April--December 2018 Posts

Date: Tues, January 01, 2019, 13:18:08 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol, Mtl

@Ben Jammin; well said! Happy New Year to all the Bbookers out there, and to the Greater Dandom!
Peace

Date: Tues, January 01, 2019, 01:34:58 ET
Posted by: Ben Jammin, B 'n B on Winona Lake, Indiana

Happy New Year, and "Hey '19" to all great peeps in the Dandom! Thank you Hoops for your dedication and awesome effort in keeping so many connected to so much. Cheers to the new year, and may it be filled with Love, Laughter, Happiness, Health, Peace, Unity, and Steely Dan Music! God Bless Us, Everyone!

Date: Mon, December 31, 2018, 18:14:56 ET
Posted by: Norm, MI

Is this the Victor di Suvero credited on Gaucho?

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Victor_di_Suvero

Date: Sun, December 30, 2018, 17:45:38 ET
Posted by: Henry, R

I reckon those Nightflyers were working/playing for considerably less $ than the fat cats in the SD band.

Date: Sat, December 29, 2018, 19:26:34 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

I concur a Nightflyers tour would be greatly appreciated. I'd hate to think that was just a one-off.

While perhaps not as great of a money maker as shows with Steely Dan, there has to be money to be made with this small band playing smaller venues. I think if Don wants to do it, it will get done.

Date: Fri, December 28, 2018, 12:30:38 ET
Posted by: Bookkeeper's Son, Florida

A big plus for me with the DF & the Nightflyers tour is they mainly played smaller (2,000 seat), indoor venues with great acoustics.

Date: Thurs, December 27, 2018, 01:15:11 ET
Posted by: Lutz, SF

Steve, that would be cool but I also believe it's financially more of a risk to to tour under his own name. The 06 tour was musically great but not lucrative. Sure, the band was bigger and costlier.
Of course they cancelled all remaining dates after Walter's passing last year, none were rescheduled incl. West coast and Japan leg however. Plus he already did NIghtfly with SD - but who knows?

Date: Wed, December 26, 2018, 22:17:27 ET
Posted by: Econ, `0`

I think the time has passed for Fagen to be able to tour successfully under any other name than Steely Dan. Maybe a one off show here or there with the Nightflyers.

Date: Wed, December 26, 2018, 18:59:25 ET
Posted by: Steve Gennarelli, Tampa, FL

Just curious about how much time DF will be spending with the Nightflyers this year.
With all of the enthusiasm he had on his tour with them last year, I can definitely see them hitting the road together in 2019.

Date: Tues, December 25, 2018, 23:09:32 ET
Posted by: Jimmie, US

Pretzel Logic jigsaw puzzle.

https://www.jigidi.com/jigsaw-puzzle/FOJT9HQH/steely-dan-pretzel-logic

Date: Tues, December 25, 2018, 18:56:36 ET
Posted by: Kreg, F

Dangentially Christmas

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

Date: Tues, December 25, 2018, 14:10:37 ET
Posted by: moray eel, X

Regarding Yes:

I remember Fagen said, « I wouldn’t want to get into a blowing contest with Rick Wakeman « .

I think Fagen was questioned about his soloing ability.

m.e.

Date: Tues, December 25, 2018, 10:14:32 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach. Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas and may peace be with you all.

I agree Lutz. Those kinds of comments typically give me a giant belly laugh.

Date: Tues, December 25, 2018, 04:43:49 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol, Mtl

Merry Christmas to all the Bluebookers out there!

Peace (on earth)

Date: Tues, December 25, 2018, 04:01:37 ET
Posted by: Lutz, SF

EMG is a masterpiece from start to finish, DocMu.
Remember, it was conceived, approved, produced and released by one Donald Fagen and Walter Becker. With a masterful band, highly motivated.
They were proud of it. Donald said 'it's wicked, I love it'
How would anyone dare to suggest cheap second guesses as to how it should have been?

Date: Mon, December 24, 2018, 21:36:00 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

Steve,

That's why The Last Mall should have been the last song on the album...like a nuclear explosion (Blues Beach) pulls the plug on the album and humanity.

IMO, EMG works a lot better played in reverse order, with the Coltrane Ascension-like intro to the title track the obvious beginning of the album

The obvious singles IMO are Lunch with Gina, then Pixeleen, instead of TLM and BB, in that order.

Date: Mon, December 24, 2018, 11:41:24 ET
Posted by: Bob P., Another question

Does anyone here remember a 1970s interview where Don & Walt expressed their utter contempt for the band Yes? I know I read something many years ago (not sure if it was internet or print), and the assessment as I recall was fairly brief, but pretty harsh. I have tried a few searches using what I thought would be successful keywords, but I can't find what I'm looking for. Any help would be appreciated!

Date: Mon, December 24, 2018, 05:23:10 ET
Posted by: Steve M, Scotland

KD, I just remember it as D&W saying it was an old blues trick i.e. knocking the last note off although my memory may be playing trick on me.

Date: Mon, December 24, 2018, 00:02:11 ET
Posted by: KD, asdf

does anyone remember, in one of those various EMG interviews, if Don and Walt mentioned a semi-inspiration for what they pulled at the end of The Last Mall?

something like a "I remember an old ______ album which ended like that"

Date: Sat, December 22, 2018, 22:54:20 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

British jazz/R&B/pop artist Bluey proffers an alloy that overlaps with the SD Venn diagram. This one digs the Al Jarreau vein well with a touch of acid jazz. Heavy on harmonies.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SeYbnYcGDIk&index=2&list=OLAK5uy_kMU06ZTRFTWtEivWWSoTNGQ4FyklisJow

Date: Fri, December 21, 2018, 01:31:53 ET
Posted by: MK via jm,

“A nice gift just in time for the holidays! This song was tracked with the full Circus Money band.”

https://www.walterbeckermedia.com/forum/rarities-unreleased/couchriders-in-the-sky

Date: Wed, December 19, 2018, 21:38:12 ET
Posted by: Max, Kansas City

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Sk9DUGAupG0/TUBrVBJD6kI/AAAAAAAAHZc/Sh3LvNS0sOg/s1600/110272maxssteely.bmp

Date: Tues, December 18, 2018, 03:38:11 ET
Posted by: stephen, london

that was through viagogo and was block a3 row 5, right in the middle.
two rows in front of me they wanted £575 per ticket!!(make a sentence containing the words 'off' and 'fuck')
i'll leave it to you gaucho's to do the currency conversion

Date: Sun, December 16, 2018, 15:27:33 ET
Posted by: stephen, armstrong

London 02/19 just bought 2 tics to a2/ row 5 at £100 each including fees, true fans should hang in there

Date: Sun, December 16, 2018, 01:45:33 ET
Posted by: Lutz, SF

Merry Christmas everyone.
Listening to Michael McDonald's xmas cd from 2009, I have to say it's outstanding and full of soul. Larry Carlton's, although 20 years older, is elevator music for the retirement home, and I love Larry but he could have worked with a little less powder sugar. Sponsored by the AARP perhaps.
Is there any other xmas stuff from band alumni out there?

Date: Fri, December 14, 2018, 11:34:20 ET
Posted by: WBMedia Mod, the office

New demo posted at
WalterBeckerMedia.com

Date: Thurs, December 13, 2018, 08:32:48 ET
Posted by: KD, asdf

never knew Brothers Dias and Jeffrey had birthdays one day apart

Date: Tues, December 11, 2018, 13:25:30 ET
Posted by: Tony , Buf

That Time John Mulaney Took Pete Davidson to a Steely Dan Concert
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=1&v=TDz-RUMmpjE

Anyone ever think something like this would be discussed on the Tonight Show?

Date: Mon, December 10, 2018, 22:11:42 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Thanks for your patience. There might be one or two spam posts, the spam storm should largely now be abated.

Again, thanks!

Date: Sun, December 09, 2018, 22:14:42 ET
Posted by: hoops, Traveling

Sorry about the spam!

I'm traveling but will deal with this tomorrow, Monday. Thank you for your patience and support as always.

Best regards and many thanks.

Jim

Date: Thurs, December 06, 2018, 03:01:50 ET
Posted by: Dr. H'nd, Hanging Valley Wall, Colorado

Been watching Escape @ Dannemora. Terrific acting especially Patricia Arquette. Good music too. Ben Stiller must be a Steely Dan fan. Last show featured a Muzak version of Deacon Blues playing in a supermarket scene and the original Do it Again was in a later scene.

Date: Mon, December 03, 2018, 16:02:45 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

I think On the Dunes was pan-fried from an 80s throw back as well...

Date: Sun, December 02, 2018, 21:40:23 ET
Posted by: Royal, Spam

Video about Hawaii's love of Spam, including Todd Rundgren. I wonder if Tin Foil Hat was written over a can or three.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xuLsGm3X54M

Date: Sun, December 02, 2018, 16:55:32 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

mid-80s

Date: Sun, December 02, 2018, 16:51:54 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

Jimmie: Yeah, a Fagen solo follow-up, then a Steely Dan reunion, new album were aborted in the mid-90s.

The germ of West of Hollywood came from those sessions. Also Snowbound.

Jack of Speed? Things I Miss the Most?

Date: Sun, December 02, 2018, 09:41:42 ET
Posted by: Jimmie, US

Brief 1986 quote from Gary Katz about an SD comeback album.

https://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/fl-xpm-1986-08-15-8602180310-story.html

Date: Sat, December 01, 2018, 20:10:52 ET
Posted by: CA Dave , On the other hand

I look at it this way - if Bon Jovi is over in Europe & the UK, he isn't in my neck of the woods polluting what's left of the air here. I guess that's "good news"...

Date: Sat, December 01, 2018, 17:33:31 ET
Posted by: Jake, N

Don't laugh too hard. We've already seen Journey and SD on the same concert ads.

Date: Sat, December 01, 2018, 12:51:03 ET
Posted by: Big Trev, Barcelona

Mr LaPage is your man. He's always laughing, having fun ....

At least I hope he is.

Date: Fri, November 30, 2018, 13:55:21 ET
Posted by: Mr. LaPage, in the den

Great news, Bon Jovi has just announced a UK & European tour for 2019, and KISS is also ready to go out again starting early next year! Musically, things are really looking up, now if only someone can convince Van Halen to hit the road again...

Date: Thurs, November 29, 2018, 23:40:25 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

Happy fucking Birthday, Pete. Looking forward to getting to NYC and stopping to see you, in the not too distant. My best to Shari, too.

Date: Thurs, November 29, 2018, 21:53:40 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol, Mtl

Happy Birthday PF.
Peace

Date: Wed, November 28, 2018, 18:41:53 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Story on Catherine Russell:

https://www.triangletoday.com/things-to-do-raleigh/whether-singing-backup-for-bowie-or-solo-music-comes-naturally-for-catherine-russell-29773/

Date: Wed, November 28, 2018, 01:56:27 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

You may encounter some posts by spambots. Please ignore until I am able to more fully take care of them later today, Wednesday. Thanks.

--Jim

Date: Sun, November 25, 2018, 19:11:35 ET
Posted by: GFGG, X

Jay Graydon doing the Peg guitar solo.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ghp88V3Qm8w

Date: Sat, November 24, 2018, 11:52:47 ET
Posted by: Stan, NC

SD playing on WKRP. Watch a little while and it goes into another SD song.

https://youtu.be/1Tk6NpIncXg?t=631


And here's some insight to all the red tape behind doing something like that.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PExGo9b1K44

Date: Fri, November 23, 2018, 18:00:33 ET
Posted by: Abu, Steve L and SD

Another quote from Steve Lukather, concerning 21st Century Blues:

"Yeah I wrote it with CJ [Vanston] you know who co-produced and co-wrote the last couple records of mine, It’s a little nod to Steely Dan, a band I really love, we’ve all been big Steely Dan fans, in high school that’s all we played. Jeff Porcaro was in Steely Dan when we were in high school so there’s a deep connection between that band and us. And we’ve always really dug where they’re coming from harmonically and groove wise so that’s kind of without talking about it much, just kind of how it worked out with us."... {interview of Steve L from metalexiles.com} Thanks Doc Mu and Steve M.

Date: Fri, November 23, 2018, 15:16:11 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

Abu - very nice. Like TOOM and a little of Walter and Fagen solo albums.

Luke's 21st Century Blues from the last Toto album definitely had a Dan influence. Not that bad:

Date: Fri, November 23, 2018, 03:54:06 ET
Posted by: Steve M, Scotland

I can add Steve Lukather's 'Stab in the Back' to Abu's rather fine list:

From his website....

"I am a Steely Dan fan and I know Donald Fagen and Walter Becker and this was a tribute to them”.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f_fDfEX1fp4

Date: Thurs, November 22, 2018, 10:52:20 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol, Mtl

Happy U.S.Thanksgiving to all of the Greater Dandom out there!
Peace

Date: Wed, November 21, 2018, 14:33:56 ET
Posted by: Abu, Tribute to SD

There have now been a number of songs that have been written specifically as a tribute to Steely Dan and/or WB and DF. Here is a playlist of all 16 of these tunes. If anyone knows of any other tributes, feel free to post it here on the Blue.


https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLglOr86WgTyfR6Mjsknm1D_Th0QTYP1RN

Date: Mon, November 19, 2018, 22:47:07 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

Abu: That's a very nice altered blues number by Acoustic Alchemy.

Ironically, of course, it sounds a LOT more like Donald than Walter! An outtake from Morph or an imaginary B-side of Confide in Me. Some semblance to Last Mall and Miss Marlene shuffles.

Date: Mon, November 19, 2018, 17:27:37 ET
Posted by: Abu, Walter B & E

Your cover Walter E is actually not bad at all. It has somewhat of a feel of WB there. I think it will grow on me, but with a couple of listens I am impressed so far. Not an easy task to capture at least some of the snarkiness, for lack of a better word perhaps. Musically, listening to the instrumental emphasized some of the changes the song goes through. I like it. Thanks for sharing it.

Date: Mon, November 19, 2018, 12:32:52 ET
Posted by: Walter Ehresman, San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

It took me a while to come up with something suitable, but I wrote and recorded a Walter Becker tribute song earlier this year, and it was released on album this last weekend. Ultimately, it seemed to me that the best honor I could pay him was to write a song (as he did so many times) with a sly look at faded hipsters. I used to live in Austin, so let's just say I've observed this species in the wild quite a bit....

Here's the song, called "It's Schmendrick Time (And That's OK)". I got the idea for the title from a conversation between Walter and Donald in the limo at the end of the Two Against Nature DVD, where they were contemplating on the unique qualities of a schmendrick (versus a schmuck, etc.).

https://walterehresman.bandcamp.com/track/its-schmendrick-time-and-thats-ok-dedicated-to-walter-becker

And here's an instrumental mix of it, which was put on the album as a bonus track: https://walterehresman.bandcamp.com/track/bonus-track-its-schmendrick-time-and-thats-ok-instrumental-mix

Both include electric sitar licks, in tribute to early Dan.

Date: Mon, November 19, 2018, 12:26:54 ET
Posted by: Walter Ehresman, San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

I've been a big fan of Steely Dan since I was in high school during the Jimmy Carter administration (ah, those pre-Reagan days......). As a musician, albeit a self-trained one, the band's music has had a big influence on my and inspired me to write and record "above my station" (or at least try to).

Date: Sun, November 18, 2018, 23:03:01 ET
Posted by: Abu, With Mr. Mu

Acoustic Alchemy has just released their latest album 33 1/3. As mentioned a few months ago by Mr. Belzoni here on the Blue, they wrote a song entitled Blues for Mr. Mu, as a tribute to the late Walter Becker. Nice catchy instrumental tune that clearly has a SD feel to it. Link below:


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

Date: Sun, November 18, 2018, 12:10:37 ET
Posted by: ,

>Anyone know what happened to "horseshoe crab" lyric that never surfaced?

https://www.steelydan.com/emgpress1.html

Lol. Gotta love late ‘90s - early ‘00’s Steely Dan internet writing. Peak playfulness for them.

Date: Sun, November 18, 2018, 11:29:43 ET
Posted by: Roland, C

Anyone know what happened to "horseshoe crab" lyric that never surfaced?

https://www.steelydan.com/emgpress1.html

Date: Fri, November 16, 2018, 08:00:08 ET
Posted by: Marv, C

I wonder if the 1986 Bob Seger song Miami, with the chorus lyric of "oh, Miami" was inspired by Walk Between Raindrops. It features backing vocals by Don Henley, who always tipped Seger off to good music. I say it's about 75% likely, as it was his first studio release post Nightfly.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k-uAg0LwLfk&

Date: Thurs, November 15, 2018, 20:59:34 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

Dean (from England), thanks for the link to that review. I'm not quite sure what Biff's griping about. It was a very complete review, with not only notes on the setlist, but some very nice detail. And of course it isn't just a setlist. There is plenty of commentary there, as well.

All and all a worthy entry. Nice job, Darren.

Date: Thurs, November 15, 2018, 12:36:44 ET
Posted by: Biff, N

That review was a glorified set list posting.

Date: Thurs, November 15, 2018, 10:09:56 ET
Posted by: Dean, England

Hi everyone,

Lengthy review of one of the Beacon shows. Follow the link:

https://twilightdawning.com/2018/11/05/steely-dan-the-people-request/

Date: Wed, November 14, 2018, 02:24:53 ET
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Date: Sat, November 10, 2018, 04:50:33 ET
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Date: Fri, November 09, 2018, 21:11:44 ET
Posted by: Nate, PA

Doc Mu

Real or not we still may never hear that clav solo that Mike sang over.

Date: Fri, November 09, 2018, 19:11:53 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

Nate: This one's for real. Rainey, Greene, Feldman are on. You can also hear the bleedover from Parks' rhythm guitar as well That's the basic track the horns, vocals, synth, solo guitar were dubbed over. Nice to hear some of the piano chord progression and Greene's hi hat in near isolation.


Still not sure about the other "outtake."

Date: Fri, November 09, 2018, 17:41:20 ET
Posted by: Nate, PA

He's at it again. The guy who posted the first take of Aja and an outtake of Peg has posted another Aja outtake. This time being I Got the News.

https://youtu.be/rqCA3SQSA4c

Date: Fri, November 09, 2018, 14:06:45 ET
Posted by: Ron, MI

The longbox CD version of the nightly had an “About The Artist” paragraph on the back of the box. Does anybody have that text or a link to an image of it?

Date: Mon, November 05, 2018, 10:25:10 ET
Posted by: chris, nh

Second Nightfly night was pretty epic, special guests and all.
I liked the tweak to the album night format of opening up with the album and doing the jazz tune as an intermission rather than an intro. There’s less of a distinction of “this is Fagen’s backing band.” Nope, this is just the band.
As I say every time, the band gets better and better. Connor is a great addition and should be a full time member.
Cool to see Jimmy Vivino, on stage with Fagen for maybe the first time since ‘92?
Found out later that Kurt Rosenwinkle was in the audience. I guess 4 guitars may have been pushing it though ...

Date: Sun, November 04, 2018, 09:52:27 ET
Posted by: Danny, Pennsylvania

Muchas gracias Kuleebaba

Date: Sat, November 03, 2018, 14:20:09 ET
Posted by: kuleebaba, da Burgh

@Danny,

Here's the article you mentioned:
https://www.etonline.com/newly-single-pete-davidson-gets-pumped-up-at-steely-dan-concert-with-buddy-john-mulaney-112684

Date: Fri, November 02, 2018, 20:04:35 ET
Posted by: Sneakers , not so Bad, just faster to type

Clips from the second Nightfly show:

https://www.jambase.com/article/michael-mcdonald-steely-dan-beacon-theatre-videos

Date: Fri, November 02, 2018, 18:39:56 ET
Posted by: Danny, Pennsylvania

It might help if I put where the Fking article was from ETonline.

Date: Fri, November 02, 2018, 18:29:03 ET
Posted by: Danny, Pennsylvania

"Newly single Pete Davidson gets pumped up at Steely Dan concert with buddy John Mulaney" there's the article as well as a clip from the concert. Being a luddite, I don't know how to post a link. Worth a look in my opinion.

Date: Fri, November 02, 2018, 17:45:59 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol, Mtl

@ Gus Winterbottom and the Mrs.; thanks for sharing time and stuff. Drop me note sometime.

Date: Fri, November 02, 2018, 08:16:22 ET
Posted by: Bad Sneakers, nj

Walter Becker Way

https://www.facebook.com/Q1043NY/videos/278858912740943/

Date: Fri, November 02, 2018, 07:18:41 ET
Posted by: Jim,

Chet B.:

You do realize that someone has to be dead before NYC will consider somebody for a street co-naming, right?

Date: Fri, November 02, 2018, 03:23:36 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol, Mtl

Beacon Musings reprise.
Also wanted to say that we all know these shows aren't the same without Walt. Really miss him. But this SD Band still kills. And the youngster Conor IS the shit. But the best memories of this run will not be setlists, but of folks we met. Most of all, my man Reidar, a Steely bro who keeps me honest. I've said it before, lets get out there and meet as many of each other as we can! And that means you Paul from Edmonton. A guy whose enthusiasm at his first show was infectious. Told him about the Blue and hope he posts.
To all of those people that contributed to my enjoyment of this run, a sincere thank you. Most of all my best girl, my itty bitty pretty one. That's it for this year. Thanks for indulging me.
Peace

Date: Fri, November 02, 2018, 02:37:37 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol, Back home settled in

Random Musings on my 2018 Beacon run.
So I took my best girl to the last 4 shows of the run. Freakin' awesome shows,meeting talented musicians,Autumn in Manhattan, and Dandomites in abundance. The Street Party was an iterestingly quirky ceremony. Was lucky to meet and talk to Harold Rodman on the way to the event. He gave an insightful and humorous talk about Walt's early years. And had a chance to meet with other long time pals of his. A great Danfest after the ceremony where my wife and I met many old friends and many new ones. Pre and post show parties were also a blast. Plus the obligatory double Johnnie Black (great smoky taste) in honour of my Bitter End drinking buddy the Dean.missed you bud!

Date: Fri, November 02, 2018, 01:13:54 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol, Mtl

Peace

Date: Thurs, November 01, 2018, 19:27:24 ET
Posted by: Chet, B

Donald Fagen, furious that New York City hasn't named a street after him as they did his late partner Walter Becker, has officially changed his name to E 92nd and Fifth.

