Zoso – The Ultimate Led Zeppelin Experience
By Justin Abramo of jabramophotography.com

Zoso – The Ultimate Led Zeppelin Experience performed at Jannus Live on Thursday, 23 April, instantly shifting the focus from the NFL Draft excitement on Central Avenue to a powerful, timeless musical presence. The atmosphere was already electric, but when the drums signaled the start of “Rock and Roll,” it became clear that Zoso aimed to create an unforgettable show, leaving the audience eager for more.

While great music stands the test of time, fans often miss out when bands stop touring—this is where tribute bands step in to fill that void. Some people criticize the tribute band scene, and sometimes their concerns are valid; I get it. We’ve all seen them. Certain acts may imitate the look but fall short on capturing the true sound and feel of the originals. Yet, there are talented performers who devote themselves to delivering an authentic musical experience, and Zoso exemplifies this craftsmanship. They go beyond simply playing Led Zeppelin songs – Zoso passionately recreates the signature sound and tone that made Led Zeppelin legendary, with remarkable precision and commitment that has kept them on tour for over three decades.

Founded in 1995 by Matt Jernigan, Adam Sandling, John McDaniel, and Greg Thompson, The Zoso Experience set out to authentically recreate Led Zeppelin’s “wall of sound.” With Jon Carver temporarily on vocals and Bevan Davies (since 2015) excelling at capturing the Bonham drum style, the band remains dedicated to this mission despite lineup changes.

Of course, no band would be complete without at least one crazy rock and roll story, and Zoso is no exception to the rule. Unfortunately, one of these stories, while scary, had an amazing ending.

During a December 2025 show, Zoso frontman Matt Jernigan suffered a sudden brain hemorrhage and collapsed on stage. Thanks to the quick actions of two EMTs in the crowd, he received immediate care before being life-flighted to a Boston trauma center. Matt’s recovery has been nothing short of miraculous, and he’s already working hard to get back on stage. In the meantime, actor Jon Conver (Law & Order: SVU, The Deuce) has stepped in, providing an incredible performance that honors both Robert Plant as well as Matt’s legacy while he heals.

I enjoy mingling with the audience while photographing, and I spoke with several fans to understand what keeps them loyal to Led Zeppelin. One man, John, was celebrating his 59th birthday—his daughter Riley gave him tickets as a gift. When Riley was a baby, John would play Led Zeppelin’s debut album, and she’d “rock out in her car seat.” Since then, both have been devoted fans. Another fan, Dave (61), originally from Pittsburgh, grew up listening to Led Zeppelin with his childhood friend Steve, who sadly passed away at 18. To honor Steve’s memory, Dave has always remained a dedicated Zeppelin fan and truly appreciates Zoso’s attention to detail in every note. Among the youngest fans I met was Harrison (17), attending the concert with his mother, Caroline. It was great seeing them enjoy their first Zoso show together.

The set list featured an outstanding lineup of Zeppelin classics, kicking off with “Rock and Roll” before seamlessly moving into “Good Times Bad Times.” Some of my personal favorites, “When the Levee Breaks,” “Ramble On,” and “Kashmir” – brought back memories of my own childhood and offered a reflective, almost cathartic experience. Following a short intermission, Jon, Adam, and John returned, sat down on three precisely arranged stools, and delivered a beautifully executed rendition of “That’s The Way.” The show’s second half matched the energy of the first with hits “Song Remains the Same”, “No Quarter”, and “Nobody’s Fault”. The band was hitting on all cylinders, playing at their absolute best, and sustained that intensity right up to the very last note.

Zoso distinguishes itself as more than a typical tribute band, delivering performances that authentically capture the sound and essence of Led Zeppelin. To put them in that category is almost criminal as they have transcended into a category all their own. Their concerts are marked by exceptional sound quality and faithful renditions that honor the legacy of one of rock and roll’s most iconic groups.