Words and photos by Anastasia Baranovskaia
There are concerts that entertain, and then there are those that also leave an imprint, lingering long after the concert has ended. That’s what happened on May 16, 2025, when Robert Plant and Saving Grace took the stage at Cirkus in Stockholm.
Formed in 2019, Saving Grace has evolved into a true musical co-operative. The current lineup features Suzi Dian on vocals and accordion, Oli Jefferson on percussion, Tony Kelsey on mandolin, baritone guitar, and guitar, Matt Worley on banjo, guitar, baritone guitar, and cuatro, and, most recently, Barney Morse-Brown on cello. And of course, Robert Plant himself.
But what stands out most is how he doesn’t just take centre stage as a frontman—he’s a true part of the collective, sharing the spotlight with each band member and giving them the space to shine. The chemistry between the musicians is undeniable. Together, they create a sound that is effortless, in sync, and engaging.
Suzi Dian’s voice is the perfect counterpart to Plant’s, blending warmth, intimacy, and power. Their chemistry on stage is palpable, with Dian’s harmonies offering a striking balance to Plant’s powerful delivery. Together, they create a dynamic duo, elevating songs with emotional depth that resonates.
The band’s music is difficult to label, but it sits somewhere between folk, blues, Americana, and mysticism. In a 2021 interview, Plant described it as “psychedelic soul,” and that feels like a fitting way to describe it.
The spirit of Led Zeppelin lingers, of course, in both the crowd’s anticipation and Plant’s commanding presence, but Saving Grace isn’t content to live in the past. The performance felt like a transformation, with Zeppelin’s legacy alive but reimagined.
Plant’s voice remains a powerful instrument—he uses it with precision, effortlessly balancing strength and vulnerability. During the encore, the atmosphere was palpable as the first notes of “Gallows Pole” rang out. Then, Plant teased the crowd: “I’m going to do something serious now,” before moving on to “Black Dog.” The energy in the room intensified. When he let out that iconic “Ah, ah,” the entire room responded without hesitation. It was one of those moments when you couldn’t help but sing along.
The crowd was fully engaged and present, something that was even acknowledged by Suzi Dian, who told us we were the loudest audience they’d encountered on the tour so far. From the first note to the final bow, the air was filled with anticipation, excitement, and pure joy.
What set this show apart was also the presence of the audience. In an era where phones often dominate the concert experience, it was refreshing to see the crowd focused entirely on the music, not wanting to miss a single moment.
Plant spoke warmly of his long connection to Sweden, sharing fond memories of the country. With a smile, he asked how the Pripps Blå was tasting—nostalgically referencing past visits and drinks shared with “Agnetha,” possibly a nod to ABBA’s Agnetha Fältskog. There was something incredibly refreshing about the show. In a time when so much music feels digital, polished, and fast, this was a breath of fresh air. It was intentional, soulful, and raw. Perhaps it’s the way Saving Grace strips music down to its core—no gimmicks, just great music.
As I left the venue, I felt gratitude. For music that still has the power to move. For artists who still care about the work they create. And for the rare chance to witness a legend who isn’t stuck in the past—but is still pushing forward, still creating, still connecting. It was an experience that left me grateful to have been in the room to witness it all.
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