<rim shot>

Date: Thurs, November 01, 2018, 13:14:32 ET
Posted by: Darren, England

Hi Everyone,

I may have met some of you at the Beacon shows or at Walter Becker Way. Amongst other things, I am a journalist and writer and it was great and a privilege to once again do all these things.

Anyway, my colleague, Italian author Laura Tomasso is putting together some interviews for a book she is going to publish. The theme of the book involves exploring the reasons why "fans" are still following bands and artists that they began to listen to when they were younger. Most participants will have been born between 1946 and 1964 (the baby boomer generation).

It will not only be about Steely Dan and we can't afford a fee for your involvement. Your contribution can be anonymous or under a pseudonym if you wish.

If you would like to be involved, there would be a Skype (or similar) interview lasting about one hour. You will need to send a couple of paragraphs to natprog@btinternet.com describing yourself and those who are selected will be contacted.

Darren Hirst
London, England

Date: Thurs, November 01, 2018, 05:50:28 ET
Posted by: Daniel, Uk

I think you're all reading too much into the deacon blues thing. Donald (and Walter) spoke extensively about how proud they were of it. I've seen them play it in the UK, they played it every night in 2006... I think, personally, Donald probably wanted to have the girls singing Maxine before but couldn't justify it over Dirty Work. Here, on the last night, in NYC, he could. But I don't think it's interchangeable with deacon blues. Just my thoughts.

Date: Thurs, November 01, 2018, 00:35:56 ET
Posted by: Peter, Jersey

Neil from the Bronx, but Aja (my favorite SD song of all time) has a ton of chords, and that song is played almost every night.

Date: Wed, October 31, 2018, 21:53:39 ET
Posted by: Mt. Belzoni, Portland OR

Further to Deacon Blues16's post, they also seem to play Don't Take Me Alive whenever they play Oregon.

So Miami isn't close enough to Biscayne Bay to coax a Dr. Wu out of them all these years? (Let alone a Walk Between the Raindrops?)

Date: Wed, October 31, 2018, 21:11:58 ET
Posted by: DeaconBlues16,

Theory about Maxine and Deacon Blues:

I haven't posted on here in a while, as it seems a lot of discussion has moved to the Facebook group. And even so, I would not ever say I've been a prolific poster. But being from Alabama, I would often be the source of concert reviews from some of their southeast shows and especially their few Birmingham, AL shows.

This year, however, I had the fortune and privilege to attend The Nightfly show this past Monday night at the Beacon. And it was truly a bucket list item. It was awesome, and I feel so luck to have been able to attend. I'm not going to post a review of the show beyond that right now (or maybe ever) because I have a theory about why they might have played Maxine at the greatest hits night that I'd like to discuss.

Deacon Blues is unquestionably a greater hit than Maxine and one of SD's best known and most popular songs (and my personal favorite, as evidenced by my moniker), but we should know by now that Donald (and previously Walter's) idea of greatest hits isn't necessarily looking at the charts or seeing the songs that get the greatest radio play. They play a lot of their "hits" at most of their shows, much to the chagrin of certain fans on here, but not all of them. They play just what they feel, and since 2000, they've only played Deacon Blues sporadically and on Aja nights. Maybe it's because - like someone else implied - it has a lot of chords, and even though the band is more than capable, Donald would rather give them a reprieve. Or maybe he's grown less fond of the song. It's all speculation.

But being from Alabama, I can confirm with 100% certainty that they make a concerted effort to play Deacon Blues at their Alabama shows. Steely Dan/Donald Fagen have only performed in Alabama a handful of times: 2011 in Tuscaloosa, 2014 & 2016 in Birmingham, 2009 and maybe one or two more years in Orange Beach (on the Gulf Coast), Donald with the Dukes in 2012 in Tuscaloosa, and Donald with The Nightflyers in 2017 in Montgomery. With the exception of the 2012 Dukes show, I'm pretty sure they played Deacon Blues at all of those shows (not 100% sure about Orange Beach, but I think they did).

So that brings me to Maxine. Deacon Blues is very famous for its Alabama reference, but until I went to the Nightfly show in New York this week, I thought nothing of the "Manhattan" reference in Maxine. Maybe it's because Steely Dan is so associated with New York already, or maybe it's because New York is probably the most portrayed city in American art that it seems second nature. But the Manhattan line in Maxine did get a decent amount of applause from the audience - literally in Manhattan.

In a 2013 interview with Rolling Stone (link provided), Donald says "we're not as invulnerable to audience responses as we'd like to think we are." And while he was saying that in order to explain why they don't play as much of their new material, I would imagine positive response also influences their sets.

Now, of course, Deacon Blues would be a big enough hit that I think it would get a pretty positive response wherever it was played, Alabama or otherwise. So I'm imagining that Deacon Blues being left off of the greatest hits setlist has less to do with audience response and more with Donald's personal feelings about playing that song live (whether it's because he's sick of it, doesn't think it works well live, is a complex song, some combination, or none of the above).

But I think they might have played Maxine at the greatest hits night because of the positive reception to the Manhattan lyric it received Monday night. Not to mention, it gives DF a respite on vocals for a song.

https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/steely-dan-on-making-new-music-weve-been-talking-237941/

Date: Wed, October 31, 2018, 15:08:55 ET
Posted by: Bad Sneakers, NJ

Interesting comments about Deacon Blues and Maxine. I agree with several things that have already been said.

I went to two Beacon shows. Both of the Nightfly shows. It's my personal favorite and the best non-Steely-solo album (imo). It was historic that Steely Dan performed a full Fagen solo album, of course.

Having seen SD and DF a number of times, now I will only buy SD tickets in the hours before the show on StubHub for WAY under face value. I know... I am cheap... frugal I call it... but as I said, I've seen SD and DF lotsa times. I live close enough that I'm able to wait until 6:30 - 7pm, when people started dumping their Nightfly tickets (cuz it's not a well-know album) in the upper balcony for $30 - $40 on StubHub. Then, printed out tickets, and jumped in the car!

Obviously we know that they will play Maxine at the Nightfly shows. It's a great song, plus having the Danettes sing it gives Donald a chance to rest his voice... (which I believe is the reason that Maxine was played at the final Beacon show.)

I've wanted to hear them play DEACON BLUES for years. So Deacon Blues IS gonna get played at Aja shows. A favorite album of everyone's, including me, is Aja. The StubHub price for Aja show didn't go low enough for me. I didn't expect it to either! Disappointing that I didn't get to hear Deacon Blues once again. As has been pointed out already Donald wrote in his book that it's just got too many chords. Maybe it's hard for DF to sing that one.

The price never dropped that low for the final show... so-called greatest hits. And I knew that it was unlikely that they'd play Deacon Blues... And Maxine is a great song, but it isn't the hit from Nightfly. Which of course is I.G.Y.

If DF's voice needed a rest for one song..., they could have chosen Dirty Work... since the Danettes sing that one.

btw...
The second half of the second Nightfly show was great. Mike McDonald! Three-guitar Reelin'!

Date: Wed, October 31, 2018, 12:38:18 ET
Posted by: Greg M, Ny

I agree Deacon Blues should be considered a greatest hit. But to slam Maxine being in any setlist is nonsensical to me. Maxine!!

Date: Wed, October 31, 2018, 11:12:18 ET
Posted by: Neil from The Bronx, New York

About Deacon Blues. I heard The Donald say somewhere that when they play in Alabama the crowd will yell out for Deacon Blues "but it's got like a thousand chords," so no.

Date: Wed, October 31, 2018, 11:00:36 ET
Posted by: Sammy, C

Even if the set was completely faithful to the "Greatest Hits" compilation (I'd pay to see that), Deacon Blues wouldn't have been played.

Date: Wed, October 31, 2018, 08:53:47 ET
Posted by: Peter, Jersey

I just looked at your setlist for Greatest Hits night Gus. Here's my question: how is Maxine a greatest hit, but Deacon Blues isn't? WHY DO THEY NEVER PLAY THAT SONG ANYMORE? Seriously, does anyone know? It's practically among most die-hard Steely Dan fan's favorite song within top 10, and don't tell me it's not a greatest hit. Maybe because he doesn't like that song??? I can understand him not liking Do It Again, and Rikki, but Deacon? Anybody know?

Date: Wed, October 31, 2018, 00:31:32 ET
Posted by: Gus Winterbottom, Manhattan, in packing mode

Greatest Hits Night at the Beacon, 30 Oct 2018

INTRO: Hallelujah Time ~8:45 PM

Bodhisattva
Hey 19
Black Friday
Aja
Green Earring
Bad Sneakers
Kid Charlemagne
Maxine (Danettes on vocals)
Gaucho
Keep That Same Old Feeling/band intros
Peg
Rikki Don't Lose That Number
Josie
My Old School
Reelin' In The Years

ENCORE: Pretzel Logic
OUTRO: A Man Ain't Supposed To Cry ~10:25 PM

Connor Kennedy was onstage for the entire show, sharing solo work with Jon on (at least) Bodhisattva and Reelin', and also on Bad Sneakers, with Jon alternating between his guitar and a stationary Sitar. Bad Sneakers and Gaucho were personal highlights for me, but everything was very well executed. Donald was in his usual vocal form tonight, as far as I can recall; over the course of the evening a few lines were spoken rather than sung, but his voice seemed pretty strong overall.

Date: Tues, October 30, 2018, 23:42:40 ET
Posted by: Fred, NY

I thought Elliot Randall was there?

Date: Tues, October 30, 2018, 21:49:18 ET
Posted by: adrock,

seafoam: no, Herrington didnt come. The sole bandmember attending was Cindy. No one from the band, the family or bands management came to the event. no mention of it at any of the Beacon gigs either.

Date: Tues, October 30, 2018, 21:13:28 ET
Posted by: walter becker way, NYc

Mike -
go to
walterbeckermedia.com
to the FAQ at the bottom are lniks to an email address
use the second address d-mod to email us your shirt request:
number, size.

we do have xlarge, they just ran out at the event
cheers
db

Date: Tues, October 30, 2018, 21:02:01 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

FlyBy, Mt. Belzoni,

I wish I had been there. What a setlist and cadre of talent! Hope to see some videos soon.

Maxine, Goodbye Look, WBTR live. Pretzel Logic - not too many appearances since the NYR&SR.

I really think the truncated Nightflyers gigs really got Donald's touring mojo going.

Date: Tues, October 30, 2018, 20:44:03 ET
Posted by: Mike F., NYC

Doe anyone know if there's anyway to get one of the t-shirts they were giving out at the street naming? Although at one point they said they had run out of XL and that's what I would need! Thanks.

Date: Tues, October 30, 2018, 18:17:14 ET
Posted by: E, USA

If anyone would like to order a "Walter Becker Way" duplicate street sign from NYC, here are the details:

To order duplicate street signs for WALTER BECKER WAY, you will need to first get the price of the sign with shipping to your location. Last year, signs were between $50 and $60.

To get the price, call the phone number in the lower left of the below form, 646.892.1269 - and tell them that you’re interested in ordering a duplicate street sign for WALTER BECKER WAY.

You may have to reference the legislation bill number is INTRO 0988/2018, Section # 34. This may simplify things when you call.

They’ll give you the price for your order, which you can add to this form with payment:

http://www.nyc.gov/html/dot/downloads/pdf/signsorderform.pdf

That’s it!

E

Date: Tues, October 30, 2018, 14:16:18 ET
Posted by: Jim,

INTERVIEWER: “It’s like the Phil Collins sound. It was amazing when you first heard it. The 97th time it started to get old. “

REEVES GABRELS: “The problem became when people start copying. It’s like Steely Dan. I love Steely Dan; people calling it “yacht rock” piss me off to this day. It was because the people who copied it didn’t have the attitude behind it, or the lyric content. The copycats weren’t rooted in Naked Lunch; they were rooted in pina coladas.”

http://www.guitarmoderne.com/artists/david-torn-and-reeves-gabrels-talk-rerecording-bowie

Date: Tues, October 30, 2018, 11:59:11 ET
Posted by: Seafoam Mean, LaGuardia

Made it to 10/24 countdown show and last nights nightfly. I can understand needing a third guitarist but why the two Rhodes players? I’ll see this band every time I have a chance. It may not be the og steely dan but they stopped touring in the 70s. Fagen and seamless rhythm section. I never enjoyed watching a kitchen sink until the end of bodjisatva last night. My discounted circus money T-shirt has already scared 3 children. What else you got , Donny? Did I see Leonhardt in beanie at the street naming ? They really ought to let him do a drum solo and get it out of his system. Air drumming with a trumpet in mock traditional grip hurts my stomach. Still love it. Many Thanks to the band

Date: Tues, October 30, 2018, 08:41:07 ET
Posted by: Jim ,

Thanks for your patience with the robospam storm. Should be past but you may see one or more errant posts. You also may need to reload the BlueBook before clicking "post" to get the updated posting page URL.

Best,

Jim

Date: Tues, October 30, 2018, 04:01:54 ET
Posted by: stephen, london

hi gus,
thanks for uploading your videos

Date: Tues, October 30, 2018, 01:46:29 ET
Posted by: Mt. Belzoni, Portland OR

The Nightfly performance was amazing! Green Flower St. and New Frontier really rocked, and Ruby is a gem. It was marvelous to hear these 8 vastly underperformed songs presented so flawlessly. The rest of the show was great as well - nice to hear Michael McD singing on My Old School. Only regret was the lack of Kid C - a rare event. The Beacon is a great venue, one in which the Dan is clearly at home, and one where fans can finally hear the deep cuts the absence of which diminish the Dan's usual road shows. Delighted that I schlepped cross-country to catch the CtE and Nightfly shows.

Date: Mon, October 29, 2018, 23:04:26 ET
Posted by: Flyby, Night

The Nightfly

Bodhisattva
Hey 19
Black Cow
TOOM
Dirty Work
Intros
My Old School (w/ Michael McDonald)
Peg (w/ Michael McDonald)
Reelin' In The Years (w/ MM & Jimmy Vivino)
Pretzel Logic (w/ "" "")

Connor played guitar on nearly everything too. 3 man guitar fury on Reelin'. Wow!!

Date: Mon, October 29, 2018, 21:08:26 ET
Posted by: Denise, Hinktown

Yes, thanks, Gus, I enjoyed watching the vids.

Date: Mon, October 29, 2018, 15:21:13 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, SoBe

Thanks Gus!

Enjoy the rest of the shows and safe travels back.

Date: Mon, October 29, 2018, 09:23:08 ET
Posted by: Gus Winterbottom, Manhattan

A postscript to the post with the links: I tried some of the tags I used, and didn't get good results, so a shortcut is to simply type "Gus Winterbottom" in the Youtube search line. That accesses all 5 videos, and nothing else, since I signed up with Youtube yesterday.

Date: Mon, October 29, 2018, 09:12:15 ET
Posted by: Gus Winterbottom, Manhattan

For all of our friends who could not attend the street dedication yesterday, videos of portions of the dedication are now posted on Youtube. There are 5 parts, owing in part to the limitations of my "video" equipment, which has a 20 minute recording maximum. I did not record a large portion of the "contest" part of the ceremony to save battery life.

Part 1: https://youtu.be/atwZgk_Vs5w

Part 2: https://youtu.be/H7PUta_mlDg

Part 3: https://youtu.be/OVBk_9epFS4

Part 4: https://youtu.be/3_V4gV5JTmA

Part 5: https://youtu.be/zVTa0m1NOW0

In case any of errors in the above links, tags on the videos are: Walter Becker, Steely Dan, Walter Becker Way, and Jim Kerr. Or let me know and I will resend correct links.

Very enjoyable "off-day Danfest" yesterday afternoon in Soho; thanks to LWO, Joan, and everyone who helped set that up, and to She Who Must Not Be Named for a tour of the area on our way back uptown.

Date: Sun, October 28, 2018, 22:51:16 ET
Posted by: Nate, PA

Thanks Doc Mu, I'll take your word for it. Still a good cover though.

Date: Sun, October 28, 2018, 22:35:19 ET
Posted by: friend,

thanks beast for the My Rival clip!!!!!!

Date: Sun, October 28, 2018, 17:37:35 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

Nate - the bassist sounds a little like Rainey...but the spacing, mix, chord progression sounds like a recent cover to me, also. The drummer doesn't really sound like Marotta or Purdie.

Date: Sun, October 28, 2018, 11:50:37 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

I'm very disappointed I can't be there today. Please know I'll be with you in spirit. Enjoy the ceremony, the shows and the after-parties.

Date: Sun, October 28, 2018, 11:35:28 ET
Posted by: Mike, NYC

I forgot to mention Freddie who was strong throughout but really stood out on Peg, Josie and FM. He often sat while playing but his playing is still powerful and expertly supports the music.

Date: Sun, October 28, 2018, 11:21:55 ET
Posted by: Mike, NYC

Truly hot show last night of AJA at The Beacon. Jon was astounding as usual on guitar, incredibly inventive. He kept adding extra flourishes that were mesmerizing. On PEG he repeated a little riff that I could not identify but that was really interesting, hope to hear it again. Hoping a clip will surface so I can identify that riff! Home At Last was extended quite a bit and I Got The News was amazingly good with the Danettes adding mightily, as they did later on to My Old School. Donald sounded very good and had a funny intro for Rikki were he said something to the effect that it was a radio hit and they've done it many times but he tries to inject something new into it "It's my job!" He walked around a bit more than I've seen. Roger seemed subdued but Walt played powerfully throughout and Jim had a tremendous solo on one song, can't remember which right now. Michael gave us a nice trumpet solo on one song. Keith was Keith, as noted last night during the band introductions surely one of the greatest drummers ever, though I have heard better solos on AJA from him. He had a very long possibly more interesting solo on a number towards the end of the show. THE GOODBYE LOOK was a highlight in a show filled with great moment after great moment. Again, the Danettes add mightily to the sound and blend perfectly with the four horns. Jim shined throughout.

Date: Sun, October 28, 2018, 08:41:10 ET
Posted by: Gus Winterbottom, A month out of sync

Sorry, I meant 27 Oct 2018 of course

Date: Sun, October 28, 2018, 00:14:02 ET
Posted by: Gus Winterbottom, Manhattan

Aja Night at the Beacon, 27 Nov 2018



Aja (album) ~8:45 PM
Hallelujah Time
Bodhisattva
Hey 19
Time Out Of Mind
FM
The Goodbye Look
Keep That Same Old Feeling/band intros
Rikki Don't Lose That Number
My Old School

ENCORE: Reelin' In The Years
OUTRO: A Man Ain't Supposed to Cry ~10:30 PM

Another good crowd tonight, although not quite as enthusiastic as last night's, IMHO. The band was as good as ever; Herington was exceptional on I Got The News and Josie, to take just a couple of examples. I thought Donald's vocals were a bit stronger (and more error-free) than last night. He was also more engaging than normal, but sadly I can't recall any specifics at the moment. Addition of The Goodbye Look to the setlist was a very pleasant surprise.

Date: Sat, October 27, 2018, 23:43:07 ET
Posted by: Walter becker, nyc

Hey fuckers, writing from beyond the grave to say that my ex-wife is a whore.

Date: Sat, October 27, 2018, 19:39:04 ET
Posted by: Beacon Theater,

Does anyone know if they are moving people down from the upper balcony on nights that are undersold? If so are they leaving the upper balcony empty by enforcing no one sit there? Or can you decide to sit up there anyway? Just curious if anyone knows. Thanks.

Date: Sat, October 27, 2018, 17:27:19 ET
Posted by: Security Joan, NYC baby!

This is for everyone in NYC for the shows and the Walter street naming: There'll be a "Liar's Ball" Danfest gathering Sunday beginning at 3 pm (to allow time for those going to Queens for the street event). We're gathering at the back room of the Ear Inn, 326 Spring Street, starting at 3 pm!! We'll be celebrating Dandom and especially Walter.

Easy to get to ... take the 1 train to Houston, or (if coming from the Queens event) take the E train to Spring Street.

Date: Sat, October 27, 2018, 16:01:16 ET
Posted by: Big Trev, Barcelona

Thanks for that link Nate. It sounds like the real deal to me. And I hadn't heard the Aja one either. Both very nice, thanks again.

Date: Sat, October 27, 2018, 14:07:40 ET
Posted by: Nate, PA

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D_iAFdazG4Q Supposed outtake of Peg.

Your thoughts? I have absolutely have no clue as to whether it's real or not. The guy who uploaded it did upload the first take of Aja, but this just doesn't sound like Steely Dan to me. It could be a really good cover band.

Date: Sat, October 27, 2018, 11:49:30 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol, NYC

Hey Gus! Hope to see you and the Mrs. Sat night for Aja. Peace

Date: Sat, October 27, 2018, 08:21:55 ET
Posted by: Detective, Case

Beast,

You can either bop to the beat or record video. You can't do both and expect me to watch it before I had my coffee.

Date: Sat, October 27, 2018, 01:55:23 ET
Posted by: Beast w/o A Care in the World, Jolly Roger, NJ

Ok.. since 2009, I had been asking anyone who had plans to see Gaucho night.. at the Beacon.. or Universal, Los Angeles.. or Chicago.. or Boston... to record the songs Gaucho and My Rival... and post video. All we've ever had to view and listen to on YouTube have been just fragments of each. Until now.


Following 2 clips recorded by me... just hours ago.

Happy weekend Steely public:


My Rival - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VpqZc_lzg88

Gaucho - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jPjSGYEwK_Q


Sometimes you just have to do things yourself.


Please enjoy... especially you rarity seekers.

Beast

Date: Sat, October 27, 2018, 01:55:00 ET
Posted by: Beast w/o A Care in the World, Jolly Roger, NJ

Ok.. since 2009, I had been asking anyone who had plans to see Gaucho night.. at the Beacon.. or Universal, Los Angeles.. or Chicago.. or Boston... to record the song Gaucho and My Rival... and post video. All we've ever had to view and listen to on YouTube have been just fragments of each. Until now.


Following 2 clips recorded by me... just hours ago.

Happy weekend Steely public:


My Rival - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VpqZc_lzg88

Gaucho - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jPjSGYEwK_Q


Sometimes you just have to do things yourself.


Please enjoy... especially you rarity seekers.

Beast

Date: Sat, October 27, 2018, 01:54:38 ET
Posted by: Beast w/o A Care in the World, Jolly Roger, NJ

Ok.. since 2009, I had been asking anyone who had plans to see Gaucho night.. at the Beacon.. or Universal, Los Angeles.. or Chicago.. or Boston... to record the song Gaucho and My Rival... and post video. All we've ever had to view and listen to on YouTube have been just fragments of each. Until now.


