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January, February & March 2014 Posts

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Date: Tues, April 01, 2014, 08:27:24 ET
Posted by: harmolodic, gringolandia

Hey Strunk and White, we get it. Now fuck off :)


Date: Mon, March 31, 2014, 22:24:58 ET
Posted by: moray eel, u

USS: So, are you saying that Carolyn is actually Ivy King?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OfOUm1WxRGk

m.e.


Date: Mon, March 31, 2014, 20:41:36 ET
Posted by: hoopss, chicago

The latest edition of the Dandom Digest was just e-mailed and is dated March 24-31, 2014.

If you are a subscriber, you should see the latest edition in your email box within an hour of this post. If you don't see them, check your spam filters first; then, if it's not there, please email me.

As I regularly remind subscribers, some people have problems with delivery of the Dandom Digest, usually because of their spam filters, firewalls, etc. That's why this sort of notice is posted here--so you are aware that you should have received the latest edition.

The following are the subject headlines of the Dandom Digest for March 24-31, 2014.

=======

- Steely Dan Jamalot Summer Tour 2014
- Steely Dan Plays San Diego 7/17-Tix On Sale 4/5
- Official Steely Dan eNewsletter
- Danfests 2014
- UPDATED: Put Your Site on the Steely Dan Web Ring

=======

If you are not currently a subscriber but would like to receive the free Dandom Digest email newsletter, please email me at hoops AT dandom DOT com or see http://www.dandom.com/dandomdigest.

For the record, the Dandom Digest is a newsletter with unofficial content written by and for the fans of Steely Dan. The newsletter is independent of, nor to be confused with, the glorious and much more glamorous official newsletters from steelydan.com, walterbecker.com, donaldfagen.com and other sites of Steely Dan associates.

Thanks for your support through the years, especially Pete and Shari, as well as Mr. & Mrs. Winterbottom, and espcially thinking of Mark and Bill, and not to mention one or two people who request anonymity.


Date: Mon, March 31, 2014, 18:33:50 ET
Posted by: KD, asdf

Thanks for taking the time for the recap, Big Fan, sounds like a great time out. One quibble -- there was no way Carolyn Leonhart was just 16 years old on the 1996 tour! Although I wouldn't mind another awesome member in my "born in 1980 club."


Date: Mon, March 31, 2014, 17:31:09 ET
Posted by: E. B. White, hanging out with Strunk

Yes, yes, by all means let's overlook the nits. That, Mr. USS, sir, was no nit.


Date: Mon, March 31, 2014, 14:04:28 ET
Posted by: USS, Minnow

Yes, I realized it after I posted. But it's already been established here not to point out grammatical nits.


Date: Mon, March 31, 2014, 12:11:20 ET
Posted by: C Strunk,

USS -

Take away the subject "Wayne" from your last post and you get "Her got engaged". Did you mean that?


Date: Mon, March 31, 2014, 10:27:26 ET
Posted by: USS, Minnow

Carolyn has an interest in military history. Her and Wayne got engaged on the USS Nautilus (the first nuke sub, now a museum)


Date: Mon, March 31, 2014, 08:29:54 ET
Posted by: Big Fan, Snowbound again

Doing some quick math I�ve seen Carolyn Leonhart perform as the lead backup vocalist for Steely Dan, the Dukes of September or Donald Fagan solo 35 times since 2000. It was great to see her perform solo. What a great voice. Her husband saxophonist Wayne Escoffery plays in the band but never once did she mention they were married. The small tidbits of touring with SD were priceless. She talked about when they played in Hawaii in 2000 she had an opportunity to visit the USS Arizona memorial and it inspired her to write one of the songs �The Harbor� that she sang. In addition she talked about Walter Becker playing the base and that although he has solo albums he doesn�t perform any of those songs. She said she loves this one and sang �Book of Liars�. Walter actually sang this on their first tour in 1993 � we saw it at the Hartford Civic Center. Carolyn would have been about 13 at the time so I doubt she saw it. I was waiting for her to sing Dirty Work.
She was extremely gracious when we asked her autograph one of her CDs and actually laughed at my joke. The bar at the Palace Theater very small upstairs venue had 6 different Patron tequilas available and she had one in a margarita. When she was signing the autograph I mention they had better tequila than Cuervo Gold � she paused and laughed and said they never drink that stuff although they are all big tequila drinkers in the band and mentioned which one was their favorite but I didn�t catch it. Being a tequila aficionado myself I could really relate.

If you get to catch her show I'd recommend it highly.
We are going to see Al Stewart at Infinity hall next weekend and then Larry Carlton plays there the following weekend.
I�m excited by the news of a tour this year but like some others if the setlist is the same then only one show. We went to the �request� night last year only to find out it was really the �greatest hits� night. Results of the voting never were made public. I�d love to hear more songs from the three new ones.


Date: Sun, March 30, 2014, 23:15:32 ET
Posted by: Updraught, Philly Area

No concern about set lists, love listening to this band no matter what they play. Will attend as many shows as possible this tour.


Date: Sun, March 30, 2014, 21:18:17 ET
Posted by: Unless SD changes their tired setlist, I will spend the extra shekels for a good seat at The Toto Show


Date: Sun, March 30, 2014, 11:55:09 ET
Posted by: FlbrkMike, Fallbrook, CA

Just got my mailer from Humphrey's and will be waiting for April 5 ticket release with baited breath. Last year's show was awesome. $177 per seat is a bit steep, but worth every penny.


Date: Sun, March 30, 2014, 08:34:53 ET
Posted by: steelydoc, near the Tower

from SD.com:

They're doing it again!

A San Diego date has already been announced
for the JAMALOT EVER AFTER Tour of 2014.

This space will be updated with more, soon.
In the meantime, see the Steely Dan Facebook page
for early on-sale announcements and info.


Date: Sun, March 30, 2014, 08:32:44 ET
Posted by: steelydoc, near the Tower

The 2014 Steely Dan tour is OFFICIAL!!!!! Announced at www/steelydan.com


Date: Sun, March 30, 2014, 07:45:44 ET
Posted by: LL, R

Lukather leaves me cold, period.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V4dqml9GK8Y&t=5m35s


Date: Sun, March 30, 2014, 04:14:00 ET
Posted by: Donald Rumsfeld-Fagen, looking good by comparison with Hagel

Shangri-la's information is right: sd.com has announced a summer tour; the San Diego date is the only one thus far announced (sd.com lists it as July 13, not the 12th).

I didn't think it would be possible to come up with a tour title more terrible than "Mood Swings: 8 Miles to Pancake Day," but Donald and Walter have topped themselves: 2014 brings us "Jamalot Ever After."

Good luck, I guess.


Date: Sat, March 29, 2014, 23:33:34 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

Good stuff, Denny Laine, you got me.

Been listening to the Rainey clip for a while. Great to see him give some props to Ralphe Armstrong. Armstrong is one of the best bassists I have ever seen live (playing electric bass, even). "Funky Ralphe Armstrong" is how Jean-Luc Ponty introduced him.


Date: Sat, March 29, 2014, 22:50:19 ET
Posted by: Michael,

Zo! - Black Cow

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=impcKyDa3YE

One of the comments reads, "Sounds better than the original."

>:D


Date: Sat, March 29, 2014, 22:00:01 ET
Posted by: Shangri-la, Direct from Lhasa with News of a Tour

Just received my annual tour line-up mailer from Humphrey's by the Bay in San Diego. Steely Dan is scheduled for Saturday, July 12 and tix go on sale next Saturday, April 5.


Date: Sat, March 29, 2014, 20:29:34 ET
Posted by: homie, LA


there will be a tour

JAMALOT EVER AFTER

notice on sd.com


Date: Sat, March 29, 2014, 19:10:44 ET
Posted by: Napoleon, U.K

Some small insight in to what it was like to be a hired player on a Steely Dan record from Chuck Rainey. He covers the slap technique again but also mentions why the dream team of Purdie, Carlton and he didn't tour as a band for the Dan.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F5Sy7E9Ot7M


Date: Sat, March 29, 2014, 19:10:13 ET
Posted by: KD, asdf

I'll just have to remain dubious until I see a transcript/hear a clip/get a name from the poster. Ah well. You can at least quote Kelly Dwyer as saying "Steve Lukather's playing in Toto leaves me cold."


Date: Sat, March 29, 2014, 17:00:09 ET
Posted by: truth,

KD- That quote was from a radio interview. I heard it. The interviewer asked Fagen about Luke and he answered honestly. I'm not making this up.


Date: Sat, March 29, 2014, 16:24:50 ET
Posted by: KD, asdf

I don't care for Lukather as a person, or a player, but of all the musicians Donald Fagen could have publicly shamed over the years, on record, why would he hold one out for Steve Lukather? His playing probably does leave Donald cold, but Fagen really doesn't have a history (outside of naming Frankie Avalon in the Classic Albums documentary) of going after musicians by name.

There are probably hundreds of studio players who have gone through Steely/Fagen material over the last 45 years that didn't make the cut and/or the finished product, and Fagen hasn't teed off any of them. Why would he pick out Lukather on record?

And also, why can't the quote be found anywhere online? Why no source?

Again, this is coming from the leader of the ATF (Anti-Toto Federation) and charter member of the "Steve Lukather's Playing Leaves Me Cold Camp."


Date: Sat, March 29, 2014, 15:03:10 ET
Posted by: dale, Kansas City

I believe that Fagen quote about Steve Lukather If you think about it, he's the only original member of Toto that never appeared on a SD album!


Date: Sat, March 29, 2014, 14:23:55 ET
Posted by: Michael,

Uncle Albert and Wonderful Christmas Time are great songs, but much of McCartney's solo work is too sappy.


Date: Sat, March 29, 2014, 11:10:22 ET
Posted by: Denny Laine, a barn out back that Paul stuck us in

The Dean is a bumbling idiot, a damned fool. Paul McCartney is a schlockmeister?!? Paul McCartney? The Paul McCartney? Have you ever listened to Silly Love Songs? Have you explored the intricacies of With a Little Luck? What about Ebony and Ivory? I'm not even going to mention The Girl is Mine. Those songs are schlockless, some are even shoeless. Oh, sure, there's all the Beatles crap, but he grew out of it.


Date: Sat, March 29, 2014, 10:35:09 ET
Posted by: Michael,

Early SD up to Royal Scam is definitely not what I'd consider smooth or easy listening.


Date: Sat, March 29, 2014, 10:06:43 ET
Posted by: DYLYNFAN, HARRISBURG PA

From April's Playboy Q&A with Kurt Vile. Who are your musical influences
I go through with one obsession at a time. Lou Reed and The Velvet
Underground, Bob Dylan, Neil Young-the greats.Today its early-1970's
Randy Newman, John Prine and some Steely Dan. Those guys are perfect
songwriters with nuances nobody else has. Steely Dan will divide a
room. Some people say it's too smooth for them, and I say "well
you're too smooth for me"


Date: Sat, March 29, 2014, 03:04:50 ET
Posted by: Phil, Pau France

Attention all shoppers, a listening, and buying suggestion, I only listened to the 1st song but can't wait to post it, goose bumps guaranteed:

The Rise and Fall of Danny Chevron
by Atar Shafighian


"The music sounds like Donald Fagen meeting Ben Folds and Tower of Power to collaborate on a Sting record paying homage to a Coen Brothers movie adaptation of a Norman Mailer novel" (Dr Drums Blog 2012)

Have a nice week end

Philippe





Date: Sat, March 29, 2014, 01:40:20 ET
Posted by: change it up,

I love all the recent touring musicians with Steely Dan, but I wouldn't mind at all if they rotated most of the group out with other A-list players. It would be refreshing, especially if they keep playing the same old set list.


Date: Fri, March 28, 2014, 20:47:30 ET
Posted by: moredrums, L.A.

a hint at what may be coming this summer - Steve Lukather posted this on Facebook today:

Well NEVER dull in Toto world. As it seems the news is
OUT.. yes we are very happy and honored to have Hungate and do the USA tour with us. Nathan is busy with Foreplay and his solo career now and is leaving. He was great but like Simon.. He needed to go with his own career and we are all still great friends. That is ALL I am saying for now. Keith is the only drummer on our record and will be IN the band but there is ONE last Steely Dan tour he was committed to this Aug BEFORE we asked him to join. The amazing drummer and pal Shannon Forrest is going to do the USA dates with us and Keith will return. 2015 permanately.


Date: Fri, March 28, 2014, 20:04:15 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

Yes, I realize Abe has his regular gig. But he could possibly be free for a short SD tour depending on the timing. I just thought he may possess the right chops and perhaps would appreciate the break from playing with that schlockmeister McCartney. (And yes, I am now taking cover.)


Date: Fri, March 28, 2014, 19:35:04 ET
Posted by: Hawkeye, Billings

Abe Laboriel makes too much money playing with Paul McCartney. I can't see him doing Steely Dan gigs. Personally, I would love to see Cindy Blackman playing the drums on a future Steely Dan tour.


Date: Fri, March 28, 2014, 19:15:28 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

Rosanna, Hold Me Back Now, Africa and this song are pretty good:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bs8eoJ_bxDo



Date: Fri, March 28, 2014, 19:04:38 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,


Toto I, Hydra, and IV have some good stuff (not enough to snatch the Grammy away from Donald.

Jeff Porcaro was their ballast. I agree with KD, that I like them best as Boz Scaggs' backup band. Lowdown has the greatest groove, and I'd argue one of the best singles of the rock era.


Date: Fri, March 28, 2014, 18:46:44 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar. It's Happy Hour!

Just a thought. Do you think Abe Laboriel would fit with SD? He seems to be a damn good groove drummer. Just throwing it out there.


Date: Fri, March 28, 2014, 18:33:26 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar. It's Happy Hour!

Lutz, I only attended one SD show on the last tour, and both Don and Walt were at the peak of their game IMO. Don was extremely energetic and Walt was much improved from the show I saw on the previous tour, where I was concerned for his health. They are OLDER, that's for sure, but so are we. I got no sense they were uninspired. The setlist is rather meaningless in this discussion, IMO. Don also looked, and sounded, great during the Dukes show I attended.

I will miss Carlock in concert, but I am confident they will find another terrific drummer if they decide to tour in the future. It won't be "the same" but it could even be better, potentially. I will say, Carlock was a part of the tightest band SD has ever put on stage.

As for Don's comment about Lukather, I will say I have heard/read that comment in the past, but I don't think I have ever seen it with a legit source, in context. For those who KNOW he indeed said this, can you provide a link, or a source? I googled that exact quote and got zero results. For what it's worth, Steve's guitar work doesn't really resonate with me, either. I'm not saying I don't respect his talent--he just doesn't really do it for me.


Date: Fri, March 28, 2014, 17:54:55 ET
Posted by: Hawkeye, Billings

I think Simon Phillips would be an excellent replacement for Keith Carlock on drums if Steely Dan decide to tour again.


Date: Fri, March 28, 2014, 17:25:26 ET
Posted by: KD, adsf

The guy I went to the Dan show with last summer, a fantastic musician (writes, plays expert drums and very good guitar) but one that doesn't own any SD albums, was absolutely gobsmacked by Carlock live and could not stop talking about him for days after. He knew about Carlock prior to the show, but was blown away by him live.

Not saying that takes audience away, but the band without Carlock will be different -- as we saw with the Dukes tour. There are plenty of technically proficient, A+ drummers out there, but Carlock has such a unique take that it will stand out when they go back to the more orthodox drummers.

And this is coming from someone who isn't as high on Carlock's style as others.


Date: Fri, March 28, 2014, 16:28:37 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Also, as much as I love Carlock -- and I do love Carlock -- the only people that need to be on stage for a Steely Dan show Fagen and Becker. Carlock might be the Pocaro of the 00s in terms of his contribution to the band and its live sound, but there are a ton of drummers out there that could take his place with aplomb.


Date: Fri, March 28, 2014, 16:22:50 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

I kinda doubt that's the case, Lutz. The far more likely scenario is that Carlock was already on retainer for 2014, and won't be going forward. Doesn't mean he won't ever tour with Steely Dan ever again, but perhaps Toto will have first refusal instead of SD.


Date: Fri, March 28, 2014, 15:06:51 ET
Posted by: Lutz, SF

I hope I am wrong but I believe there will be no more big SD tours going forward and the boys let Keith in on it.
Just look back how tired the bandleaders looked over the last few years and especially last year. The band was still great but both D&W appeared kind of uninspired, bored and played the same old worn out set lists for years and years. Some shows felt they couldn't wait to get it over with. Hopefully they put a little cash aside for some studio work...


Date: Fri, March 28, 2014, 13:47:24 ET
Posted by: Askin, Q

Which Peg solo was Lukather on the Aja DVD?


Date: Fri, March 28, 2014, 13:26:24 ET
Posted by: truth, yep

You said it - 100% true quote by DF!


Date: Fri, March 28, 2014, 13:07:11 ET
Posted by: Hawkeye, Billings

Too many people are bashing Toto on this board. They should download the Jeff Pocaro tribute concert from 1992. It includes Donald Fagen, Boz Scaggs, Michael McDonald, Denny Dias, George Harrison, Steve Lukather, among others. Even the great Miles Davis recorded a song with Toto (Don't Stop Me Now).


Date: Fri, March 28, 2014, 12:42:58 ET
Posted by: You said it, nope

The comment below is a lie. Donald Fagen never said "Steve Lukather's guitar playing leaves me cold".


Date: Fri, March 28, 2014, 12:14:23 ET
Posted by: He said it, yep

"Steve Lukather's guitar playing leaves me cold"

Donald Fagen


Date: Fri, March 28, 2014, 10:53:25 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

So it looks like Lewis was right yet again. Great news. Steely Dan will tour and Keith will be a part of it.

Not so great news: Keith might not be a part of Steely Dan tours after 2014. But we can cross that bridge when we get to it, I suppose.


Date: Fri, March 28, 2014, 10:14:03 ET
Posted by: steelydoc, near the Tower

from Steve Lukather's Facebook page TODAY:


Well NEVER dull in Toto world. As it seems the news is
OUT.. yes we are very happy and honored to have Hungate and do the USA tour with us. Nathan is busy with Foreplay and his solo career now and is leaving. He was great but like Simon.. He needed to go with his own career and we are all still great friends. That is ALL I am saying for now. Keith is the only drummer on our record and will be IN the band but there is ONE last Steely Dan tour he was committed to this Aug BEFORE we asked him to join. The amazing drummer and pal Shannon Forrest is going to do the USA dates with us and Keith will return. 2015 permanately.


Date: Fri, March 28, 2014, 08:49:30 ET
Posted by: rocker, c

Even their worst critics don't deny that Toto was comprised of musicians of great competence. The beef is that they were nothing more. One of the first pieces I read on Steely Dan referred to Toto as a "pea-brain paragon of professionalism." By comparison, studio perfectionism and great musicianship is just one dimension of Steely Dan.


Date: Fri, March 28, 2014, 08:42:40 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

1) Toto is made up of talented musicians; the songs themselves range from goofy-fun (Roseanna) to schlocky as fuck.

2) I agree with Dean's assessment of EH. I'll also add that I completely sympathized with Don's desire to fire-bomb one of the theaters they played, because I've often wished death upon certain folks in a Steely Dan audience, and because there are certain bars I play where I consistently wish death on everyone but the bartenders. (Granted, the only people that pay to see me specifically are my parents, but still, I see where he's coming from.)

3) I hope Pop is right. But who knows.


Date: Fri, March 28, 2014, 07:43:26 ET
Posted by: Michael,

Toto has a few good tunes, namely Africa, Hold The Line, Roseanna and Let It Go (which sounds like something heard during one of those training montages in Rocky films). I know they wrote Human Nature for Michael Jackson which is also a nice tune, although much of his best material was written by Rod Temperton (e.g. Off The Wall, Rock With You, Baby Be Mine, Thriller). Never got the whole Pat Metheny/Al DiMeola thing. It's like music without a discernable melody or coherent structure, except for Metheny's Phase Dance which is stellar. If you want to hear incredible fusion then here are a few suggestions.

