Steely Dan is one of those musical acts that has been around for so long that you kind of lose track of them, take them for granted or just plain forget about what they’ve done in the past. I know that’s the case for me. And inevitably, when I stumble back on them unexpectedly, I am reminded of how much their music was a part of my own past. I find myself singing along easily to songs I haven’t heard in years– no, decades.
They are always just plain good. Great musicianship, smart lyrics and strong hooks that pull you in. I always find myself asking how I don’t listen to them so much more than I do.
If you don’t know, Steely Dan consisted of Donald Fagen and Walter Becker. In the 70’s they used a cast of incredible studio musicians– guitar great Larry Carlton was a frequent player with them. Steely Dan was a very enigmatic group that achieved huge successes from both commercial and critical standpoints throughout the 70’s even though they retired from playing live in 1974. They broke up in 1981 then reunited in 1993 and recorded and toured consistently up until Walter Becker’s death in 2017. Fagen continues touring as the sole member of the band.
I loved their work at that time and listened to most of their albums on a consistent basis then. Like I said, I don;t know how they slipped away. Here’s a couple of faves from an album I really enjoyed– and enjoy now, The Royal Scam. Here’s Don’t Take Me Alive and Kid Charlemagne.
Have a good day, okay?
*****************
“Deacon Blues” might be my favorite — it varies from time to time — but all their work is good. If all goes well, their summer tour (with Steve Winwood) will be in Houston in June. I usually pass on shows at the venue chosen, just because it’s a two hour or more drive (the Houston metro area’s big!) but I might be tempted. We’ll see.
Yes, I see they are touring this summer, if things somehow settle down. Hope so for the sake of you catching their show.
Great one, Gary.
Always one of my favorite bands – always wanted to see them in concert, but never could be anywhere near a show at the right time. Finally, @ the age of 63, Hedy & I caught them at Bethel Woods (w/Steve Winwood for opening act !).
Sadly, this was just a few weeks before Walter passed away.
Hi, Tom– So good to ear from you. Hope Hedy and you are both doing well and staying safe. Steve Winwood as an opening act!? They are touring again this summer and will be appearing in bot Syracuse and Bethel Woods. That is, if the virus allows. Be careful, Tom!
There’s that unmistakable Purdie Shuffle on Kid Charlemagne. None of your three-chord shoe-gaze drivel. The Dan is real music.