Following 2 clips recorded by me... just hours ago.

Happy weekend Steely public:


My Rival - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VpqZc_lzg88

Gaucho - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jPjSGYEwK_Q


Sometimes you just have to do things yourself.


Please enjoy... especially you rarity seekers.

Beast

Date: Sat, October 27, 2018, 01:20:50 ET
Posted by: oleander, holla

WBW-B there, yes I'll be there.

C ya.

Date: Fri, October 26, 2018, 23:54:36 ET
Posted by: Gus Winterbottom, Manhattan

Gaucho Night at the Beacon, 26 Oct 2018

Gaucho (album) ~8:45 PM
Hallelujah Time
Bodhisattva
Aja
Black Friday
Dirty Work (Ladies splitting lead vocals)
Kid Charlemagne
Keep That Same Old Feeling/Band Intros
Peg
My Old School


ENCORE: Reelin' In The Years

OUTRO: A Man Ain't Supposed to Cry ~10:30 PM

A High-energy show tonight, both from the band and the crowd. Catherine Russell was absent tonight; she should be back tomorrow. Jon performed backing vocals on Gaucho, Aja, and Dirty Work, and used the Talk Box for the closing of Time Out Of Mind.

Date: Fri, October 26, 2018, 22:31:49 ET
Posted by: CJB, Flying Visit

Vancouver - Toronto, NYC tomorrow night. Queens Sunday, Nightfly Monday.

I sure hope the sight of all of us standing there on Sunday is reassuring to the family. After so many years of such great music, not to mention deep artistic integrity, showing up in person seems like the very least I can do. How can one ever hope to repay, & etc.

Signed, tall shy bald guy & occasional wiseass, likely standing in a sea of same.

Date: Fri, October 26, 2018, 10:10:55 ET
Posted by: Walter Becker Way, Chicago

The weather will cooperate:
No rain forecast for event day
Current outlook is Cloudy, High 54F, Winds at 5-10 mph

WHERE: Corner of 112th Street and 72nd Drive
Forest Hills, NY 11375 (Map, and how to get there)

WHEN: Sunday, October 28 (12NOON � 1PM)

WHAT: Beckerphiles will gather in the Forest Hills
section of Queens -- the neighborhood where Becker
grew up -- for a fan-organized celebration of the naming of
a street in his honor, as a sign proclaiming "Walter Becker Way"
will be officially unveiled...just across the street from WB's
old brick and mortar home

Jim Kerr of New York�s Classic Rock Q104.3 will serve as
Master of Ceremonies & the station will stream the event
on Facebook Live

The event�s keynote speaker will be Becker�s childhood
friend, screenwriter Howard A. Rodman

An hour of Becker-centric trivia contests and giveaways, lightly
sprinkled with a few reminiscences

The event will feature some fantastic prizes and
giveaways from Walter's life. Attendees will also get
a party favor produced especially for them on this occasion,
and a Becker/Klein demo will be premiered. The name of
the demo? "This Is My Building". Fo Weal.

And a dollar isn't too much to pay, is it, for a
Becker item that sold out almost as soon as it appeared?
Especially if that dollar goes to The Jazz Foundation to support
musicians in need? So put on your wighat, think 'layers'
against the cooler temps, and hook up with 'those of your
kind' to celebrate Our Man in the Walter Becker Way.

Check walterbeckerway.com for any late-breaking
updates. This website will remain active after Sunday,
housing things like fan and press reports, videos
shown during the hour, and any other post-event
materials as may present themselves.

Alert: This event has garnered a rather startling
amount of media interest, many representatives of which have
threatened to attend.

Bring 'em on;
Becker fellows and fillies know how to represent!

Date: Thurs, October 25, 2018, 10:24:29 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol, On the road

Here we come NYC. Hoping to meet some Bbookers this weekend! Gonna be a blast!!

Date: Thurs, October 25, 2018, 09:59:20 ET
Posted by: Biff, P

Belzoni,

Solo album or not, they are still billing it as Steely Dan and there's always going to be casual fans coming out who are only "tolerating" the Nightfly and want hear some hits.

Date: Thurs, October 25, 2018, 00:20:09 ET
Posted by: Mt. Belzoni, Portland OR

Got tired of being in Portland reading review of the near-yearly Beacon residencies, wasn't sure how many more times it might occur, decided to come see it for myself. Yes, I know everyone keeps getting older (or worse), but tonight's show was one of the 5 best I've ever seen from the Dan. Best My Old School and Kid C I've ever heard them do (Herrington doing the Carlton solo verbatim, which I consider to be so essential to the song as not to be optional). Connor Kennedy was a great addition, and I don't know how Carlock can keep besting himself every time I see him. His solo during Reelin was stunning. Great bass work from Freddie Washington, Best of all - the chance to hear the deep cuts routinely denied those of us outside of NYC - Pearl was wonderful, as was King and Boston. Also nice to hear 4/7 of Aja as well.

Coming back Monday for ThE Nightly (imho the very best of all the DF/WD/SD albums). Perhaps they should stick with the DF theme on Mon., and perform a few other Donald songs after the Nightly (Century's End? Confide in Me? How about Big Noise, NY in NY?)

Date: Wed, October 24, 2018, 22:55:32 ET
Posted by: X ta C, NYC

Countdown To Ecstasy

Black Cow
19
Aja
Peg
Intros
Josie
Kid C

Reelin'

Date: Wed, October 24, 2018, 21:57:54 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

Jeffery, I've always thought that to be among the best video parodies around. Happy Halloween, indeed.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Go1jQRb3TSc

I had hoped to be in NYC this weekend, and next week, for Becker Way thing and a couple show. Alas, it was not to be.

Date: Wed, October 24, 2018, 14:31:15 ET
Posted by: Jeffrey, PA

Turns out his embarrassing memory lapse saved him further embarrassment.

Since it's Halloween time and we're on the subject of MM.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Go1jQRb3TSc

Date: Wed, October 24, 2018, 12:50:13 ET
Posted by: Bad Sneakers, NJ

I think that you should consider the possibility that you mistook someone else for Michael McDonald , since he is actually appearing all week in NYC at Cafe Carlyle ...

https://www.cafecarlylenewyork.com/events/

Date: Wed, October 24, 2018, 10:49:43 ET
Posted by: TechnicolorMotorhome, SE USA

So I was leaving the Nashville Preds hockey game last night and Michael McDonald almost walks into me. I recognized him but due to a health related issue my memory is not the best right now and I couldn't immediately remember his name. I almost said "Steely Dan!, Doobie Brothers!" because even though I couldn't remember his name right off the bat, I knew exactly who it was. Am I the only one that has had something embarrassing like that happen as we all get older?

At least if I see him at hockey again, I won't forget his name.

Date: Wed, October 24, 2018, 02:03:52 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

Yes! Connor Kennedy is the Truth!


Very encouraging posts indeed. Will have to scour for The Nightly night...

Date: Tues, October 23, 2018, 23:28:28 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, SoBe

Please let me start by saying how much I hate cell phones and auto spell even as I yet once again type on my cell while watching game one of the world series over a tray of oysters. Connor Kennedy is hardly a new comer. I would use the term "Protege" as he also sings do the research. I was lucky enough to see 3 shows of the past Nightflyer tour before Don got ill and Walter shuffled off the mortal coil and DF pulled the plug. I must apologize to the entire Steely Dan Band as my hastily thumb typed Beacon cell phone review neglected the fact these amazing past two shows would not have been responsible with out this ENTIRE band and Donald rising to the occasion. Keith Carlock's drum solos at the end of the shows until like Sonny Liston's manager Donald threw in the towel were just f%ing epic. Safe travels for the rest of the tour especially as a nasty October Nor Easter approaches.

Date: Tues, October 23, 2018, 12:13:34 ET
Posted by: Danfan, Toronto

So looking forward to seeing and hearing this new Dude with the band in 2019.

Date: Tues, October 23, 2018, 03:30:13 ET
Posted by: Clete, LI

If an otherwise unknown guitarist is the most exciting thing about SD these days, that's a pretty good indicator that everything has been on autopilot for more than a decade and people are getting bored. Aside from a Letterman appearance, nothing from Sunken Condos or Circus Money has ever been played live despite scheduling two shows giving a solo album marquee billing.

Date: Mon, October 22, 2018, 22:52:56 ET
Posted by: Barney Beacon, nj

Connor Kennedy is a bad ass! This guy plays the Steely Dan stuff so fucking good! He's not going ANYWHERE! Donald obviously loves him!

Date: Mon, October 22, 2018, 15:19:29 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, LGA On Ze Plane Boss

Thanks Gus, sorry yo have missed you
Safe travels to you and Mrs. Winterbottom

Date: Mon, October 22, 2018, 14:35:43 ET
Posted by: Bad Sneakers, NJ

Saturday night's concert at the Beacon was excellent. Best Steely Dan show I've seen in years.

Check one big item off my bucket list!
Hearing Steely Dan perform The Nightfly ...
Wow ... "Goodbye Look", "Walk Between Raindrops".
And the Beacon Theater is just such a wonderful intimate place to see and hear a concert.

Fagen was in very good voice Saturday night.
The melodica hasn't been this cool since Steve Allen.
Danettes sang Maxine ... beautifully.
Agree with Ray's comments.
Connor Kennedy IS a great addition to the band.

Date: Mon, October 22, 2018, 14:28:15 ET
Posted by: Gus Winterbottom, Torrance, CA

Thanks to everyone for the Beacon reports so far. Ray, have a safe trip home.

Date: Mon, October 22, 2018, 13:27:01 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, LGA Waiting On Ze Plane Boss

What can I say just 2 days of high energy shows and crowds. Just do 't buy the Diminishing Returns concept. Entire audience up and dancing several times both Saturday & Sunday nights. Miss Walter dearly really I do but these were two of the Best shows I have seen in a really long time. Blew 2015 Beacon out of the water. This band with Connor Kennedy is JUST better. And I am sure anyone there Saturday & Sunday would agree. Nightly was a super fans dream it was 2006 solo tour all over again and with Connor it is just like what Wayne Krantz brought to the table they are just a much better band. Did not know what to expect from often dismal Fan Voting Shows but the one was just stellar. The set list below also does not add Connor Kennedy to set list for Peg, Rikki, Jose, Reelin and Pretzel Logic. Bad Sneakers was just badass with Jon also playing some sort of electric sitar thinking and this just after breaking the badass talk box Saturday night. First really cold night in NYC but the band was hot so and then when Connor joined in it just went to another level. Trading back in fourth with Jon again for a second night in a row was pure joy. Connor sat in my row for the first half of the show. Note to Donald, just hire Connor as a second guitarist for any up coming tours. Trading back in fourth with Jon on Peg through the old blueprint out the window and the back and forth licks on Jose was totally new homecoming. Reelin soars with twin guitars ACTUALLY playing together and Pretzel Logic with these two gun slingers the old hitman and his protege were like steam rising from the Pretzel cart on a cold winter's day. Diminishing returns? Not this weekends market report. Fresh as that Statue of that newly empowered girl staring down the old stodgy bull on Wall Street.

Date: Mon, October 22, 2018, 12:36:33 ET
Posted by: Bob, Pennsyltucky

CCW,

The opening act on Saturday started at 8 and Steely Dan was on stage at 8:45.

Below is the set list from Saturday. Connor Kennedy joined the band for The Nightfly and the last three songs.

The Nightfly album

Hallelujah Time
Bodhisattva
Hey Nineteen
Time Out of Mind (Jon with the squawk box)
Babylon Sisters
Green Earrings
Keep That Same Old Feeling (band intros)
Rikki (first time I heard this arrangement)
My Old School

Encore:
Reelin' in the Years (Connor and Jon trading leads, Keith C. finished with a drum solo)
Outro - A Man Ain't Supposed to Cry

Date: Mon, October 22, 2018, 10:59:39 ET
Posted by: Pop Dem, 10 21 18

Bodhisattva
Hey Nineteen
Black Friday
Aja
Green Earrings
Bad Sneakers
Kid Charlemagne
Dirty Work
Show Biz Kids
Keep That Same Old Feeling *(intros)
Peg
Rikki Don't Lose That Number
Josie
My Old School

Reelin' In the Years
Pretzel Logic

Date: Sun, October 21, 2018, 20:55:35 ET
Posted by: ccw, NY

Can anyone share what time Steely Dan set has been starting at the Beacon shows? I'm trying to figure out what time to book dinner before the Countdown to Ecstasy show. Thanks.

Date: Sun, October 21, 2018, 18:13:23 ET
Posted by: Neil from The Bronx, New York

At the Beacon, are they re-seating people from the Balcony into better unsold seats, like they did last time.

Date: Sun, October 21, 2018, 15:43:15 ET
Posted by: Bookkeeper�s Son, Florida

Pat Bianchi is fantastic on Hammond B3. Have been privileged to see him play the last two years in Pat Martino�s bands. Once a trio, once a quintet. Great chops. DF loves him some organ groups!!

Date: Sat, October 20, 2018, 17:51:05 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, At The Amsterdam

Is there an opening act tonight cu

Date: Sat, October 20, 2018, 17:49:58 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, At The Amsterdam

Date: Sat, October 20, 2018, 15:33:38 ET
Posted by: Bad Sneakers, NJ

@Another warning, small print on my tickets actually reads:
"NY: [In New York state:] IF VENUE SEATS MORE THAN 5,000 persons, ticket may not be resold within 1,500 feet from the physical structure of this place of entertainment under penalty of law."
(Capitalization added.)

So if the capacity of the venue is under 5,000 one can assume that re-sale of legitimate tickets IS legal... including at the Beacon Theater, since it holds only around 3,000 people.

Just watch out, bros.

Date: Sat, October 20, 2018, 13:26:34 ET
Posted by: Royal, Scam

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZDQ7AW8J0uc

Date: Sat, October 20, 2018, 13:14:32 ET
Posted by: Rings, a bell

Didn't an SD roadie say something similar?

https://youtu.be/bl2LImpnZyE?t=39

Date: Fri, October 19, 2018, 17:51:19 ET
Posted by: Twas, There

The Goodbye Look was played last night, not Green Book. Otherwise that setlist seems right.

Date: Fri, October 19, 2018, 16:48:17 ET
Posted by: Another, Scurvy

Green Book?

Date: Fri, October 19, 2018, 16:01:28 ET
Posted by: Another warning, PS

In NY, it's also illegal to sell tickets within 1000 feet of the venue. A friend was once going to a Mets/Yankees game at Yankee Stadium, a hot ticket back in the early days of inter-league play. As he was approaching the entrance, an undercover cop asked if he had an extra ticket he wanted to sell. He did, and he was arrested. Do not approach anyone and ask if they want to buy a ticket. Do not sell to anyone asking to buy.

Date: Fri, October 19, 2018, 10:46:15 ET
Posted by: Bad Sneakers, NJ

WARNING ABOUT COUNTERFEIT TICKETS AT THE BEACON THEATER, NYC

On more than one occasion, counterfeit tickets have been sold in the vicinity of the Beacon Theater.

Do not pay cash unless a person will walk you to gate to have ticket scanned.

In the instances that I know of, the sellers of the fake tickets were brothers.

Date: Fri, October 19, 2018, 01:54:24 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol, Mtl

A friend at the Aja show said the previous set list has some mistakes. Just sayin'. Peace

Date: Thurs, October 18, 2018, 22:50:56 ET
Posted by: Aja, Beacon

Aja

Bodhi
19
TOOM**
FM
Intros
Green Book
Rikki
My Old School

Reelin


**Herrington on talk box...

Date: Thurs, October 18, 2018, 22:25:52 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

So, if I have this correctly, we are labeling Skunk as a Trump supporter because he was present at the signing of the Music Modernization Act. Is that right?

I honestly have no idea what the fuck that is, so I'll probably have to check it out. But just because someone supports a bill that Trump likes, doesn't necessarily make them a "Trump supporter". Maybe there is more to the story. I'd just hate to think Baxter can't see through the obvious con man that is Donald Trump. It seriously stuns me when ever someone honestly tells me they think Trump is an honest/good man. Even diehard Republicans I know think he's a steaming pile of shit---but they voted for him, and might again. But they would cringe if you called them a Trump supporter, or fan. I suppose, in the final analysis it really doesn't matter what they think of him, if they vote for him.

Date: Thurs, October 18, 2018, 22:18:01 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

Row Jimmy, always a pleasure to hear from you.

I have one minor quibble, though. I basically think of The Fez as an instrumental, for the most part. The vocals are what I would call "incidental". I feel similarly about Green Earrings. I respect your opinion, but have to say, if Don needs to take a song off, this isn't a bad choice, IMO.

Date: Thurs, October 18, 2018, 20:12:16 ET
Posted by: Row Jimmy, NYC/CT

Jon did use the talk box for Haitian Divorce.

Date: Thurs, October 18, 2018, 15:07:21 ET
Posted by: BillfromPgh, PA

Did Jon break out the talk box for Haitian Divorce? He had a mic with a tube on it in Pittsburgh so I gather it's part of his rig this tour.

Date: Thurs, October 18, 2018, 11:30:47 ET
Posted by: Row Jimmy, NYC/CT

I was at last night's show. It was great. I brought my 7-year-old to his second SD show. (His first show was Walter's last in Greenwich.) We were hanging outside the Beacon before the show and Jon Herington walked by and I got a picture of Jon with my son.

Jon was on fire, as well as the bass player and Keith Carlock. Jon really is starting to put his own interpretation into solos. Someone alluded to this in an earlier post. There were actually some jams (extended solos, grooves) during the show, which is something I have not seen at a SD show. I had not heard the bass player so exposed like last night. It was nice.

The show was a little bit short. I was surprised they did not play Aja. Not because I wanted to hear it so badly (as we hear it at all the greatest hits shows), but because it seems like a favorite of Donald's, like Time Out of Mind. Reelin' really needs to be a set closer with an encore of something different, like they did previously with Pretzel Logic.

The one downfall I had with the show was the Fez. Having the backup singers sing it is a mistake in my mind.

As far as the crowd not standing up or being rowdy, that is most shows these days. As stated previously, I am a deadhead/allmans/phishhead, so I have seen people stand and dance throughout an entire show, but that is not the case with most bands otherwise in my experience.

Overall, however, we had a great time. The Beacon is such a cool venue.

Date: Thurs, October 18, 2018, 10:54:10 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, SoBe

Thanks Bad Sneakers!
Looking forward to The Nightfly
& Popular Demand shows this weekend.

Hoping to see some old friends in NYC.

https://www.stereogum.com/2018351/kanye-west-kid-rock-donald-trump-music-modernization-act/video/

Yup, that is Skunk.

Date: Thurs, October 18, 2018, 09:20:48 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

re: My Old School - I firmly believe you have to be the change you want to see in the world for that. the SD crowd has been a sitting crowd and majority rules, but all bets are off for the closer and encore. If enough people keep doing it, the rest of the audience will have no choice but to join in or accept it.

Date: Thurs, October 18, 2018, 06:51:53 ET
Posted by: SeFoam Mean, Bodega Bay via queens

Yikes, nice review. Really got me dwelling on my parents mortality. There�s no denying a voice that�s missing but the detail about people not getting up to dance really cuts through.

Date: Thurs, October 18, 2018, 00:31:55 ET
Posted by: beaubo, cleveland

5th trek from Cleveland to Beacon for Royal Scam night.

Royal Scam full album
Bodhisattva
Hey 19
Time Out Of Mind
Peg
Intro Band song
Josie
My Old School

encore
Reeling

The set list is what it is. I always enjoy hearing Caves and Don't Take Me Alive, Haitian Divorce, so the set list was fresh on that front.

I remember when the crowd would stand and dance during My Old School, but those days seem to be gone.

I have seen SD and Fagen over 25 times last 2 decades and never really felt point of diminishing returns. But I think tonight might be that point. I had a great time and am grateful the band is still on the road and sounding great. But there was definitely not the same electricity with band or crowd. Nothing negative, just not the pinnacle anymore.

Wish I didnt feel that way, but its visceral feeling.

Date: Thurs, October 18, 2018, 00:05:15 ET
Posted by: Trump, Somewhere, anywhere

If you like a piece of shit, sexual assaulting,racist,adulterous child abducting, crooked moron who makes fun of disabled people and encourages physical violence against his enemies AND who also thinks it is okay for a journalist to be killed by his rich henchmen friends because they give us money, you have shown your own moral failings.

AKA- you hang out with shit, you get stained by shit.

Date: Wed, October 17, 2018, 21:38:20 ET
Posted by: Nate, somewhere, anywhere

Nathan, so the sole reason for you thinking he stinks is because he's a Trump supporter? Wow, how shallow. Imagine not liking a person you previously liked-unless you've never liked him to begin with-just because they have a different view point than you. You don't see me turning on Fagen even though he doesn't like Trump. At the last concert I attended he said, ".. don't look at the news, think of this as a haven from the news." I laughed along. I didn't walk out in anger.

Date: Wed, October 17, 2018, 16:43:06 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach. It's Happy Hour!

Nathan, how did you conclude Baxter was a "Pro-Trump Republican"? I understand he is a Republican, and a very big proponent of missile defense. But is there evidence he actually supports Trump? I'm asking this sincerly.

Date: Wed, October 17, 2018, 15:49:30 ET
Posted by: Nathan, NY

Skunk Baxter stinks. He's become a Pro-Trump Republican. Makes me sick to my stomach.

Date: Wed, October 17, 2018, 13:38:12 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

missles - ones that miss are even better.

Date: Wed, October 17, 2018, 13:35:17 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

re: Skunk. Both guitars and misses are phallic extensions, I guess.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5qqARrbi1h8&frags=pl%2Cwn

Date: Wed, October 17, 2018, 05:10:58 ET
Posted by: stephen, london

i have to fundamentally disagree with jeff baxter in that article.
he says that aspects of music and missiles coincide. they don't.
music is for the soul, missiles are for killing people
stephen armstrong

Date: Tues, October 16, 2018, 20:12:58 ET
Posted by: Bad Sneakers, nj

Vern...
David Palmer (Dirty Work, Brooklyn) is now a photographer.

https://peterkurtz.com/2016/06/26/the-mystery-man-of-steely-dan-an-interview-with-singer-david-palmer/

https://www.davidpalmerimages.com/about-the-artist

Date: Tues, October 16, 2018, 08:46:30 ET
Posted by: KD, asdf

Graydon shaved his mustache, and Randall moved to the UK.

I think there might be something to this, Vern.