Artist - Album(s)
-----------------
Jeff Beck - Blow By Blow
Kazumi Watanabe - To Chi Ka
Steve Khan - The Blue Man, Arrows
The Dixie Dregs - Dregs of the Earth, Unsung Heroes
Steve Morse - The Introduction
Jean Luc-Ponty - Enigmatic Ocean


Date: Fri, March 28, 2014, 07:15:11 ET
Posted by: Josey, Mass

Saw the Pat Metheny Unity Group in Boston last night! Unbelievable to watch guys who are THAT DAMN GOOD!! Best show I've seen in years!!


Date: Fri, March 28, 2014, 01:40:40 ET
Posted by: Supertour,

Actually, I'd be curious to know what other pop/rock bands people here think had as much all-around genre talent nearing the level of Toto. Chicago?


Date: Fri, March 28, 2014, 01:36:34 ET
Posted by: Supertour,

I don't consider Toto's music to be on the 'same level' as Steely Dan - what is? - but what is somewhat similar is that the band is made of great musicians. I only have a couple live albums from the Simon Phillips era, but it covers a good range of their material. It's fun stuff with great musicianship throughout. I've actually never listened to the studio stuff - I could imagine it being a bit stale. Also, several members of the group have great respect for SD.


Date: Thurs, March 27, 2014, 22:39:45 ET
Posted by: KD, asdf

And I certainly don't have disdain for those who dig Toto -- you lot would have quite a lot to say about my go-to albums from SST Records to smoothed out Bob James muzak to pub rock -- I'm only commenting on Toto because they don't seem similar in any way to SD.

Then again, I'm the guy that was ganged up on at the SD usenet group in 1999 for daring to compare "Josie" to Junior Walker and pointing out that it had an RnB influence. The (popular) poster seemed to be of the opinion that "RnB" was a dirty designation. Hoping the Classic Albums DVD changed her mind.


Date: Thurs, March 27, 2014, 22:36:18 ET
Posted by: KD, asdf

The Dean -- your third graf on Don's book? My thoughts exactly.

Toto? Love the Boz Scaggs, Randy Newman and Michael Jackson backups. Classic records. On their own, not so much. And while Steve Lukather seems like an affable sort on Twitter, I recall some guitar magazine interviews of his from the early 1990s where he came off like the worst sort of scale-practicin', grumpy old man.


Date: Thurs, March 27, 2014, 22:23:10 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

BTW, I finally finished Eminent Hipsters a few weeks ago and I think I forgot to post my thoughts.

First of all, while I probably previously read most of the essays. The ones I know I read were a pleasure to re-read. Those I didn't read. or didn't remember vividly, were even more fun. A fantastic 1st half of the book.

The Dukes journal was also outstanding, IMO, and quite funny. While I can understand how a clueless, Dan-ignorant reviewer might get the idea Don is "dissing" his fans, I find it nearly impossible to figure how a devoted Dan fan, familiar with the lyrics of SD and Fagen lyrics, can possibly come to that conclusion. And even if they do take those few references too literally, how is it they do not put these references into context? I can tell you this: Don didn't dis ME by any stretch of the imagination. And I completely empathize with his issues.

Also, I'm glad Don recognized how good the St Augustine crowd was, as well as the show. No negatives about these fans, that's for sure.


Date: Thurs, March 27, 2014, 21:47:59 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

KD, I am a HUGE Jeff Porcaro fan, and I never really got Toto, either. Then again, I have no disdain for SD fans who find something to like there.


Date: Thurs, March 27, 2014, 21:29:12 ET
Posted by: moray eel, feeling

I feel like posting an underappreciated DF lyric...

So if you ever see an automaton
In a midprice luxury car
Better roll the sidewalks up
Switch on your lucky star
'Cause this zombie does impressions
But not really to amuse
This ballad is for lovers
With something left to lose

m.e.


Date: Thurs, March 27, 2014, 21:10:41 ET
Posted by: Nicholas Urfe, Phraxos

Disdain for Toto - in particular Steve Lukather - is rampant on the Blue. That's fine, I get it. But I've always liked the first Toto album. Please don't revoke my membership.


Date: Thurs, March 27, 2014, 19:15:00 ET
Posted by: Michael, @pop

Dare we dream?


Date: Thurs, March 27, 2014, 18:03:59 ET
Posted by: KD, asdf

Respectfully ...

I don't "get" the Toto. That's about as nice as I can be.


Date: Thurs, March 27, 2014, 17:40:29 ET
Posted by: Supertour,

A Toto + Steely Dan tour would be a dream. They could economize on the drummer ;).


Date: Thurs, March 27, 2014, 16:51:32 ET
Posted by: Kip, C

A Toto/Mike M double bill and the only NYC area date will be at the Bergen PAC, a tiny theater just over the GWB in Jersey.

Hard to think Carlock would spurn an SD tour for this, so I'm speculating that there won't be one.


Date: Thurs, March 27, 2014, 16:14:35 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar. It's Happy Hour!

Pop, while I have no reason to believe you (or to disbelieve you for that matter) I hope you have the real news. As much as I always look forward to a Dan concert (irrespective of the setlist) I am seriously jonesing for new studio stuff.


Date: Thurs, March 27, 2014, 15:43:06 ET
Posted by: pop,

there is no steely dan tour this year.

Donald and walter are working on new music for y'all.

go see toto this summer.


Date: Wed, March 26, 2014, 14:41:12 ET
Posted by: Gus Winterbottom, Podunk Hollow

gauchoamigo,

Greetings; hope all is well with you. As a result of our attendance at the SD show in 2011, we are on the mailing list for the Santa Barbara Bowl as well. I checked my inbox, but I have deleted most of their e-mails since the beginning of this year, so I can't verify your recollection. I wonder if they sent you last year's schedule by mistake? That doesn't seem likely, and I don't recall if they even played there last year, much less the exact date. As I can best recall, I got the initial 2014 schedule at least a month ago, and I don't remember seeing any SD dates. Sorry I can't be of more help.


Date: Wed, March 26, 2014, 14:38:19 ET
Posted by: kzkzkz, nyccyn

Found this on youtube while not looking for anything in particular-

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v-JDwLJhQf4

Donald Fagen at the ASCAP Jazz Hall Of Fame ceremony in NYC on June 14, 2010. Performance of "Florida Room", award presentation by Johnny Mandel and Valerie Simpson, and acceptance speech.


Date: Wed, March 26, 2014, 13:28:38 ET
Posted by: Big Fan, at work still snowbound

I'm contemplating going to see Carolyn Leonhart at the Palace Theater in Waterbury, CT Friday night. I have no idea what her shows are like but since I�ve seen her sing with SD, DF and the Dukes about 35 times since 2000 I think I�d like to see her solo performance. I have two of her albums somewhere. There�s a SD cover band playing Stafford on Saturday, but I�m not that interested.


Date: Wed, March 26, 2014, 11:08:23 ET
Posted by: gauchoamigo, somewhere in la-la land north of hollywood

I got an email from the Santa Barbara Bowl about a month ago, with their season listed and it had Steely Dan for a show around August 14th or so. I look now and most of the season isn't there anymore, including SD. Maybe Gus can verify this.


Date: Wed, March 26, 2014, 10:30:47 ET
Posted by: Local boy, who spends a quarter

Who is on drums most certainly does matter and Carlock is one of the best out there right now. A lot of people liked Sunken Condos just as much as any other Fagen/SD release depite the lack of Keith on drums, but I felt it was lacking something. The songs are still there and are still AMAZING, but the sense of groove and impeccable time and feel that Keith adds to a track are irreplaceable.

Steely Dan drums are seemingly simple. They are typically not flashy parts. But they are always extremely appropriate, and to capture the right groove and feel on songs, it has to be played a very specific way.

Grace notes on the snare vs. no grace notes on the snare. Listen to what Keith Carlock does with Wayne Krantz, Oz Noy, Rudder, or even Sean Wayland and you'll see there's grace notes up the wazoo. A lot of his work with Steely Dan he backs off on the grace notes.

Crash hits vs. no crash hits. Listen to Gaslighting Abbie. There are no crash hits in the song! (although this is Lawson on drums)

Hearing subtleties like those executed by someone who has amazing feel makes quite a difference.


Date: Tues, March 25, 2014, 23:48:43 ET
Posted by: i don't care about Carlock, drums are not the problem

The drummer position is not that important on the majority of SD songs. Drums are very important on Van Halen songs. Horns, guitars, keys and background vocals are what is important on SD songs. Particularly for creating that black female sound.

They could use Leonhart or even Donny Osmond on the skins with no ill effects.

What is important is that they change the fucking setlist which will determine whether or not I go. Even if they used Porcaro in his prime on drums it still won't address this problem.


Date: Tues, March 25, 2014, 20:38:29 ET
Posted by: Wonderin', 'bout mah summer plans

Back in early February, the so-far-flawless Lewis dropped "July-Sept" in a typically cryptic but [hopefully] easily understood post.

My question is: With Carlock now confirmed as Toto's tour drummer, and numerous Toto shows announced for early August through early September (at least), what can this mean for any possible July through September SD activity?

A shiny-noo SD drummer? A change of plans? Plans that looked like a lock in February but got somehow sidetracked by bigger money?

Lewis's record here summarily rendered less than perfect?

Hopefully none of the above. But if I had to choose between a July-September SD tour without Carlock and no 2014 shows at all, I know where I would stand.


Date: Tues, March 25, 2014, 20:12:09 ET
Posted by: Lutz, SF

My favorite DW version is with Cindy Mizelle.
She has more depth than some of the older birds imo.
No wonder the Boss snatched her up.


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Date: Tues, March 25, 2014, 17:52:58 ET
Posted by: ,

>I know it was on a couple of hits compilations, probably just to appeal to those who heard it on the recent tours.

Dirty Work has been a classic rock staple as long as I can remember.


Date: Tues, March 25, 2014, 16:21:54 ET
Posted by: Stinkfish, Santa Barbara, CA

Looks like no Dukes of September tour for this Summer. Michael McDonald will be going on tour with Toto. I'm definitely going, since Keith Carlock will be the new drummer for Toto. Good double bill.


Date: Tues, March 25, 2014, 13:31:55 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago, moving right along

You know, the comment I made Sunday about Donny Osmond was an off the cuff allusion, simply to Reelin'. Had I any idea it would have generated this amount of discussion, I wouldn't have said it.

Meanwhile, how's your Dukes' DVD? Catherine Russell's new CD? Did you get the new Dandom Digest?

Best,

Jim




Date: Tues, March 25, 2014, 12:51:14 ET
Posted by: Forget it, Donnie

...you're out of your element.


Date: Tues, March 25, 2014, 12:38:20 ET
Posted by: leave donnie, alone

He was 20 years old. Check out his Captain Purple skits on youtube and you have to believe he didn't have much say in what he did on that show.


Date: Tues, March 25, 2014, 12:32:29 ET
Posted by: Bookeeper's Son, Florida

Dean,
You took the words right out of my mouth (off my keyboard?). If Donny is a big fan, you would think he would not crucify a Dan song the way he and his sister did on their show.

Mark


Date: Mon, March 24, 2014, 19:02:01 ET
Posted by: Sammy, l

Maybe the inspiration for Glamour Profession came from an invitation for Don and/or Walt to a Lakers game with his season tickets.


Date: Mon, March 24, 2014, 17:32:11 ET
Posted by: Lutz, SF

March 5th 2014
Keith Carlock: "Recording at Capital Studio B with Toto today and tomorrow. What a place and what a band!!!"

March 5th 2014
Lukather: "Three words. Keith F-ing Carlock!
He blew the roof off Capital Studios yesterday. Three tracks done. UNREAL! You will all be blown away. We were."


Date: Mon, March 24, 2014, 17:19:27 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Story on Irving Azoff:

http://www.nytimes.com/2014/03/25/sports/basketball/the-man-in-the-middle-of-the-knicks-deal-with-jackson.html?hp


Date: Mon, March 24, 2014, 15:08:36 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

I'm sure Donnie is a SD fan. But that doesn't make his mistreatment of the material more tolerable to me. But if he is a "real fan" then he has some idea of the irony of his performing these tunes (given the lyrics) in this manner in these particular settings. I guess I have to give him some reluctant credit for that.

And yes there are plenty of bad SD covers, I believe I remember an American Idol contestant covering a SD tune. I'm not a viewer of this program, but I recall passing by the TV as my mother and sister were watching the program one night. My recollection is, it was a pretty brutal rendition. But since I can't remember the song, and have no vivid memory of the event, I may have simply dreamt this entire story.


Date: Mon, March 24, 2014, 14:03:28 ET
Posted by: Blake, Oakland

Donny Osmond is a huge fan of Steely Dan. It's been mentioned many times that The Nightfly by Donald Fagen is Donny's favorite album. Just go online and do a search.


Date: Mon, March 24, 2014, 12:56:32 ET
Posted by: N.C, USA

This rivals RITY as the worse SD cover

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V7E0d0-WmJw


Date: Mon, March 24, 2014, 12:18:35 ET
Posted by: Bookkeeper's Son, Florida

Thanks Dean. My senses were brutalized by the Donny and Marie clip. Someone in the Osmond camp thought doing that song was a good idea....why? Tell me that was the worst SD cover to ever air on national TV. Lets put it out there....is there a worse SD cover, performed on a national level than Reeling in the Years by Donny and Marie? Say it ain't so!


Date: Mon, March 24, 2014, 01:30:15 ET
Posted by: kzkzkz, NY

No one can top Phoebe Snow singing "Dirty Work" at The Beacon in 2007.


Date: Sun, March 23, 2014, 23:06:11 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

After a seven-month hiatus, the Dandom Digest is back.

The latest edition of the Dandom Digest was just e-mailed and is dated March 23, 2014.

If you are a subscriber, you should see the latest edition in your email box within an hour of this post. If you don't see them, check your spam filters first; then, if it's not there, please email me.

As I regularly remind subscribers, some people have problems with delivery of the Dandom Digest, usually because of their spam filters, firewalls, etc. That's why this sort of notice is posted here--so you are aware that you should have received the latest edition.

The following are the subject headlines of the Dandom Digest for March 23, 2014.

=======

- Catherine Russell's "Brings It Back"
- Jim Beard's "Show of Hands"
- Jon Herington Band's a Live One
- Dukes of September on DVD & Blu-Ray
- In case you didn't know: Eminent Hipsters
- "Roger Nichols' Recording Method"
- Tours in 2014?
- Keith Carlock Joins Toto
- Interview with Keith Carlock
- Interview with Gary Katz
- Better Than Ever: John Granatino's Steely Dan Reader
- Donald Fagen's Top Ten Films -- Criterion Collection!
- Ricky Lawson, RIP
- Updates at the Steely Dan Web Ring
- Official Steely Dan eNewsletter


=======

If you are not currently a subscriber but would like to receive the free Dandom Digest email newsletter, please email me at hoops AT dandom DOT com or see http://www.dandom.com/dandomdigest.

For the record, the Dandom Digest is a newsletter with unofficial content written by and for the fans of Steely Dan. The newsletter is independent of, nor to be confused with, the glorious and much more glamorous official newsletters from steelydan.com, walterbecker.com, donaldfagen.com and other sites of Steely Dan associates.

Thanks for your support through the years, especially Pete and Shari, as well as Mr. & Mrs. Winterbottom, and espcially thinking of Mark and Bill, and not to mention one or two people who request anonymity.


Date: Sun, March 23, 2014, 15:11:56 ET
Posted by: Gene, San Diego

Best version of Dirty Work was when Bonnie Raitt came out to sing it at the Steely Dan show at Shoreline Amphitheatre in Mountain View, CA back in 2006.


Date: Sun, March 23, 2014, 14:35:25 ET
Posted by: TO Danfan, at home

I've seen Dirty Work live 4 or 5 times. Without fail Donald has given a shoutout to Palmer as the original vocalist, leading to his intro to the Brat's version. As Hoops says, a lot of people may not even know it as a Dan tune. In 1978 the Pointer Sisters got tons of airplay with it and other covers on their hugely popular Energy LP. I do notice the gals in the crowd sing along to this tune more than any other. They(as in my better half) swoon at the sax solo and scream "I'm a fool to do your dirty work." (I don't get it....LOL!)

Songs in my head.....Haitian Divorce.....played it a month or so ago and couldn't lose it for 3 weeks..

Dukes DVD is good. I saw them live and once is enough for me. Hard to explain why..... Just didn't seem to have any energy...maybe because it was the show where Don told some guy "fuck you buddy." I too, think Boz is the star of this show. I saw him solo last year and he was excellent.

Cheers


Date: Sun, March 23, 2014, 14:14:49 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Dean: We're on the same wavelength. For the sake of those who don't know, in the 70s, Donny Osmond covered Reelin' and Peg apparently oblivious to what the songs REALLY were are about. (Then again...maybe his parents and/or producers didn't know). I'm sure he'd sing Dirty Work imagining he was scrubbing floors or cleaning up some really dirty frying pans for Marie or his g/f.


Date: Sun, March 23, 2014, 12:33:31 ET
Posted by: Gene, San Diego

I always get a kick when I watch that YouTube clip of Donny & Marie doing Reelin' in the Years. I would like to see them cover some Steely Dan tunes in their current Las Vegas shows.


Date: Sun, March 23, 2014, 12:22:37 ET
Posted by: Hutch, @ Lincoln Center

Picked up the Dukes DVD a couple of days ago. Not disappointed at all. Great performances from all the principles and the band as well. Everyone was in top form, the audio sounds really good to my ears and the video editing is not distracting. Yes, Michael McDonald has some trouble with the high notes these days but he does a fine (and very soulful) job nonetheless.
But, to me, the real star of the show is Boz. His vocals are perfect, his guitar playing is right on the money and he just comes across as a humble and extremely talented musician who really appreciates the audience.

I'm glad there are folks who can instantly hear auto-tuning. I'm not one of them. Someone here said it was so prevalent that at times Donald's and Boz's voices sounded the same. Really?

No complaints. Great show.




Date: Sun, March 23, 2014, 12:22:30 ET
Posted by: Hutch, @ Lincoln Center

Picked up the Dukes DVD a couple of days ago. Not disappointed at all. Great performances from all the principles and the band as well. Everyone was in top form, the audio sounds really good to my ears and the video editing is not distracting. Yes, Michael McDonald has some trouble with the high notes these days but he does a fine (and very soulful) job nonetheless.
But, to me, the real star of the show is Boz. His vocals are perfect, his guitar playing is right on the money and he just comes across as a humble and extremely talented musician who really appreciates the audience.

I'm glad there are folks who can instantly hear auto-tuning. I'm not one of them. Someone here said it was so prevalent that at times Donald's and Boz's voices sounded the same. Really?

No complaints. Great show.




Date: Sun, March 23, 2014, 11:33:14 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

I have to say I agree with most of that, Jim. But Donny Osmond? Please tell me you were just having some fun there. There has never been anything remotely interesting about his performances. Let's not forget this:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GDeVAF58jPg&noredirect=1

It is true though that Palmer didn't fit the bands sensibilities. but he does a decent job on Dirty Work, given what it is. I suppose someone like Steve Perry could have delivered a more powerful, but even less interesting, rendition of that tune.


Date: Sun, March 23, 2014, 10:59:14 ET
Posted by: hoops, schiller park

If you are like me, you are still waiting for your Dukes DVD, so I guess that explains all the attention to the David Palmer / Dirty Work discussion.

I'm not an attorney so I can't say what's what from that perspective--and that's how it will be decided. Maybe it's not a lot of money but it does open the door for for other similar suits.

But as a Steely Dan fan, I think Dirty Work gets more attention that than it deserves. Part of that is because it's sort of a novelty tune for casual fans or those who are "Steely Dan Neutral." Wouldn't surprise if some who likes it don't even know it's a Steely Dan track. I think a goodly amount of its novelty is simply it's "I'm a fool to do your dirty work." The line is in company with "Take this job and shove it, I ain't workin' here no more" and "Is she really going out with him, Is she really going to take him home tonight," and others.

