was staying in the hospital with my mother, who was very ill for a short time (she’s better now). It’s a lot of reflection of the past, and the struggle to get to a positive mind.
Also, after a few years of difficult interpersonal relationships in bands, suddenly we found ourselves with very like-minded people, with no conflict and real joy in the creative process. That joy is in there too.
And overall, I just want to put music into the world that Clementine reflects the struggles of life, but also uplifts people. It’s easy to just sink into darkness these days, and I try to keep my head above water by grasping any hopeful thought I can.”
AZNB: I have to ask…have you heard of any reaction from the members of Led Zeppelin to your band?
Clem: “We know that Robert Plant has been told about us, and that he asked if we were any good. That’s as close as it gets.”
AZNB: What can we expect next from Zepparella and House of More?
Clem: “Zepparella has a song on a Century Media compilation to be released in August. Our live record, Live at 19 Broadway, is being distributed nationally and on iTunes. The House of More album will be ready for release in August, and we’re not sure yet on which label that will be. We’re still talking to a couple and figuring that out. But it will be out in the fall.
“Next year, we hope to be touring steadily throughout the States, playing the House of More shows during the week and Zepparella on the weekends. We’re just trying to sucker people into letting us be on stage every night, and for as long as possible. That’s all.”
The women of Zepparella have more in common with their idols than the average cover band that appeals to indie nerds. Besides their passion and conviction to do right by the music, it seems like at times they feel like they are on a mission – like it’s their duty to interpret Zeppelin in front of a crowd, like unseen hands and vocal cords are guiding them. They take a disciplined and unrelenting approach to their work. And unlike the current trend, they are determined to not make a joke out of playing covers of a band from the 70s.
In comparison with the tribute acts I have seen of late, this in itself is a novelty worth the price of admission.
“From our first show, the musical and personal connection between band members was tangible,” Clem says. “A lot has to do with the pure fact of meeting three other people who have the same work ethic, perfectionism and dedication to making music the priority. Just to have met three other women who have made a life-long commitment to music, eschewing all the comforts of regular jobs, having families – heck, regular haircuts! – makes us feel like http://regulus2.azstarnet.com/blogs/subbacultcha/1848/ Page 3 of 5 AZNightBuzz.com: subbacultcha 06/29/2006 07:48 AM
somewhere the planets have aligned.”
Bring thine earplugs.
House of More and Zepparella play Plush on Friday, June 30.
The ladies of Zepparella
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< Article published - May 26, 2006 CITY SCENE All-girl band takes on Zeppelin at Mystic Jazz singer leads fellow bandmates on what she calls 'a left turn' in her life nosale The all-girl cover band Zepparella will perform at Petaluma’s Mystic Theater on Saturday. The band will rock out to Led Zeppelin. Courtesy photo By SHELLEY SHEPHERD KLANER FOR THE PRESS DEMOCRAT The guitar-driven sound may be familiar to fans of classic rock 'n' roll, but the faces are hardly the same. Zepparella, which comes to the Mystic Theater in Petaluma this weekend, plays familiar Led Zeppelin songs like "Stairway to Heaven" and "Dazed and Confused." But the members of this cover band aren't Robert Plant and Jimmy Page, John Bonham and John Paul Jones. As a matter of fact, they're women. Cover bands have become increasingly common in the rock 'n' roll world, and all-girl bands are a twist on the phenomenon. Two members of Zepparella got their start in another all-girl cover band, AC/Dshe, which plays the music of rockers AC/DC. The two left to play Zeppelin because the music is so colorful and rich, according to Anna Kristina, another member of Zepparella. In Zepparella, Kristina, a onetime jazz singer, steps into the shoes of Plant, Zeppelin's lead singer. The band brings its cocky loud guitar style to the Mystic Theater in Petaluma at 8:30 p.m. Saturday. Tickets are $12. Kristina and her band-mates built enough excitement imitating Led Zeppelin that they just recorded an original CD. They called themselves House of More for the CD, and recently opened a Zepparella show as House of More. The Zepparella singers, who only use their first names professionally, include Clementine and Gretchen, who were members of AC/Dshe and refuse to give their last names. Kristina and a fourth woman, Nila, who also doesn't give her last name, later joined the band. Kristina described her new gig as a "left turn to what she was doing." A professional singer for a decade, much of her previous stage time was spent in the realm of jazz, blues and pop. She covered songs made famous by Aretha Franklin, Sting, Ella Fitzgerald and others as a solo performer in clubs such as Slim's and Bimbo 's in San Francisco and at festivals. At age 5, Kristina already was feeling her musical roots. She sang "Hush Little Baby" with her father's jazz band. She performed at her first festival when she was 11. She studied theater arts and American studies at UC Santa Cruz. Despite the big change, "a left turn" in her words, Kristina said if there is a jazz of rock, it is Zeppelin, because it "is deep, sophisticated and soulful." Zepparella doesn't perform the roles of Led Zeppelin as theatrical characters but does ad opt their mannerisms on stage. They don't wear wigs or use props to make the music real, just their delivery. The band members don't let the lyrics of songs written for a male voice stop them in their tracks. "I'm not really a screamer," Kristina said, "but I dive into the music. I studied Plant and I hint at it." The House of More offers Kristina a chance to sing what she describes as more pop, soulful rock, but she says Zepparella is the first priority for her. She also continues to perform solo jazz gigs at restaurants and private parties. When asked about her goals, she said: "I want to travel all over the world and get bigger and more well-known." Last changed: May 26, 2006 © The Press Democrat. For copyright information view our User Agreement http://www1.pressdemocrat.