And why DOES Dean Parks wear that wristwatch with a calculator on it?

Date: Mon, October 15, 2018, 15:00:31 ET
Posted by: Angry Bob, Still working

Vern, Elliott Randall played the lead guitar solo on Reelin in the Years and Kings from the Can't Buy a Thrill album. Jay Graydon played the lead guitar solo on Peg.

Date: Mon, October 15, 2018, 11:01:13 ET
Posted by: Danny, Harrisburg, PA

Thanks KD, I heard them the other day on WXPN in Philadelphia and thought they were real good.

Date: Mon, October 15, 2018, 09:43:23 ET
Posted by: Vern, Wisconsin

So Denny Dias played the solo on Do It Again and went on to be one of the designers of the Clipper programming language.

Skunk played the solo on Rikki and later got into missiles.

What about Elliot Randall and Jay Graydon?

Date: Mon, October 15, 2018, 08:26:20 ET
Posted by: KD, asdf

love those Brian Auger albums, they were the closest my dad got to fusion or jazz, so they always stood out when cranked up growing up. Top-notch driving discs.

that group and Traffic really loosened me up for when I was ready to go full Dan.

Date: Sun, October 14, 2018, 20:46:57 ET
Posted by: Kreg, C

https://www.businessinsider.com/trump-white-house-meeting-with-musicians-included-jeff-skunk-baxter-2018-10

Date: Sun, October 14, 2018, 18:06:10 ET
Posted by: Danny, HARRISBURG PA

I realize this probably isn't Kosher during a tour, but WTF, anybody have any thoughts on Brian Auger's Oblivion Express?

Date: Sun, October 14, 2018, 14:35:15 ET
Posted by: Bad Sneakers, NJ

You're welcome, Dean

Date: Sat, October 13, 2018, 17:57:30 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

Bad Sneakers, many thanks.

Date: Sat, October 13, 2018, 17:37:30 ET
Posted by: asstha, New York

nLwNcy <a href="http://gdanncdiediz.com/">gdanncdiediz</a>, [url=http://monnvufsjlpn.com/]monnvufsjlpn[/url], [link=http://oefhnfwoajfb.com/]oefhnfwoajfb[/link], http://euzzhmkwntyj.com/

Date: Sat, October 13, 2018, 10:27:21 ET
Posted by: Bad Sneakers, I forgot about this

Steely Dan at Greenwich Town Party on May 27, 2017
FULL CONCERT

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1sntzt-0ViV5Pe2t4XrAsrtm0K8lwQhQu/view?usp=sharing

This proved to be Walter Becker's final performance with Steely Dan.

Date: Fri, October 12, 2018, 20:28:58 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Raven, thanks for the review.

I have definitely noticed dwindling attendance at all the band's regular stops. NH was just about sold out, but that was only their 2nd time there since they've been touring, and the Doobies have a lot of fans that frequent other shows at the venue, which is mainly a country music spot. And it's one of the smaller sheds around.

The big concert business seems like a gigantic ponzi scheme these days. I'm only using Steely Dan as an example, there are dozens of bands with similar pull who are doing a similar thing, touring endlessly with no new material and little, if any, setlist variation. That's not to say the shows aren't great - with Steely Dan, at least, they are. But are there enough fans in, say, the Boston area, that are as crazy as I am and will go see essentially the same show every summer for a decade? And are all the people there paying full price, like I am? Why is it so difficult to get tickets to certain shows, but when I get there, the place is 60% full?

Don't get me wrong, I love seeing Steely Dan and I'm really glad I still can. I'm at peace with the setlists. I've never not enjoyed myself. But I wonder ...

Date: Fri, October 12, 2018, 18:41:05 ET
Posted by: Jim aka hoops, Chicago

The latest edition of the Dandom Digest was sent out in the past hour or so. It covers June 1-tody, October 12, 2018. (The previous Dandom Digest covered February 21-May 31, 2018; there also was special announcement about Michael Leonhart's new albun in June.)

The following are the subjects/headlines of the items in the latest newsletter:

Missing Walter "every day"
Take Over Bars In the Name of Walter!
PRESS RELEASE: NYC STREET NAMED FOR WALTER BECKER
New Demos, More from Walter Becker Media Archives
New Walter "Hey Nineteen" Raps
SD Shows Continue at NYC Beacon & UK
3-2-1 XTC = 45
Larry Carlton Talks on SD, Joni
Steve Gadd on "Aja"
DrumMagazine on Steve Gadd
Gary Katz Discusses Steve Gadd's Drum Solo on "Aja"
7 Guitarists X 12^2 Reels of Tape = "Peg"
Peter More, "Beautiful Disrepair"
Re: Peter More, "Beautiful Disrepair"
Carolyn Leonhart Guests on Helen Sung Album
Bill Charlap backs new Tony Bennett & Diana Krall album
Guitar Tabs & Chords for "Greenflower Street"

...followed by PRETZEL LOGIC

====

If you are a subscriber, you should have already received it. If you don't see it, check your spam filters first; then, if it's not there, please email me at jjmckay AT me DOT com.

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. Heck, if you want, email me privately that you did get it. With email filters and spam what they are today, there can be some issues beyond our control. For example, many work-place email servers reject email that it scans as having a naughty word.

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

Also, if you wrote something for this most recent Dandom Digest and it didn't appear, please email me as well.

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

---

Thanks to all who contributed to the latest edition of the Dandom Digest, be it through the emailing digest AT dandom DOT com or through posting to our BlueBook guestbook or Facebook page; or tweeting @dandomdotcom.

As always, thank you for your support and writings through the years, especially Pete and Shari, always Matt, as well as Mr. & Mrs. Winterbottom, and especially thinking of Mark, Bill, and Fezzie, and purposely not to mention a couple of people who request anonymity. And now of course in special way, Walter.

Fly about as low, be so cool,

Jim

Date: Fri, October 12, 2018, 15:57:40 ET
Posted by: Raven, Baltimore

Baltimore review

Music: Band with its current personnel sounds as good as it ever has. Don�s maintained if not improved his voice. Also really enjoyed the organ playing of the opener - Pat Bianchi. He was very impressive. Crazy chops. It�s nice to hear the music in a smaller theater rather than large outdoor sheds.

Set list: As repetitive and uninteresting as it�s ever been unfortunately. It�s a greatest hits show by and large. Not in this order: Bodi, Kid C, Don�t Take Me, Black Cow, Aja, Dirty Work, TOOM, Rikki, Reelin, New Frontier, Peg, MOS, Showbiz, Black Friday, Hey 19. Wah wahhh.

Misc: Donald looked like he had a lot of fun. He told a story about how his family did an exchange program with a family from Baltimore, so he lived in Baltimore with a different family for a little bit. Made some references to good times at a rooftop party while there. Unclear if he was making all this up or not. Seemed to be a surprise to the band mates based on their reactions, or at the very least they got a huge kick out of it. Crowd reactions to the music were good. Attendance was noteworthy: orchestra seating was mostly full, but balcony looked 50% empty if not more. Likely a consequence of recent shows in Baltimore, mispricing, and, dare I say, and one can only hope, bad set lists (maybe mgmt can convince Donald to mix it up?!!?!). Also there were many requests being shouted out suggesting we�re not the only people who are tired of these set lists. I heard Brooklyn, Boston Rag, Janie Runaway. Even Babylon Sisters, which not too long ago was a staple.

Date: Thurs, October 11, 2018, 23:53:07 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

By far the best thing on that Kid Rock/Skunk picture is this comment:

He�s the genius who rhymed �things� with �things�.

That's fucking gold, right there.

I love Skunk, but have to admit I find myself cringing about half the time I see him, these days. What a shame about...

Date: Thurs, October 11, 2018, 23:05:10 ET
Posted by: Driving like a fool, out to Hackensack

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xicM6ui-reg

Date: Thurs, October 11, 2018, 19:40:35 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

Skunk Baxter WHO citing at the signing of the new Music copyright bill for you twitterites out there:

https://twitter.com/thehill/status/1050528976412717056


https://thehill.com/sites/default/files/styles/thumb_small_article/public/trumpdonald_rockkid_10112018getty.jpg?itok=fYoTgZZj

The bill loosens protection for older music and sends it into public domain earlier. Artists in music published before 1972 break into wsongwriter and publishing owner exclusive rights. Great day for Art Garfunkel!

https://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/2018/09/senate-passes-copyright-bill-to-end-140-year-protection-for-old-songs/

The bill also provides a mechanism for songwriters to tap more into Spotify and other streaming vendors...so head for your Steely Dan channel early and often!!

Date: Thurs, October 11, 2018, 11:16:07 ET
Posted by: OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE, Queens, NYC

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


FANS TO CELEBRATE THE NAMING OF A NEW YORK CITY STREET
IN HONOR OF WALTER BECKER OF STEELY DAN

The Street Where Becker Grew Up in Queens Will Become �Walter Becker Way�

Fan-Organized Unveiling Ceremony Confirmed for October 28 at 12NOON

Jim Kerr of New York�s Classic Rock Q104.3 to Serve as Master of Ceremonies

Q104.3 to Stream Event on Facebook Live


NEW YORK, NY -- On Sunday, October 28th at 12NOON, fans, friends and relatives of Steely Dan co-founder Walter Becker will gather in the Forest Hills section of Queens - the neighborhood where he grew up - to celebrate the naming of a street in his honor. A sign proclaiming �Walter Becker Way� will be officially unveiled on the corner of 112th Street and 72nd Drive. The humor, liveliness and personal nature of this celebration assure that this commemoration will truly be marked in the Walter Becker way!

Becker would have appreciated that the day�s celebration has been entirely planned and organized by his loyal, enthusiastic fans who were such an important part of the musical community that surrounded him throughout his life. With Jim Kerr of New York�s Classic Rock Q104.3 to serve as the Master of Ceremonies and Q104.3 streaming the event on Facebook Live (https://www.facebook.com/Q1043NY/), the hour-long ceremony will begin with opening remarks by New York City Council Member Karen Koslowitz of the 29th District (Forest Hills), who proposed the street renaming.

The event�s keynote speaker will be screenwriter Howard A. Rodman, who met Becker in the neighborhood when they were both ten and remained his lifelong friend. In a moving memorial to Becker in the Los Angeles Review of Books, Rodman wrote that, even at ten, Becker was �extravagant about letting the rest of us know what to listen to, what to read, what to watch�. He�d say, �You�re going to like this in a year or so, so why don�t you start now and save yourself some time?��

In addition, the event will also feature reminiscences, trivia games, contests and giveaways� all related to the life and music of Walter Becker, who was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Steely Dan and whose solo career was characteristically sly, provocative and unique.

Information about the October 28th celebration of �Walter Becker Way� will also be posted to http://walterbeckerway.com/.

FOR MEDIA INQUIRIES/ATTENDANCE, PLEASE CONTACT: tracy@tracybufferd.com
PRESS RESOURCE PAGE: http://walterbeckerway.com/wbwayresources.html

# # #

About Walter Becker:
Walter Carl Becker (Feb. 20, 1950 - Sept. 03, 2017), was an American musician, songwriter, guitarist, bassist and record producer. In 1971, Walter Becker and his partner, Donald Fagen, formed the jazz-rock band Steely Dan, creating music that was highly regarded by critics and fellow musicians alike. His partnership with Fagen produced music that sustained a devoted audience for more than 40 years, and his solo output enjoyed uncommon critical success.

Steely Dan sold more than 40 million albums worldwide and helped define the soundtrack of the '70s with hits such as �Reelin' in the Years,� �Rikki Don't Lose That Number,� �F.M.,� �Peg,� �Hey Nineteen,� �Deacon Blues,� and �Babylon Sisters,� culled from their seven platinum albums issued between 1972 and 1980 (including 1977's groundbreaking Aja). They reunited in the early '90s, launching over a dozen sold-out tours which continued into 2017.

In 2000 they released the multi-Grammy winner (including Album of the Year) Two Against Nature, which was followed by the acclaimed album, Everything Must Go in 2003. They received The ASCAP Founder's Award in 2000 and were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2001.

Walter's solo releases include 1994's 11 Tracks of Whack, which was featured in Jon Pareles' (New York Times) Top Ten list for the year. Its long-awaited follow-up, Circus Money (2008), became an instant classic among critics and fans.

Official Website: walterbecker.com
For rarities, unreleased tracks, and fan discussion boards, please visit: walterbeckermedia.com

Date: Thurs, October 11, 2018, 09:19:01 ET
Posted by: DonBreithaupt, Los Angeles

To The Dean � You're right to assume I know a few people in the Toronto-based retro/surf/lounge group The Tiki Collective. In fact, jazz impresario and man-about-the-globe Jaymz Bee, who created the ensemble, handed me their album about two weeks ago in Hollywood. The only Monkey House overlap is William Sperandei, who does all the trumpet solos on my records that aren't by Michael Leonhart (they're both on the new one). I'll be back to mixing MH on Monday, where the chores will include trying to decide which delicious Drew Zingg takes to use...!

Date: Tues, October 09, 2018, 12:32:33 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

Thanks for all that, Bill.

Date: Tues, October 09, 2018, 11:44:35 ET
Posted by: BillfromPgh, PA

The opener last night was the Pat Bianchi Trio. www.patbianchi.com The drummer was Sanah Kadoura. https://www.facebook.com/sanah.kadoura. Still searching for the guitarist's name.

Pat Bianchi has a bunch of free downloads here: https://www.patbianchi.com/free-downloads

Date: Tues, October 09, 2018, 11:12:36 ET
Posted by: BillfromPgh, Pittsburgh

Knowledgeable review from the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette's Scott Mervis, a SD fan himself:

http://www.post-gazette.com/ae/music/2018/10/09/Steely-Dan-Heinz-Hall-review-Pittsburgh-Donald-Fagen-Keith-Carlock-Jon-Herington/stories/201810090085

One quibble - the lick-trading at the end of Green Earrings was Herington and Jim Beard on synth.

Date: Tues, October 09, 2018, 08:08:06 ET
Posted by: BillfromPgh, Pittsburgh

Great show last night. I was in the 6th row, closest I've ever been for SD. My second post-WB show, after New Orleans in May.

Donald was in great spirits and fine voice. The only rarity in the set was Goodbye Look, which he introduced as a practice run for the Beacon show, and pronounced it "pretty good, only a couple mistakes." (I didn't catch any but I think me may have come in too soon with the vocal). Started out with Jim Beard doing the synth-marimba intro like the record instead of Wayne Krantz' tricky guitar part from the solo tour. All night long Jon was on top of his game and I think he was making an effort to switch up his approach to songs he's been playing for the better part of two decades. Highlights for me were Aja, Kid Charlemagne with the new intro (three times through the coda then back to the top, works well), Black Cow, Donald's tasty solo intro to Josie and Jon copping Walter's original solo, Carlock all night.

I enjoyed the organ trio opener but didn't get their name. They did three long pieces, the second was Herbie Hancock's Maiden Voyage. The organist had chops to burn and the female drummer was channeling Tony Williams' explosive style. All three exchanged grins throughout their set and were clearly having fun. The audience seemed to appreciate them.

Date: Mon, October 08, 2018, 23:34:27 ET
Posted by: Nate, Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh show was average. Quality was excellent as always.
Can't say much about the opening band cause I was out buying a t-shirt when they started playing but they were good overall.

Setlist was average: Hallelujah Time, Bodhisattva, Black Friday, Hey Nineteen, Time Out of Mind, Aja, Black Cow, Kid Charlemagne, etc, etc. But we got The Goodbye Look which was pretty cool in my opinion. Correct me if I'm wrong, but a friend of mine told me that the last time the Steely Dan Band played Goodbye Look was back in '06.

Also sorry for my really bad recap of the show, I've only been a fan for about a year and this is my first show.

On another note a friend of mine on the lower floor heard a lady complain that they didn't play Babylon Sisters. Lol.

Date: Mon, October 08, 2018, 23:28:59 ET
Posted by: Tom, CT

Just got told by a friend that tonight they played The Goodbye Look. I don't believe the SD band has ever played it, and I don't believe Donald has played it since his 2006 tour. Doesn't surprise me much though considering they're going to be doing The Nightfly in it's entirety at the Beacon soon.

Date: Mon, October 08, 2018, 21:54:26 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

Would love a report, Gordo, if you can. Also would like to know about the opening band. Thanks.

Date: Mon, October 08, 2018, 19:00:04 ET
Posted by: Gordo, Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh. Almost showtime. Stage set up looks like a preshow.

Date: Sun, October 07, 2018, 15:39:05 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu, left of the Rio Grande

Dan-fans might enjoy a recent joint from Leon Bridges: Bad Bad News from Good Thing.


Dat funk Dat swing.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dhvgecaPqNE&frags=pl%2Cwn

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cztfyj1dVgk&frags=pl%2Cwn


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XnJe7C2rkiI&list=OLAK5uy_kJqSVGFdHAmLRDISupmX-kOCQmabKxeSU&index=10&frags=pl%2Cwn

Date: Sun, October 07, 2018, 12:56:37 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

So...my son is off the the Austin City Limits festival...but unfortunately got up too late to see this group:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IGkN3iXeHr4&frags=pl%2Cwn

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fjvWsKHaCWc&frags=pl%2Cwn

They sound like Dylan, the Kinks filtered through the Black Crowes, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Allman Bros. Almost sounds like Skunk's pedal steel. The Kids are Alright.

Date: Sun, October 07, 2018, 11:27:39 ET
Posted by: joshua anthony, USA

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Before gaining access to the Illuminati Members Portal and becoming an Initiate, citizens must display their understanding of core Illuminati principles. Prerequisite {1} examines a person�s motivations and readiness for membership. Text High Priest via email:satanismtemple01@gmail.com or whatsapp him on +441133205962

Date: Sun, October 07, 2018, 11:24:41 ET
Posted by: joshua anthony, USA

WELCOME TO THE ILLUMINATI MEMBERSHIP PORTAL. ARE YOU AWARE? WE ARE NOT GOING TO LET YOU ACHIEVE A (NEW WORLD ORDER) WITHOUT PAYING FOR IT IN BLOOD AS WELL AS IN WORDS AND MONEY!

The illuminati.am Is An Organization Of World Leaders, Business Authorities, And Other Influential Members Of This Planet.

Am Joshua Anthony, I'm a member of these great society called illuminati brotherhood. Join us today and kick out your financial problems with a monthly salary of $500,000. Your Financial welfare is our aim.

PREREQUISITE {1}PREPARATION FOR THE JOURNEY.

Before gaining access to the Illuminati Members Portal and becoming an Initiate, citizens must display their understanding of core Illuminati principles. Prerequisite {1} examines a person�s motivations and readiness for membership. Text High Priest via email:satanismtemple01@gmail.com or whatsapp him on +441133205962

Date: Sun, October 07, 2018, 01:04:42 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

LTNF, thanks for that Steely Shodan. I've heard many of their covers, but missed this one, I think.

They really are one of my favorite Dan cover bands. In fact, I think most of my favorite Dan covers are from other countries. Sara Isaksson & Rebecka T�rnqvist and 2ofUs (I assume they are Italian, but I'm not sure) spring immediately to mind.

Date: Sun, October 07, 2018, 00:03:59 ET
Posted by: tommytomato, OH

10-6-2018 Toledo OH Stranahan Theatre

hallelujah time
bodhisattva
hey 19
black friday
aja
black cow
time out of mind
kid charlemagne
rikki
green earrings
dirty work
babylon sisters
peg
keep that same old feeling/intros
josie
my old school

reelin'
a man ain't supposed to cry

Date: Sat, October 06, 2018, 22:10:09 ET
Posted by: LTNF, HBR

You're for tuff registration....

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AyZA1JTR3JM

Date: Sat, October 06, 2018, 17:47:49 ET
Posted by: tpxhtpznml, New York

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Date: Sat, October 06, 2018, 16:04:02 ET
Posted by: xfcanxj, New York

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Date: Sat, October 06, 2018, 13:39:14 ET
Posted by: hesxpqp, New York

Z8cRZg <a href="http://qtpfuohsiyhb.com/">qtpfuohsiyhb</a>, [url=http://smqaqsdnypvm.com/]smqaqsdnypvm[/url], [link=http://jzrfvbbrtfhu.com/]jzrfvbbrtfhu[/link], http://tvhicjpobqsa.com/

Date: Fri, October 05, 2018, 20:48:13 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

Wayne, Dean. Very nice. So glad they got rid of those 70s shit backgrounds.Great sounds. Yeah, Bodhi's weird with only 1 guitarist.

While waiting for the next MH and concert clim...revisting a few Prefab Sprout songs heavy on the Dan-ish

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e7VurhK2kos&index=12&list=PLlfBaLLewwsQi-IcoOhzhsWxbNN3m9Q7B&frags=pl%2Cwn

Funky altered blues

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hS-aD-9DYEg&frags=pl%2Cwn

Date: Fri, October 05, 2018, 19:23:29 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach. It's Happy Hour!

Wayne. Thanks for the links. That guy is posting more vids all the time. This one posted about 20 minutes ago


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YxUaPa3APTE

Date: Fri, October 05, 2018, 19:11:41 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach. It's Happy Hour!

Sneakers, I tend to agree. Even though I absolutely loved the Nightflyers' show, and Connor's playing, I really missed the guitar interplay, on several of the songs. It just adds so much.

That's not to say it can't be good with just one guitar (and interplay with other instruments). And Walt had a particular way of blending that is hard to duplicate---and maybe that's why they are trying. Dunno--just wondering.

I also really miss the vibes, but I doubt they're coming back.

Date: Fri, October 05, 2018, 17:20:15 ET
Posted by: Wayne Fort, IN

Josie - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pvF5NwN8E-8

Rikki - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AMCfeEhfZw8

Date: Fri, October 05, 2018, 16:29:04 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol, Mtl

It will always be weird without Walter.

Date: Fri, October 05, 2018, 13:54:42 ET
Posted by: BadSneakers, waiting

Lots of their signature sound has always been the interplay of two guitars...

Is/are there any guest guitarist(s) this time out?