So when one spins "Can't Buy A Thrill," it, of course, opens with the iconic Do It Again. Do It Again is iconic, greater than being a Steely Dan song. Another way to look at it, it's a song that to me demonstrates why Steely Dan can be equated with the Beatles. It's one of those songs you can ask even average, non-Steely Dan-obsessed people where they were or what they were thinking of when they first heard it. For a lot of people the song conjures up images of Watergate, the U.S. pulling out of Viet Nam, the 1972 presidential election. No, none of that is literally mentioned in Do It Again, but Donald's sneering vocal and, especially the trippy and dark solos and arrangements capture the collective shift of American cultural shift into a low-key cynicism and snarkiness. When some current critics review Do It Again and Reelin' as nostaligia trips, they are missing how revolutionary those two songs where when they hit the scene. They are two songs that should be studied in American History classes because of what they subversively say about American society.

But then the next song is Dirty Work. It has the same attitude but clearly it's not in the same league. I can think of six or seven tracks from the pre-CBAT demos that could easily filled the spot. Why David Palmer? One, Donald has said on numerous occasions that he didn't want to the lead vocalist. I've considered David Palmer's vocals to sound weak and subservient, so it fit the bill for what I think the song is about, but I hardly think David Palmer was unique or essential to that sound. Others could have done just well, if not better. In my opinion, he happened to be in the right place in the right time. For starters, Donny Osmond might have been more interesting, if they could have gotten him to do it.

I think the song is popular in the past 10-14 years simply because it's been covered in SD concerts. I've always assumed the track is covered because it's a song fans won't expect Donald to sing and it's meant to give Donald a chance to rest his voice. I know it was on a couple of hits compilations, probably just to appeal to those who heard it on the recent tours. But it's far from the greatest SD tune, and David Palmer hardly turned in a unique performance.

Maybe a silver lining of all of this will be that Dirty Work will get a rest from the set list. There's other SD and solo tracks that I'd rather hear.


Date: Sun, March 23, 2014, 10:42:46 ET
Posted by: ,

I don't know why the Palmer hate here. It certainly sounds like he's going to get paid.


Date: Sun, March 23, 2014, 10:20:45 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

Have Dan asked, "Are there 2 better back to back tracks than ygt and sbk?"

Dunno, maybe Razor Boy and Boston Rag. Or Bodi and RB (and Boston Rag, and YGT and SBK, etc).

H-Dan, while I don't think I have ever "had enough" of SD, I can say the album "I can't get enough" of varies from day to day. Every SD album has been "the best" at one time or another--at least in my mind.

But if I add up all the days any particular album has been my favorite, Countdown sits at the top of the heap. Of course, this methodology is biased toward the older albums, as they have had many more days to compete for the top spot.


Date: Sat, March 22, 2014, 20:47:25 ET
Posted by: Have Dan will travel, Louisville ky

My experience with sd is like that with an old girlfriend - times when I've had enough and times when I can't get enough. I'm in the can't get enough groove right now with countdown, the album that got me hooked back in the mid 70's. Are ther 2 better back to back tracks than ygt and sbk? No no no. While not commercially as successful as others, this is, and always will be, my favorite Dan album. (emg #2)


Date: Sat, March 22, 2014, 15:01:05 ET
Posted by: Tony, S

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kNpMC4FslNk

If that sonofabitch comes after me for royalties he's gunna be joinin Jimmie fukkin Hoffa in a swamp.


Date: Sat, March 22, 2014, 14:51:27 ET
Posted by: Toby, C

Dean, I would disagree that they "rarely" play it in concert.


Date: Sat, March 22, 2014, 14:20:59 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

David Palmer is not a "founding member" of Steely Dan, but clearly is an "original member" of the band. He is nowhere near a "genius" but obviously has some talent. He was good enough, and lucky enough, to work with legit musical geniuses Fagen, Becker and Carole King.

And what he has done lately should have no bearing on his getting his proper compensation. It seems as though it would just be easier for SDI to toss him the peanuts he is due. They gave him $8,000 for one year (if I read that/remember correctly). Why not just give him a bulk payment? What could it cost? Less than $100,000 I assume. My guess is, the other interests of SDI (managers, lawyers, agents, etc) are fighting this. I'd be a bit surprised if Fagen or Becker are personally fighting what seems to be a trivial battle for them. But then again, who really knows in these matters?

As to why Walt or Don don't sing Dirty Work in concert, I can take a stab. It isn't a song they think too highly of. It also doesn't lend itself lyrically to the snarky delivery of Fagen or the darker more monotone singing of Walt. Lyrically it is hard to believe it is actually a Steely Dan song. They didn't sing it on the album, and rarely play it in concer. It is a find vehicle, in a greatest-hits type setting, for the girls--or even a guest performer such as when Bonnie Raitt stepped on stage and killed with it.


Date: Sat, March 22, 2014, 13:49:00 ET
Posted by: David Palmer Fan, Burgertown

David Palmer co-wrote the entire Wrap Around Joy album with Carole King. This is my favorite Carole King album and it includes the hits Nightingale and Jazzman. David Palmer is a true genius.


Date: Sat, March 22, 2014, 03:33:29 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,


David Palmer co-wrote this song:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OUBnLJdi1rU


Date: Fri, March 21, 2014, 21:36:32 ET
Posted by: bigabona15743, Kondengui Central Prison Yaound�, Cameroon

you help me yes pleeze about buy the candy byes a trill i tink is a stily dane record yes i in cameroons no sel dis record i like bake jaka dus it agen song you help me big tanks my name biga bona o i in jale fur de nickin de tourstis waluts but you male me ok fire in mahole i sing and i no go baktu my olde skull i lik de mos toones yes ok you talk me tomrow biga bona very tanks you much


Date: Fri, March 21, 2014, 18:09:34 ET
Posted by: Saul Bellow, Better Call Saul

It's news to say that David Palmer is a weirdo who can't sing worth a darn who lies to claim that he was part of Steely Dan at one time, all because he has the audacity to file a lawsuit? Okay, I get it. Thanks for clearing it up.


Date: Fri, March 21, 2014, 18:04:07 ET
Posted by: Me, here

It's news Saul. News pertaining to Steely Dan. Scroll by if you're not interested.


Date: Fri, March 21, 2014, 18:01:33 ET
Posted by: Saul Goodman, Better Call Saul

Would someone please explain to me why we give a shit about this David Palmer lawsuit? The ad hominem attacks are unseemly. We act as if we have knowledge that we can't possibly possess. It will probably get settled and we'll never know the outcome, nor is there any reason that we should.

If we're going to talk SD finances, somebody find out what the band charges for a show and what the musicians and road crew and management make for a tour and what the travel costs are and what's left over for D&W. Then we'll have something to talk about.


Date: Fri, March 21, 2014, 16:02:05 ET
Posted by: Bradley, Butler

I wonder why both Donald and Walter totally abstain from doing the lead vocals on Dirty Work? David Palmer's weak vocal on this song just doesn't cut it.


Date: Fri, March 21, 2014, 10:34:29 ET
Posted by: KD, asdf

I'm shocked -- SHOCKED -- that David Palmer's weirdo "let's digitally photograph some 2003-era-looking women" website isn't bringing in the cash.

One would think he'd be set for life with syndicated Simpsons episodes playing "Jazzman" incessantly.


Date: Fri, March 21, 2014, 08:54:27 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Cold Porter, the agreement was with Steely Dan Inc, not another entity. So Sound Exchange (or whomever tracks plays on satellite radio and the like) cuts Steely Dan Inc a check, and if Dirty Work is for part of it, Palmer gets a 1/6 of it. These are performance royalties, not mechanical royalties, of which Steely Dan Inc presumably gets 100%.


Date: Fri, March 21, 2014, 08:32:28 ET
Posted by: Michael,

Cold Porter, good point that Palmer didn't write Dirty Work. Everyone knows Don and Walt wrote the entire SD catalog (barring Gaucho and East St. Louis Toodle-oo). Does Palmer even write songs? I don't know of any.


Date: Fri, March 21, 2014, 07:17:07 ET
Posted by: Can'tBuyA Dirty Work Thrill, Giles of the River

this Billboard article explains things better

http://www.billboard.com/biz/articles/news/legal-and-management/5923015/steely-dan-sued-by-former-singer-david-palmer-over


Date: Fri, March 21, 2014, 07:02:39 ET
Posted by: ...Perry Mason, your witness

also...your honor I think it is a stretch if not an outright lie to state that the witness, one David Dewy Palmer, was a founding member of the Dan".....

by most accounts he only joined the entourage in or about the morning of July 24th, 1972...some four months after tracks like Dallas, Fire In the Hole and Sail the Waterway were already recorded....and band members included Becker, Fagen, Diaz, Baxter and Hodder...who were all seen drinking tequila together at Rosie's Bar and Grill in West Hollywood the previous weekend...."

But i digress...
your witness ;-/


Date: Fri, March 21, 2014, 06:53:57 ET
Posted by: Cold Porter, Heart of Asia

Re-The David Palmer lawsuit

Just my two cents worth-

Does anyone else think it is odd that Palmer would be suing Steely Dan (the group) as opposed to the company that owns the recording (UMG I believe)..

.as far as I understand- the royalties are paid to the artists via the record company...which receives the royalties from the publishing licensing company BMI or ASCAP....

As far as the historical record shows Steely Dan's original contract with ABC Records was not considered a good one for anyone in the band and eventually led to a lawsuit with MCA records, who bought the label in 1979....(I don't remember Palmer or any other "original" member voicing their concern about royalties back then)

and of course Palmer didn't even write the song...so I'm with Becker and fagen on this one...Palmer wouldn't even have anything to sue about if Becker and Fagen hadn't written the song!
This sort of reminds me of when John Fogerty was sued for plagiarising his own song!


Date: Thurs, March 20, 2014, 21:40:02 ET
Posted by: Ross, Newark, NJ

Hey Freddie...Did Boz Scaggs perform on stage with Walter Becker at Slim's?


Date: Thurs, March 20, 2014, 21:18:26 ET
Posted by: Jake, Nebraska

Watching the Dukes play Kid Charlemange. Wow it is very strange to hear Donald's voice tuned. It takes so much of the character of his voice away.


Date: Thurs, March 20, 2014, 21:17:23 ET
Posted by: Freddie, usa

Pepe- I was at the WB solo show in San Fransisco. It was a really great time. It was a 'one and done'held at Boz's joint, Slims.


Date: Thurs, March 20, 2014, 18:37:14 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Watching the whole thing now and am about halfway through. I will say it looks like it would be a blast to see live. All three are look to be enjoying themselves and both the band and arrangements are great. (I do like the drummer but comparisons to Carlock are inevitable and Carlock is a monster and this guy's merely very good. Have I mentioned how much I like Carlock yet?)


Date: Thurs, March 20, 2014, 17:07:44 ET
Posted by: Steve,

Walter's one-off solo benefit show was great. Walter should have released the song about the girl and the methadone clinic and Three Sisters Shakin'.

Other legendary one- and two- offs include Roseland '95 (two nights), Video taping for PBS Jan 2000 and VH1 a couple of nights later on Feb 1, 2000. You could even argue some casino shows.

But asking about tours--those were isolated cases.


Date: Thurs, March 20, 2014, 16:35:15 ET
Posted by: casual fan, orlando

I really don't have any desire to buy the DVD, but I'd like to own the CD or download it from Google Play (Android phone). So far, not an option.


Date: Thurs, March 20, 2014, 15:27:18 ET
Posted by: Mojo, Seattle

Huh? I never heard of Walter Becker doing a solo tour on his own. I think he only performed songs from his solo albums during the Steely Dan shows.


Date: Thurs, March 20, 2014, 14:34:37 ET
Posted by: Pepe has a scar, from ear to ear

What's the deal with the 1995 Becker show? Did he only do a handful of dates?


Date: Thurs, March 20, 2014, 14:22:55 ET
Posted by: Aja1, Newton

Chris I had the opposite reaction to the Blu Ray Dukes DVD. I thought the video was stunnnig and the audio is very good. I do agree tht Boz and Don sound similar at times.

Further, I felt that one supprise for me was how much I liked Shannon on drums. I thought his style was a little less aggressive than Keith which I thought was appropriate for this group. Don't get me wrong, Keith is a beast and I love'em.

Another suprise for me was how not cheesy the show was. I had the impression that it was a lot more of McMike's Motown stuff. The Lowdown arrangement was downright delicious.

So here is my enthusiastic recommendation for the DVD, especially if you have a decent 5.1 set-up.


Date: Thurs, March 20, 2014, 10:48:52 ET
Posted by: KD, asdf

The solo DF shows were so fantastic in ways too numerous to detail right now, but the big bummer was that Don had a cold that just didn't seem to go away throughout most of it.

He was still a firecracker, though, and the band/songs/album he was out to promote was so damn great. Happy memories on that one.


Date: Thurs, March 20, 2014, 10:22:18 ET
Posted by: Ned, Q

FWIW


Date: Thurs, March 20, 2014, 10:21:38 ET
Posted by: Ned, Q

Chris FWIS, Blu Ray also provides lossless audio.


Date: Thurs, March 20, 2014, 09:49:23 ET
Posted by: KD, asdf

Dearest Lutz,

Show off.

(Please tour, Walter.)


Date: Thurs, March 20, 2014, 09:01:40 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Grabbed the Dukes of September Blu-Ray and I'm regretting shelling out for high def because everyone looks like shit. Only saw a few tunes. Band sounds great and the arrangements are nice. Miss Carlock of course, but what can ya do. Vocals are tuned beyond recognition; it's a given that live vox are gonna be tuned in an official release these days, but seriously, Don and Boz's voices end up sounding identical at times. And McMike is constantly backing off the mic, probably to compensate for inability to hit notes (why the hell doesn't he transpose his old songs down a few keys?), but then everything is tuned, so it just sounds like he can't find the mic.

Still, it does give me the impression that it would be fun to see them live. They're like the world's greatest wedding band (I play in wedding bands, so I'm not disparaging them so much as I'm flattering myself). My advice: skip the blu ray; as pretty as Carolyn is, not even she makes it worth it. There are some things you can't unsee.


Date: Thurs, March 20, 2014, 02:54:12 ET
Posted by: Lutz, SF

2003
1995 WB (sorry)
2000
2006 DF
1996


Date: Thurs, March 20, 2014, 00:21:22 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,



1993 and 2006 (DF). And it's not even close. 1996 for excitement in long anticipation of 2VN.

2000

2003


the rest


Date: Wed, March 19, 2014, 21:29:04 ET
Posted by: Josey, Mass

If you really like the Unity Band, and love the old "group" sound, get the new Unity Group cd!! You'll hear tons of familiar themes plus!!


Date: Wed, March 19, 2014, 20:18:43 ET
Posted by: Dobson, San Francisco

I really love Pat's Unity Band, but I'm dying to see and hear a reunion of the Pat Metheny Group with Lyle Mays and Steve Rodby.


Date: Wed, March 19, 2014, 20:00:02 ET
Posted by: Josey, Mass

Ben - going to see Metheny's Unity Group on March 27th in Boston! Cannot wait!! Best new music I've heard in a long time!


Date: Wed, March 19, 2014, 19:07:39 ET
Posted by: Ben, Indy

I'm ready to play Springtime at midnight, and not relate to Snowbound for a looooong time...

Recent shows w/ SD connections I'd suggest:

The Pat Metheny Unity Band, featuring Chris Potter blowing some amazing horns, and The Yacht Rock Revue, featuring a fun mix of covers including Peg.

Here's to a happy, healthy, spring across The Dandom!


Date: Wed, March 19, 2014, 16:54:42 ET
Posted by: fezo, Basement office, squirrel view

Forget the exact year. Early this century, at Nissan Pavilion, with a bunch of the other regulars. Huge storm hit as we approached Gainesville, seemed to chase some of the crowd away. Had great seats close to the stage. DF had a good line about fear of electrocution when lighting flashed a little too close, and was in excellent vocal form Could really appreciate his vocal phrasing that night. And I fell in love with Carolyn for the 998th time.


Date: Wed, March 19, 2014, 15:37:08 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Maybe like this...

2000
1993
1996
1994
2003
2006 (DFB)
2008
2013
2009
2011
2006 (SD)
2007

Why? That's another post...

Jim


Date: Wed, March 19, 2014, 15:05:58 ET
Posted by: El Sup, Louisville, KY

1996 - Rikki, Do it again, everyone's gone to the movies, midnight cruiser, Jack of speed, cash only island, wetside story, Don't take me alive, any major dude and a couple of appearances by Ruby Baby. Great shows! Do it again was performed at the Roseland the year before but everything else had not been played in years if at all.

But rarities night was fun too!

El Sup


Date: Wed, March 19, 2014, 13:14:24 ET
Posted by: Josey, mass

I'd have to say first would be 93 because SD touring was such a huge deal then. Now they tour all the time. It's like they can't stop touring...which is great!!...but back then we all had that "holy shit!!" thing going.

Next I'd go with 2000 tour simply due to setlist strength.


Date: Wed, March 19, 2014, 13:02:46 ET
Posted by: KD, asdf

It's really hard to pick a winner, because all have their mitigating factors. The early tours had what we would consider rarities now (all the great solo stuff), and as much as I respect Zingg/Erskine/Chambers, the sound was pretty thin at times.

1996 was great as Donald got more into the Rhodes, but Wayne Krantz was a bit much. I've grown to like his take on songs like "Glamour Profession," but it tends to grate.

Don't like speaking ill of the dead, and he was a fantastic drummer, but Ricky Lawson was a little too studio-y for me in 2000. The tours since then (with the exception of 2011, one that Walter basically sat out) have featured better bands and playing, with a real peak during last year's tour, but shorter setlists with fewer surprises.

I'd probably go with the 2000 tour, as it featured bits and pieces of the best of all eras.


Date: Wed, March 19, 2014, 12:31:57 ET
Posted by: moray eel, should

Chris Potter was in the ' 93 band also which made it special.

m.e.


Date: Wed, March 19, 2014, 12:30:27 ET
Posted by: moray eel, hey

My favorite was 1993. Drew Zingg tore it up. They played 25 songs per show. 2 sets. Lots of rarities. They played 1/2 of Kamakiriad. Vibes. Donald's voice was still going strong.

m.e.


Date: Wed, March 19, 2014, 12:28:14 ET
Posted by: Bookkeeper's Son, Florida

As difficult as it is to pick, I am going to say 2003 by a nose . Going into that show I had 5 songs I really wanted to hear. With 2 sets, all five were performed. Hard to beat that! A close second....every other Steely Dan show I attended.


Date: Wed, March 19, 2014, 11:08:10 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Tough to be objective about this, but I think 2000 was the best. Two sets, new album, killer band, also my first show.

2011 was special with the Rarities show, but not any surprises elsewhere. 2013 was a by the books late period Steely Dan show but the band fired on all cylinders like never before.


Date: Wed, March 19, 2014, 09:16:15 ET
Posted by: Chet, B

2000. Two sets with material from a new album.

And I had plenty of bottled water to bring to the shows from my Y2K stock.


Date: Wed, March 19, 2014, 08:00:04 ET
Posted by: Nicholas Urfe, Phraxos

I liked 2003. DTMA. Steely Dan Show. 2 sets. Godwhacker. Lunch with Gina.


Date: Tues, March 18, 2014, 22:17:36 ET
Posted by: Steve,

Which Steely Dan tour since the 1990s was your favorite and why?????


Date: Mon, March 17, 2014, 17:46:07 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

"Toto Drums": Yes, you are correct. Keith joining Toto has been mentioned several times here and even more on our Twitter feed on the upper left hand corner of this page. It's all good.


Date: Mon, March 17, 2014, 16:46:56 ET
Posted by: toto drums,

Isn't Keith Carlock playing drums with Toto on this tour? I think in the interview posted below he said he's replacing Simon Philips.


Date: Mon, March 17, 2014, 13:06:31 ET
Posted by: search, k

Dukes PBS review

http://www.philly.com/philly/entertainment/20140313_Fagen__McDonald__Scaggs_reel_in_the_years_on_PBS.html


Date: Mon, March 17, 2014, 12:08:18 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Casual Fan: Thanks for the info--much appreciated: Also mentioned a couple of weeks ago: Toto/Mike McD at Ravinia on 8/29.

