The phenomenon that was to be Led Zeppelin started humbly in the session studios and local beat groups of Wolverhampton. All four members started their careers playing and singing for others, without so much as a label credit. But between them they played on so many pivotal recordings during that revolutionary period in the early, mid and late 1960s, that it has been estimated, individually, they contributed to more than 50% of all British pop records released between 1963 and 1968. They were of course to become, arguably, the most important rock band ever and certainly have maintained the most loyal and dedicated fan base of any major act since the dawn of the rock ‘n’ roll age. The era during which they shone brightest as a collective unit – the golden age of Zeppelin – has been documented numerous times, occasionally with insight and expertise, often with nothing of the sort – but the genesis of this most important of bands has rarely been investigated in depth. Esteemed music historian Alan Clayson has traced every session, recording and live appearance made by each future member of Led Zep. The book also serves as a staggering insight into the workings of the music industry, its ‘big wigs’ and foot soldiers. With further enlightenment concerning the musical influences each member was absorbing during these formative years, this work is insightful, exciting, revelatory and, above all, a bloody good read.