Date: Fri, October 05, 2018, 06:59:30 ET
Posted by: Dan Belcher, Louisville, KY

There was an opening act in Louisville, a jazz quartet. (Some of the members of that band actually are members of a Steely Dan tribute band as well, Steely Danish) They played for 30 minutes, then Steely Dan came out at 8:45. That worked out nicely for me since I couldn't get to the show early, and after standing in the long line to get in thanks to security checks, it was about 8:10 before I got to my seat. Very solid show. Since we're early into this leg of the tour, Donald's voice was fresh and not sounding strained, but unfortunately he flubbed more lyrics than usual. (I did laugh when we got an extra few bars of instrumental action in the first verse of Kid Charlemagne when he got on the wrong page of his songbook and started flipping through it frantically.) Don't Take Me Alive was a nice unexpected touch, I don't think I've actually gotten to hear that one live in years. It's still incredibly weird not having Walter up there, but at least the music lives on.

Date: Thurs, October 04, 2018, 23:46:57 ET
Posted by: tommytomato, OH

10-4-2018 Ft. Wayne IN Embassy Theatre

1. hallelujah time
2. bodhisattva
3. hey 19
4. black friday
5. aja
6. black cow
7. time out of mind
8. kid charlemagne
9. rikki
10. godwhacker
11. dirty work
12. home at last
13. peg
14. keep that same old feeling/band intro
15. josie
16. my old school

17. reelin'
18. a man ain't suppose to cry

Date: Thurs, October 04, 2018, 22:47:41 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

Sara, I'm shocked someone from this excellent community hasn't responded by now. Let me just say, I can't be sure what they are doing on this tour, as I have yet to see them this time (hoping for a Beacon show). But let me just say this, re your question.

If there is an opening act, it's likely one that will play a 30-45 minute set. In my experience, many of these openers start BEFORE the posted time for Steely Dan. As these bands tend to be very good (IMO, of course) I think it behooves you to get there early, just in case.

In the recent set list post, nobody has mentioned the opening band. That's typically a sign there wasn't one---but not proof. Best bet, call the venue. 2nd best bet, get there early.

Once in San Francisco, I had fabulous front-and-center seats to the opera---company seats. I took my lovely date to dinner and then raced to the show---only to find we were one minute late for the start. To the credit of the opera, they only let you take your seat between acts. To the discredit of the composer (Wagner), it was a long, one-act performance. We were stuck standing in the back for the entire performance. To the credit of my lovely date, there wasn't even one complaint. The point of this seemingly senseless tirade is this: Just get to the show early.

Date: Thurs, October 04, 2018, 19:18:35 ET
Posted by: Ken Tucky, 10/03/2018

Hallelujah Time (walk on)
Bodhisattva
Hey 19
Black Friday
Aja
Black Cow
Time Out Of Mind
Kid Charlemagne
Rikki Don't Lose That Number
Green Earrings
Dirty Work
Don't Take Me Alive
Peg
Keep That Same Old Feeling� (intros)
Josie
My Old School
Reelin In The Years
A Man Ain't Supposed to Cry (walk off)

Date: Thurs, October 04, 2018, 14:08:19 ET
Posted by: Sara, Flying high in the sky

I asked at some other Steely Dan fan places but no one responded.

For the past couple shows, and tonight, is there an opening act? Does SD start the show very promptly? Roughly, how long does the show run ?

Thank you.

Date: Wed, October 03, 2018, 16:13:14 ET
Posted by: BadSneakers, nj

Thanks oleander, that was interesting.
Here's another SPOILER below. Stop reading if you don't want to see the entire puzzle below...


















Acrostic Solution for Sunday, September 30, 2018
by Emily Cox & Henry Rathvon

Quote:
"I started going to jazz clubs in New York when I was twelve or thirteen... . I remember seeing... Count Basie at... Birdland... . When the whole band pumped out one of those thirteenth chords, you could feel the breeze on your face."*




A.
Slang for a marijuana cigarette
DOOBIE

B.
Orchestra rather downsized
OCTET

C.
Essay in which Ralph Waldo Emerson stated his creed
NATURE

D.
One credited with an act of creation
AUTHOR

E.
Kind of suit for a lounge lizard
LEISURE

F.
Misfit with no cool
DWEEB





G.
Object of obsessive devotion
FETISH

H.
Bohemian
ARTY

I.
Cowboy on the pampas of Argentina
GAUCHO

J.
Duke Ellington's first name
EDWARD
K.
Musical interval of an octave and a second
NINTH





L.
What passes, perishes and palls, in an old saying
EVERYTHING

M.
Who doesn't know what's happening, in a Dylan song
MRJONES

N.
Like Ernest Shackleton's ship before it sank
ICEBOUND

O.
Situated below the surface
NETHER

P.
Organist's tool for creating an atmospheric effect
ECHOSTOP

Q.
William S. Burroughs novel once banned in Boston
NAKEDLUNCH

R.
Quality of sound
TIMBRE





S.
Chicago blues singer of "Spoonful"
HOWLINWOLF
T.
Guitar brand of Japan
IBANEZ
U.
Symbol of a knotty situation
PRETZEL

V.
TV, Hollywood, music gigs, etc.
SHOWBIZ

W.
Small matchup in golf
TWOSOME

X.
Where Captain Hook was educated
ETON

Y.
One asking to be taken in
REFUGEE
Z.
Group co-founded by the writer of this puzzle's quote
STEELYDAN





* DONALD FAGEN, EMINENT HIPSTERS

This acrostic � 2018, The New York Times.
XWord Info � 2007-2018, Jim Horne.

Date: Wed, October 03, 2018, 15:31:16 ET
Posted by: Flikid, Red State

Was no one associated with the Blue Book at the Richmond show on Monday?

Date: Tues, October 02, 2018, 20:03:57 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

Not sure how Dan-related this is, but I'm guessing Don Breithaupt knows (and probably has played with) some in this "collective".

The Tiki Collective has a new album, Muse: https://www.thewholenote.com/index.php/booksrecords2/potpourri/28281-muse-the-tiki-collective

I heard this bizarre cover of Don't Fear the Reaper on radio this afternoon. I've now heard about three of the songs from the album, and I have to say, I like it. It ain't life altering, but it's got a nice lounge feel to it. I hope you dig:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JT4eHGs59Zs

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UcQ9RBnDDMo

Date: Tues, October 02, 2018, 12:30:58 ET
Posted by: Louis Ville, Behind ya

Steely Dan in KY....fitting start!

Date: Tues, October 02, 2018, 08:55:41 ET
Posted by: squidley, South Austin

Dear oleander,

Long time lurker here. Thank you so much for sharing the acrostic. Nicely done, and a well needed distraction.

S

Date: Tues, October 02, 2018, 01:42:02 ET
Posted by: squidley, South Austin

Dear oleander,

Long time lurker here. Thank you so much for sharing the acrostic. Nicely done, and a well needed distraction.

S

Date: Mon, October 01, 2018, 13:59:38 ET
Posted by: tommytomato, OH

Anybody getting together for "Danfest" in Ft. Wayne or Toledo?

Date: Sun, September 30, 2018, 12:06:02 ET
Posted by: oleander, The Acrostic Circle

Attention all Danophilic wordgeeks:

Today's NY Times Acrostic is devoted to Steely Dan.

SPOILER ALERT: If you do the acrostic, and if you haven't done today's yet, READ NO FURTHER.

For those who are not into the NYT puzzle page or who have already solved it, here's a precis:




Every other week or so, the NYT publishes an acrostic by Emily Cox and Henry Rathvon, who are absolute masters of the craft. Not only does the puzzle spell out a quote, but the first letters of the answers spell out the author and source of the quote. In addition, the clues to the quote often refer in themselves to the author or work cited.

So today, the quote's author is...Donald Fagen, and the quote is from "Eminent Hipsters":

I started going to jazz clubs in New York when I was twelve or thirteen. I remember seeing Count Basie at Birdland. When the whole band pumped out one of those thirteenth chords you could feel the breeze on your face.

[please forgive any punctuation errors--I don't have the book right in front of me]

OK, not only is having Dan-related content in the NYT puzzle page ultra-cool, but the subtle inclusion of Dan-refs in the clues gilds the steely lily, from band members to influences to origin stories to tune titles. Por ejemplo:

Slang for a marijuana cigarette: DOOBIE
Essay in which Ralph Waldo Emerson stated his creed: NATURE
Cowboy on the pampas of Argentina: GAUCHO
What passes, perishes and palls, in an old saying: EVERYTHING
William S. Burroughs novel once banned in Boston: NAKED LUNCH
Symbol of a knotty situation: PRETZEL
TV, Hollywood, music gigs, etc.: SHOWBIZ
Small matchup in golf: TWOSOME [another ref to Two Against Nature, or to Babylon Sisters?]
Like Ernest Shackleton's ship before it sank: ICEBOUND [ref to "Snowbound"?]

And of course:
Group co-founded by the writer of this puzzle's quote: STEELY DAN

There's even a clue, "Kind of suit for a lounge lizard...LEISURE" that evokes the immortal Anton Corbijn photo of the duo, not to mention Christgau's RS review of "Sunken Condos'" "Slinky Thing" protagonist: "an ED-defying lounge lizard."

And while not mentioning, I'll also mention other musical clues such as OCTET, NINTH, TIMBRE, MR. JONES, HOWLIN' WOLF, EDWARD [Duke Ellington's first name], ECHOSTOP, and IBANEZ.

You may also regale in other Dan-resonant terms such as FETISH, AUTHOR, ARTY, and NETHER. Cox and Rathvon HAVE to be dyed-in-the-wool Steely fans to have woven such a splendid tapestry of Dan-refs.

Yours in abject delight at the confluence of some of my musical and enigmatological heroes,

"Misfit with no cool...DWEEB"

aka

Common median plant of which all parts are toxic...OLEANDER

Date: Sun, September 30, 2018, 11:56:16 ET
Posted by: KD, asdf

shoot, should have lent a reminder link (because it wasn't as easy to internet search as I remembered)

http://sdarchive.com/morningscan.01.html

I didn't get to see these until 98-99, the background font is in the same color as the page from the mid-90s that used to transcribe Bill Hicks' London shows (for midwestern high school dudes to print off and take to class).

Becker was there to help me get through college, couple of years later. At least my advanced program.

Bless that dude.

Date: Sun, September 30, 2018, 05:45:40 ET
Posted by: ndalmqtn, New York

G0dqun <a href="http://skgfqrjyuoyv.com/">skgfqrjyuoyv</a>, [url=http://zwpvndmhtiab.com/]zwpvndmhtiab[/url], [link=http://ijdbxxhihgat.com/]ijdbxxhihgat[/link], http://hazpyavacioy.com/

Date: Sat, September 29, 2018, 14:21:38 ET
Posted by: Abu, Dark Horizon

Wayne Raglan recorded a decent instrumental cover of Gaslighting Abbie in 2003. Her cousin posted that he passed away on September 22. She posted his obit on the video for that cover on YouTube (the obit spells his last name as Ragland). "He had fans all over the world. Wayne played classical guitar, acoustic 6 and 12 string (which can be heard on "Tears" from his album Spacewalk,) jazz, rock and blues; 4-5 and 6 string electric fretted and fretless basses, drums and keyboards...Wayne had the opportunity to work with Chubby Checker, Anthony Jackson (Michel Camilo), Carlos Alomar (David Bowie), The Pretenders, Joe Simon, Ben E. King, The Drifters, Johnny Thunder and Rudy Clark among others." He is listed as Wayne Raglind on Allmusic, as well as Raglan. The cover of the above song is found on his album Dark Horizon. It used to be available on CDBaby but now it seems hard to find. I purchased the CD in 2014. Below is the cover of Gaslighting Abbie:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WBibuOJY0As
.

Date: Sat, September 29, 2018, 11:48:48 ET
Posted by: Nicholas Urfe, Phraxos

I tracked down the German business, then spent an enjoyable hour reading all of the posts. Thanks for sending me there.

Date: Fri, September 28, 2018, 23:57:09 ET
Posted by: M/O/D/P, Not really answering the question at all, but instead posting more deliberate obtusities, and in doing so possibly adding to the confusion (for some, anyways) in the process, all while listening to Jack of Speed, live from The Gorge '96.

I get the inclusion of the presumably-highly-entertaining videos ("What Daisy Saw", "Madeleine's Education", etc.), but what the hell were the handcuffs for? I guess we'll never know, not that it actually matters now...

The point is, some of us really miss WB.

Date: Fri, September 28, 2018, 08:48:11 ET
Posted by: Nicholas Urfe, Phraxos

What is this damnable German Fiasco, and how is it possible that it can be sorted out by a bunch of aging boomers in need of physical and cosmetic aids, sad sacks all?

Date: Thurs, September 27, 2018, 21:59:09 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol, Mtl.

Hey M/O/D/P! Drop me a line, cuz I'm ready!

Date: Thurs, September 27, 2018, 21:16:50 ET
Posted by: M/O/D/P, Ready for another tour?

KD - There will be no sorting out of any sort until I get my orthopedic socks and Grecian Formula.

Date: Thurs, September 27, 2018, 13:03:26 ET
Posted by: KD, asdf

SORT OUT GERMAN FIASCO ASAP!!!

Date: Thurs, September 27, 2018, 00:31:46 ET
Posted by: Jimmie, SC

Glenn Frey has a son named Deacon. Steve Lukather's son is named Bodhi. That's either a nod to SD or Patrick Swayze.

Date: Wed, September 26, 2018, 09:15:13 ET
Posted by: Mike Four, OH

The Farrelly brothers directed Me, Myself & Irene. According to the movie's trivia contributions:

The Green Book's title and subject matter reference The Negro Motorist Green Book, which was published from 1936-1966. The guide was critical to helping African-Americans find lodging and businesses that weren't segregated, especially in the South where white supremacists enacted so-called Jim Crow laws.

Date: Tues, September 25, 2018, 12:32:26 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

One of the Farrelly brothers is the producer of Green Book. I believe they are well known as Dan heads.

Date: Mon, September 24, 2018, 22:33:10 ET
Posted by: the news, joking

New movie coming called Green Book, about a pianist who tours the Southland in the 1960s.

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt6966692/?ref_=nv_sr_1

Date: Sat, September 22, 2018, 11:07:36 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

Best "Cover" of Weather in my Head was the Nightflyers. Connor Kennedy rocks the solo!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mcEi0nlc4ao&frags=pl%2Cwn

Date: Fri, September 21, 2018, 21:16:49 ET
Posted by: Abu, CA

Nate from PA, your friend's cover is nicely done. Perhaps you can convince him to do another Fagen, or even a Becker cover in the future. There are not many decent covers of Sunken Condos stuff, with the exception of a excellent quality cover of Good Stuff by Bradley Smith, and two versions of Weather in my Head, one by the Chris Baum Project and the other by the Kites.

Date: Thurs, September 20, 2018, 22:38:54 ET
Posted by: FF, D2

Don should do a song about mopeds and make them cool like he did with bowling.

Date: Thurs, September 20, 2018, 21:32:33 ET
Posted by: Nate, PA

Guy I know did a pretty good cover of Miss Marlene.

https://youtu.be/ugMQutl72TE

Date: Thurs, September 20, 2018, 20:02:22 ET
Posted by: ,

"Only One Season" is my favorite so far of the posthumously-released tracks. Thank you, again, Walter Becker Media, for releasing the tracks. A real treat!

Date: Wed, September 19, 2018, 08:50:56 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Bern, he comes out at the same time with the Danettes.

The show is basically the same, except for the one thing that makes it completely different and still a little alien.

Structurally, superficially, it hasn't really changed. Jazz instrumental opener, main set, band intros towards the end, outro after the encore, etc.

Date: Tues, September 18, 2018, 22:06:25 ET
Posted by: Bern, MD

I haven't seen an SD show without Walter. I know the band used to come out first and then Don and Walt together. I can't imagine Donald wanting to do that alone. How does that progress now?

Date: Tues, September 18, 2018, 15:19:42 ET
Posted by: Jim , Aka hoops

Clara:

Thank you for your interest and reaching out.

Waiting on a bit of news�nothing earth shattering, but of a timely nature nevertheless.

So hold onto your horses, and expect to get things finalized within 24-48 hrs.

Again, thank you.

Jim

A.k.a. hoops

Date: Tues, September 18, 2018, 14:13:30 ET
Posted by: Clara Peller, on line at wendy's

Where's the digest that was promised?

Date: Mon, September 17, 2018, 18:41:06 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol, Mtl.

Seven years goes by fast.
Peace

Date: Mon, September 17, 2018, 17:03:28 ET
Posted by: Barney Beacon, is back!

I love Circus Money. Not a huge fan of 11TOW. Not a fan of "Our Lawn". Then again, I dig Steely because of Fagen's voice.

Date: Sat, September 15, 2018, 13:33:51 ET
Posted by: Wayne, ME

Anyone hear a Neil Young influence in This All Too Mobile Home?

Date: Sat, September 15, 2018, 11:47:02 ET
Posted by: Nate, PA

Our Lawn?! Holy shit. I've wanted to hear this for a while, but does anyone know where to find a high quality live version? The only one I've found is very low quality and hard to hear. Nonetheless, this is pretty freakin cool.

Date: Fri, September 14, 2018, 19:13:16 ET
Posted by: Hans Roman Wippel,

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Date: Fri, September 14, 2018, 15:54:09 ET
Posted by: WB Mod, front porch

"Hey, you galdurn whippersnappers, get the heck off OUR LAWN!

https://www.walterbeckermedia.com/forum/rarities-unreleased/our-lawn

Date: Fri, September 14, 2018, 12:20:38 ET
Posted by: Robert Z, NYC ,NY

Dylan's 7 night Beacon Theatre run -

https://www.ticketmaster.com/Bob-Dylan-tickets/artist/734972?tm_link=tm_homeA_k3

Date: Thurs, September 13, 2018, 20:04:14 ET
Posted by: Abu, Waiting for Friday

Thanks Don B for the updates on Wednesday and another on Thursday about Friday, the new Monkey House album. Can't wait! Would love if you guys do a tour this time. It would be awesome, I'm sure. One would expect, of course, that the album will have to be released on a Friday.

Date: Thurs, September 13, 2018, 10:29:47 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

A new Dandom Digest will be coming out in the next 48-36 hours. This is an opportunity to reach over 1,000 long-time Steely Dan fans who, although may not be able to follow every Steely-related micomovement like those of us on Facebook and other social media outlets, still like to check in for The Big News. Please submit any special stories or info that you would like to see included with 24-48 hours...If you have something that you would like to propose, but need time, let me know and I will "hold the door." Please contact me via jjmckay AT me DOT com.

If you wish to subscribe to the Dandom Digest, check out http://www.dandom.com/dandomdigest/index.html or email me at jjmckay AT me DOT com .

The Dandom Digest, founded in 1993 as it traces its roots to the University of Ilinois at Urbana-Champaign, is believed to be the first and oldest Steely Dan fan resource on the Internet--always not-for-profit and ad-free for over 25 years.

So far we have topics ranging from Beacon and UK tours; WalterBecker.com/WalterBeckerMedia.com/Hey19 dbase events/adds; links to several interviews including with Larry Carlton and Steve Gadd; and more.

Thanks for your support and love.

Jim aka hoops

Date: Thurs, September 13, 2018, 09:09:41 ET
Posted by: DonBreithaupt, Los Angeles

Lutz, ain't no praise higher than that! The new Monkey House will also feature The Manhattan Transfer, and, on the opening track, the incredible Montreal-based saxophonist Francois D'Amours, who is bananas good. He channels Brecker and Tom Scott, and never has a bad take. Longtime Gino Vannelli sideman.

Date: Wed, September 12, 2018, 23:26:24 ET
Posted by: Lutz, SF

Don, that's fantastic news! Can't wait for the new one.
In my house, your music is among the most listened to / never gets old material.
Usually after spinning some tunes a lot, a little fatigue sets in and it's shelved for a while.
Don's, Walt's and your stuff is so different.
Also - major compliments to your band. If we didn't know, we would be guessing who's who and throw around some very famous names.
Congrats on all around superiority!

Date: Wed, September 12, 2018, 18:48:26 ET
Posted by: DonBreithaupt, Los Angeles

Hey Abu, thanks for keeping the fire! I can confirm the participation of both Michael Leonhart and Drew Zingg in the forthcoming Monkey House album FRIDAY — also Snarky Puppy guitar slinger Mark Lettieri.

Date: Wed, September 12, 2018, 09:36:43 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

BHSyd - Nope

Date: Wed, September 12, 2018, 08:27:35 ET
Posted by: BadSneakers, received email...

4-Pack pricing available for October 24th (Countdown to Ecstasy) and October 29th (The Nightfly) for $101.

Date: Wed, September 12, 2018, 06:40:49 ET
Posted by: BHSyd, Down Under

Does Walter Becker play guitar (uncredited) on the track "Memorabilia" on Sunken Condos? I'm referring to the subtle finger/thumb picked electric guitar which is low in the mix in the left speaker.

Date: Mon, September 10, 2018, 22:04:58 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol, Mtl

Gettin' stoked for NYC in the fall!

Date: Sat, September 08, 2018, 18:37:57 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach. It's Happy Hour!

Bob, somehow your link is missing the ".com" in the url. This link should work:

https://www.tvovermind.com/music/the-top-uses-of-steely-dan-songs-in-movies-or-tv


Thanks for the heads-up.

Date: Sat, September 08, 2018, 15:00:54 ET
Posted by: Angry Bob, relaxing

New article appeared yesterday entitled "The Top Uses of Steely Dan Songs in Movies or TV". Link below:

https://www.tvovermind/music/the-top-uses-of-steely-dan-songs-in-movies-or-tv

Date: Wed, September 05, 2018, 22:55:02 ET
Posted by: Earthbound Keith, Laughalot, IN

Question for peeps with “front row” tickets for Larry Carlton at
Indy Jazz Fest, coming right up: If you are a couple that would
like to sit at our 4-top table at Rathskeller, please holler soon
to my email above and I can give names to reserve for table.

Much aloha,
Keith

Date: Wed, September 05, 2018, 22:34:19 ET
Posted by: Maybe you've seen this, But it was new to me

Homer singing Dirty Work.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yb5yKlvSGQk

Date: Tues, September 04, 2018, 16:05:25 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

I'm sorry I missed True Companion live. What a tremendous songs. It's quite some time for the vocals to begin, but the higher than tight harmonies are worth the wait.

Date: Mon, September 03, 2018, 23:58:18 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

In 1993, I went to the first Steely Dan concert in Detroit. When Walter sang the then unknown songs, everyone started talking or taking a rest room break. Ditto for “True Companion”--a wonderfully low-key song ruined by the audience chit-chatting during a lesser known cut. So two nights later, for the Poplar Creek show, I had second row seats. I decided I'd make a sign that said something like, "Thank you for singing, Walter" that I displayed when Walter sang and people started gabbing, etc. So at that time, anyone on the Dandom Digest who wanted a sign, I'd print one up and send it them to display during Walter's vocal performance. I understand that a couple of times, Walter acknowledged the signs. Maybe four or five shows each tour, three or four of us holding them up at shows on the '93, '94 (the first year of Danfests) and '96. So it wasn't like crazy everywhere, we Danfans had a great time supporting WB in our own, cute way.