Nicholas: I guess what I really should say, is that *I* used to view Alan Parsons Project too seriously. Back in the day, I had an attitude similar to the young lady in that hilarious scene in the beginning of "Almost Famous" where she zealously shoves a Simon and Garfunkel album at her family and insists that "This explains what life is all about and why I must leave" or something in that vein. Whatever the case, you gotta hand it to APP that they cared about what they crafted.


Date: Mon, March 17, 2014, 11:17:57 ET
Posted by: casual fan, orlando

SIAP, I noted earlier some folks posting about being Toto fans. On their fan page they have a tweet back at end of January indicating they are going on N. American tour with Michael McDonald. I see only one August date so far for either, and that is 8/7 at the Greek in LA.

So would seem some late summer/fall tour dates are due at some point.


Date: Sun, March 16, 2014, 11:57:08 ET
Posted by: Nicholas Urfe, Phraxos

The exception that proves Hoops' "the Alan Parson's Project is extremely serious" assertion is Pyramid: I've got pyramids in my head, there's one underneath my bed, and my lady's getting cranky."

Hey, Bobbo, "Be the ball, Danny. The shortest distance between two points is a straight line...in the opposite direction."


Date: Sun, March 16, 2014, 08:42:59 ET
Posted by: Michael, @Greg M

Actually, I do recall reading about Donald having some sort of background in classical piano, but I'm not sure where or if that's even true.

However, it's of no small significance how most of the old jazz legends were also brought up on classical. Then again, there was no such thing as a jazz school back in those times.


Date: Sat, March 15, 2014, 23:11:12 ET
Posted by: steelydoc, near the Tower

the bios on imdb are sent in by individual contributors, and are not the most trustworthy things in the world....


Date: Sat, March 15, 2014, 22:23:24 ET
Posted by: Greg M, White Plains, NY

re: the mention of fagen's classical training from an early age:

Isn't this true of all or most good pianists/keyboardists?

I mean, usually one starts at an early age, yes, and takes lessons. The lessons and training are usually rooted in formal classicism, as opposed to jazz or soul.

I mean, as cool as it would be, i highly doubt Fagen entered college as a freshman and picked up "jazz" piano/rhodes right off the bat...


Date: Sat, March 15, 2014, 08:50:59 ET
Posted by: Zip, Skip

Looking at Fagen's imdb profile.

http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0004907/

"Donald Fagen (b. January 10, 1948, Passaic, N.J.) was trained in classical piano from an early age..."

If that's true, I never heard it before.


Date: Sat, March 15, 2014, 00:40:15 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,


Ammonia Avenue has some downer industrial surrealism gems in the title track, Prime Time, Don't Answer Me


Date: Fri, March 14, 2014, 18:59:34 ET
Posted by: Bobbo, ridden (hard) and put up (wet)...

Hi peeps,

Just popping in to show some respect and high appreciation for damned ol' Nicholas Urfe's last couple o' posts. You're a pretty cool breeze, pard. Lovin' where you're coming from.


Yer Pal,
Bobbo

P.S. Y'know, Hoops, the Alan Parsons boys have loomed large in my legend for years--absolutely LOVED Pyramid, Ammonia Avenue, and Turn of a Friendly Card. "Old and Wise" is a masterpiece, no?


Date: Thurs, March 13, 2014, 23:03:26 ET
Posted by: axpbbh, hrTGwSXmOa

wNoApa <a href="http://fdnaanbrefmv.com/">fdnaanbrefmv</a>, [url=http://kqnkoxrwnaef.com/]kqnkoxrwnaef[/url], [link=http://jlapgqwxkcyl.com/]jlapgqwxkcyl[/link], http://ygcptusipcmc.com/


Date: Thurs, March 13, 2014, 20:27:58 ET
Posted by: Michael,

@Minstrel, that would depend on when the demo was recorded, i.e. before or after the taxi accident. My guess is, it's probably him, unless contrary details surface. It sounds like his tone. Who else would've sat alongside Donald to record, maybe Chuck Rainey?

@Brutus, cool. That piece uses a lot of tricky harmonic motion and interplay between melodic lines (trombone, vibes and whistle, if memory serves me correctly).

Don't forget, 9:30 P.M. EST, the Dukes of September is featured on PBS.


Date: Thurs, March 13, 2014, 19:33:42 ET
Posted by: Minstrel Swinger,

Is Walter playing bass on this demo?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8QYqz4UE5Ac


Date: Thurs, March 13, 2014, 18:09:05 ET
Posted by: Brutus Charisma,

Hey Michael -


I really like "Back to the Drawing Board".


Date: Thurs, March 13, 2014, 16:34:34 ET
Posted by: Michael,

Just because I love Steely Dan doesn't mean that I think every single song they've done is great, that I have every detail down to a T, so sue me. I'd estimate about 90% of their catalog is stellar. Different strokes for different folks.

To digress a bit, Don and Walt have expressed disregard for some of their own work in interviews and whatnot. For instance, it's no secret that Donald doesn't think highly of Can't Buy A Thrill while Walter said of Sail The Waterway that it was stinko (for the record, I like that tune). They've left so many incredible songs on the cutting room floor, it defies logic.

Anyway, I came up with a working title: Seas Without A Shore

http://www.motifator.com/index.php?ACT=39&fid=130&aid=14283_502pQD0eIrOCs2lfrsHZ&board_id=1


Date: Thurs, March 13, 2014, 16:30:45 ET
Posted by: hoops,

Hadn't really thought of or listened to the Alan Parsons Project in a long time--years, save for "Sirius" when it's played at sporting events. By chance I came across something and it reminded me how much of a fan I was of APP around the time Gaucho and The Nightfly came out. While in retrospect they could be overly serious and lacked SD's humor and jazz chops, reading the obituary of 2009 NY Times obit for Eric Woolfson reminded me of more than a couple of parallels between APP and SD back then, at least in my mind: A meticulous studio-only duo with no other band members, exploring new recording techniques and were quite progressive, some would call it "art rock." As I was studying design at the time, I can see why I was so influenced by both. After thinking back, I overall don't connect with APP that much at this point in life simply because they are just too serious and drama-leaden. But amazingly talented.

Here's the NY Times Obit:

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/12/04/arts/music/04woolfson-1.html?_r=0


Date: Thurs, March 13, 2014, 12:56:02 ET
Posted by: Sal,

Agreed. Part of the buzz was that Michael was into Steely Dan. Apparently not so much. Now I'm through with buzz. (Does that last sentence need an explanation and/or/maybe caps?)


Date: Thurs, March 13, 2014, 12:51:28 ET
Posted by: Oh Michael,

Michael: Although it still ranks up there, your cred in my book is down a notch. Steely Dan fans surely know the following lyric.

"Oh Michael Oh Jesus you know I'm not to blame
You know my reputation for playing a good clean game
Oh Michael Oh Jesus I'll keep my promise when
You TURN THAT HEARTBEAT OVER AGAIN"


Date: Thurs, March 13, 2014, 12:02:57 ET
Posted by: Michael,

Don't know what happened to my other post.

Oh Michael, thanks. I don't know what allusion you're referencing.

Here's all my music. Note that most of it is composed in quasi-VG style.

http://www.motifator.com/index.php/forum/viewthread/456199

I finished another song but don't yet have a title. Will post once I figure out what to call it.


Date: Thurs, March 13, 2014, 11:51:24 ET
Posted by: Michael,

"Oh Jesus" is an allusion to Steely Dan?

Yes, I have posted well over a hundred songs. You can simply follow the link provided, bearing in mind that much of it is conceived in pseudo-VG style to varying degrees. All indexed in alphabetical order:

http://www.motifator.com/index.php/forum/viewthread/456199

I completed a new song last night and wanted to post it today but it will have to wait until I can figure out what to call it. That really bothers me to no end, not being able to come up with an appropriate title. The song is sort of like Burt Bacharach-meets-Michael Franks, or something to that effect. It features a tremendous variety of chord changes, tonal shifts and arranging surprises.


Date: Thurs, March 13, 2014, 11:07:55 ET
Posted by: Oh Michael,

Oh Jesus == Steely Dan allusion == your tune is fucking great! Got any more to share?


Date: Thurs, March 13, 2014, 09:51:03 ET
Posted by: Michael,

@Oh Michael, if you've got something to say, go ahead.


Date: Thurs, March 13, 2014, 00:56:01 ET
Posted by: Pono? Sounds interesting..., wawa

http://www.npr.org/blogs/allsongs/2014/03/12/289435279/hear-neil-young-explain-his-pono-music-player-at-sxsw

Neil Young wants to start a revolution against the MP3, against the CD, poorly made vinyl and poor audio quality in general. He wants people to hear the music the way it was made.


Date: Wed, March 12, 2014, 09:56:50 ET
Posted by: Oh Michael, .

Oh Jesus


Date: Wed, March 12, 2014, 07:02:50 ET
Posted by: Michael,

Uncle F, glad you like it. No, it doesn't have lyrics yet but have a general idea what the song is about. I'll come up with something.


Date: Tues, March 11, 2014, 13:50:11 ET
Posted by: Uncle_Fahnkwad , Maryland, usa.


Howdy Members, a new poster but long-lurker..

About the song "High Society".. Nice. Like 'West of Hollywood' part II.. like the 'gypsy-scale' part early in the melody.. Does it have lyrics?


Date: Mon, March 10, 2014, 21:37:36 ET
Posted by: BP, Chicagoland

Ordered the Dukes DVD and have been fortunate to go to 4 shows. It aired yesterday on our local PBS channel and of course, part of a pledge drive and let me just say that PBS butchered the hell out of it. I lasted through 3 pledge breaks (and yes I donate to PBS) and most if not all of the cover tunes were taken out in place of Donald, Boz & Michael's greatest hits. They edited the opening of James Brown's "People Get Up & Drive Your Funky Soul" and then went into a edited version of "Who's That Lady?" As much as I eagerly await the DVD I have to say I am bummed Cat Russell was not a part of the show and I am probably going to get slammed for this but it really sounded like Donald was singing through a pitch harmonizer on "Peg as well as Reelin'." When I saw them LIVE no special effects were ever used but being this was a LIVE shoot who knows what they do???

BP


Date: Mon, March 10, 2014, 21:13:00 ET
Posted by: ZZZ, Z

Thanks for the links to those SD videos -walter +Boz


Date: Mon, March 10, 2014, 18:36:50 ET
Posted by: kzkzkz, toldualready

Promos from the Dukes dvd:

Peg - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jNRINGFbXI4
Kid C - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=83IX8iKd_28


Date: Mon, March 10, 2014, 16:50:07 ET
Posted by: Inside MusiCast, Indianapolis

Earlier today, Inside MusiCast launched a new audio interview with Keith Carlock. Feel free to check it out at any of the following locations:

Our web site: http://www.insidemusicast.com

iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-musicast-episode-137/id327572822?i=275608226&mt=2

TuneIn: http://tunein.com/radio/Inside-MusiCast-p455503/

Player.fm: http://player.fm/series/inside-musicast/inside-musicast-episode-137-keith-carlock

Pod Gallery: http://podgallery.org/inside-musicast/

Enjoy!

Rick Such
Inside MusiCast


Date: Mon, March 10, 2014, 12:54:34 ET
Posted by: kzkzkz, nycnycnyc

From PBS email
Great Performances: The Dukes of September
Thursday, 3/13 at 9:30pm
Rock legends Donald Fagen (Steely Dan), Michael McDonald (The Doobie Brothers) and Boz Scaggs join forces to perform their greatest hits.
Why you should watch:
Just try and keep your feet from moving as you rock to "I Heard It Through the Grapevine," "Reelin' in the Years," "Lowdown" and more.


Date: Mon, March 10, 2014, 09:17:27 ET
Posted by: Abu, In a trailer in Burbank

Here's a couple recently-posted SD/DF/WB vids on the Steely Dan Covers Facebook page:

Gaslighting Abbie - Wayne Raglan
Third World Man - Tom Hemby

Both of these artists are best known as guitarists. Wayne Raglan is originally from Queens, New York. He not only plays classical, acoustic 6 and 12 string, and electric guitars, but also 4-5 and 6 string electric fretted and fretless basses, drums and keyboards. Wayne plays all instruments on his cover. Tom Hemby's Band has played live in recent years with Keith Carlock on drums. Additionally, with them is sax player Mark Douthit, who also does a nice cover of What a Shame About Me. I am not sure if they are still together with that line-up or not. They have a few videos of stuff on Youtube. The above two tunes, as well as Mark Douthit's cover can be found on:

https://www.facebook.com/SteelyDanCovers


Date: Mon, March 10, 2014, 06:06:34 ET
Posted by: ccozeqanar, WJhlGSycP

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Date: Sun, March 09, 2014, 20:51:17 ET
Posted by: moray eel, l

PBS cut straight from the Dukes to Lawrence Welk.

m.e.


Date: Sun, March 09, 2014, 17:42:18 ET
Posted by: moray eel, n

Yeah, the Dukes are coming on in a few minutes and I'll probably have it on as background noise. I've never seen one of their shows.

Will DF want me to die in a fire for this or does he save that level of contempt for the people who pay to see them perform in person?

m.e.


Date: Sun, March 09, 2014, 12:43:08 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Sunny SoBe

Saw the PBS "Dukes Of September" Friday night.

I'll give it a solid Gary Dell'Abate,"Noine".

Sadly Cat Russell is sorely missed.

Her "sub" can't hold a candle to the passion and energy
Cat brought to the shows.


Date: Fri, March 07, 2014, 17:55:41 ET
Posted by: PJ, Devon, England

Has anyone else spotted what's happened to Carolyn Leonhart's website?

It appears to have been been the victim of a Putin-style invasion. All a bit strange.

Whatever's happened, it is no longer about music, nor is it the voice of the excellent Ms Leonhart!


Date: Fri, March 07, 2014, 10:14:17 ET
Posted by: Myron, O

http://www.mycentraljersey.com/viewart/B3/20140307/NJNEWS18/303070036/On-rocks-Ice-yachts-sail-cold-Hudson-River

Two songs come to mind.


Date: Thurs, March 06, 2014, 17:00:23 ET
Posted by: Nicholas Urfe, Phraxos

Okay, last movie reference, one that Jim should tell some of us off with occasionally.

Son, we live in an internet that has walls, and those walls have to be guarded by men with passwords. Who's gonna do it? You? You, Mr. Troll? I have a greater responsibility than you could possibly fathom. You weep for the Doobie Brothers, and you curse Steely Dan. You have that luxury. You have the luxury of not knowing what I know. That Michael McDonald leaving the Doobie Brothers, while tragic, probably saved lives. And my existence, while grotesque and incomprehensible to you, saves lives. You don't want the truth because deep down in places you don't talk about at parties, you want me on that wall, you need me on that wall. We use words like greatness, perfection, mu major. We use these words as the backbone of a life spent defending something. You use them as a punchline. I have neither the time nor the inclination to explain myself to a troll who rises and sleeps under the blanket of the very web forum that I provide, and then questions the manner in which I provide it. I would rather you just said thank you, and went on your way, Otherwise, I suggest you pick up a website, and stand a post. Either way, I don't give a damn what you think you are entitled to.


Date: Thurs, March 06, 2014, 16:37:31 ET
Posted by: Michael,

Yeah, but Walter has a home studio. Lucky stiff. I mean yeah, you can make your own home studio set-up, but it's not the same as a fully fleshed-out studio. The maintenance costs alone must be sleek.


Date: Thurs, March 06, 2014, 12:37:39 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,


Michael: Yeah it's accidental-ly good.

That reminds me of the two chords from nowhere on Book of Liars.

On first spin of 11ToW Down at the Bottom and Junkie Girl are largely uninteresting besides the guitar solo on JG....and I get where Walter is going on Surf and/or Die in a Tomorrow Never Knows kinda way.

The lyrics are sly and personal, but we're 1:50 into Book of Liars and there's a temptation to throw the disc into File 13. Then like a Thunderbolt Beasley lays down at 1:51 and 1:52 two sweet and very unexpected chords on the Rhodes setting up Sheppard's solo...and the chord progression continues underneath. F***ing amazing. The mood is almost broken by Donald's chopsticks-like solo but w/e.


We buy back in! ....in time for classic tracks like Lucky Henry and Girlfriend...


Date: Thurs, March 06, 2014, 11:25:32 ET
Posted by: Michael,

Brutus, no, it's just a space for the harmony and bass to ride along the groove, yet another departure from standard conventional fanfare. Almost anyone else would've added a solo at that point (and I suppose you could still play something over that part). The song is done, albeit in demo MIDI form.

If I may spring to the format's defense, one great thing about it is the ability to give musicians an instant reference point to work with, embellish, alter, etc. Not to take anything away from working demos such as some of Steely Dan's outtakes, Don on Rhodes with Walter on bass. My favorite such outtake is I Can't Write Home About You. Can't believe they left that one on the cutting room floor. What a song.


Date: Thurs, March 06, 2014, 10:42:35 ET
Posted by: Brutus Charisma,

Michael -

Very nice work overall. However, not sure what happened at the Bridge from 2:06-2:27. Are you still in the process of completing it?


Date: Thurs, March 06, 2014, 07:41:13 ET
Posted by: Michael,

Doc Mu, that's because of the non-chord tones in the melodic line leading into the unexpected harmonic changes, then reverting back again to G# minor. There's the departure from the home key and then the journey back. The way this is handled is by-and-large what generates interest in music. Another key is having an appropriate arrangement which should aggrandize the song itself. When there's too much going on under the hood, too many fills and too much ornamentation or showiness, that's usually a clear signal that a lackluster song lies underneath and the arranger is just attempting to obfuscate it. You know, a great song can take care of itself. At least that's how I see it.


Date: Wed, March 05, 2014, 22:19:25 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,


Michael: Snappy. That's a nice sweet & sour spot from 0:26 - 0:37 sec


Date: Wed, March 05, 2014, 21:59:28 ET
Posted by: Nicholas Urfe, Phraxos

That's a paraphrase of a line from the movie "Billy Madison." I used it for a laugh, not an insult. Lighten up, Francis. (To save another post, that's a line from a Harold Ramis movie.)


Date: Tues, March 04, 2014, 23:52:33 ET
Posted by: Greg M, sfasd

Nicholas is not the only one who finds your post inane.


Date: Tues, March 04, 2014, 23:22:31 ET
Posted by: see here Urfe!,

I say it is not rational that you are the only person that finds what I said idiotic and not rational. Tell me specifically what was not rational, and I will be glad to change it. I was just telling it like it is. Otherwise, I will leave it as is.

Which is the sad, sad truth. The dirty lowdown.


Date: Tues, March 04, 2014, 21:01:47 ET
Posted by: Nicholas Urfe, Phraxos

Mr. A Few Things Here, what you've just written is one of the most insanely idiotic things I have ever read. At no point in your rambling, incoherent response were you even close to anything that could be considered a rational thought. Everyone on this blog is now dumber for having read it. I award you no points, and may God have mercy on your soul.


Date: Tues, March 04, 2014, 16:08:08 ET
Posted by: DocMu,


Bad contracts are like an ex-wife. They continue in perpetuity...maybe even longer! Estates of the famous and long past and forgotten sue at a regular rate.

Maybe this will force D&W to make and release a new album to pay for the back royalties ; ) ...like Marvin Gaye's Here, My Dear record.


Date: Tues, March 04, 2014, 13:53:06 ET
Posted by: a few things here,

Anyone in entertainment, sports or any other jobs that have short duration or depend upon being young need to realize the gravy train will stop. This was well known back in Palmer's time and anyone with any sense could have seen it. The only one's that you should feel sorry for are people such as Dennis the Menace whose greedy folks fucked him out of his money before he could get control of it as an adult.

In the case of Palmer, how has he gotten through the last 40 years since he hasn't done dick since being a fringe contributor to Steely Dan? He is old enough for Social Security by now. Palmer should be lucky to be getting $8000 since record sales have dried up for all of these old artists in the music business. Probably $8000 was all that he was entitled to if the old records or airplay are only bringing in $50000 per year, if that. You can't get blood from a turnip. Add in that Palmer's vocals sucked anyway he shouldn't qualify to get 8 cents. Palmer should be embarrassed to be trying to grab at straws. He should swallow his false pride be realistic and apply to be a crossing guard or Wal Mart greeter and make an honest living.