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060526/NEWS/605260424&template=printart Page 1 of 1 Sacramento nightclubs, nightlife, concerts, dining and special events directory Page 1 of 3 photo gallery | concerts | night clubs | dining | events | lake tahoe | advertise | contact | subscribe | San Francisco Nightlife Three Babes and a Bus Insider's Nightlife Guide Complete guide to great bars, clubs music & Visit 4 Clubs in One Night No Cover/No Lines. Hot Bars Hip Restaurants Cool Clubs Search more near you. Review now. $35 Per Person. the BlackBook List for Free! sanfrancisco.citysearch.com ThreeBabes.com www.blackbookmag.com/ Ads by Goooooogle Advertise on this site AS NOT SEEN ON TV: San Francisco's CARNVAL is WILD! Sunday May 26. May 27: Crazy Ballhead/Madeline Roa/Justin Farren LAKE TAHOE's NEW CLUB VEX BOOKING DANCERS NOW WIN Tickets to The Grape Escape June 10th Last night, we checked out the Maxim Exposure party at Empire which was so over the top, it was ridiculous. They were filming commercial footage for Budweiser Light so it was slightly corporate with staff running around looking busy with oversized headsets. We're not sure why they needed so many staffers looking busy. The scantily dressed models in cages were sexy, but that game is so played out, who's coming up with this stuff? Is anybody thinking out of the box anymore? It felt like Vegas or Tahoe or San Francisco. In other words, it's all the same. Big lights, lots of cameras, VIP area, half naked dancers and staff running around looking busy. Did I say that already? The REAL party seemed to be at Harlows with Zepparella playing their second gig. I recall having a drink with owner Peter Torza at their first gig a few months back. "Damn, they're good. I'm booking them all year," he said. And apparently he meant it. The all female band punched Zep tunes out so hard, so crisp, even the feedback sounded right. Imagine if you can, attending a Zeppelin show back in say, 1968, a year before they went on label. You're at a small bar in Liverpool and 4 guys come out and rock the fuck out of the stage. You're like, WTF was that? That is exactly the vibe Zepparalla put out. So next time they're in town, we promise to let you know way in advance. In fact, we'll give some tickets away. Why not, that's what we do best. By the way, does anybody know how hard it is to play a live set of the Zep? Nearly impossible. It really does take genius. Good work ladies, again. Sacvibe hereby pronounces Zepparella the new hot shit, even if they are covers, at least they're great covers. Sacramento Jazz Jubilee Gets With It By the Vybemeister Sacramento, Calif. May 21, 2006 After nearly 30 years, organizers of the Sacramento Jazz Jubilee admitted this week that they got stuck in a route moving too many venues too far from downtown and not booking enough "other" jazz, which is to say, they booked some really funky, younger jazz ensambles like Bonerama and locals like D'Baba (The Momo Lounge / Black Pearl. Check the complete venue listing here. LISTEN to choice music selected by Bonerama D'Baba Rigomania Sacvibe from the Rock/Jazz/Funk Jazz/Funk Zydeco http://www.sacvibe.com/ 5/31/2006 Touring Tips Ideas on making money on the Road Touring Tips each month I will bring in a guest expert on touring, road managers, promoters, booking agents - the Video: Zepparella Playing the Nugget people out there getting it done. In this first issue we get some insight from Jim Stewart, the Road Manager for the http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=frsCerO4bjc band Zepparella, an all female Led Zeppelin tribute band out of San Francisco. With a background as a “Commercial Pilot and Flight Instructor” Jim knows the importance of details - especially when it comes to making money on the road. While videoing the Zepparella show at John_Ascuaga's_Nugget_Casino_Resort in Reno this past September I had the chance to ask Jim a few questions about life on the road and he gave me some great insights into their plans to save money and tour further in 2009. It starts with the new van they bought … Two questions – a lot of ideas... CJ – Jim, I hear Zepparella has plans to tour into Colorado this winter. That is a bit more of a haul than heading up to Lake Tahoe area or down to the clubs in LA, have you made any special plans to prepare for the trip? Jim - We did make some changes, we bought a new Diesel Sprinter van, made by Mercedes, imported by We are doing a 10-date tour this winter Dodge . It saves a bundle on gas and it fits all the starting in California then hitting, gear, the band, and the crew. We have been averaging Nevada, Utah, Colorado, and back 22 mpg, which works out to be about $100 a day in through Vegas, and Southern gas savings. We have converted the interior of the van California. We could not have accepted to allow sleeping births for 2. This saves us 1 hotel room a night and everybody can still grab a shower. the promoters offers without the cost In total we save approximately $200 a day over the savings realized by the Sprinter van. old gas burning extended Chevy style vans. With the Sprinter you can also go more green, and further As a result we will be able to expand our reduce your costs by running Bio-diesel. For the truly presence into several new markets and committed you can go the whole way and convert the afford to eat! van over to Waste Vegetable Oil. Free fuel is a reality for many hard working bands. Jim Stewart Road Manager CJ - Times are tough out there for a lot of people, how receptive are the venues on booking and pricing? ZEPPARELLA Jim - Every body I have talked to from big to small is feeling it. Touring costs are up for bands, and attendance at gigs is down. A lot of promoters I talk with are saying the same thing "keep the ticket price low", and people will still come out. Obviously that www.zepparella.com hurts the touring act the most as we have the highest overhead and are the ones most likely to take a risk www.myspace.com/zepparella on a low paying gig. Our response is to keep playing shows and work harder at keeping our touring costs down.