So there was a slightly different sign for '96. McDonald's had this sandwich called the Arch Deluxe that was "Adult food for Adult Tastes" or some slogan like that. The sign was a variation the logo for the sandwich which McD discontinued not too long afterwards. I held up one if these signs at Tinley Park, IL, East Troy,WI and George, WA. I know I sent out another three or four to people at shows I didn't attend. Shoreline was one.

In retrospect, I really don’t like the idea of comparing Walter to fast food, since Walter is a total class act, but then I suppose The sandwiches was marketed as a classy alternative to Big Macs. but like I said, we all had our heart in the right place, with a lot of love for Walter. It was all part of a very sweet and fun time.

We still miss you so much, Walter.

Date: Mon, September 03, 2018, 20:27:38 ET
Posted by: M/O/D/P, Toronto

Miss you Walt.

Date: Mon, September 03, 2018, 17:17:16 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

UK stadium tour. Yacht goes Arena.

https://www.broadwayworld.com/westend/article/Steely-Dan-Announces-UK-Arena-Tour-20180903

Date: Mon, September 03, 2018, 17:16:07 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

One year ago this morning, forever in memoriam. From the highest high after Donald Fagen and the Nightflyers concert in Austin where they set the place on fiyah, to the lowest low the following morning. Am still in recovery and rehab.


Walt's spirit lives on in the music, spurious writings and quips and clips, the band, and Greenbooks everywhere.

Date: Mon, September 03, 2018, 11:54:13 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol, Mtl

Miss you Walt.

Date: Mon, September 03, 2018, 09:00:17 ET
Posted by: Marc, T

Interesting that on Sep. 3, they announced a tour starting on Feb 20.

Date: Mon, September 03, 2018, 05:22:53 ET
Posted by: Robert,

Breaking News for Danheads in Europe: February tour of the UK! Dates on Livenation.co.uk!

Date: Thurs, August 30, 2018, 22:00:27 ET
Posted by: Denise, Hinktown

New web pages design

http://www.walterbecker.com

https://www.walterbeckermedia.com

Coming up on the anniversary of his passing - irreplaceable WB

Date: Thurs, August 30, 2018, 21:11:04 ET
Posted by: M/O/D/P, Caveat emptor

The Dean - Sure, we saw Steely Dan (in extra-fine form, by the way) at The Beacon, front 'n' center in 2015, but have you forgotten the 2016 show (they called it, "The Most Incredible Night Of Whatever" or some such silly promotional silliness) where we sat in the second row of The Loge, but almost all the way to the stage left side of things? Neither one of us complained about anything being obstructed that night. Not that I remember, anyways. Maybe your friends were suffering from some other kind of obstruction?

And as far as the figure I posted from that peer reviewed study, I'm somewhat embarrassed to admit here that the 18.6% number quoted was a typographical error on my part. The actual number should read, "68.1%". What's the damn point of quoting a scientific study if you're gonna get it wrong? No point at all, and I'm glad I had this opportunity to set the record right. And, of course that figure does include those pre-and-post show appearances you allude to. As it should.

Date: Thurs, August 30, 2018, 11:25:21 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

I'll mostly echo what M/O/D/P has to say, with just a couple caveats.

M/O/D/P and I had fantastic seats front and center of the loge, at the Beacon. Great seats. Great sound. Friends of mine were also sittin in the front loge, but far to the left (stage right). My buddy complained he could not see everyone in the band and felt as though the seat should have been labeled "obstructed view". IMO the reality is probably the seats are unobstructed for most acts. But for ensembles as large as Steely Dan, seats far to either end could result in less than a complete view of the band.

So yes, the lodge is a GREAT place to see a show. But you may want to be careful about the extreme angles. I like to stick to the center section, or the most center of either left or right sections. Tends to be best for the sound, too.

I'd like to think I added slightly more than an additional 18.6% to the experience. But then again, I'm taking the pre and post show appearances into consideration.

Date: Wed, August 29, 2018, 17:04:50 ET
Posted by: M/O/D/P, About one hour north of The Beacon right now

Bookkeeper's Son - I'll chime in with my two cents. The Loge is one of my favorite places to sit and see a live show. Decent sound (although acoustically it isn't Massey Hall)and good, clear sightlines. I would say that as nice as it is to sit in the front row, it isn't worth the price when you can get tickets just a few rows back (there are only nine rows) - essentially the same view - for significantly less. I don't believe there are any "bad" seats or obstructed view seats. For example, here are some current prices for Nightfly night:

Loge (front row) - $300.00 (plus the usual bend-over-and-take-THAT! fees/charges)

OR

Loge (3rd row) - An only slightly less punitive $246.00 ("plus")

OR

Loge (4th row through 9th row) - How about $156.00 (plus the mandatory TicketBastard cornholing)? That sounds better, no?

My advice? If you have the chance, see a Steely Dan show from the Loge. If you can, be sure to sit next to The Dean. As great as the show may end up being, the decision to sit next to that guy will make the event at least 18.6% more enjoyable than it otherwise would have been. According to a recent peer reviewed study conducted by me, that is.

M/O/D/P

Date: Wed, August 29, 2018, 10:38:02 ET
Posted by: Fred, Derf

Amazing piece on Larry Carlton:

https://musicaficionado.blog/2018/08/29/larry-carltons-sessions-with-steely-dan-and-joni-mitchell/

Date: Wed, August 29, 2018, 09:35:33 ET
Posted by: Bookkeeper's Son, Florida

Thinking about going to a show or two with SD residency at the Beacon. How are seats in the Loge section that theater? Are there ones to avoid or are all basically the same. Thanks!!

Date: Sat, August 25, 2018, 08:44:36 ET
Posted by: ws, k

http://ultimateclassicrock.com/peter-more-donald-fagen-beautiful-disrepair/

Date: Tues, August 21, 2018, 18:32:40 ET
Posted by: Abu, Friday at Monkey House

Have not seen anything posted here of late: Don Breithaupt posted on his Monkey House page on Facebook a couple of weeks ago that the new album will be called "Friday". He says that the mixes are underway. Last word from Don was he was expecting a late 2018 or early 2019 release date. Can't wait!

Date: Sun, August 19, 2018, 13:50:35 ET
Posted by: SD, expert level trivia

Pat Benetar had a song called Hell is for Children about the physical abuse of children which somewhat incongruously shared album space with the hit single Hit Me with your Best Shot.

Explain how Katy Lied is similarly creepy.

Date: Sun, August 19, 2018, 13:04:29 ET
Posted by: Al, PA

At Blossom in Ohio, a much more frugal culture than New Jersey, there were signs warning "mud sliders will be prosecuted" when I went to the 2003 SD show there. I wonder what the penalty is.

Date: Sun, August 19, 2018, 12:47:07 ET
Posted by: BadSneakers, NJ

MY OLD ...

In the days following the SD show at the PNC Bank Arts Center. I was hoping to post thoughts about the show while the memory was fresh and new in my mind... but I didn't.

So I'll just type some things that I can remember...

The show was not sold out. I was at the show alone... I spent part of the Doobie Brothers' set moving forward from my cheap seat in the back of the amphitheater down toward the orchestra. I approached this "self-upgrade" process deliberately... Before the show, from the Ticketbastard website, I made screenshots and printouts... creating a "treasure map" of sections and available seats. By the end of the Doobies' set, I had managed to get all the way down to orchestra left, around tenth row. Doobie Brothers sounded great, as expected. Before the Doobie set ended... JACKPOT! I spotted a used orchestra seat ticket on the floor. This scrap of paper assured that during the intermission, I could leave the orchestra section and easily walk back in past any usher.

Intermission doobie...

The band was hot so... Tight as always. Great enthusiastic hometown crowd.

First four usual numbers... Then a welcome surprise: "FM"... Far out, man.
Donald in good voice...

Jon Herrington sounded great as usual. Herrington switching back and forth from lead to rhythm when he has to -- though effortless... it just doesn't cut it. I remember thinking several times that they really *need* two guitars.

Towards the end Donald introduces Connor Kennedy, who played on the last three numbers, which included the encore.

For laughs -- I pulled a Bic lighter from my pocket and held the flame high, amidst all the smartphone screens while we stood and clapped and cheered awaiting the encore.

It was good to see Jon Herrington singing backup for the encore - Reelin' In The Years...

During A Man Ain't Supposed to Cry, when Donald exied to stage right and Connor Kennedy exited to the left...

Date: Sat, August 18, 2018, 01:01:09 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

Angry Bob,


It's more like Hey 90! now


"He wears a hearing aid..."

Date: Fri, August 17, 2018, 12:53:42 ET
Posted by: Angry Bob, working

Sorry Chet, no links available right now.

Date: Fri, August 17, 2018, 11:04:09 ET
Posted by: BadSneakers, D

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

This one will probably seem especially old right now
maybe this will make us All Less Angry, Bob
No, it isn't Bodhizzzhatva... Thanks to God!

Date: Thurs, August 16, 2018, 23:42:37 ET
Posted by: BadSneakers, Here

Respect...
R.I.P. Aretha

Date: Thurs, August 16, 2018, 23:02:07 ET
Posted by: BadSneakers, There

A-Bob, that's such old news.

Date: Thurs, August 16, 2018, 12:41:40 ET
Posted by: Angry Bob, at work

Sorry to hear about the passing of Aretha Franklin. I just read in The Washington Post orbituary that Aretha Franklin considered suing Steely Dan over Hey 19 with its reference to a teenager so young "she don't remember the queen of soul".

Date: Thurs, August 16, 2018, 10:51:31 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

RIP Queen of Soul.

Hard times befallen we Soul Survivors.

Aretha's music lives on.

Date: Thurs, August 16, 2018, 10:33:42 ET
Posted by: Nik, P

Always remember the Queen of Soul.

Date: Thurs, August 16, 2018, 10:04:54 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

August 16:

The day we will always remember “nothing but blues and Elvis“ and we will always remember the Queen of Soul. RIP, Aretha (& Elvis, too).

Date: Wed, August 15, 2018, 22:12:19 ET
Posted by: ccw, ny

That version of "American Lovers" is beautiful, never heard it before, thanks CJB.

Date: Wed, August 15, 2018, 12:52:44 ET
Posted by: Angry Bob, listening to Pat Metheny

Nicholas is correct. YouTube and music streaming services have certainly changed the entire landscape for music fans. Heck, the entire ECM jazz catalogue is now on all the streaming platforms and I love everything that label puts out. I still buy CDs though. Some artists like John Zorn, Maria Schneider and King Crimson are not releasing their music for streaming. If you want CD sound quality then you can subscribe to Tidal for $19.99 monthly.

Date: Wed, August 15, 2018, 09:55:58 ET
Posted by: popegreg, High in the Custerdome

Angry Bob, sure, as long as you don't care about sound quality. A properly mastered CD is always going to sound better than an mp3 (a lossy format) or a youtube stream. Of course you still need to have decent gear in order to reap the benefits of a CD, or vinyl, or lossless files.

Date: Wed, August 15, 2018, 08:17:19 ET
Posted by: Nicholas Urfe, Phraxos

Alas, the most recent posts illustrate why there is much less money than there used to be in creating, producing, and releasing new recorded music. I'm not criticizing the posters, just commenting that the exchange shows the state of the world today. Sure, come fans will buy full albums, but many (most?) will buy download selected songs or listen on youtube and be satisfied.

Add to that the way that many people get music today - monthly subscription services. With all you can eat for $10 per month, how much can actually go to the artist - except for the lucky few who make highly publicized playlists. There's much about that model that I don't understand - including what I'm supposed to do with access to millions of songs and how I zero in on what I want. Nevertheless, it's a low cost alternative to buying a few albums each month.

I'm sure that I've unwittingly revealed much ignorance about the music business with this post, c'est la vie.

Date: Tues, August 14, 2018, 20:00:27 ET
Posted by: Abu, Shuffling with Dinah

Even better (perhaps), one can download the individual songs for 99 cents each if you don't want the entire CD. On Amazon, of course.

Date: Tues, August 14, 2018, 14:46:27 ET
Posted by: Angry Bob, at work

Why should I buy Kenny Vance's Lost & Found Archives Volumes 1 & 2 when I can listen to it for free on YouTube? These albums are on various music streaming services or you can buy them as MP3 downloads for $8.99 each on Amazon.

Date: Tues, August 14, 2018, 09:38:09 ET
Posted by: M/O/D/P, Rarities Day 2018

Kenny Vance's "Lost & Found Archives Volume 1", while apparently not quite as rare as Volume 2, does contain the rare "Shuffling Up Your Downs" featuring Donald Fagen on piano and Walter Becker on electric bass:

https://www.ebay.com/itm/KENNY-VANCE-Lost-And-Found-Archives-Vol-1-18-Unreleased-Trax-on-CBR-1134/281734095762?hash=item4198a92392%3Ag%3AIVQAAOSwcu5UUWBE&_sacat=0&_nkw=Kenny+Vance+Lost+%26+Found+Volume+1&_from=R40&rt=nc&_trksid=m570.l1313

Musician credits confirmed with the Steely Dan database, of course:

http://www.steelydan.nl/versioninfo.jsp?sid=203&vid=920

Date: Tues, August 14, 2018, 09:25:25 ET
Posted by: M/O/D/P, 2011 Rarities Night Completists' Dept.

Speaking of Kenny Vance, it looks like his rare "Lost & Found Archives Volume 2" CD is even rarer than "Volume 1". But still available - like most of the rare items on eBay. The track listing on Volume 2 is particularly rare (see second image):

https://www.ebay.com/itm/KENNY-VANCE-Lost-And-Found-Archives-Vol-2-19-Unreleased-Trax-on-CBR-1138/282617082785?hash=item41cd4a73a1%3Ag%3AD-cAAOSwFWVZmFm-&_sop=10&_sacat=0&_nkw=Kenny+Vance+Lost+%26+found&_from=R40&rt=nc&_trksid=m570.l1313&LH_TitleDesc=0%7C0

Date: Tues, August 14, 2018, 01:45:30 ET
Posted by: CJB, YVR

Oh hey now. Something old, something "rare":

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wjl6DlOWMjQ

Date: Tues, August 14, 2018, 00:00:14 ET
Posted by: popegreg, MKE

Hoping for the best for The Queen of Soul. I just saw her live last year at Ravinia and she was fantastic despite my deep sadness on that day, September 3, 2017.

Date: Mon, August 13, 2018, 19:59:56 ET
Posted by: JDL, et.

Sad to hear about Aretha Franklin.

Dangentially related: Eugene Pitt, lead singer of The Jive Five, who covered Hey Nineteen, died a little over a month ago.

Date: Mon, August 13, 2018, 16:27:45 ET
Posted by: Ben Jammin, A case of the Mondaze in Indy

The Queen of Soul needs prayers in Detroit.

https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/aretha-franklin-is-gravely-ill-says-singers-friends-710308/

Date: Mon, August 13, 2018, 15:49:16 ET
Posted by: Angry Bob, back to work

Singer-Songwriter Peter More will release his debut solo album Beautiful Disrepair on August 24. It was completely produced by Donald Fagen. Here's a link which contains the first single "Country Love Song". Give it a listen:

https://www.jambase.com/article/exclusive-premiere-peter-more-shares-new-single-country-love-song

Date: Mon, August 13, 2018, 15:03:46 ET
Posted by: Angry Bob, Lunch Break

Here's another video that might interest SD fans. It's The Sligo Jazz Project Big Band with Liane Carroll performing Donald Fagen's The Goodbye Look. They are based in Ireland and recently played the whole Nightfly album. It was arranged for big band and singers by Malcolm Edmonstone. It swings!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yo6bpCOu0Us

Date: Mon, August 13, 2018, 12:36:12 ET
Posted by: Angry Bob, drinking coffee

Here's Larry Carlton playing Josie on August 3, 2018 at The Town Crier Cafe in Beacon New York:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4AvN04kVkho

And BadSneakers, start posting some NEW videos for a change.

Date: Mon, August 13, 2018, 12:07:39 ET
Posted by: BadSneakers, whatever

Oh, the shame! the humiliation!
A-Bob, thanks for letting me know how wrong re-posting was.

You're welcome Chris. I'm glad somebody saw the usefulness in re-posting the link. The original post was pushed way down after a spate of faith healer scams and the yacht-rock discussion.

Date: Mon, August 13, 2018, 11:06:48 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

I actually missed that video the first time around (I did see some other vids with Connor but not Bodhisattva) so I'm glad it was posted again. Moreover, it's unlisted on YouTube, so there's no way anyone who missed the first post would stumble upon it.

Date: Mon, August 13, 2018, 01:23:45 ET
Posted by: Shannon, Cleveland

Yacht Rock is a very derogatory term. Makes me feel ashamed to be a Steely Dan fan.

Date: Sun, August 12, 2018, 21:19:30 ET
Posted by: Abu, Funny Music

Who knows, maybe Donald would think that "Yacht Rock" is alright. After all, he said he liked jazz, "fake jazz", and "fake fake jazz".

Date: Sun, August 12, 2018, 16:58:53 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach. Sauce making Sunday!

Bob, why so angry? BadSneakers posted that video exactly TWICE, as far as I can tell. He's also has plenty of helpful/interesting posts.

AngryBob has only contributed one, worthless post.

Figure out who will get the benefit of the doubt, and some respect, here.

With that said, I'm with the group that thinks the entire "yacht rock" thing is lame. Yes, there was a bit of humor, and fortunately Walt and Don played along. I mean, why not? But seriously, it isn't all that funny.

90% of the music (total ballpark estimate) that was deemed "yacht" by the originators is pure dreck. Just my opinion, of course.

Date: Sun, August 12, 2018, 09:54:48 ET
Posted by: Angry Bob, Just woke up

BadSneakers...stop reposting the same video on this board. It's very annoying. Thank you.

Date: Fri, August 10, 2018, 20:24:55 ET
Posted by: BadSneakers, NJ

STEELY DAN BODHISATTVA JULY 16, 2018
PNC BANK ARTS CENTER
HOLMDEL, NJ
WITH GUEST CONNOR KENNEDY ON GUITAR

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yWA0CsBtj1I

Date: Fri, August 10, 2018, 16:26:56 ET
Posted by: Gil, C

I think everyone has known about episode 10 for 10 years now and knows what they think of the whole Yacht Rock thing. It's not like this stuff was released last Tuesday.

Date: Fri, August 10, 2018, 14:55:12 ET
Posted by: Nicholas Urfe, Phraxos

To get a spam loan application off of the top of the Blue, I posted that XM Radio's Yacht Rock station was playing a lot of SD. Apologies to all concerned for the ensuing imbroglio.

Date: Fri, August 10, 2018, 13:36:59 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

Hank - You'd like Walter's Birth of the Cruel comments on the update liner notes on the 1999 remaster of Gaucho.

Date: Fri, August 10, 2018, 13:34:58 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

The Yacht Rock series was probably inspired by the SCTV skit montage beginning with a spoof of a Canadian morning show (Gerry Todd)... with the then ubiquitous McDoobies voicing over blurbs and commercials, and then Rick Moranis (Tomorrow's Girls video) as Michael McDonald, the world's greatest backup singer, dashing from session to session.

Episode 10 with the Iggles and W&D characters is very good, and much of the episodes are pretty jokey.

Don Henley char: "Listen, is that dark sarcasm?" while listening to Royal Scam tracks, and then hit the magic moment in Everything You Did."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=18o5eBCSk3w&frags=pl%2Cwn

Date: Fri, August 10, 2018, 12:55:39 ET
Posted by: Hank, CA

Donald Fagen needs to denounce the Yacht Rock genre. Pat Metheny was once called a Smooth Jazz artist but he came out and publicly condemned it. Pat said Smooth Jazz makes him want to vomit.

Date: Fri, August 10, 2018, 12:28:37 ET
Posted by: hoops,

KD:

I’ve never heard a fart joke on yacht rock.

I think there’s a disconnect between what you are saying what I’m saying.

As I said, fortunately you don’t have to be a fan of Yacht Rock, to be a Steely Dan fan. I appreciate it enhances your appreciation of Steely Dan someways.

Best regards,

Jim

Date: Fri, August 10, 2018, 09:53:26 ET
Posted by: KD, asdf

the Yacht Rock shorts were filmed for Channel 101 back in 2005-06, based on immediate audience approval from the live showings on Sunday evenings. The audience would choose which shows would appear on the next Sunday's live showing, crews would have a week to create the next episode.

So, there wasn't much room for this:

"From what I have seen of the episodes, Yacht Rock does litle if anything to skewer the critics of those who don't appreciate the true musicians of Steely Dan. Those critics deserve it even more."

It's a comedy show. Good christ. They didn't really have a lot of time to advance the whole "let's skewer some Steely Dan critics" subplot. In 2005.

Anything else is just showing our asses. It's not the creators' fault that the cheeks are showing. It's not satire, there's little grand plan, it's just a celebration with stupid jokes and fucking cracking music.

We're revealing too much with the bit about "out of touch oldsters." Hoops -- we can like the guitar solos on the inside of the Airplay album while still making fun of David Foster's mustache. Walter and Don taught us all how to in the late-90s liner notes, y'know.

And if people don't like using "Yacht Rock" as a diss, well, welcome to the resistance.

It wasn't created to slag off Aunt Nancy while she shook to a Hall and Oates song. Hall and Oates aren't Yacht Rock, the term was created to celebrate "gooooood" muzak.*

If you start using "Yacht Rock" in informed way, if you make it about music and lose the insecurity, there is funn(n) to be had.

Think there are too many fart jokes in the Yacht Rock web series? Here it is, episodes 1-through-11:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YNTARSM-Fjc&list=PLBEB75B6A1F9C1D01

(the Beyond Yacht Rock podcast is nearly 70 episodes into determining what is and isn't Yacht Rock, dutifully and hilariously, while this board spent its summer wondering about Billy Joel: https://starburns.audio/podcasts/beyond-yacht-rock/)

Also, there is nothing wrong with leveling Baby Boomers, who are mostly overplayed and tired (and have stopped listening).