It would be shocking if Palmer got enough money out of Fagen to even pay the cost of the legal fees. If there really was this big money source from music royalties I don't think it is any act of love of performing for touring that forced Becker and Fagen and many of these other groups to go back to the hard work of touring as senior citizens. But Fagen went back to work. He did it and obviously suffered greatly since he was having to perform before crowds that he himself can't stand the sight of according to his book. He is now a richer man for it.


Date: Tues, March 04, 2014, 09:44:25 ET
Posted by: Jake, C

This picture cracks me up

http://www.tmz.com/2014/03/03/steely-dan-lawsuit-david-palmer-royalties/


Date: Tues, March 04, 2014, 06:42:55 ET
Posted by: Michael,

New song, all buttoned-up and ready to roll.

High Society

http://www.motifator.com/index.php?ACT=39&fid=130&aid=14252_OV15Ih43iElWe8OEQc0H&board_id=1


Date: Tues, March 04, 2014, 06:03:25 ET
Posted by: Abu, Sensing the new condition in the kitchen

According to previously discussed GQ article by Dylan Jones (which I enjoyed), DF mentions.. "There's a band called the Sauter-Finegan Orchestra that I used to like for the arrangements." I had never heard of them until that reference. Perhaps this was one of Donald's faves:

"Science Fiction", written by Eddie Sauter and Bill Finegen


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YhcxEAz-pHg


Abu


Date: Mon, March 03, 2014, 18:59:22 ET
Posted by: Michael,

@Bookkeeper's Son, thank you. I'll post something new soon.


Date: Mon, March 03, 2014, 15:19:16 ET
Posted by: Gene, W

Anyone get the sense he's referring to SD here?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MwXqXsWH1Vs&feature=youtu.be&t=2m11s


Date: Mon, March 03, 2014, 13:18:20 ET
Posted by: Brain Hemorrhager,

The most recent Hemorrhager was:

"Within the middle instrumental portion of the title track Aja there are at least four little riffs occurring at 2:33, 2:49, 3:38 and 3:53. These familiar riffs sound like they are played on a xylophone. Or maybe an "angular banjo"?

If you listen carefully to the first five notes in the sequence of that riff, it should remind you of first five notes sung in syncopation at the beginning of the lines of the verses of an earlier Old Testament tune. Name that tune."

EPILOGUE:

Despite being rated at a Level of Difficulty of about 8, this Hemorrhager was solved quickly. There was not the slightest brain bleed, no doubt.

The tune in question was indeed Sign In Stranger from the Royal Scam LP. The repeating riff in the title track Aja's instrumental does line up fairly well with the vocals at the beginning of the verses Sign in Stranger. First with the correct response was Shangr-La of Lhasa. For the uninformed, Lhasa is the administrative capital of the Chinese province of Tibet and has an elevation of 11,450 feet. Not surprising that an Asian would solve this Hemorrhager and solve it so quickly. Asians in fact, exceed all other groups on standardized tests.

When discussing the body of work of musical artists, it is interesting to note that in certain cases there exists an affinity for a regional or foreign culture that runs through their work. Cultural themes for American artists such as F. Sinatra (Italian) and Madonna (Spanish) are noted in more than a few of their songs.

Within the discography of SD, Solo DF and WB their music makes quite a few references to things Oriental. They sing of characters such as Lou Chang, Aja and places such Roppongi noodle shops. And Lhasa, of course. On tour, SD has done five shows in Tokyo, Japan as opposed to one or two, max, in all other cities with the exception of New York. In addition, note that WB does reside for much of the time in Hawaii, which is marinated in Asian culture.

Thematically, drugs, thugs, junkies, sex, nuclear war etc. are quite common in SD, DF and WB works. One would might also have to say that culturally, their works predominantly exhibit an Asian Persuasion.....


Date: Mon, March 03, 2014, 12:19:28 ET
Posted by: Bookkeeper's Son, Florida

Michael,

Thank you for sharing. Very Nice!


Date: Mon, March 03, 2014, 10:03:15 ET
Posted by: Michael,

Chris, I take no issue with copyright law per se, only with its endless expansion. Certainly if you create an artistic work, you should be entitled to profit from it. However, there should be limits to both its length and scope. Originally copyright in the US was for a 14-year period with an optional 14-year extension, thus 28 years total. That made sense: it afforded artists a specific time to exclusively generate revenue with an expiration date, thus incentivizing perpetual production (i.e. effort) and innovation. The idea was that the public could share and build upon the public domain works, such as the creation of derivatives and new interpretations without risk of legal dispute, after the copyright term expired.


Date: Mon, March 03, 2014, 09:25:30 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Michael, interesting point, not one that I'm used to hearing. Wouldn't copyright laws that allow musicians to be paid in perpetuity de-incentiveize touring, though? It's well known that CD re-issues kept Don and Walt afloat in the 80s, for example.


Date: Sun, March 02, 2014, 17:31:11 ET
Posted by: Michael,

@Chris, if they did sign a legal contract then I agree (that Palmer is owed).

The fact that copyright laws have been expanded to the point of absurdity has, in my view, contributed greatly to reliance upon touring, back catalog sales, licensing and such by established musicians, artists, programmers, writers, et al. This has the potential to de-incentivize subsequent effort once initial success has been achieved. There have been exceptions, however few and far-between.

Anyhow...

@Sam, I'm aware of that, but how long should one work generate revenue?


Date: Sun, March 02, 2014, 17:11:47 ET
Posted by: gyzieapxj, New York

r3atC7 <a href="http://jkguoodnbpmi.com/">jkguoodnbpmi</a>, [url=http://qqphisvhvgew.com/]qqphisvhvgew[/url], [link=http://dtmzjyjxzpvk.com/]dtmzjyjxzpvk[/link], http://durzadfancmc.com/


Date: Sun, March 02, 2014, 16:36:59 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar. It's Happy Hour!

I have to agree, Chris. This sounds fairly legit and not like it is that big of a deal (though there may be quite a bit of money involved). What I mean by not a "big deal" is he is very specific about what he thinks he is owed, and is clear he is only talking about the songs on which he performed and that he has been paid the proper royalties on the traditional distribution. As you note, this is probably something many bands from that era are dealing/have dealt with. This is lawyer stuff. It will be worked out.


Date: Sun, March 02, 2014, 16:12:28 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

I'd say there probably is a decent chance that Palmer is owed royalties. This has happened a lot with digital royalties in the past decade or so. Contracts from the 70s weren't written with digital downloads and plays in mind, and both sides interpret the decades-old contract in whichever way is most advantageous to them.

I don't think it's about greed. "Dirty Work" is still turning a profit -- if SD agreed to split royalties 6 ways, they should be splitting it 6 ways.

I do wonder if the others involved -- I assume Dias, Baxter, and Hodder? -- will join Palmer, or if they've already been taken care of ...


Date: Sun, March 02, 2014, 16:08:47 ET
Posted by: Sam, NA

+"like"


Date: Sun, March 02, 2014, 16:08:17 ET
Posted by: Sam, NA

Well Michael if Palmer doesn't collect them, it's not the money instead goes to charity.


Date: Sun, March 02, 2014, 14:37:56 ET
Posted by: Michael,

How much longer do artists expect to milk the decrepit copyright cow for $$$? Prima donnas, essentially getting handouts for decades-old work. What's next, carpenters demanding royalties on every piece of real estate they worked on?


Date: Sun, March 02, 2014, 12:28:52 ET
Posted by: Greg M, ssdf

ohhh hahaha, i totally missed that it was a dirty work parody. LOL


Date: Sun, March 02, 2014, 12:00:41 ET
Posted by: Ned, US

This is likely why SD wouldn't sign off on letting Dirty Work on the American Hustle soundtrack.

http://www.showbiz411.com/2014/03/01/american-hustle-former-lead-singer-doesnt-want-to-do-steely-dans-dirty-work-no-more


Date: Sun, March 02, 2014, 11:52:19 ET
Posted by: Fool, n

Not at all. Just can't cram that much info into a verse.


Date: Sun, March 02, 2014, 11:48:28 ET
Posted by: Greg M, ny

Are you discounting the possibility that the guy might actually be entitled to some royalties?


Date: Sun, March 02, 2014, 10:56:07 ET
Posted by: Fool, n

Times are hard
No dough in photography (http://davidpalmerphotography.blogspot.com/)
So you find a greedy lawyer
Try to milk some royalties










Date: Sun, March 02, 2014, 09:54:17 ET
Posted by: Young Wu, Buffalo

Just realized that I didn't provide a link for you fine folks...

http://ultimateclassicrock.com/steely-dan-lawsuit-royalties/


Date: Sun, March 02, 2014, 09:52:40 ET
Posted by: Greg M, White Plains, NY

Wow Wu. Good find. That sounds like an interesting case. Reminds me of when Liberty Devitto sued Billy Joel a few years ago. That settled out of course. Usually there is some merit to such a case. So a money grab? Who knows. Palmer may be broke, yes, but it's hard to make such a judgment without knowing the facts. What kind of contract did he have? Being a �founding member� of the band does indeed carry some weight. But how those old contracts interpreted with respect to modern day internet music sales, which is way different than what was contemplated in the 70�s. I�ll try to take a look for Palmer�s legal complaint, which should be publicly available.


Date: Sun, March 02, 2014, 07:16:56 ET
Posted by: Michael,

@The Dean, Doc Mu, I appreciate your compliments.


Date: Sun, March 02, 2014, 02:41:26 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,



Michael,

You have a great ear for harmony and rhythm. Keep 'em coming.


Date: Sat, March 01, 2014, 22:22:14 ET
Posted by: Young Wu, Buffalo

Surprised no one posted this...

Steely Dan Sued By Original Singer David Palmer Over Royalties

David Palmer, who sang lead for Steely Dan in the early days, is suing his old band. In a suit filed in Los Angeles on Friday (Feb. 28), Palmer claims that he is owed money as a result of royalties earned via satellite and streaming services.

According to the Hollywood Reporter, Palmer is contractually listed as a founding member of the group, and therefore entitled to one-sixth of all royalties earned from songs on which he performed. He believes that Steely Dan have not given him his rightful share on royalties from 2000 through mid-2012. He was recently given $8,000 for a nine-month period that ended March 31, 2013. The article states that the suit alledges �breach of contract, breach of the implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing, money had and received, and accounting.�

Palmer sang on five songs on Steely Dan�s 1972 debut, �Can�t Buy a Thrill, including the lead on �Brooklyn (Owes the Charmer Under Me)� and the hit �Dirty Work,� and background vocals on several songs on 1974′s �Countdown to Ecstasy.� Back then, he also sang lead in concert, because Donald Fagen was not yet comfortable singing lead.

Palmer was fired in April 1973 due to, as reported in Brian Sweet�s bio �Steely Dan: Reelin� in the Years,� concerns about both his ability to interpret the songs and his habit of performing under the influence of alcohol.

Seem like a money grab??


Date: Sat, March 01, 2014, 19:49:38 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

As always, nice stuff Michael, Thanks for sharing.

Nearly finished with Donald's book. Will share my thoughts in the near future, for what it's worth.


Date: Sat, March 01, 2014, 10:36:35 ET
Posted by: Michael, @Jazzassin

Thanks for your honest feedback.

I know that not everyone enjoys the format but unfortunately I don't have the liberty of getting together with a group of musicians to make a live recording. That certainly would be ideal, especially for the music I'm trying to create. I have to make do with the tools in front of me and try to make something happen. No matter how good a MIDI track is, it's understood that it cannot compare with full organic sound. For now, all I can do is humbly present my earnest efforts for your scrutiny.

Best regards.


Date: Sat, March 01, 2014, 09:34:34 ET
Posted by: Jazzassin, @Michael

Michael, thanks for the upload.
I think you are really onto something really fine.

A few thoughts:
Not the greatest fan of the midi format type of music myself as you probably have noticed, or should I say not the biggest fan of those soft synths and drum sounds. Midi as such can be a useful tool, of course. And I also, in a way, like it when people make gaming/ 8bit style versions of e.g. SD songs if they're good at it. I am too old-fashioned to really dig it unconditionally, but appreciate it anyhow, and I'm always amused and impressed by those who can do it good. I know it's not easy at all.

As for all your latest shared uploads (Chillin' At The Pad, Modern Girl and Number One Fan), I must say that despite the (to my ears) amusing but tacky sound, I have no problem admitting you are damn good with melodies and harmonies, and the dangential factor is really high! Whatever your own intentions might be, I think of what I hear as sketches or demos rather than fully developed and properly recorded songs. But the songs contained inside this (to my ears) tinny format are great. Now please gather some friends that can play real instruments and get into a studio and do with your songs what they deserve! They're much, much too interesting and well written to be molded in plastic only. Really.

Good work, man! Keep'em coming! \m/(^_^)\m/


Date: Sat, March 01, 2014, 08:05:52 ET
Posted by: Michael, Sweet treats and surprises

Not much going on lately, so here's my latest work. The intention should be evident just from the title and the vibe the music gives off. Wiggy.

Number One Fan

http://www.motifator.com/index.php?ACT=39&fid=130&aid=14230_yd1vE1xrci0P2qj1j8q5&board_id=1


Date: Sat, March 01, 2014, 01:32:45 ET
Posted by: Micky, C

That same riff is used in the intro of the AIA version of Sign in Stranger.


Date: Fri, February 28, 2014, 20:54:22 ET
Posted by: hsglrcsv, HkDFTAPCRPRBYVfkO

jxAlip <a href="http://awrsvdwimbmr.com/">awrsvdwimbmr</a>, [url=http://wgkwkjpglept.com/]wgkwkjpglept[/url], [link=http://bghxpptoapoq.com/]bghxpptoapoq[/link], http://paalrbisielk.com/


Date: Thurs, February 27, 2014, 12:20:29 ET
Posted by: Denise, Hinktown cubicle

Fag, Catherine Russell's Strictly Romancin' is rather fine as well.


Date: Thurs, February 27, 2014, 08:28:49 ET
Posted by: Shangri-la, Direct from Lhasa

Salutations, Sir Hemorrhager:

Sign In Stranger.


Date: Thurs, February 27, 2014, 06:03:18 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Good morning, TV Babies and non-TV Babies alike!

Chicagoland's Ravinia Festival announced their schedule this morning. Maybe it's too early for me to read "Steely Dan" in the 24 point print that's smack in front of my face, but I sure don't see any sign of Steely Dan, Donald or Walter on Ravina's schedule. Look for yourself-- http://www.ravinia.org The closest thing I see to The Dukes is Toto/Michael McDonald on August 29th. Maybe it's to be announced later, maybe SD will play another Chicagoland venue, not play Chicago, or not tour at all. My hunch (Thanks S,P, X & YZ!) is that if they tour it will be SD, they'll play some US towns that they missed last year along with some repeats and then hit abroad.

Or maybe not. At least I won't miss haggling with the series ticket holders at Ravinia, although I will miss how their ushers keep beer and potty runners from returning to their seats until a song is over.

Off to work! Have a great day!

Jim


Date: Thurs, February 27, 2014, 01:41:20 ET
Posted by: Brain Hemorrhager,

Tonite's Hemorrhager deals with Old Testament Dan.

Within the middle instrumental portion of the title track Aja there are at least four little riffs occurring at 2:33, 2:49, 3:38 and 3:53. These familiar riffs sound like they are played on a xylophone. Or maybe an "angular banjo"?

If you listen carefully to the first five notes in the sequence of that riff, it should remind you of first five notes sung in syncopation at the beginning of the lines of the verses of an earlier Old Testament tune. Name that tune.

Difficulty level is about 8 out of 10.


Date: Wed, February 26, 2014, 22:03:28 ET
Posted by: Nicholas Urfe, Phraxos

Give Sarah Jarosz a listen. Tasty.


Date: Tues, February 25, 2014, 17:25:32 ET
Posted by: Fag, Don

Catherine Russell's new one, "Bring It Back.

I like it. Thank you, a new discovery for me.


Date: Tues, February 25, 2014, 13:32:37 ET
Posted by: kwzksakk, New York

FGv5ok <a href="http://fbjyjebrmszk.com/">fbjyjebrmszk</a>, [url=http://gftvqtovgsea.com/]gftvqtovgsea[/url], [link=http://kzhpgtjsasuq.com/]kzhpgtjsasuq[/link], http://xrzjarxmfrmc.com/


Date: Tues, February 25, 2014, 11:16:01 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Fag: Sorry about the crypticness. Catherine Russell's new one, "Bring It Back."

More info below around Feb 11th on the day it came back. Typing on a smart phone so will type more when at a real keyboard if that isn't sufficient.

Best,

Jim


Date: Tues, February 25, 2014, 04:22:46 ET
Posted by: Fag, Don

"Cat's Bring It Back." Wuts dat?


Date: Mon, February 24, 2014, 18:29:29 ET
Posted by: hoops, USA

Been listening to Circus Money, Kamakiriad, Royal Scam a lot lately. Plus Cat's Bring It Back. Yeah.


Date: Sun, February 23, 2014, 19:00:08 ET
Posted by: Derk, D

A late review of EH.

http://observer.com/2014/02/pretzel-logic-steely-dan-frontmans-memoir-is-a-rambling-imaginative-book-of-cultural-criticism/


Date: Sat, February 22, 2014, 10:14:05 ET
Posted by: kzkzkz, Ciao

I don't know how many of you know Banco del Mutuo Soccorso, one of the finest Italian prog bands ever. Their lead singer Francesco di Giacomo died in a car accident a day ago. Horrible and unexpected news.
Here they performing, fittingly, "RIP" -
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vIGvLXHd2ZM


Date: Fri, February 21, 2014, 13:06:26 ET
Posted by: Jim Taylor, Hello Baton Rouge

James Joyce published Ulysses on his birthday.


Date: Fri, February 21, 2014, 10:19:39 ET
Posted by: Michael, @KD

"Lord, this board really does fall into a sad, expected groove sometimes. 'Promoted continually.' Holy cow."

When there's nothing new to discuss, there's something of a lull in discussion. Activity will probably pick up when the Dukes PBS special and DVD comes around.


Date: Thurs, February 20, 2014, 23:03:42 ET
Posted by: The Greater Dandom, Everywhere

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, WALTER!!!


Date: Thurs, February 20, 2014, 19:49:12 ET
Posted by: John Paul, George Ringo

Every summer we can rent a cottage
In the Isle of Wight, if it's not too dear
We shall scrimp and save
Grandchildren on your knee
Vera, Chuck, and Dave


Date: Thurs, February 20, 2014, 18:46:14 ET
Posted by: KD, asdf

Anonymous poster,

I've been posting here since the first week this board was up. Well-aware of Jim's comments.

This quote:

"up/promoted continually on a board dedicated to finer things.... "

Who is "promoting" hip hop on here? Don't listen to it. Don't buy it. After a nice perusal of someone's CD/LP rack, I'd probably come up with hundreds of missing albums I think they should get into before suggesting a hip hop one.

Don't misrepresent it, either, as the poster underneath me did. And just using the word "promoted," along with the four-period ellipses miss, reminds me of all those mugs that litter the comment section any time I write about Jason Collins, accusing me of "promoting" men falling in love with each other.

Lord, this board really does fall into a sad, expected groove sometimes. "Promoted continually." Holy cow.


Date: Thurs, February 20, 2014, 17:58:00 ET
Posted by: Jazzassin, Jumping on the bandwagon

Happy 64, Walter Carl!
Happy 40, Highly Logical Pretzel, Pretzel-ish Logic or whatever.

Unfathomable that Don & Walt were as young as they actually were when they made their early stuff. PL is still a masterpiece to me (one of many from them).

For Norwegian readers:

Gratulerer med fireogseksti�rsdagen, Walter!
Gratulerer med f�rti�rsdagen, kringlelogikk!

