Led Zeppelin All the Songs: The Story Behind Every Track

For their latest contribution to the "All the Songs" series, Guesdon and Margotin (Rolling Stones: All the Songs) turn their attention to Led Zeppelin, chronicling the iconic band's output in copiously illustrated detail. Starting with the quartet's beginnings in 1968 as a partially reconstituted New Yardbirds and moving on to drummer John Bonham's untimely death in 1980 and the aptly titled Coda album of 1982, the authors cover each song's genesis and production. The albums receive attention regarding the compilation of tracks and the art. The "for Led Zep addicts" sidebars and short portraits of other artistic influences add interest; color images of celebrated guitars and other instruments are especially noteworthy. A useful glossary, bibliography, and index round out the volume. This selection continues the fine work exhibited in previous series entries, presenting insightful reflections on how songs were created, as well as rare photographic and textual glimpses into the behind-the-scenes and more public workings of the group.