Recorded swiftly to capitalize on the success of the band’s debut, Zeppelin II seemed even more assured than its predecessor. Delivering the ultimate bump ’n’ grind anthem, “Whole Lotta Love,” the increasingly predatory Plant slips his leash for most of the album, transplanting the southern delta to England’s industrial Midlands, while imploring unnamed ladies to squeeze his lemon “’til the juice runs down my leg.” Zeppelin didn’t completely forget subtlety, though; the restrained “Thank You” and folksy “Ramble On” showcased a gentler side of the group’s talents.

STANDOUT TRACKS: “Whole Lotta Love,” “Ramble On,” “Heartbreaker”