Ranking the 10 Heaviest Led Zeppelin Albums of All Time
What are the heaviest Led Zeppelin albums ever made? Find out here.
Led Zeppelin are a rock band through and through. When it comes to rock n' roll however, they are one of the genre's original hard-hitting groups. Over the years the high-pitched singing and wailing guitars has done on to inspire more than a few heavy metal bands in their time.
Though it is Black Sabbath who are often referred to as the first “true” metal band, Led Zeppelin set the stage for what was to come in rock n' roll, laying down heavy riffs, epic vocals, and laid a blueprint for the type of energy heavy metal needed to take it the rest of the way.
The Song Remains the Same (1976)
As the soundtrack to their concert film, The Song Remains the Same captures live performances from various concerts. While it features electrifying live versions of their classic tracks, it lacks the cohesive studio album experience.
Coda (1982)
Released after the band's breakup, Coda is a posthumous collection of unreleased tracks and studio outtakes. "We're Gonna Groove" and "Wearing and Tearing" are among the more robust tracks on the album.
Presence (1976)
Despite being recorded under challenging circumstances, "Achilles Last Stand" stands as one of their most powerful tracks. Its soaring guitar and Bonham's thunderous drumming make it a memorable and intense listening experience.
Led Zeppelin III (1970)
A departure from their heavier sound, this album incorporates acoustic and folk elements. "Immigrant Song" is one of the album's more intense tracks, displaying their hard-rocking side. "Tangerine" and "That's the Way" feature a softer and more introspective side of the band.
Houses of the Holy (1973)
This album ventures into more diverse musical territory. "The Song Remains the Same" and "The Ocean" maintain their rock edge. "Over the Hills and Far Away" is a melodic masterpiece with intricate guitar work. "No Quarter" demonstrates the band's progressive and atmospheric tendencies. "D'yer Mak'er" experiments with reggae rhythms. The album's eclectic mix appealed to a broader audience and showcased Led Zeppelin's musical evolution.
In Through the Out Door (1979)
This album showcases a more polished and refined sound, with synthesizers and keyboards playing a prominent role. "In the Evening" carries some heavy elements, while "South Bound Saurez" maintains a lively and rock-oriented vibe.
Led Zeppelin I (1969)
Their debut album set the stage for their subsequent success. The opening track "Good Times Bad Times" introduces listeners to their hard-hitting style. "Dazed and Confused" is a showcase for Page's use of the violin bow on his guitar, creating an otherworldly sound. The bluesy "You Shook Me" highlights the band's early blues-rock roots.
Led Zeppelin II (1969)
This album further developed the hard rock and blues sound of their debut. "Whole Lotta Love" features one of the most recognizable guitar riffs in rock history. "Heartbreaker" delivers a fiery guitar solo from Jimmy Page. "Ramble On" displays the band's ability to blend folk influences with their heavy sound. Led Zeppelin II was a significant step forward for the band, solidifying their place in the rock pantheon.
Physical Graffiti (1975)
This double album demonstrates the band's musical versatility. "Custard Pie" kicks off the record with a raw blues-rock vibe. "The Rover" exhibits a heavy and rhythmic guitar-driven sound. "Kashmir" stands out for its majestic and exotic atmosphere, featuring John Bonham's immense drumming and John Paul Jones' memorable Mellotron and bass work. "In My Time of Dying" is an extended blues jam that showcases the band's improvisational prowess. "Trampled Under Foot" incorporates funk elements into their rock sound. The album's diverse offerings make it a fan favorite.
Led Zeppelin IV (1971)
Also known as "Untitled" or "Four Symbols," this album is a timeless classic and often regarded as Led Zeppelin's pinnacle. It opens with "Black Dog," showcasing its powerful riff and impressive vocal delivery. "Rock and Roll" is a high-energy track with catchy hooks. "When the Levee Breaks" features a heavy, hypnotic drum beat and haunting harmonica. However, the centerpiece of the album is undoubtedly "Stairway to Heaven," a progressive masterpiece that builds from acoustic to epic rock, captivating listeners with its poetic lyrics and unforgettable guitar solos.