Walter knew about the heads bopping up and down to "Peg," during the Yacht Rock showing in Chicago in 2006 at the Empty Bottle, smiles moving much faster than they did at the SD show in MKE or the shows three years earlier. He knew.

*Glenn Frey, episode 10, upon hearing 'FM' for the first time:

https://youtu.be/yb_XEwgfmDk?t=235

Date: Thurs, August 09, 2018, 22:46:05 ET
Posted by: Walter Becker Media, www.walterbeckermedia.com

We interrupt your regularly scheduled programming to bring you some new music.

https://www.walterbeckermedia.com/forum/rarities-unreleased/she-was-good

Check it out.

Date: Thurs, August 09, 2018, 19:37:30 ET
Posted by: Ben Jammin, Indy

I can't believe we're approaching the year anniversary of Walter's departure. I thought of him when I was reminded today marks the 23nd anniversary Jerry passed.

https://www.jambase.com/article/remembering-jerry-garcia-live-guest-appearances

Date: Thurs, August 09, 2018, 18:28:23 ET
Posted by: Max, VT

An explanation of this difference between sophomorism and wit.

https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/orgazmo-1998

Date: Thurs, August 09, 2018, 17:19:36 ET
Posted by: Yacht Rok, The bay

Hahahaha! This is funny. Talking sophomoric humor? Then what the fuck would you call Walter's monologues from Hey 19? The ones where he basically said to get a woman drunk so she would bang you? The jokes about eating boogers?

Jesus christ. Yacht Rock was never meant to be taken seriously.

Date: Thurs, August 09, 2018, 14:10:38 ET
Posted by: Hank, CA

I totally agree with hoops about Yacht Rock. It's an insult to Steely Dan and makes them look bad.

Date: Thurs, August 09, 2018, 10:56:53 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

I have little doubt that 1) the creators of Yacht Rock are big fans of the musicians they cover in their satire--otherwise they could not consider them in such detail. Moreover, 2) I would wager that Walter and Donald viewed the episodes with amusement similar to that for "Spinal Tap" on which they collaborated with at various times.

That said, of the episodes I have viewed, the sense of humor on Yacht Rock (like the recent "Smalls Change") isn't nearly as in par as the humor of Steely Dan. Too sophomoric for my tastes.

My disliking of Yacht Rock isn't that it in and of itself is ageist or that the creators intended a negative portrayal of Steely Dan and some of the other artists and their fans; rather, "Yacht Rock" has become a larger cultural catch phrase in the mainstream that is dismissive of baby boomers who listen to old music that is overplayed and tired, just like their listeners.

From what I have seen of the episodes, Yacht Rock does litle if anything to skewer the critics of those who don't appreciate the true musicians of Steely Dan. Those critics deserve it even more.

I know many of us here would see it as spiritually akin to Garry Shandling and The Larry Sanders show. But most people don't see it as an inside satire, but as mocking what is old, bad muzak liked by out of touch oldsters. That, combined with what I think is relatively sophomoric humor on the show, makes me thankful that I don't have to be a Yacht Rock fan to be a Steely Dan fan.

Best,

Jim

Date: Wed, August 08, 2018, 11:24:51 ET
Posted by: Nicholas Urfe, Phraxos

This is pretty funny. If it has been posted here before, I overlooked it, sorry for any duplication. The writer is young and female and, as far as I can tell, gets it. Don't dismiss it out of hand just because of the yachtrock address.

http://www.yachtrock.com/captains-blog/2016/9/6/i-fking-love-steely-dan-and-you-should-too

Date: Wed, August 08, 2018, 03:07:41 ET
Posted by: hoops, Chicago

Hey gang!

Just ignore the comments & bad links from Judix. I will remove later today. Thank you for your patience.

Best regards,

Jim

Date: Tues, August 07, 2018, 02:43:49 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

...and Jay on guitar.


"Before there was Pro Tools, there were pros."

Date: Tues, August 07, 2018, 02:41:17 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

Here's a great Yacht Rock tune, produced by Jay Gradient.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vg14HPuXLOU&frags=pl%2Cwn

Very nice chord progressions.

Date: Mon, August 06, 2018, 17:53:41 ET
Posted by: Nicholas Urfe, Phraxos

quite a history lesson, KD, and a reminder that sometimes things are not what they appear. You left out one detail, though, that is of particular interest: WHERE IS MY AND THE DEAN'S YACHT?

Date: Mon, August 06, 2018, 10:29:10 ET
Posted by: Matt, Chattanooga

I'll join KD over on the "fans of Yacht" side of the web.

The guys behind the Yacht Rock web series and later Beyond Yacht Rock podcast are true fans of sophisticated adult pop music. While some Steely Dan songs are included in the "Yacht" designation, they have always been careful to specify that Steely Dan is "proto-Yacht." That is, much of what would make up Yacht Rock proper has roots in Steely Dan music, namely the use of chords beyond I-IV-V, songs polished to a studio sheen, and the use of the world's best session musicians. So McDonald era Doobies, Michael Omartian produced Christopher Cross, and Porcaro founded Toto are among the icons of the genre, all having roots in SD.

Walter thought that what the guys did with their web series was hilarious, even convincing DF and McDonald to wear captain's hats on stage at a show the YR guys attended.

Anyway, those guys certainly never intended inclusion under the designation of Yacht Rock as derisive of SD. They actually would argue that while Time Out Of Mind and Peg are amongst the best and most illuminating songs of the genre, Escape (The Pina Colada Song) doesn't deserve to be "on the boat." It is later bandwagoners like Yacht Rock Review (who is unaffiliated) and a few sports writers who lack our friend KD's good judgement who have turned the identifier into something of much less class than the creators intended.

Date: Mon, August 06, 2018, 09:58:37 ET
Posted by: KD, asdf

Here is the official Yacht Rock playlist on Spotify, no white noise to be found:

https://open.spotify.com/user/jdryznar/playlist/6kVRZHsbV6LZEBiqzSzFvq?si=Dxp_iiBhTiib-O-EVUNjnw

The people that came up with the term, the web series, the podcast and this Spotify playlist are major, major fans of what's real.

Have a sense of humor, don't get offended on someone else's behalf, and ignore the Sirius junk. Pour a cold drink and enjoy your summer.

Date: Mon, August 06, 2018, 09:50:14 ET
Posted by: KD, asdf

the term "Yacht Rock" was invented by a few guys, in 2005.

This isn't a label that has had to endure 40 or 60 years of arguments on what's in and isn't in. Unfortunately, because the guys behind the term didn't move to copyright it, the message and (especially) the music can get tripped up.

It shouldn't be offensive. It's a tribute. Most 'Yacht Rock' trends away from the trillion buck recording budgets, it has nothing to do with Yachts or largesse or Fleetwood Mac.

There are more Pointer Sisters, George Benson, Tavares, Michael Jackson and Patti Austin songs in the official Yacht Rock canon than there is the crap played by Sirius XM and all the other terrible "Yacht Rock" stations.

(and pay no attention to those dweebs in polyester touring under the banner)

I would invite anyone that has had a rough time with the designation to check out the OFFICIAL Yachtski Scale, songs that are truly Yacht Rock, as judged by the people that actually came up with the term:

http://www.yachtrock.com/yacht-or-nyacht-jay-gradient/


(it is nicknamed the "Jay Gradient," so you know we know what we're talking about)

Don't be turned off. I get why people might be.

Beyond all the idiots in captain's hats out there exists a growing subculture that can't wait to get into record stores and flip over a bin in time to find Paulinho da Costa or Dean Parks in the credits.

Date: Sun, August 05, 2018, 14:41:41 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu ,

By critically, I mean music critics. See Sting's St. Augustine in Hell.


Not the musicians, producers, arrangers who voted for SD for their 2001 Grammys.

Date: Sun, August 05, 2018, 14:38:38 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

Snake - don't think there's any danger here.

That reminds me of how critically undervalued the quality of output 21st Century Dan, solo efforts are. I guess when Donald feels bad, he can just look at their Grammys.

Two Against Nature
Everything Must Go
Morph the Cat
Circus Money
Sunken Condos

more than stand the test of time. They sophistication, wit, and musical figures grow with each passing year. If anything, the chord progressions are even more complex than 70s Dan.

The voicings, with the exception of Sunken Condos, is a little more sour and bitter while smooth than sweet...but so is any aging fine wine. Ironically, Sunken Condos has the most youthful feel since The Nightly. Post-Apocalypso.

Date: Sun, August 05, 2018, 10:26:39 ET
Posted by: Snake Plissken, NY

PLEASE don't put Billy Joel in 70s iconic talent.

Date: Sun, August 05, 2018, 01:09:10 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

Just in case you've missed this tidbit.. Instrumental only outtake of Green Earrings. My God, that Rainey!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HRadpUvlfd4&frags=pl%2Cwn

Date: Sun, August 05, 2018, 00:31:31 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

I should note that both Andy Summers and Allan Holdsworth played in different iterations of Soft Machine. Summers sneaky understated guitar playing on the Police is chock full of jazz chords and unusual voicings. The Police had some filler, but about 20 killer songs, and remarkable musicianship. Copeland was a beast.

Every Breath You Take is one of my least favorite Sting/Police songs, except maybe the bridge. Wrapped Around Your Finger, Synchronicity II, Tea in the Sahara, Murder by Numbers are interesting. King off Pain is repetitive, except again the bridge.

Ghost in the Machine and Zenyatta Mondetta are probably their best albums.

Sprits in the Material Word, Every Little Thing She Does is Magic, Invisible Sun pack a real punch to commence Ghost in the Machine. Demolitions Man is a scorching track - maybe their best track as a live sounding band. Copeland destroys the 7/8 time signature on Spirits - it's a clinic.

If it's possible to be subversive and overbearing at the same time, the Police were that. They were really a punk - fusion band, taking advantage of reggae/ska beats. If you can find decent tabs, check out some of the chords and voicing. Add9s, sus2s with different voicing, sis 4, E7s, 5ths all kinds of shit.

They remind me of some of the progressions on Slang of Ages, Pixeleen. SD outdid themselves on Green Book - chord slut city.

"These tabs look iffy. You say they're good."

Date: Sat, August 04, 2018, 23:58:39 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

Allman Bros

70s Fusion: Metheny, Weather Report, Al DiMeola, Mahavishnu Orchestra, Allan Holdsworth with Tony Williams, Bruford, UK, Soft Machine

More R&B: Donny Hathaway, Aretha, Arranger/producer Thom Bell, Funkadelic/Parliament, Sly & the Family Stone

Date: Sat, August 04, 2018, 21:13:29 ET
Posted by: Sgt Hulka , Wichita

I'm new to this Board, so i'm not sure how many times this has been asked. But, why doesn't SD play Deacon Blues very often? In five shows over the years, I've only heard it once. Unless of course, I was in Tuscaloosa.

Date: Sat, August 04, 2018, 18:42:49 ET
Posted by: Wayne, Manhattan

Can you please add Pat Metheny to 70s iconic talent? And when is Pat going to release another album? Maybe Pat has become a touring act just like Steely Dan.

Date: Sat, August 04, 2018, 13:25:49 ET
Posted by: Herman B., Passaic NJ

I don't know if I would mark The Police as 70's iconic talent. Their final album Synchronicity contains a few good songs but that's it.

Date: Sat, August 04, 2018, 12:37:04 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

70s iconic talent - technically The Police began in the 70s, Steely Dan, the meat of Joni Mitchell's discography (although Clouds was released in 1969), same for Bowie, Stevie Wonder's great albums.

If you like rock - Queen, Ramones, Buckingham/Nick version of Fleetwood Mac (I find them not as interesting or as iconic as other bands), AC/DC. yeah Zeppelin, Elton John, early Genesis I guess

R&B - Curtis Mayfield, Jackson 5/Michael Jackson, Earth, Wind, & Fire


The weird thing about "yacht rock" and Michael McDonald - it's far more R&B/fake jazz than rock, which is why the biker Doobie fans don't go for that era.

Date: Sat, August 04, 2018, 12:31:29 ET
Posted by: Ben Jammin, Indy

SD's tale of Peg featured on Open Culture:

http://www.openculture.com/2018/08/steely-dan-went-seven-guitarists-dozens-hours-tape-get-perfect-guitar-solo-peg.html

Date: Sat, August 04, 2018, 12:24:01 ET
Posted by: Danny, Ohio

Only thing Billy Joel & Steely Dan have in common is humor. Billy Joel always the audience at his concerts that he's Billy Joel's dad because he doesn't look the same as he used to. Age has not been kind to Billy Joel.

Date: Fri, August 03, 2018, 16:59:01 ET
Posted by: Critic, grabs us

Billy Joel, both musically and lyrically, is too stiff and stuffy to approach being like SD.

Date: Fri, August 03, 2018, 14:19:06 ET
Posted by: Shep, CA

My personal favorite song from Billy Joel is Captain Jack. It's a song about a loser just like Deacon Blues. I like the 52nd Street album too but the rest of his output is mediocre compared to Donald Fagen.

Date: Fri, August 03, 2018, 12:47:45 ET
Posted by: Nicholas Urfe, Phraxos

52nd Street has always been the only Billy Joel album that I like, but I like it a lot. Other than that, there are a few stay songs that I enjoy. Sounds like that may be a more common view than I realized.

There was a program on the Beatles Channel on XM where he commented on Beatles songs and then played a few bars on the piano and sang - usually off-key and very unfiltered. I thought it was pretty good.

Date: Fri, August 03, 2018, 01:38:12 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

Zanzibar, Rosalinda's Eyes, Stiletto are arguably Joel's best stuff, at his peak IMO. Gradually, Billy Joe's albums got worse and worse after this, although the Nylon Curtain features some interesting, eclectic efforts.

Date: Thurs, August 02, 2018, 20:40:34 ET
Posted by: Jon, DE

1978 review of Billy Joe's 52nd Street.

"Zanzibar" is a blatant imitation of Steely Dan, probably the most sophisticated rock 'n roll group currently on the radio. Joel imitates all the patented Dan trademarks: the twisted ironic vocals, the shimmering jazz vibes, the repetitive syncopated piano, the constant musical changes, the elusive lyrics and the cameo jazz solo (performed for Joel by trumpeter Freddie Hubbard).

Imitation though it is, "Zanzibar" is probably Joel's most original work. Never before has he attempted such leaps in lyrical and musical themes. There's still no indication, however, that Joel means anything more than just what he's saying, and consequently he still falls far short of Steely Dan.


https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/lifestyle/1978/11/29/billy-joel-on-52nd-street-between-convention-and-invention/c6d162c8-5868-410c-a7cd-134b3466ba5e/?noredirect=on&utm_term=.141317961ad3

Date: Wed, August 01, 2018, 21:00:08 ET
Posted by: BadSneakers, nj

typo ... july 16 not july 19

Date: Wed, August 01, 2018, 20:49:56 ET
Posted by: BadSneakers, NJ

Steely Dan Bodhisattva July 19, 2018
PNC Bank Arts Center
Holmdel, NJ
With guest Connor Kennedy on guitar

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yWA0CsBtj1I

Date: Wed, August 01, 2018, 19:32:13 ET
Posted by: M/O/D/P, Dreaming of Luxury

"It would be nice to have a yacht, though."

Nicholas Urfe - Funny, I was thinking exactly the same thing. And thanks for knocking the Fake Internet Loan Shark off the top of the page. Somebody hadda do it. I would have done it myself, but I'm perilously short of material & inspiration these days, as this post of mine will no doubt reveal.

Date: Wed, August 01, 2018, 17:35:02 ET
Posted by: Nicholas Urfe, Phraxos

Just to be clear, I wasn't defending XM's classification. I was trying to knock the loan application off of the top post spot, and yacht rock radio was the best I could muster.

Date: Wed, August 01, 2018, 11:16:01 ET
Posted by: Steely Dan 4 Life, out of the shower

Yacht Rock Radio stinks.

Date: Wed, August 01, 2018, 11:15:14 ET
Posted by: hoops, Chicago

Personally, I find the concept of "yacht rock" and some of whom they include in the same category as Steely Dan to be rather misguided and offensive. It's lost on creators and fans of yacht rock that it's more making fun of the way they listen to music (without much depth and just focus on the surface ) than what's actually the substance behind the artists' music. If you really know what Steely Dan is about, you realize that it's in equal measure of polish and punk. It's really pre-alternative musicaIf you really know what Steely Dan is about, you realize that it's in equal measure of polish and punk. It's really pre-alternative rock.

Date: Wed, August 01, 2018, 10:09:24 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

Nicholas said, "It would be nice to have a yacht, though."

Yes, Nicholas, it would ROCK!

Date: Wed, August 01, 2018, 09:40:05 ET
Posted by: Nicholas Urfe, Phraxos

They are playing quite a bit of SD, and not just the radio hits, on XM channel 70, yacht rock radio. In addition to SD, there is some decent music - but you also have to wade through a lot of crap, as you might expect on a channel named yacht rock radio.

It would be nice to have a yacht, though.

Date: Fri, July 27, 2018, 13:45:52 ET
Posted by: Jacob, NY

Yeah, I've seen the Steve Gadd Band a few times. They sound just like Steely Dan.

Date: Fri, July 27, 2018, 06:24:01 ET
Posted by: ;, ;

https://fivethingsseenandheard.com/tag/steve-gadd/

Date: Wed, July 25, 2018, 23:13:03 ET
Posted by: Ric, M

"Once you get into the 1970s, the talent goes way down. You don�t have any more majestic talents like Jimi Hendrix or Bob Dylan." - Donald Fagen, 2000.

I'll argue that Fagen qualifies as a majestic 70's talent.

Date: Wed, July 25, 2018, 13:25:50 ET
Posted by: Pete Tinder,

DF doesn't want to do Deacon Blues because he's afraid of blowing the lyrics.

Date: Wed, July 25, 2018, 07:20:56 ET
Posted by: Tender moving song monitor, monitoring

I guess we'll have to settle for Home at Last and Black Cow. Those are regulars in the setlist.

Date: Tues, July 24, 2018, 20:59:09 ET
Posted by: Big Jake, cleaning my apartment

Donald doesn't like to sing tender moving songs like Deacon Blues, Western World or Doctor Wu.

Date: Tues, July 24, 2018, 12:59:13 ET
Posted by: Nicholas Urfe, Phraxos

KD, I want to comment on your post before it gets lost in the shuffle. I thought that it was profound. Imagine a SD concert attended by Bluebook-style fans, Deacon Blues is played, and by the end of it everyone in the audience is in tears along with half of the band. The song ends to silence, DF looks out over the audience and says it's okay, everything will be okay. Then the bank breaks into Bodhi and pulls us out of it.

Date: Mon, July 23, 2018, 09:00:00 ET
Posted by: It was 20 years ago today , (well, technically tonight)

The Steely Damned at Le Bar Bat.

Date: Sat, July 21, 2018, 15:48:47 ET
Posted by: Norman, Hollywood

The video down below stinks and is an insult to the song. Please don't watch it.

Date: Sat, July 21, 2018, 12:38:18 ET
Posted by: CJB's , 2c

The original version of "Here at the Western World" is one of the most sublime things W&D ever recorded.

Not a big fan of the "upbeat" DFB remake.

This cover, by some NYC street buskers and a terrific vocalist (Michael-David Gordon), gets things mostly right: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OxtXmsadJc8

Date: Sat, July 21, 2018, 11:28:01 ET
Posted by: KD, asdf

I think Donald is sick of singing Deacon Blues because he's tired of seeing adults openly weeping.

Date: Sat, July 21, 2018, 10:16:35 ET
Posted by: BadSneakers, NJ

Even more than Western World... I wonder why isn't Deacon Blues played occasionally ?(Besides Aja night at the Beacon.)

Date: Fri, July 20, 2018, 12:57:30 ET
Posted by: Guzman, Boston MA

When Donald started his project with The Nightflyers I thought Western World might have a chance of getting resurrected. Sadly I don't think that's going to happen now. But you never know.

Date: Fri, July 20, 2018, 12:23:32 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

06 Western World is its own thing. Doesn't touch the original but I dig it. Some nice solos from both Herington and Krantz, the stars of that tour.

Date: Fri, July 20, 2018, 12:19:07 ET
Posted by: Rod, Dublin

Date: Fri, July 20, 2018, 10:54:23 ET
Posted by: Guzman, Boston MA

If Two Against Nature had come out a year after Gaucho then the album might haved bombed. It's Steely Dan's most complex album. There aren't a lot of radio-friendly catchy tunes on that album. People might have scratched their heads and said "Well, what the fuck is this?". I personally love the album but it did take a few listens to fully appreciate it.

Why knock the fast version of Western World? It shows how Donald can change a deeply moving ballad into a high upbeat funk song.

Date: Fri, July 20, 2018, 07:37:20 ET
Posted by: Hal, R

If Two Against Nature had come out a year after Gaucho, how would fans have reacted to the lyrical straightforwardness of songs like What a Shame About Me and Cousin Dupree? It seemed to go unmentioned in 2000. Did Fagen's solo career pave the way for this?

Date: Fri, July 20, 2018, 07:36:40 ET
Posted by: M/O/D/P, Unwavering in my distaste for that one version of Here At The Western World

You're welcome, Beast - I'm only too happy to help out. And don't feel bad - sometimes it seems that EVEYBODY'S comments, when compared to mine, seem nice, even polite. What can ya do??

Date: Thurs, July 19, 2018, 21:46:47 ET
Posted by: Beast w/o A Name, NJ

Guzman, we must agree to disagree. Sorry, bud.

M/O/D/P, I appreciate your support. My comments, when compared to yours, seem nice, even polite :)

Best to all fans.

Beast

Date: Thurs, July 19, 2018, 21:33:11 ET
Posted by: Danny, Pennsylvania

Ha Ha Ha I too voted for Here At The Western World M/O/D/P, but alas the Russians seem to vote early and often for Peg. ps: There is some Steely Dan played throughout the excellent new Robin Williams documentary on HBO.

Date: Thurs, July 19, 2018, 20:53:50 ET
Posted by: M/O/D/P, Blacked Out On The Stairs

The original ("released") version of Here At The Western World is one of my all-time SD faves. So much so, in fact, that I futilely voted for it for each Beacon "Request Night" that I have attended so far. Not that my vote did any good, we understand, since the song didn't get played, probably didn't even get considered, and since every single person I quizzed at those shows claimed to have voted for one of the five or seven set-list standards/familiar radio hits - songs that were 100% guaranteed to be played anyways, since they'd been played every night of the tour(s) thus far - or they hadn't bothered to vote at all.

