The Song Remains the Same: Zeptember III in Wailea this Saturday

By Vanessa Wolf

Zeptember 2011. Photo courtesy Jessica Pearl Photography.

Stairway to Heaven is allegedly banned in some guitar shops, but it’s likely the infamous tune will be heard wafting over the greens at Old Blue in Wailea this Saturday.

If you ever wished you could have see Led Zeppelin perform during their heyday in their early 1970s, this upcoming event may be as close as you could ever hope to get. It’s been a long time since the eight-legged rock beast ruled the world, and over 30 years since the band’s honorable dissolution following the drummer John Bonham’s 1980 death by vodka. Still, their songs live on.

This Saturday, over 40 (!!!) local musicians are taking over at Mulligans on the Blue in Wailea for “Zeptember III,” a tribute concert to legendary rock band Led Zeppelin. It’s not just about the music either: with professional lighting, sound, staging, emceeing, t-shirt design and sales, this is a monumental annual effort.

A scene from last year’s Zeptember. Photo courtesy Jessica Pearl Photography.

Still, it is mostly about the music. Male and female vocalists will take to the stage recreating the primal song styling of Robert Plant and making it their own. Jimmy Page, the inventor of the reverse echo or reverb effect is often considered the greatest guitarist of all time and no doubt a tough act to follow. Luckily, ample Maui talent will be on hand to do him justice.

Although too many to list, a broad range of local talent will be performing. All three members of the Vince Esquire Band will be present, along with Freeradical Projekt’s Rama Covarrubia and vocalist and guitarist Halemanu. Singer and guitarist Sebrina Barron will share the stage with the likes of vocalists Elaine Ryan, Jessica Rabbitt and many others. Special surprise guests are planned, as well.

Even if you’re not a diehard Zepp fan, with an entire catalog of just 87 recorded songs, there’s something for everyone. Odds are good there are at least a few Led Zeppelin tunes in there even your grandma would recognize and enjoy.

Singer Jessica Rabbitt performs at Zeptember II. Photo courtesy Jessica Pearl Photography.

Since its inception, Zeptember proceeds have in part helped out a good cause. This year is no different, and a percentage of this year’s ticket sales will benefit the Paia Youth and Cultural Center and the Kihei Youth Center.

With this much available collective talent, one can only hope someone decides to organize Floyduary or – sandwiched between June and August: Who-ly. However, until more venues exist, head to Mulligans this Saturday and enjoy Zeptember the one night it lasts.

Zeptember is a 21-and over event only: bring your ID and plan to show it at the door. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and the show is slated to start at sunset, around 6:30 p.m. Tickets will be available at the door for $25.

Pre-sale tickets are $20 and are currently available at Just Wing It, 808 Deli and Mulligan’s in South Maui; Requests Music in Wailuku; Alice in Hulaland in Paia; Maui Coffee Roasters in Kahului; or Westside Vibes in Lahaina. They can also be purchased online.

Know of a great band, comic, artist, author, filmmaker, dancer or event coming to town? Have an idea for a fun or interesting story? Please drop us a line at [email protected]. We want to hear from you!