;o)


Date: Thurs, February 20, 2014, 16:03:18 ET
Posted by: Bookkeeper's Son, Florida

Ariel,
What on earth does your request have to do with my comments? Are you just one of those people who enjoys stirring the pot? If you feel defecated on by his writings maybe you are one of the "fans" he loathes in that book. Sorry if you take it personally. I don't.

Have not had a chance to read EH, therefore I refrain from comments until I do. I did recently read Reeling in The Years by Brian Sweet. Most SD fans probably read that some time ago. It was a great book with quite a bit of interesting information. Ariel, if you haven't read Reeling in The Years give it a try. It might help you get over EH.

Mark


Date: Thurs, February 20, 2014, 13:52:30 ET
Posted by: Hold the salt, Xtra mustard

In honor of PLs 40th, Bloomberg should order all NY street vendors to sell at 1974 prices.


Date: Thurs, February 20, 2014, 13:48:28 ET
Posted by: Ariel,

Since you are such a Bookkeeper, son, how about you extol the virtures of DF's hideous book where he spends half of it shitting on the fans?


Date: Thurs, February 20, 2014, 12:56:54 ET
Posted by: Young Wu, Buffalo

Wow, I never know Becker's birthday was the same day that Pretzel Logic was released.

Happy 40th, Pretzel Logic!
http://ultimateclassicrock.com/steely-dan-pretzel-logic/

And happy birthday Walter, you magnificent bastard!


Date: Thurs, February 20, 2014, 12:28:19 ET
Posted by: Bookkeeper's Son, Florida

Weighing in on the Rap/Hip Hop content discussion. I realize this may appear contrary. While I detest the single minded nature/genre of programming in commercial radio today, when I go to a web-site or board about a particular artist, in this case Steely Dan, I expect the discussion and exchange of information to be on THAT topic. Mentioning you found Steely Dan through Rap & Hip Hop is interesting and relevant here. Going on and on to extol the virtues of or decrying the repugnant nature of Rap is not relevant to most who read and/or contribute to this site. If you love Steely Dan and hate Rap, good for you, move on. If you love Steely Dan and love Rap, good for you as well, move on. Give us something about Steely Dan.....that is why most of us are here.

That being said.....Happy Birthday Walter!


Date: Thurs, February 20, 2014, 12:01:36 ET
Posted by: Denise, Hinktown

Walter, wishing you all the best on your birthday!


Date: Thurs, February 20, 2014, 11:00:34 ET
Posted by: steelydoc, near the Tower

happy birthday Walter!


Date: Thurs, February 20, 2014, 10:54:31 ET
Posted by: B Weems,

Probably all SD songs stemmed from WB since all of the song writing credits are shown first as Becker, then Fagen. Also SD songs are real snarky compared to solo Fagen who is more romantic and schmaltzy. Solo Becker songs are typically about things such as anal sex in Digging in Coal Mines and such.


Date: Thurs, February 20, 2014, 09:36:10 ET
Posted by: K Pelchat,

SD songs whose genesis stemmed maybe from by WB:

* Monkey in your Soul
* Everyone's gone to the Groovies
* Daddy Don't Live ...
* Haitian ...
* Everything You Did

Notice too that he sang lead on these (sans Everything) in concert.


Date: Thurs, February 20, 2014, 09:25:29 ET
Posted by: jnkanf, UDqCFdsAj

nJk96P <a href="http://uqlsjpkkknrj.com/">uqlsjpkkknrj</a>, [url=http://tymsnobblequ.com/]tymsnobblequ[/url], [link=http://cvfkgvetaxcd.com/]cvfkgvetaxcd[/link], http://wqriyxvwgghs.com/


Date: Thurs, February 20, 2014, 04:31:52 ET
Posted by: kuleebaba, north of Hollywood (a good bit)

Something about:

Actually, that solitary quote from "Before You Post", taken out of context, is kind of frightening. Luckily, it's tongue-in-cheek, and reading the rest of it makes it clear what's meant.

Another quote: "But chronic off-topic posting can dilute collective interest." Note the word chronic.

What's crazy is, a post references an awesomely-written article, where in the article a (rather good) rap group is off-handedly mentioned...

...And the next thing you know, the forum is waist-deep in chronic off-topic posting about how bad rap is.

But the "I discovered" lines were awesome. Keep em up, guys!


Date: Wed, February 19, 2014, 23:16:30 ET
Posted by: Sid, F

For one thing, SD wouldn't sell enough downloads to justify the cost of doing that. Even with technology being what it is today, you'd still have to pay someone to administer it all. Springsteen also mixes it up quite a bit. He opened with Highway to Hell recently. Nobody's going to want a whole tour of nearly identical SD concerts.


Date: Wed, February 19, 2014, 22:59:50 ET
Posted by: Ports, Minneapolis

I know that the fan following is quite bit different but I really wish Steely Dan would do what Bruce Springsteen is doing...now making his new concerts downloadable on his website. All within a few days and at a reasonable price.

http://www.fanfire.com/cgi-bin/WebObjects/Store.woa/wa/artist?categoryName=Live+Downloads&artistName=Bruce+Springsteen&sourceCode=BSPWEBWWUSD


Date: Wed, February 19, 2014, 21:09:10 ET
Posted by: Something about, a "focused" discussion

QUOTE: "The idea of the BlueBook is to have a Steely Dan Fan discussion board that stays more focussed on Steely Dan and doesn't stray as far away from Steely Dan as perhaps some other forums do. By staying more focussed, the hope is to foster more engaging and worthwhile discussion that doesn't waste readers' time. In short, maximize signal and minimize noise with a goal of no static at all.

That said, the BlueBook is not for everyone and those people are encouraged to explore the cornucopia of other SD Fan blathering outlets, blog-dispensers and yakatoriums." ENDQUOTE

Hey, KD - does this quote, taken straight from the "before you post" section right here on The Blue, with its blatantly exclusionary intent, frighten you as well?

Look, some folks just don't like "rap" or "hip hop", and they never will, and they don't like having those things brought up/promoted continually on a board dedicated to finer things....

Although I doubt anyone would say that the idea that you frighten that easily is a "frightening look into your world view" [sic].


Date: Wed, February 19, 2014, 18:46:44 ET
Posted by: KD, adsf

"a form of entertainment that depends almost entirely on juvenile self-aggrandizing stories, over-the-top profanity, pointless rage, repetitive laundry-list-like references to the entertainer's possessions & lifestyle, and other pretty banal non-musical components probably has no place in a Steely Dan-focused conversation."

This is akin to dismissing every album that came out in 1977 because you listened to a Montrose LP from that year.

I don't listen to a ton of hip-hop, but I hear about an hour and a half of it a week, and none of the trademarks you seem to think are ubiquitous aren't present in the slightest.

Everything has a "place" in a conversation. This is a frightening insight into your worldview.


Date: Tues, February 18, 2014, 21:29:08 ET
Posted by: Alan Williamson, Albany NY

Maybe the point a few people were trying to make with a bit of gentle sarcasm is that while discovering the world of jazz through exposure to a band like Steely Dan could easily be considered a reasonable and even expected extension of a process of personal musical growth, finding something like Steely Dan through such an unmusical virtual polar opposite as rap/hip hop might be akin to finding a gold nugget while routinely processing a five thousand gallon tank of raw sewage. In this particular metaphor, the rare (and rarified) Steely Dan is favorably equated with the prized element, and the current omnipresent plague of rap/hip hop is appropriately compared to a seemingly bottomless vat of feculence. Works, no?

Not to put too fine a point on the increasingly tiresome "anti-rap/hip hop" thing - after all the world of entertainment is a big one, and of course there's enough room for all to enjoy whatever we want to - but just like professional wrestling or UFC have no place in a sports discussion, a form of entertainment that depends almost entirely on juvenile self-aggrandizing stories, over-the-top profanity, pointless rage, repetitive laundry-list-like references to the entertainer's possessions & lifestyle, and other pretty banal non-musical components probably has no place in a Steely Dan-focused conversation.

Admittedly, a huge amount of rock music is just as clumsy & stupid in concept & execution as any rap/hip hop, and for many of the same reasons. That's why some people reach a stage where they just can't listen to most rock music anymore, even if it was rock music that led them to Steely Dan and beyond. Once you realize that most "classic" rock was written and performed by unknowledgeable, unsophisticated young people for a younger and even less discerning audience, it becomes clearer why so much of it hasn't aged well. Rap and hip hop will likely ultimately suffer the same fate, and for many of the same reasons.

So, maybe a Steely Dan forum should be an oasis of sorts - one free from the introduction of "music" - in this case rap/hip hop - that for the most part isn't even made with actual musical instruments or played by actual musicians.

How many on here would think it was OK to post all about the latest NY Times junk fiction or self help bestseller on a forum dedicated to 19th century English literature? How many would repeatedly promote their enthusiasm for mid-70s punk while in a group of 1940s era Big Band enthusiasts?

Obviously, the answer is "some".


Date: Tues, February 18, 2014, 17:06:26 ET
Posted by: KD, asdf

They're the same sort of people that don't sign their name to posts.

I suppose, after pretending to read that article, that they went and threw out all the jazz albums from artists they discovered because of Steely Dan.

According to them, nobody is allowed to listen to the Boswell Sisters because they were exposed to them by that pot-smoking hippie from a rock band in a tiny book he wrote.

Sad, sad people. Full of really bad jokes, too.


Date: Tues, February 18, 2014, 13:04:59 ET
Posted by: Jazzassin, Funn

I'm totally with Chris and The Dean on this. Also, none of us can expect to live forever, so whoever they are and wherever they come from; if they help carry the torch into the future, we should be happy about it.


Date: Tues, February 18, 2014, 12:18:41 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

Chris, of course you are right. A teacher learns from his/her students, an expert from a novice, etc. That is unless you are completely closed-minded and/or too arrogant to pay attention. I found that article quite interesting and it was nice to read about someone coming to some of the same conclusions we old Dan fans have through a totally different method of exposure to the music.


Date: Tues, February 18, 2014, 09:39:00 ET
Posted by: chris, nh

putting aside the fact that some of ya'll have an irrational hatred for hip hop, and putting aside the fact that the guy quoted is talking about track from one of the most influential and respected hip hop artists of all time, and putting aside the fact the guy quoted is Mark Ronson, a talented musician and producer in his own right (he produced Amy Winehouse among others)...

...what does it matter if someone discovers Steely Dan through hip hop?

I discovered Steely Dan through my dad, like many fans my age. Is that better? Why?

The boomers on this board discovered Steely Dan through ... the radio? A friend? A grocery store?

All roads lead to Steely Dan, that much is sure. (All of my friends who hated them in high school have come to me in the past few years, as we enter our late-20s, and confessed that they finally "get" it now.)


Date: Mon, February 17, 2014, 15:17:27 ET
Posted by: Jackie O,

I discovered proper etiquette by watching "Vanderpump Rules".


Date: Sat, February 15, 2014, 23:31:57 ET
Posted by: Cary US Bonds,



You remind me of a man.
What man?
The man with the power.
What power?
The power of voodoo.
Voodoo?
You do.
Do what?
Remind me of a man.
What man?
The man with the power...


Date: Sat, February 15, 2014, 22:02:27 ET
Posted by: Danica, Daytona

I discovered Nigerian witchdoctor email scams from reading the BlueBook .


Date: Sat, February 15, 2014, 18:53:19 ET
Posted by: moray eel, o

My favorite SD mash-up:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nh8o1w-4u44

m.e.


Date: Fri, February 14, 2014, 21:48:44 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,


I discovered Grecian sculptures through Play-doh.

I discovered Macroeconomic Theory through Sarah Palin. You bet'cha.

I discovered the Jazz Trumpet though a kazoo in a Cracker Jack box.

I discovered Architecture through Pick up Stix.

I discovered Diamond Cutting though chain saw juggling.

I discovered Victorian Literature through sexting

I discovered Operatic Singing through gargling Listerine

I discovered Rap Music through The Music Man. No, really.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JZ9U4Cbb4wg


Date: Fri, February 14, 2014, 18:06:18 ET
Posted by: KD, asdf

Also, the author's picture is lower in the column -- he is a bald man in his 50s at least -- and the opening line is obviously a quote, so it might be time for some new lenses when and if you get around to reading it, which I doubt you have.


Date: Fri, February 14, 2014, 18:02:57 ET
Posted by: KD, asdf

I thought it contained evocative and excellent writing, but then again I'm not much of an anonymous grump.


Date: Fri, February 14, 2014, 17:56:17 ET
Posted by: Grumpy, ll

KD,

I did read it and it was basically an SD primer for someone who...discovered them listening to rap music.


Date: Fri, February 14, 2014, 16:56:13 ET
Posted by: Klaus, and the Rooster

I discovered the world of jazz music through watching Mister Rogers Neighborhood.


Date: Fri, February 14, 2014, 16:00:43 ET
Posted by: KD, asdf

grumpy,

I thought it was the young punks that complain these days about something not being worth reading, but I guess old fogeys can be artless humps too.

I'm not the biggest rap fan in the world, but geez. Can't even be bothered to read an expertly-written feature about your favorite band?


Date: Fri, February 14, 2014, 12:33:18 ET
Posted by: More Discoveries, Channelled

I discovered the world of high finance through collecting Richie Rich comic books.

I also discovered all about interpersonal relationships through repeated exposure to internet pornography.

I discovered the world of fine art through "Dogs Playing Poker" painted on black velvet.

I even discovered the concept of "learning stuff" by watching "The Learning Channel" twelve hours per day.

I just love discovering new things, period!


Date: Fri, February 14, 2014, 09:49:03 ET
Posted by: err., no

Chris,

You're right, but there's a missing quotation mark at the beginning. You can't blame a someone for reading what they read in the first few words and dismissing it because of missing punctuation.







Date: Fri, February 14, 2014, 09:40:43 ET
Posted by: Skippy, ground

I got interested in flying after seeing Airplane!, but discovered it was an entirely different thing altogether.


Date: Fri, February 14, 2014, 08:54:16 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

I don't have time to read the full article right now, but that's a quote, not something the author is saying. Reading comprehension, folks!




Date: Fri, February 14, 2014, 07:57:11 ET
Posted by: I too discovered Steely Dan, through rap music

I also discovered haute cuisine through eating at McDonalds seven days a week.

I also discovered Shakespeare through hearing his name on an episode of "Gilligan's Island".

I also discovered the concept of personal hygiene through a random visit to the WalMart body-soap aisle.

I discovered the world of fine wine through my insatiable appetite for Night Train.

I even discovered classical music and opera through Chuck Jones's favorite rabbit.

Anyone else "discover" anything through interesting means?


Date: Thurs, February 13, 2014, 21:10:14 ET
Posted by: grumpy, o

When an article starts "Like most bands from before my time, I discovered Steely Dan through rap music..."

The odds are the author doesn't have a whole heap to tell me that I don't already know.


Date: Thurs, February 13, 2014, 17:57:24 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Thanks for the find, KD. My favorite part is when he says what I always say: Whenever I listen to Steely Dan, I always discover something new even though I've listened many times before.

So aside from like the validation, I will read for other new insights.

Jim


Date: Thurs, February 13, 2014, 16:58:31 ET
Posted by: KD, asdf

Just came across this great read, which hopefully will be enough to hold us over until we hear news of the Next One:

http://www.gq-magazine.co.uk/comment/articles/2014-02/12-/donald-fagen-steely-dan-aja/viewall


Date: Thurs, February 13, 2014, 12:29:20 ET
Posted by: Paul, @work

Cynthia Calhoun (SD, '00 & '03) performing "At Last" with the Sunnie Paxson Band...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lcx5_BpgC54

Also, feel free to stop by her FB page and "like", https://www.facebook.com/pages/Cynthia-Calhoun/17481089847

Thank you,


Date: Wed, February 12, 2014, 12:31:41 ET
Posted by: KD, asdf

Catherine Russell is also playing on Jimmy Vivino's new record, and was on Conan a few weeks ago.


Date: Wed, February 12, 2014, 10:54:56 ET
Posted by: Michael,

They were streaming the album recording on Soul Train. It's not a real performance.


Date: Wed, February 12, 2014, 05:06:27 ET
Posted by: Philippe, ici

Greg Philinganes singing Lazy Nina on Soul Train:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SGMgVLqzQaE


Date: Tues, February 11, 2014, 19:49:47 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago, thx Lewis

Ravinia will announce its complete summer schedule on Thursday, February 27. Sometimes that's when and where we've learned more details about tours and tour dates.


Date: Tues, February 11, 2014, 17:08:43 ET
Posted by: Brain Strainer,

Long forgotten joint from back in the day when I once had moves that would hospitalise me if I would attempt them today.

The original mashup was from an Italian band Club House, who deserve the credit for making the initial Strainer connection. But Slingshot had a #1 hit with this remake. Interesting info in the comments. Vocals are not far from the mark. To some it might be an abomination, but I still think it kicks.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EsRlh4fn39g

It seems that even the King of Pop needed an assist...




Date: Tues, February 11, 2014, 16:19:23 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Resuming the Dandom Digest in the next few days. The first issue will highlight Dangential Output since last August when the Dandom Digest took a break.

Here's what I have as Dangential Output:

-- Catherine Russell -- Bring It Back
-- Jim Beard -- Show of Hands
-- LIVE: The Jon Herington Band
-- Dukes of September DVD
-- Eminent Hipsters
-- Roger Nichols Recording Method Book/DIsc (Actually out since last spring but didn't know it had finally come out until last Fall.)

Any others that I'm missing?

Thanks for your assistance.

Jim


Date: Tues, February 11, 2014, 15:50:09 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Today's the great day when Catherine Russell's latest, "Bring It Back," hits the streets. It's been streamed the past week or two...hoping my copy is waiting for me when I get home.

http://www.amazon.com/Bring-Back-Catherine-Russell/dp/B00GNH6LRU/ref=sr_1_1?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1392151657&sr=1-1&keywords=bring+it+back

http://www.catherinerussell.net


Go buy it...now!

Jim


Date: Tues, February 11, 2014, 12:32:04 ET
Posted by: link, U

Morph The Cat era interview I don't recall reading before.

http://professorscosco.wordpress.com/2012/06/01/donald-fagen-interview-keyboard-magazine-506/


Date: Tues, February 11, 2014, 10:23:29 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Thinking it through (and checking Mike, Boz, and Herrington's tour dates), it seems a Dukes tour is most likely ... what with the DVD coming out and all ... still, I'd prefer a Dan tour. To paraphrase someone Hoops quoted in a dandom digest - a Dukes show is a "might" go, Dan show is "probably" go, Fagen show is "definitely" go, becker is "I'll sell my left nut to go" ...


Date: Tues, February 11, 2014, 10:17:20 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Does Lewis know about Dukes tours as well as Dan tours? Wondering what he's referring to? Anyone know?


Date: Tues, February 11, 2014, 05:42:49 ET
Posted by: Bren Pointer, United Kingdom

Would that include the UK/Europe Lewis?


Date: Tues, February 11, 2014, 00:13:49 ET
Posted by: Marty, C

Thanks Lewis. Today I was thinking that if there was going to be anything this year that the usual clues would start to surface around now.


Date: Mon, February 10, 2014, 21:06:58 ET
Posted by: Lewis, Manamana.

July-Sept.


Date: Mon, February 10, 2014, 18:02:01 ET
Posted by: Fred , She'd her apron wrapped about her and he took her for a swan?

Naked Lunch author William S. Burroughs shot and killed his wife, Joan Vollmer, in 1951. He was not charged with murder as the event stemmed from a drunken evening where the couple was playing a game of "William Tell."


Date: Sat, February 08, 2014, 15:50:01 ET
Posted by: hoops, from my smartphone (!)

Sorry about the sudden onslaught of spam! I have tourniquet on things but there might be a delay with your post from appearing throughout the rest of today. Thank you for your patience.

Not even remotely official in this opinion, but I'm sure conflicts won't be an issue/ they will be resolved.

Thanks again. Special thanks to Jazzassassin.

Jim


Date: Sat, February 08, 2014, 08:13:07 ET
Posted by: Scout, N

Now that Carlock is an official member of Toto, I wonder how a conflicting SD tour would be handled.

For musicians, Steely Dan has always been a stepping stone to greatness with Toto. SD is their triple A farm affiliate. Fagen's still hoping to get called up before it's all said and done. But he's a career minor leaguer imo.



