Do you remember the first time you heard Led Zeppelin? Can you recall the last time you saw them play? Perhaps in an arena somewhere, surrounded by thousands of sweating, screaming and ultimately happy fans? Sadly, I was born less than a year before John Bonham died and never had the chance to see them. I number among those who were breast-fed on Zeppelin by the local classic rock stations and I foolishly (but consistently) find myself wishing for the invention of a time machine. I'm sure there are plenty of others who can relate.As luck would have it, the city of Pinellas Park recognizes the desire for tangible experiences and presents the Party in the Park Concert Series, a tasting and expo festival showcasing tribute bands from across the country. This weekend, we are entertained by ZOSO: The Ultimate Led Zeppelin Experience.
ZOSO features skilled musicians who keep the timeless music of Led Zeppelin alive through their performances, playing each show with the energy and veracity of the legends they admire. These guys really know their stuff, and in addition, they all look, sound and act like the members of Led Zeppelin, making for a wicked good time that's almost as good as the real thing. Almost. Also featured at the event are a variety of booths and restaurants providing goods and yummy foods to fill your belly. Beverages are available (soda and water) and no concert would be complete without a little beer. Coolers are not allowed.
The fun begins at 5 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 14. Undercover plays classic rock covers from 6 to 7:30 p.m.; ZOSO goes on at 8 and plays until 10. Bands perform in the England Brothers Band Shell in Town Square Plaza Park, 5121 80th Ave. N., Pinellas Park. Stay tuned for a Doobie Brothers tribute (Black Water, Sept. 11) and a Who tribute (The Wholigans, Oct. 16). Proceeds from the Party in the Park Concert Series benefit various local charities and help support local nonprofit organizations.
This article appears in Aug 12-18, 2004.