Date: Sat, February 08, 2014, 07:51:49 ET
Posted by: Michael,

Nice performance. One of the YT commenters said something about the Autotune on Donald's voice going awry. Are they actually using Autotune or is he just hearing wrong?


Date: Fri, February 07, 2014, 20:43:34 ET
Posted by: Hutch,

Hoops - Thanks so much for that. Watched it three times in a row. I don't think I've ever heard the song played that well. Great sound and great video. Jon is channeling LC in the guitar solo and he looks pretty serious about it! Can't wait for the release.

Now if we can just get that live Steely Dan DVD.


Date: Fri, February 07, 2014, 10:54:19 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Huffington Post blurb on Dukes with newsbite from Boz Scaggs and a video clip:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/mike-ragogna/chats-with-pat-metheny-jo_b_4727688.html


Date: Thurs, February 06, 2014, 19:38:38 ET
Posted by: A. Sturgis,

If that's WB playing bass on the title cut "Gaucho" he sounds great - - great note choices and technique. Hard to believe he was so screwed up at that time.


Date: Wed, February 05, 2014, 22:34:32 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

some info about dukes airing here:

http://www.thirteen.org/13pressroom/press-release/great-performances-donald-fagen-michael-mcdonald-boz-scaggs-the-dukes-of-september/


Date: Wed, February 05, 2014, 16:44:26 ET
Posted by: sl, X

Dukes DVD tracking list according to Amazon.

People Get Up and Drive Your Funky Soul
Whos That Lady?
Sweet Soul Music
I Keep Forgettin
Kid Charlegmagne
The Same Thing
Miss Sun
You Can Never Tell
What A Fool Believes
Hey Nineteen
Love T.K.O.
Peg
Lowdown
Takin It To The Streets
Reelin In The Years
Lido Shuffle
Pretzel Logic
Them Changes


Date: Wed, February 05, 2014, 12:20:56 ET
Posted by: Steve M, Paisley Park

New Prince single sounds like it should be interesting (but sadly isn't)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-9OIFeNYBYk#t=70

Maybe a pint-sized Dan Fan?


Date: Wed, February 05, 2014, 12:08:50 ET
Posted by: KD, asdf

Tripsar, GE,

it's not really live, just the widely-available Plush songs with a studio version of TvN thrown in.


Date: Wed, February 05, 2014, 11:36:00 ET
Posted by: Josey, Mass

Ooops! Obviously meant to say that I can't recommend it ENOUGH!


Date: Wed, February 05, 2014, 11:34:52 ET
Posted by: Josey, Mass

For any Metheniacs here on the Blue, I cannot recommend the new Pat Metheny Unity Group cd called KIN. Amazing!!


Date: Wed, February 05, 2014, 06:07:24 ET
Posted by: Abu, Glad I am in SW USA

Here is an update on the “Steely Dan Covers” Facebook page:

Recent postings include:

Black Cow by Nick Colionne
Kid Charlemagne by Rachel Z (Nicolazzo)
Caves of Altamira by Sean Wayland (Stolen Van)
Aja by Christian McBride
Home at Last by Kim Pensyl
Rapunzel by the Hoops McCann Band
Walk Between the Raindrops by John Pizzarelli
Good Stuff by Bradley Smith
On the Dunes by Tina May & Nikki Iles

Come and check out the Facebook page for these covers, and many more. Feel free to post your own favorite ones, too. If you like the page, then "like" it there on FB.

https://www.facebook.com/SteelyDanCovers

Abu


Date: Tues, February 04, 2014, 18:42:54 ET
Posted by: GE,

@tripstar

Didnt see anyone else had responded but that is indeed straight from the Plush Live Concert in the Sony Studios. Negative Girl (thanks again) had it dubbed off the VHS (maybe DVD) for me in 2000 and it has been on CD and and my computer since then. The entire concert in fact. One of my favorite "boots" as it were. Great audio throughout. Pretzel Logic closes it out and maybe my all time favorite version.


Date: Tues, February 04, 2014, 09:33:54 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar. It's Happy Hour!

CJB, great Babylon Sisters link. But are you sure that is a "church" choir? Is it possible they didn't understand the lyrics? More likely they are simply a choir with no church affiliation.


Date: Mon, February 03, 2014, 23:18:21 ET
Posted by: CJB, YVR

Okay, here's an odd one.

"Babylon Sisters" covered by Dutch church choir. No, really:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7T8luyb8YrE


Date: Mon, February 03, 2014, 16:23:56 ET
Posted by: Steve M, Scotland

Re: Now who's going to play Denny Dias in the SteelyDan movie?

Goldie Hawn, surely?


Date: Mon, February 03, 2014, 15:33:25 ET
Posted by: Nicholas Urfe, Phraxos

This may have already been posted, but we can dream, can't we?

Play All Night Pre-Order
In March of 1992, The Allman Brothers Band played a 10 night run at The Beacon Theatre in New York City. Play All Night: Live at The Beacon Theatre 1992 is a two disc set highlighting this historic run of shows.

Also available on February 18 is Live At Great Woods, a feature-length concert DVD filmed at Massachusetts' Great Woods Center for the Performing Arts in September of 1991. The reissue showcases the original long form video version of the concert, previously only available on DVD with band interviews edited into the main feature.


Date: Sun, February 02, 2014, 21:50:10 ET
Posted by: Sad, f

Dangential moment for PSH

http://youtu.be/qX1SSiFWF-s?t=42s


Date: Sun, February 02, 2014, 17:15:17 ET
Posted by: RIP, psh

Now who's going to play Denny Dias in the SteelyDan movie?


Date: Sun, February 02, 2014, 07:46:08 ET
Posted by: Michael, Annoying trolls are annoying

That ugliness aside, was listening to The Allman Brothers' Stormy Monday when I heard 'em sing, "The eagle flies on Friday."

P.S.

Walter Becker - Hat Too Flat ...in 8-bit.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=USf6-BwytxI


Date: Sat, February 01, 2014, 22:37:44 ET
Posted by: Hutch,

Just got back from the Snarky Puppy show at the Alice Jepson Theater on the University of Richmond campus. A beautiful little 550 seat theater.
Nine pieces with bassist and leader Michael League in the center of the stage surrounded by a truly amazing group of musicians. Quite a unique concert experience. Don't pass up a chance to see these people.
The horn section was astonishing!


Date: Sat, February 01, 2014, 20:19:59 ET
Posted by: Top Chef,

I'll have that liver version with bacon.


Date: Sat, February 01, 2014, 17:10:31 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar. It's Happy Hour!

Drewslo, nice tip. Here's a liver version (quite nice, actually):

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IUFfKufAFLI


Date: Sat, February 01, 2014, 15:18:20 ET
Posted by: Drewslo, San Luis Obispo

Not sure if it's been mentioned but CPR did a cool version of "Home At Last" that I'm sure can be found in the usual places.


Date: Sat, February 01, 2014, 05:58:00 ET
Posted by: Jazzassin, Croztown

Dean, you might as well have. Hair is overrated. Trust me, I'm an expert on no hair.
And CSNY featuring The Welsh Bull was fantastic! :o)


Date: Fri, January 31, 2014, 22:44:00 ET
Posted by: Lutz, SF

Finally got my Monkey House cd and am floored.
Great cd, Mr. Breithaupt!
Great writing.
No expanses spared - it sounds rich and well thought through.
It will be in the rotation for quite some time for sure.
Makes one wonder what those funny Grammies are all about nowadays...


Date: Fri, January 31, 2014, 22:00:54 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

After listening to Coz a ran into a few oddities, none more interesting than this:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Kg0v0Er8Ak


Date: Fri, January 31, 2014, 20:53:13 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

Jazz, thanks for the headsup on the new Crosby album. After listing it to just a bit of it I almost cut my hair. But I didn't and I wonder why.


Date: Fri, January 31, 2014, 16:06:27 ET
Posted by: Jazzassin, Clarification land

"First album from him in 20 years" = First studio album w/ new stuff. Maybe it's 21, if we're picky.


Date: Fri, January 31, 2014, 12:07:35 ET
Posted by: Jazzassin, snowbound. I mean, really, really snowbound.

David Crosby's "Croz", first album from him in 20 years, out on Blue Castle Records now. A true treasure chest of songs, great arr. and playing, Knopfler is on it, too, amazing production where they've chosen to keep many minor errors, or rather noises probably, still delivering a very solid, yet transparent wall of sound. Too many layers for me to become familiar with after only two listens, but as a consequence it really insists on being listened a lot to. And maybe Crosby never sang better, a dangerous thing to say, of course, but listen and make up your own minds, folks.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=86yWFai6tDA


Date: Thurs, January 30, 2014, 18:17:03 ET
Posted by: on the tube,

Mailer was dead on in his assertions. He started to drift off course towards the end though when Cohen had him on the ropes.

A take away from this interview is that the seeds of today's superficial perfunctory discourse/commentary and political correctness were sown farther back in history than I had imagined.

And these guys defined and personified cool. When cool used to be cool.


Date: Thurs, January 30, 2014, 13:48:57 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

SS, thanks for the great link.

An excellent program---the type you just don't see anymore.

With that said, can you even believe the incredible amount of bullshit that is being passed off as insight? Wow. Still a nugget or two of something interesting sneaks out once in a while. I found it interesting.

Serious chanismoking for sure.


Date: Wed, January 29, 2014, 23:01:50 ET
Posted by: SS, HK

Here is a discussion from 1960 on the CBC, Canada's national broadcaster, between programme host Nathan Cohen and Norman Mailer about what a hipster is.

Some serious chainsmoking, and a lot of ideas.

http://www.cbc.ca/archives/discover/programs/f/fighting-words/fighting-words-norman-mailer-explains-the-hipster.html


Date: Wed, January 29, 2014, 20:49:40 ET
Posted by: RP, NC

Hey Nineteen. 65-66-67


Date: Wed, January 29, 2014, 16:05:48 ET
Posted by: tact, poise and reason, Uncle Bobs house

Bob is not your uncle anymore


Date: Wed, January 29, 2014, 15:52:56 ET
Posted by: IQ, Test

Name the next song in this sequence

The Boston Rag
Springtime
....


Date: Tues, January 28, 2014, 23:40:03 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

The Rolling Stone article about Frankie Primo (with a Fagen mention), for those too lazy to look it up:

http://www.rollingstone.com/culture/news/pope-francis-the-times-they-are-a-changin-20140128


Date: Tues, January 28, 2014, 16:35:12 ET
Posted by: jacquieanne, boston

Funny mention of Donald's book in the Rolling Stone article on Pope Francis. Yes, you read that right!


Date: Tues, January 28, 2014, 02:39:55 ET
Posted by: Nik, C

She had previously tweeted this

https://twitter.com/BetteMidler/status/426158789058764800

.@irvingazoff to @DonaldFagen "You need to do Steely Dan if you don't want to play dumps...unless you whore yourself out, you play dumps."


Date: Mon, January 27, 2014, 19:53:33 ET
Posted by: DYLYNFAN, HARRISBURG PA

While reading my USA Today, in the stars sound off on twitter section:
@BetteMidler "Finished EminentHipsters by Steely Dan's Donald Fagen
and loved it Short direct and funny, until you get to the tour. Then it
hurts."


Date: Mon, January 27, 2014, 18:46:30 ET
Posted by: KD, asdf

And Michael, I do submit that a goodly chunk of my defense of Donald's diary stems from the fact that, frankly, I agree with what he wrote about the Dukes audience. And the possible carry over to actual Steely Dan shows.

I love everyone here and am happy that I've been able to come here and talk up all things Steely for the last (nearly) 13 years, but as is the case when we come on here to kvetch about setlists, we have to understand that we're a vocal minority. Sometimes going to a Dan show (and especially a Dukes show) can be a chore when you have to deal with the audience. I don't think it has much to do with my age (I'm 33, not exactly a spring chicken, but born right around the time the band broke up and not in the typical Dan fan bracket) as it does the behavior.

And that goes for both sides of the fence, not just the amateur night drunk aunts in the audience. I want to pay attention to the musicianship and pay attention to all the notes and the notes between the notes and even the no-notes, but I'll never understand the dudes that go to these shows and just stare straight ahead, motionless, with an annoyed look for two hours. It's a party, man. Get up.


Date: Mon, January 27, 2014, 16:41:26 ET
Posted by: Ditto, Flagston

Donald says he's "just being honest."

So are we.


Date: Mon, January 27, 2014, 16:37:58 ET
Posted by: Ditto, Flagston

I always suspected that the staff at my favorite restaurant disliked their jobs.

Then I found out that the staff mocked all the customers behind their backs.

I won't go back.


Date: Mon, January 27, 2014, 09:35:06 ET
Posted by: U, T

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n73GFvAyIjs

DF mentions having watched this in EH.


Date: Sun, January 26, 2014, 21:00:37 ET
Posted by: Dom, B

More DF writing.

http://www.ezratitus.com/donald-fagen-on-ezra-titus/


Date: Sun, January 26, 2014, 19:13:09 ET
Posted by: Michael,

For the record, don't expect me to stop enjoying his music anytime soon. I may not be a fan of Fagen's literary efforts but then whatever he thinks doesn't have bearing upon my life. His musical genius is not really up for debate.


Date: Sun, January 26, 2014, 14:43:12 ET
Posted by: Marv, l

I was put off from attending many Dukes shows because of the grumpy, overweight 60-something fans with bad prostates. That fact that Fagen concurs is all the confirmation I need never to go to another SD or Dukes show. He looks like he should be playing Bingo himself. The annoying thing is that you always suspected Fagen felt that way, but he has a right to make a living. Not sure why he had to write about it so extensively in the book.


Date: Sun, January 26, 2014, 08:40:40 ET
Posted by: Michael,

HouDanFan, ditto. I love SD's music and all but have no inclination to get all buddy-buddy with them. It isn't that Donald owes us anything, but he should've at least had the foresight not to make easy targets out of show-goers, hotel management, "TV Babies" and pretty much everyone else not within his inner circle. He certainly has no qualms about taking their money.

While I don't have any sort of personal connection with Donald and am therefore unaffected by his words, I'm smart enough to realize that many people more sensitive than I am will take his words to heart. It's depressing to read reviews on the internet where people say what an elitist douchebag Donald is, how they're going to distance themselves from supporting him in the future. You tell me how that's a good thing. Then again he's set for the rest of his life, so he probably doesn't care either way.


Date: Sun, January 26, 2014, 03:33:02 ET
Posted by: HouDanFan, Houston

Michael how has DF shit on his fans? And just because he is successful and has money doesn't mean he owes anybody anything and doesn't mean that guarantees happiness. Just because he is in the music industry and we buy his records doesn't mean he owes us anything. Personally I would have nothing in common with DF or WB and they aren't even the kind of dudes I would hang with. I just love the music and the fact that he even opened up his life was interesting and I enjoyed reading it.


Date: Sat, January 25, 2014, 22:23:45 ET
Posted by: DonBreithaupt, Los Angeles

Abu + Ida Lee: thanks for the kind words! The American iTunes link to Monkey House / Headquarters is here —

https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/headquarters/id554723912?uo=4

— for checking out excerpts. Next Monkey House album goes into production in September! I have new 18 tunes ready (to be culled to 12), all steeped in a lifetime of Steely Dan fandom...


Date: Sat, January 25, 2014, 19:09:58 ET
Posted by: Michael,

Ok, fair enough, but respect is a two-way street.


Date: Sat, January 25, 2014, 16:34:59 ET
Posted by: KD, asdf

I think it's OK for anyone to just about anything they want other than watch Jay Leno or listen to Eagles records.


Date: Sat, January 25, 2014, 16:28:44 ET
Posted by: Updraught, Philly area

It is very OK for artists to sh*t on their fans. Fans are nothing but customers. Who has much respect for customers, they are often demanding, unreasonable pains-in-the-ass.


Date: Sat, January 25, 2014, 15:57:25 ET
Posted by: Michael,

Come off what? Do you think that it's ok for artists to shit on their fans?


Date: Sat, January 25, 2014, 12:35:40 ET
Posted by: KD, sdf

Coming from someone who loved the book ...

Hutch, it's one thing to kvetch and moan while on tour, that's understandable. It's a completely different thing to approve for publishing those recorded bitch-fests a whole year after said tour. This wasn't some whiny interview Donald gave mid-tour. This book was sent to publish some time after, when he had plenty of chances to re-think airing the depth of his frustrations.

That said, as a broke dude with a wall full of Steely Dan discs and entire summers spent freezing soup with the knowledge that I *have* to save to buy Steely Dan tickets ... Donald Fagen doesn't owe us sheeeeeet. Come off it, Michael.


Date: Sat, January 25, 2014, 08:38:33 ET
Posted by: Hutch,

Cognitive - Well, your post sounds just as angry as you perceive Donald's words to be. Sounds like he really pissed you off. No need for all of that.
I've been on the road playing music. I did it for a year solid. One gig after the other with no break and believe me it does affect your mind. You're away from your family and friends. You're playing quite often to people who don't care about what you're playing and would rather hear something else. For Donald that wasn't the case on the SD tours by any means, but he did something a little different and he was disappointed in the outcome.
How do you think you'd feel if you poured your soul into performing a song by one of your musical heroes and someone stands up and yells "fuck you" and walks out?
It's really not that hard to figure out that when he talks about the ancient looking people at the shows he's making a statement about his own aging. And he's doing the same thing when he talks about his mood declining during the tour. I see the humor in it. Some people don't.
There's no hero worship going on here with me, but I think I can understand the frustrations that an artist who really believes in his work endures when working in the world and hoping beyond hope that at least SOME of the people understand what he's about.
I'm not trying to convince you to change your opinion but just to look at it from a different angle.


Date: Sat, January 25, 2014, 07:59:13 ET
Posted by: Michael,

@Hutch, well, to each their own.

@HouDanFan, you said that I "always seem to want to take the opposite side" ...of what, I ask? Surely not anything pertaining to Don or Walt. Just because I don't engage in idol worship and disagree from time to time doesn't make me a villain. Yes, I'm well aware Donald's had psychological issues but then taking your anxieties out on your fanbase is rather low. If someone came up to me and complimented my work, let alone paid to see me, I'd be one happy dude. Wouldn't you be as well? Most people never achieve their dreams in life; Don and Walt were two of the fortunate few who managed to make careers in the cutthroat music industry and not just one-hit wonder, fly-by-night careers either. Certainly everyone on the Blue appreciates their massive contribution to the art, hence why we're here...

@M. Phaleon, I don't take issue with his writing style. His vocabulary is extensive as is his knowledge about a wide array of subject matter, as expected.

@cognitive dissonance, perhaps some of what you're saying is partially true, but can you really substantiate the claim that Donald is a self-hating Jew? That's a little far-fetched.


Date: Sat, January 25, 2014, 06:34:46 ET
Posted by: tripstar,

Does anyone know where this comes from? Great sound quality, probably same band as in the "Plush TV Jazz Rock Party" DVD... Sorry if it's been posted before.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TNx5BCiXRDM


Date: Sat, January 25, 2014, 00:55:24 ET
Posted by: by March EH will be $2 used on Amazon resellers,


Date: Sat, January 25, 2014, 00:29:33 ET
Posted by: KG, US

Was at Barnes & Noble tonight. Eminent Hipsters was tagged 50% off. Half dozen or so copies.

Read that Bruce Springsteen's youngest son just became a firefighter. He had been attending Bard the past couple of years.


Date: Fri, January 24, 2014, 22:36:18 ET
Posted by: Lutz, SF

Thanks Hoops for the Carlock update.
I think he will be a great fit for Toto, as they move forward and record new material.
Phillips was great but imo too technical following the super groovy and relaxed Jeff Pocaro.
Of course they will play all of their bombastic hits live and Carlock will put his stamp on them as in Aja.
I'm there.


Date: Fri, January 24, 2014, 22:11:04 ET
Posted by: cognitive dissonance, Potomac MD

With deference to Fagen being a unique, hard working, prolific artist and performer, and along with Becker being a true original, this book is a testament to his petulance, greed and contempt for humanity. And perhaps his being a archetypical, self-hating Jew.

As an author and writer, though not his forte', he does a credible job. If we are to believe that this book is non-fiction, Fagen reveals himself to be a petty ingrate, who as someone alluded to earlier bites the hands that feed him. And for what reason? He has made his fortune. Unless this is a final farewell, it would be very hypocritical of him to take the stage and accept another penny to perform before these unwashed masses that he states in an autobiographical non-fiction book that he abhors.

I have never worshipped Fagen as any sort of hero, but he has now shown himself to be the lowest of the low. Jackal and weasel are too kind to describe this guy.

The Emperor Has No Clothes. And it is hard on the eyes.


Date: Fri, January 24, 2014, 16:15:54 ET
Posted by: M. Phalen,

Michael -

I agree w/ everything you said EXCEPT that DF is a sub-par author. He is a very good writer. Like his music, he knows what he's doing literarily.

However, he's basically a good and sensitive person who presents this phony supercilious facade whenever he's in the media.

I say this respecting and admiring DF greatly.


Date: Fri, January 24, 2014, 14:20:04 ET
Posted by: HouDanFan, Houston

Michael you seem to always want to take the opposite side, so your remarks dont resonate with me. I loved the book and thoroughly understand the mundaneness of travel and can't imagine playing the same songs every night. DF has always been an aloof, introverted type character and that's just his personality.


Date: Fri, January 24, 2014, 12:13:58 ET
Posted by: Hutch,

Michael - I totally disagree. I found the book very entertaining, quite insightful and, at times, absolutely hilarious. And I really like his writing style. But hey.... that's just me.


Date: Fri, January 24, 2014, 12:04:28 ET
Posted by: Michael,

Just finished reading Eminent Hipsters. First half of the book is decent, although wasn't some of the material simply pulled from his now-defunct website? The latter half, the Dukes diary, really hit a dissonant note. Donald comes off as pompous, shamelessly ungrateful and neurotic to the extreme. If it weren't all self-imbued, I would probably feel sorry for the guy. He obliterates his fans and people in general, lumping them into perceived groups, usually along the political right-left paradigm/illusion. Ironic that the people he goes to seemingly great lengths to avoid interacting with ultimately finance his music, merch, tours, and now book. There were a couple of funny/witty remarks but that's hardly enough to salvage the work as a whole.

Donald Fagen is an incredible songwriter and lyrical genius but a sub-par author.

Relevant proverb: "Better to be proficient in one art than a smatterer in a hundred."

Ah well.


Date: Fri, January 24, 2014, 09:11:03 ET
Posted by: Dan fan, Mpls

Has anyone been able to find the track list for the Dukes Lincoln Center DVD??


Date: Thurs, January 23, 2014, 19:46:32 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Keith Carlock joins Toto as drummer for this summer. Toto will split the bill with Michael McDonald.

http://www.totoofficial.com/news/199103

I'm sure Keith will continue as SD's drummer as well.

http://www.totoofficial.com/news/199103

Jim

(Thanks, Joe W.)


Date: Thurs, January 23, 2014, 14:28:46 ET
Posted by: search, kb

Interview with Jim Beard. Interesting commentary about how hard it is to juggle your own gigs with the SD obligation.

http://www.allaboutjazz.com/php/article.php?id=46324&pg=1#.UuFtmLROnRY


Date: Wed, January 22, 2014, 09:39:31 ET
Posted by: Abu, At my night gig

Thanks, The Dean, for the info on the 'Black Cow Sonata', and those responsible for it. I like it!


Ida Lee, Monkey House's Headquarters is an excellent album. I agree, some definite SD influences there, even as Don Breithaupt (leader of Monkey House) himself proclaims (see link below)

http://www.almarecords.com/artist.php?id=37

And, Headquarters features a couple of Dan alumni on the CD: Drew Zingg and Michael Leonhart, on at least two of the tunes. I have been listening to this CD on Spotify for about seven or eight months now. Good stuff!


Abu


Date: Tues, January 21, 2014, 20:15:33 ET
Posted by: Ida Lee, Idaho

Picked up a copy of Monkey House - "Headquarters" over a month ago.
Gave it many listens.
The Dan influence is amazing.

One or two are dead ringers for a Dan (or B/F solo) song. Most are hybrids of several, although my sense of which songs they remind me of changes all the time.
One sounds like it was a collaboration by Toto and Chicago, and I can imagine it on either the Farenheit or Stone of Sisyphus album.

Check this CD out, and let the debates begin.


Date: Tues, January 21, 2014, 12:33:09 ET
Posted by: search, kb

Ok, since it's behind a pay wall.

Going forward, Mr. Crosby said, he may seek more of a jazz sound behind his vocals. "I've always loved jazz," he said, praising Steely Dan's fusion of rock and jazz. "I'd do anything to work with [Steely Dan's] Donald Fagen. He's one of the greatest musicians and songwriters around."


Date: Tues, January 21, 2014, 12:31:01 ET
Posted by: search, kb

David Crosby talks about his man crush on DF. And no I'm not going to copy & paste the single sentence quote.

http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB10001424052702303393804579314690761109938




Date: Tues, January 21, 2014, 09:41:23 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

Abu, very nice contribution. Terrific stuff! A bit more information:

http://www.qojo.co.uk/Graphics/Sunim_Koria/graphics_sunim.html

Excerpt:

"Sunim Koria is a Warwickshire based composer blending traditional and contemporary musical ideologies to create compositions of great depth and complexity.

His composition Sonata on a Theme of Black Cow was selected by the internationally acclaimed musician Tim Garland for performance by the Northern Underground Orchestra and a recording made at the Sage, Gateshead.

The album artwork is principally designed to express the dark undertones present throughout Sunim's piece, while references are made to the original Steely Dan lyrics from which the new composition is founded."


Date: Mon, January 20, 2014, 21:03:49 ET
Posted by: Abu, Green St.

Sonata on a Theme of Black Cow:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pzx3NfhOh5Y


Abu



Date: Mon, January 20, 2014, 09:34:32 ET
Posted by: Abu , SoCal

Here is something... perhaps this has been asked or posted or talked about before here (sorry about that, if this is so. I have not been on here lately)

Anyone familiar with "Sonata on a Theme of Black Cow", by Sunim Koria? I can't seem to find any info on it. The video gives no credit to DF and WB, just saying it was composed and arranged by Sunim Koria. It is an instrumental, with a "big band" feel to it. It seems to be at least loosely based on the Dan tune.

Abu

Date: Sun, January 19, 2014, 00:36:10 ET
Posted by: Steve ,

Would be cool if Steely Dan toured Japan this year. Won't happen, methinks.

Date: Sat, January 18, 2014, 15:15:13 ET
Posted by: Hmmm... , I know, I know

Larry Carlton.

Date: Sat, January 18, 2014, 10:14:12 ET
Posted by: Mr. Lapage , The Great Pagoda

Steve Gadd? He's played for everybody and their brother?

Date: Sat, January 18, 2014, 09:04:34 ET
Posted by: Hutch ,

Plas Johnson on "The Royal Scam".


Date: Sat, January 18, 2014, 18:32:50 ET
Posted by: Bren Pointer , United Kingdom

...Victor Feldman?

Date: Fri, January 17, 2014, 18:32:50 ET
Posted by: Trivia , Q

Hal Blaine is one. There's at least one more.


Date: Fri, January 17, 2014, 17:44:29 ET
Posted by: Steve M, Scotland

Jim Gordon?


Date: Fri, January 17, 2014, 17:06:13 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

If not Hal Blaine than maybe Jeff Porcaro, just because he was young enough around that time to fit in with the Partridge family. Heck, he played for Sonny & Cher.


Date: Fri, January 17, 2014, 15:24:09 ET
Posted by: Get Happy, l

David Cassidy covers SD.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DhRi7WSdhG8


Date: Fri, January 17, 2014, 15:12:35 ET
Posted by: hemiola,

session player on sd and partridge?
guessing Hal Blaine


Date: Fri, January 17, 2014, 10:28:48 ET
Posted by: Trivia, Q

Name someone who played on both Partidge Family and Steely Dan albums.


Date: Thurs, January 16, 2014, 20:47:59 ET
Posted by: Gilligan, Unknown Island

RIP Professor.


Date: Thurs, January 16, 2014, 20:35:41 ET
Posted by: lovethisgig, Atlanta

Also available in blu-ray ...

http://www.amazon.com/Live-From-Lincoln-Center-Blu-ray/dp/B00HUQC442/


Date: Thurs, January 16, 2014, 18:58:43 ET
Posted by: MM, P

RIP Reuben Kincaid


Date: Thurs, January 16, 2014, 16:51:08 ET
Posted by: Mr. Duke,

To K.D., it will air on local PBS stations during March pledge period. Time and day will vary by the decision of the local station. The DVD will be a gift for donors of a certain amount.


Date: Thurs, January 16, 2014, 16:11:52 ET
Posted by: KD, asdf

Did I miss a PBS broadcast, or is it slated for Feb. 25?


Date: Thurs, January 16, 2014, 10:55:29 ET
Posted by: Mr. Duke,

Dukes of February 25, 2014. Pre-order now.

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00HUQC3U2/ref=cm_sw_r_tw_dp_Ica2sb1MSBFVC


Date: Wed, January 15, 2014, 23:01:47 ET
Posted by: Paully,

Maybe we should then have a Danvention!


Date: Wed, January 15, 2014, 20:49:38 ET
Posted by: Luke,

Paully: My guess for this summer is, no Dukes, no SD, and no CD. But we can always hope.


Date: Wed, January 15, 2014, 20:44:12 ET
Posted by: H,

Maybe they will do a quick US warmup tour and then move overseas. ??????


Date: Wed, January 15, 2014, 17:23:50 ET
Posted by: Paully,

Based on board chatter here and there--thanks, Ms. J.--no Dukes this summer because Boz is booked. But does Walter plan to work this summer or take the summer off? SD in Europe, Down Under??? How about the Dan at the Pyramids? Play missed venues from the 2013 Tour? Or will Donald sit at the beach in shorts, sunglasses, straw hat, black socks and sandals? I can't imagine recording a new record, but I can wish.

Date: Sun, January 12, 2014, 17:46:18 ET
Posted by: kzkzkz, Wowsville, USA

Aja drum cover. Think she's 11.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yi7WiF35c6c

Date: Sun, January 12, 2014, 14:50:37 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

belated b'day shout out to DF

Get your kicks on Route 66

Date: Sat, January 11, 2014, 07:40:05 ET
Posted by: Michael,

Correction: it's titled Chillin' At The Pad.

Yeah, it's early and I'm still a bit groggy.


Date: Sat, January 11, 2014, 07:38:45 ET
Posted by: Michael,

Guess nothing much is going on...

Here's a lounging, easy-listening piece I just finished titled Chillin' At The Lounge.

http://www.motifator.com/index.php?ACT=39&fid=130&aid=14021_MBCeLwZWyTcDiehpbHwP&board_id=1

Also, happy (belated) birthday to Donald.


Date: Fri, January 10, 2014, 15:52:12 ET
Posted by: H,

*chirp chirp chirp*


Date: Fri, January 10, 2014, 06:58:27 ET
Posted by: Lake, N

Happy (Easter Break, 66) Birthday DF


Date: Thurs, January 09, 2014, 19:30:57 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar. It's Happy Hour!

CJB, nice link. Here's the link to all the uploads from the "rare" Jeff Porcaro collection on Youtube:

http://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-0NTnVsLLHf_P5ppb0Rr8Q/videos

Several Dan tunes and other goodies are there.


Date: Thurs, January 09, 2014, 19:03:42 ET
Posted by: Scurvy Bro, New York


Donald and Walter need our votes!

http://ultimateclassicrock.com/steely-dan-vs-scorpions/

Spread the word...


Date: Thurs, January 09, 2014, 18:06:22 ET
Posted by: Hutch,

From Eminent Hipsters.....

The show at Rivinia was, I don't know, tight and polite. It's that kind of place. In a desperate attempt to deal with my agitated mood, I asked Pasqual if I could have a tiny toke on one of his thin, neatly rolled joints a half hour before the show. This was a very unusual move on my part. I hadn't smoked any pot for, literally, years. The experience was immediately both familiar and sad. Time stretched out, elongating the spaces between the beats. This gave me more time to think about what I was going to play, and more time to execute. On the other hand, I felt dissociated from the event as it was unfolding. Each song seemed to take forever to wind through the arrangement, and I even lost my place a couple of times, On the upside, I felt a little less wired. But, ultimately it was a classic bummer.


Date: Thurs, January 09, 2014, 15:48:58 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

The auto-spam has really ramped up lately. As a result, I've taken the more radical action of changing the URL for the BlueBook. It is now http://www.dandom.com/thebluebook/

If you go to any of the former URLs featuring a directory of /bb, /blue, /bluebook or /guestbook followed by index.html, you should get redirected here.

Thank you for your patience. I hope this works.

Best,

Jim


Date: Wed, January 08, 2014, 23:52:47 ET
Posted by: CJB, YVR

King of the World live in 1974, from the Jeff Porcaro collection:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2JdpHDUKR0k


Date: Mon, January 06, 2014, 23:54:19 ET
Posted by: Rio, G

I thought you were onto something, but after watching this I determined it's not something Fagen would be into.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NsGC0lZ-5g8


Date: Mon, January 06, 2014, 19:47:18 ET
Posted by: China Sea, Great Wall

The inspiration for 'Teahouse On The Tracks'?...

http://www.viralnova.com/dangerous-trail-huashan/


Date: Mon, January 06, 2014, 13:44:57 ET
Posted by: Jazzassin, @joker, brb

Done!


Date: Mon, January 06, 2014, 11:32:09 ET
Posted by: joker, brb

Anybody Wikipedia savvy want to update this to include SD?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hackensack,_New_Jersey#Popular_culture


Date: Sun, January 05, 2014, 22:21:22 ET
Posted by: Engel, Melbourne, Australia

Hey guys, haven't checked in here for a bit, but I've written a piece on SD, Vampire Weekend and hipster DNA. Inspired a little by reading Eminent Hipsters. Hope some of you dig it. Cheers

http://www.shootfarken.com.au/dear-vampire-weekend-will-you-be-my-new-steely-dan/

to: ">Michael, @Jazzassin

Yeah, that's the one! Thanks man.


Date: Sat, January 04, 2014, 19:24:43 ET
Posted by: Hutch,

John - The site is just great. Thanks for all the work and dedication to the cause. The first interview I grabbed was one from the '03 Everything Must Go period and it was one I hadn't read before. Great job sir!

I just finished "Eminent Hipsters". What an outstanding book. Mr. Fagen, you have once again blown me away.

Donald's writing style is superb. It is conversational and hip and to the point. No pulled punches here. A whole lot of insightful stuff here.

From the chapter "In the Clubs"....

Once upon a time, the jazz club was a mythic place that signified urban romance, free loving hipsterism and Dionysian rites of the exotic Black Man: in short, the dread possibility of ecstasy. As a survivor of many nights in jazz clubs, I can testify that the image was only partly correct.

At the Village Vanguard, my distress at being the youngest person in the audience would dissolve as soon as the music started. In the early sixties gods stood on that tiny stage. A lot of them drank J&B and smoked Luckies, but they were gods just the same. Miles Davis, Sonny Rollins and John Coltrane were still youngish, fearless and working at the summit of their creativity.


Don't pass this one up. Great book.
And oh..... the grumbling Dukes part? Hilarious!


Date: Sat, January 04, 2014, 18:43:14 ET
Posted by: Jazzassin, Firefox Bookmarks Sidebar - It's Happy Hour!

@Michael

I saw your question for John G, and think mayby you're actually referring to THIS page, The Steely Dan Database:

http://212.178.99.195/SteelyDanDatabase/index.htm

...which is of course a very good page for us Danfans, too!

And if it's not what you meant, at least it has the info that you request. :o)


Date: Sat, January 04, 2014, 16:46:37 ET
Posted by: Michael, @John

The site looks great, is comprehensive and easily navigated, but one thing I noticed that's gone missing from the ol' Steely Dan Internet Resource was the song index listing every track written by Don & Walt, including relevant info, timeline and some soundclips. Will any of that make it into the renovated site?


Date: Sat, January 04, 2014, 15:59:27 ET
Posted by: Ned, S

Another thing about American Hustle, Robert De Niro (uncredited) looks a lot like Fagen in this movie with the glasses he wears.


Date: Sat, January 04, 2014, 15:46:21 ET
Posted by: To further clarify, ll

Dean,

I don't think the poster meant that Dirty Work was "given" to the movie by SD, but that the song was "given" a scene to support.


Date: Sat, January 04, 2014, 15:34:30 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

To clarify that last post:

"Steely Dan even considered that they would try to write something original, but we couldn't beat it. When it works, it works. It was one of those things that was married in the movie really early on."

So Dirty Work wasn't "given" in lieu of a new song, it was chosen instead of having Don and Walt write a new one.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/12/16/american-hustle-soundtrack_n_4442273.html


Date: Sat, January 04, 2014, 14:19:43 ET
Posted by: hopeful, news

a huffington.com article said that steely dan offered to write an original piece for the scene in the movie American hustle, that dirty work was given.


Date: Sat, January 04, 2014, 14:17:14 ET
Posted by: Young Wu, Buffalo

John, website looks awesome!!! Nice job.

Hoops... stay warm, motherfucka!!!! Seeing real feel of -40 for Chicago in the next couple days. Never thought I'd be grateful to live in Buffalo for the winter.


Date: Sat, January 04, 2014, 13:40:27 ET
Posted by: KD, asdf

John,

your site was such a huge help in the 90s and in the last decade, thank you so much for the work you put into. And the work you're putting into your site in whatever the heck we call this decade.


Date: Sat, January 04, 2014, 11:11:43 ET
Posted by: Jazzassin, the other side

John G,
I love your new page; everything from the pure content to the fonts, the Aja Color Palette and the note symbol which also reads the letters "sd".
Thanks a lot for all your efforts - recent and historic. It's very, very appreciated.

Happy New Year to you all! :o)


Date: Fri, January 03, 2014, 17:44:30 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar. It's Happy Hour!

John thanks for the heads-up on the new site. Outfuckingstanding! I can see me wasting a LOT of time there in the weeks to come.

Happy New Year to everyone in the Blueverse,


Date: Fri, January 03, 2014, 14:49:39 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

John:

It looks great!

Check for an email I just sent you at the "SteelyDanReader" account.



Thanks!

Jim


Date: Fri, January 03, 2014, 13:10:24 ET
Posted by: John Granatino, United States

Welcome back Jim, and Happy New Year, fellow addicts.

After noodling around trying to fix my ancient web site (the Steely Dan Internet Resource), I realized that I needed to start over from scratch. There was just no other way to atone for 18 years of mortal sins against the HTML markup language.

So I've created an updated replacement site -- the Steely Dan Reader at http://www.steelydanreader.com. It features four decades of interviews, profiles and reviews of the band's concerts and recordings, plus the Metal Leg newsletter archives. I'm still adding articles, but already it's triple the size of the old site. In addition, I still have another 200 articles or so on my hard drive, and I am moving them over to the new site, 2 or 3 at a time.

I switched the new site "on" last week for the first time, so I'd like to invite you over to take a look. I'd really benefit from your reactions -- positive or negative. Please send them to steelydanreader@gmail.com.

-John


Date: Thurs, January 02, 2014, 19:00:18 ET
Posted by: J. Q., o

Audio of Fagen at the Philadelphia library.
http://www.npr.org/blogs/world-cafe/2013/12/02/247677110/donald-fagen-on-world-cafe


Date: Thurs, January 02, 2014, 17:29:36 ET
Posted by: hoops, snowy chicago...will the snow ever stop?

Thank you for your patience while the BlueBook was down for the past six days or so.

Let's try this again...and Happy New Year.

Jim


Date: Fri, December 27, 2013, 11:15:25 ET
Posted by: Bookkeeper's Son, Florida

I saw Ricky Lawson live with both the Yellowjackets and Steely Dan. Enjoyed his gift both times! Great drummer. Shame he passed so young.



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