So...Beast w/o A Name is right.

QUOTE: "...that rather butchered version he played on his solo tour in 2006. That was awful... just awful... badly reharmonized and arranged - sounded like it belonged on the stage of an opening act on a bad cruise ship. It was the audio equivalent of the Norwalk virus. It sounded like it should come with a free year's supply of turtle wax. I could keep going. Please add to the list..."

OK - I will. But only because you insisted. Normally, I prefer to stay out of these things.

It's offensive, like a near-seven-minute uncontrolled/vehemently-loud outburst of three bean burrito-sourced flatulence at Sunday Morning Meeting. It's uncalled for, like a Costco-sized jar of rancid Big Mac sauce tossed all over da Vinci's The Last Supper. Like Stravinsky's Firebird Suite played by The Ramones. Dreadful & foul, like a soiled, heavily-used hockey bag filled with damp athletic equipment and parmesan cheese. Completely unnecessary & pointless, like a Three-Toed Sloth jacked up on Crystal Meth. Horrible, like a Springsteen song ("ANY Springsteen song") right smack-dab in the middle of Thirty Minutes Commercial Free. So bad it's the only thing in the entire SD/DF/WB canon that I steadfastly refuse to listen to, ever again, at any time and for any reason. Because it's putrid & awful.

Of course, others may disagree...

Date: Thurs, July 19, 2018, 20:19:31 ET
Posted by: Steve Gennarelli, Tampa, FL

Thanks Kent for sharing that. Never say Never. Until this year, "Any Major Dude...." hadn't seen the light of day since 1996. So I won't completely give up on "Here at the Western World".

Date: Thurs, July 19, 2018, 19:37:38 ET
Posted by: Kent , working

Sorry, Steve. You aren't going to hear it. But here's Citizen Dan (a Steely Dan tribute band) covering Here at The Western World live at a club:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DK-WD11skGw

Date: Thurs, July 19, 2018, 18:24:06 ET
Posted by: Steve Gennarelli, Tampa, FL

I would rank hearing a live version of "Here at the Western World", the classic version, right up there with hearing "The Second Arrangement".
Its something we all need to witness before we die.

Date: Thurs, July 19, 2018, 15:50:38 ET
Posted by: Guzman, Boston MA

Beast w/o A Name is wrong. The revamped fast version of Here at The Western World played on Donald's solo tour in 2006 is vastly superior to the original Steely Dan version. The funky horn section is hard to resist. The song really kicks ass! This is probably the way Donald intended it to be played. Still, I will admit the ballad version is good too.

Date: Thurs, July 19, 2018, 13:05:16 ET
Posted by: Julo, NY

This is the tragic pattern of Steely Dan tours. They always play good deep cuts at the beginning of the tour like Western World and then they get dropped from the setlist.

Date: Thurs, July 19, 2018, 11:54:09 ET
Posted by: Ned, C

"would someone PLEASE video and post Gaucho and My Rival from the upcoming Gaucho night on You Tube"


Any wonder so many Beacon seats go unsold?

Date: Thurs, July 19, 2018, 10:37:52 ET
Posted by: Meadows, San Francisco

I guess I was wrong. I checked Setlist.fm and SD played Western World three times in 2009: June 9, 12 and 13. I never heard these pop up on YouTube. Maybe crowd response was dismal so Donald nixed it from the setlist.

Date: Thurs, July 19, 2018, 10:01:31 ET
Posted by: BadSneakers, still here in nj

Saw Jon Herington and Jim Beard in NYC last year.
They played a few Steely Dan songs at that small club show... Seem to remember that they played Here At The Western World (instrumental version).

Date: Thurs, July 19, 2018, 09:55:53 ET
Posted by: Beast w/o A Name, Northern Jerzzee

Would love to hear that live version of Western World from 2009. I saw 2 shows that year...request night in Boston and Royal Scam at The Beacon w/ Larry Carlton. I remember feeling a little bummed out when Donald said "this sucks" when rehearsing Western World during the Rent Party rehearsal doc. It's strange that he didn't care to play the original arrangement, especially when compared to that rather butchered version he played on his solo tour in 2006. That was awful... just awful... badly reharmonized and arranged - sounded like it belonged on the stage of an opening act on a bad cruise ship. It was the audio equivalent of the Norwalk virus. It sounded like it should come with a free year's supply of turtle wax. I could keep going. Please add to the list.. It's difficult to understand how people think sometimes. That said, the 2006 versions of Misery and the Blues were awesome.

And for the love of God, would someone PLEASE video and post Gaucho and My Rival from the upcoming Gaucho night on You Tube ???

Date: Thurs, July 19, 2018, 04:14:29 ET
Posted by: Sausage & Beer, The Lido

Hi Steelydoc,

You're right there - it sounds great! The one I know about was played on 2009/06/13 Mizner Park, Boca Raton. Setlist says it was played a couple of times before that.

Never seen that short rent party doc before - Thanks for posting BenJammin. Would love to see the rest of that band rehearsal!!

Date: Thurs, July 19, 2018, 00:17:03 ET
Posted by: steelydoc, Home

Meadows, Western World, original version was played once
on tour. Would have to look up the year. It was after Jim Beard joined the band. I have a recording of it. From the Carolinas, first night of tour. Sounds beautiful but I guess it wasn�t a crowd pleaser.

Date: Wed, July 18, 2018, 19:28:45 ET
Posted by: Meadows, San Francisco

No, Big Trev. They never played Here at the Western World on tour. I guess Donald wasn't pleased with the rehearsal sessions. Shame!

Date: Wed, July 18, 2018, 16:33:51 ET
Posted by: Big Trev, Barcelona

Thanks for those links BenJammin, I'd seen them before but had forgotten about them. What about that great run through of Here at the Western Word? Fantastic. Anybody know if they actually played that on the tour? I know Donald did a version in 2006 but this sounds a lot closer to the original arrangement.

Date: Wed, July 18, 2018, 14:43:01 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol, Mtl

'09. One of my fave tours,4 shows in 5 nights I believe. So great to hear Walter's voice in the interviews. Looking forward to the street party in Oct!
Peace

Date: Wed, July 18, 2018, 01:37:47 ET
Posted by: BenJammin, Indy

This four-part flashback of the Rent Party Tour of '09 offers excellent interviews, behind-the-scenes moments, and some jams! The guys discuss the Album Night shows, which continues to be a popular concert strategy. The Doobies are even doin' a couple at the Beacon.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EFyl3qPMMhI

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7cBeV3YSPnI

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a3Sds_m0xT8

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

Date: Tues, July 17, 2018, 16:05:23 ET
Posted by: Meadows, San Francisco

Video on YouTube of Steely Dan playing Reelin' from last night's show in Holmdel NJ:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aG8jxJeT0LWE

Good close-up shots of Connor Kennedy & Jon Herington dueling it out. The video cuts out Keith Carlock's drum solo at the end though.

Date: Tues, July 17, 2018, 13:16:14 ET
Posted by: BadSneakers, NJ

http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa301/schillid/schillid061/SD-PNC-7-16-2018b_zpsrfbodml0.jpg

Maybe one or two duplicate photos ... sorry

Date: Tues, July 17, 2018, 12:57:35 ET
Posted by: BadSneakers, NJ

http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa301/schillid/schillid060/IMG_20180716_224458_zps8qqijy5s.jpg

Date: Tues, July 17, 2018, 12:54:50 ET
Posted by: BadSneakers, NJ

http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa301/schillid/schillid059/SD-PNC-7-16-2018_zps6ooikxxf.jpg

Date: Tues, July 17, 2018, 12:44:17 ET
Posted by: BadSneakers, NJ

http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa301/schillid/schillid059/SD-PNC-7-16-2018_zps6ooikxxf.jpg

PNC Bank Arts Center
Holmdel, NJ
July 16, 2018

Date: Tues, July 17, 2018, 10:43:12 ET
Posted by: Meadows, San Francisco

See Bad Sneakers? They did play FM like you wanted. I would like to hear Connor Kennedy play on this song. They really should make him an official member of the band. Not one song from Two Against Nature was played on this Summer tour. Shame!

Date: Tues, July 17, 2018, 10:22:29 ET
Posted by: BadSneakers, NJ

July 16, 2018 (Show rescheduled from July 6)
PNC Bank Arts Center
Holmdel, NJ

Hallelujah Time
Black Cow
Hey Nineteen
Black Friday
Aja
FM
Time Out of Mind
Kid Charlemagne
Rikki Don't Lose That Number
Godwhacker
Dirty Work
Home at Last
Peg
Keep That Same Old Feeling
Josie
Bodhisattva (Connor Kennedy on guitar)
My Old School (Connor Kennedy on guitar)

(Encore)
Reelin' in the Years (Connor Kennedy on guitar)
A Man Ain't Supposed to Cry

Date: Sun, July 15, 2018, 22:41:24 ET
Posted by: Jim aka hoops, chicago

Thanks to everyone who gave their input today for that certain special event coming up in three months. More to come in the next couple days.

Date: Sun, July 15, 2018, 21:43:01 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

Boz still delivering the goods.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=81&v=e9sjaVmnrMQ


Play an accordion, you do pass Go and collect $200! As long as it's blues.

Date: Sat, July 14, 2018, 12:55:21 ET
Posted by: Buzzy, at McDonalds

This Summer tour with the Doobie Brothers is now coming to a close. Only two nights left.

Date: Sat, July 14, 2018, 01:17:35 ET
Posted by: Chris , Nh

Excellent show in NH tonight. Fagen said it was one of the best nights of the tour. First time I�ve heard him say that in 15+ shows. Maybe he said it every other night this tour but it did feel like a particularly tight and flawless night for an enthusiastic sold out crowd.

Date: Fri, July 13, 2018, 18:34:09 ET
Posted by: Bert, Anaheim CA

Here's a video on YouTube of Connor Kennedy & Jon Herington tearing it up on Reelin' from the show in Camden. The video was shot from a distance but the sound is OK.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9DIl-JIrY40&t=302sl

Connor & Jon Herington make a great team!

Date: Fri, July 13, 2018, 14:01:53 ET
Posted by: Pre, S

Chris,

Connor Kennedy's style also complements Herington's.

Date: Fri, July 13, 2018, 10:14:34 ET
Posted by: KD, asdf

I don't even have to click on the clip: bring Connor Kennedy into the band.

Smoke 'em, and all that.

Date: Fri, July 13, 2018, 10:01:53 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Agreed wholeheartedly that Connor Kennedy would be a great addition. His somewhat bluseyer style compliments Herington's well, he's kind of the Skunk to Herington's Dias, in a way. Plus he can sing - get a male vocal in the mix for those harmonies, give him a lead so Fagen gets another break like he used to with WB. Doesn't seem likely but who knows.

Date: Thurs, July 12, 2018, 22:25:01 ET
Posted by: in the office, signaature stamper

I'm sorry Tom -- that's not Becker's signature.

Date: Thurs, July 12, 2018, 20:28:48 ET
Posted by: Jupiter, at the desk

I would never buy a gig poster purportedly signed by Don & Walt. Could be fake. Waste of money.

Date: Thurs, July 12, 2018, 18:06:43 ET
Posted by: Nicholas Urfe, Phraxos

Tom, I would compare them to "their illegible scrawls on the fatal last pages of criminally exploitative record contracts." Failing that, you can look here for what purports to be WB's signature on the AIA liner notes. Whether it is or not is another question entirely.

http://sdarchive.com/aialiners.html

Aloha.

Date: Thurs, July 12, 2018, 17:48:30 ET
Posted by: Tom, Connecticut

I've only posted here a couple times, but I need some help.

A couple days ago I won an eBay auction from a guy with 100% positive feedback. It was a gig poster autographed by Don & Walt. I just received it. I was hoping maybe somebody could help me identify if it's legitimate or not. I've tried looking up autographs from them online, but the problem is the vast majority of them are very different from one another. Any help is appreciated, thanks a bunch.

Here's a link to a photo of it: https://postimg.cc/image/pnho0rgw7/

Thanks again,
-Tom

Date: Thurs, July 12, 2018, 16:55:08 ET
Posted by: Mark B, NY

This is why Steely Dan needs Connor Kennedy:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X0ilxbJoG3A

My Old School sounds so much better with another guitarist. SD needs new blood and this young man cooks! Donald can afford him. Connor won't demand high fees like Larry Carlton.

Date: Thurs, July 12, 2018, 13:51:43 ET
Posted by: Mark B, NY

Yes, nobody can replace Walter but Steely Dan definitely needs two guitarists. It's always been that way. When SD first began they had Walter, Skunk Baxter and Denny Dias.

Date: Thurs, July 12, 2018, 12:29:01 ET
Posted by: Jimmie, US

Given the state of the music business, the idea of Don touring as SD without Walter was not hard to imagine even when Walter was still with us. The idea was floated on here a couple of years ago. Someone, I think Dean, said it was completely out of bounds.

But he will NOT give the appearance of Walter being "replaced" by anyone other than perhaps his own son. And as far as I know, he's not even a musician.

Date: Thurs, July 12, 2018, 11:07:05 ET
Posted by: Mark B, NY

I was watching videos on YouTube from the show in Camden and the guest guitarist was Connor Kennedy. It's fun watching Jon Herington and Connor trading guitar licks on My Old School. I think Connor Kennedy will eventually be brought in as Walter Becker's permanent replacement.

Date: Thurs, July 12, 2018, 10:13:00 ET
Posted by: Mr. Belzoni, Funway West

I heard they brought in a guest guitarist last night in Camden. Any idea who that was? Does anyone have the playlist?? Thanks!

Date: Thurs, July 12, 2018, 07:56:15 ET
Posted by: Jimmie, US

I hope Connor Kennedy has a long and prosperous career and we some day look back at Donald Fagen as being a mere "Kenny Vance" footnote in it.

Date: Thurs, July 12, 2018, 07:19:05 ET
Posted by: Steve Gennarelli, Tampa, FL

After hearing some live Steely Dan bootlegs from circa 1974, I'd say the band sounded at their best in 2000 and beyond.
Those early incarnations of the band played the songs at a much faster pace. The performances since 2000 are more nuanced and sound more like the recordings of the classic albums, IMO.

Date: Wed, July 11, 2018, 15:24:07 ET
Posted by: Dave (from acquisitions), Philadelphia

I�m familiar with the performances of reeling and do it again and the miming version of my old school from their tv appearances but didn�t they also record show biz kids for a tv show around the same time? There�s a brief clip shown during the rock and roll hof induction video.

Date: Wed, July 11, 2018, 11:24:38 ET
Posted by: Bookkeeper's Son, Florida

Not aware of SD live footage from the 70s other than the Midnight Special appearance. First of all their touring career was short. During that time they didn't seem to do TV other than Midnight Special. In the early 70s there were two really good places to see live bands on the tube, The Midnight Special and In Concert (Don Kirschner's show). To my knowledge they never appeared on In Concert. Pure speculation, but I would think that as closely as WB & DF guarded/guard the release of their music such as early demos etc., if there is concert footage and they have the rights to it, said footage will never see the light of day.

Date: Wed, July 11, 2018, 11:23:00 ET
Posted by: KD, asdf

There's this 8mm rolling around too:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JotlkS1KgeE

Lots of great shots of Skunk and the Les Paul.

Date: Wed, July 11, 2018, 11:21:25 ET
Posted by: KD, asdf

Did Connor Kennedy sit in for the whole set last night? Goddamn love that kid. I think they may have put 'Josie' back in for him.

Date: Wed, July 11, 2018, 10:06:05 ET
Posted by: Parker, Passaic NJ

Early SD concert video footage hasn't surfaced yet because a lot of people don't have it. The only one in circulation is their 1973 appearance on The Midnight Special. I could be wrong though. The veteran BlueBookers would know more.

Date: Wed, July 11, 2018, 08:29:37 ET
Posted by: Dave (from acquisitions), Philadelphia

https://youtu.be/tyYserPZYVU

Seems like this should have way more views. Gary Katz interviews are pretty rare. There�s also some great early video footage. I�ve always wondered why more early concert film hasn�t surfaced yet. You have to imagine it exists somewhere.

Date: Tues, July 10, 2018, 22:33:50 ET
Posted by: yt, dc

Tribute to Walter including interviews with Dean Parks and Keith Carlock.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bqHeNCRInL4

Date: Tues, July 10, 2018, 16:11:41 ET
Posted by: Bud, laying in bed

The band sound tighter because it doesn't have Walter to shake things up. I miss Walter more than ever now.

Date: Tues, July 10, 2018, 13:44:47 ET
Posted by: BadSneakers, NJ

I hope they play FM at the rescheduled gig in NJ next week.
Considering heading down to Philly (er- I mean Camden) on Wednesday.

Date: Tues, July 10, 2018, 12:47:10 ET
Posted by: Josey, Mass

"MISSED" is the word I meant to use in re: to Walter - not "missing" - just wanted to correct that mistake.

Date: Tues, July 10, 2018, 11:03:09 ET
Posted by: Josey, Mass

Hey guys and gals - wanted to give somewhat of a review from Saturday night at the Xfinity Center. Doobies were great! Billy Payne on keyboards! Enthusiastic response to most of their set as has been reported thus far.

Let's get to what counts! I don't want to be sacrilegious here in light of the fact that we're flying the missing man formation these days, but if my math is right, this was my 16th show, and I cannot remember when they sounded better. Yes, Becker was and always will be missing. But, my God! This band is insanely tight! I was floored with Herington, and I'm a drummer. He's obviously got more responsibility now, but it didn't seem to hold him back. AT ALL!!

Carlock - not much more to say than what's already been said. I will say that, from the drum perspective, he's taken that signature lick of his and embellished quite nicely over the years! Same lick with more variations and orchestrations around the kit. The guy is a monster and so much fun to watch with the exaggerated flailing arms and whatnot. Groove infectious! Freddy Washington - what's not to love??!!

Fagen seemed really enthusiastic as well. Looked like he was having a ball throughout. "YOW!"
Our seats were about 15 rows right behind sound board.

Whatever the sound engineer earned that night wasn't enough! The sound was so good it was hard to believe!! Like hearing the tightest band you've ever heard through a pristine audio system! That's probably what struck me more than anything else.

First time I've ever heard Rikki played live. FM, Black Cow, Green Earrings, Dirty Work, Reeling, Hey 19, Black Friday, TOOM, etc. I didn't make a setlist as it's not my thing when at a show. It all sounded incredible - and by the 2nd or 3rd tune, the sound engineer had it so dialed in I was in disbelief! So glad I decided to go!!

Now I'm thinking seriously about one of the Beacon shows.

Apologies for lack of exact setlist.

Date: Tues, July 10, 2018, 09:22:43 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

NEW YORK CITY NAMES A STREET AFTER WALTER BECKER OF STEELY DAN

The Street Where Becker Grew Up in Queens Will Become
"Walter Becker Way"



Press Resources


JULY 10, 2018 (New York, NY) -- Walter Becker, a co-founder of Steely Dan, a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and an artist of uncommonly unique solo output, will be posthumously honored when the street where he grew up in the Forest Hills section of Queens will be co-named "Walter Becker Way." A street sign, to be officially unveiled on October 28th, will grace the corner of 112th Street and 72nd Drive. This represents the kind of street credibility that Becker truly would have appreciated!

The October 28th unveiling will be accompanied by a ceremony that will include special guests, remembrances from Becker's friends and colleagues, as well as very special give-aways. The event will be presented by New York's Classic Rock Q104.3, and all the day's festivities will be planned and organized by Becker's loyal, enthusiastic fans.

"Walter's fans have decades of experience holding 'Danfests' throughout the country," says Becker's widow, Delia, "and they always find innovative and eclectic ways of celebrating. It will undoubtedly be a fun and free gathering to honor and commemorate Walter as only they can!"

The New York City Council bestows street co-naming honors on New York activists, cultural heroes, and community leaders whose contribution has a lasting impact on the city, the country, and the world. The motion to co-name "Walter Becker Way" was put forward by New York City Council Member Karen Koslowitz of the 29th District (Forest Hills) by way of a legislative bill, which was approved by a full council vote on June 28.

Additional announcements about the October 28th celebration of "Walter Becker Way" will be regularly posted to http://walterbeckerway.com/.

Date: Mon, July 09, 2018, 19:46:27 ET
Posted by: Dino, Heading home

That's what I love about Van Morrison. He never falls into the "nostalgia act" trap because he continues to record prolifically. Van also doesn't give a shit about what the audience wants to hear.

Date: Mon, July 09, 2018, 19:03:17 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

The Van and Joey album is indeed great and the best of the three albums Van has put out in the past year.

This site actually houses a Van email list (fully automated) that was started in 1993. So if anyone is interested, please email me privately at jjmckay AT DOT com -- I'll send deets.

======

JONES BEACH 2006!
Could someone re-post or otherwise direct me to our group Danfest photo taken in the parking lot? There was maybe 2 dozen of us with someone pouring a drink in YGK's mouth as he reclined on the lot. THX!

Jim

Date: Mon, July 09, 2018, 15:20:42 ET
Posted by: Bookkeeper's Son, Florida

The Joey D & Van Morrison concert was on AXS TV network. Great stuff.

Date: Mon, July 09, 2018, 14:15:53 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

I accidently linked the live version of that song. Nice, but the studio version has much better sound:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VS_5Xq9NzPI

Date: Mon, July 09, 2018, 14:13:29 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

Bookeeper, you got that right. The Van Joey D new release is killer.

Try this on for size:

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

Date: Mon, July 09, 2018, 12:58:00 ET
Posted by: Bookkeeper's Son, Florida

A few random thoughts based on recent items on the Blue:

- The Dean is posting again. Haven't noticed posts from you for a while. Glad you are back in the saddle.

- I also am a concert Keychain collector. Thought I was the only one! For SD, I believe my earliest is the Y2K Subway token keychain. SD keychains are more expensive than other artists. But they are not all plastic either like the other act's chains I have purchased. They are less expensive than the t-shirts that end up in a drawer not being worn.

- My favorite band from the 70's forward is the Tom Johnston era Doobie Brothers. SD comes in a very close second. Each group's music originates in a slightly different area of the brain. In my humble opinion the DB do not have a bunch of filler on those Toulouse Street to Stampede albums. Rather a nice blend of hard charging rock and finger picking/acoustic guitar songs. South City Midnight Lady and Clear As the Driven Snow, both from the Captain & Me, are examples. This year's tour was a great pairing for me.

- I wish Joey Defrancesco was the opening act on every non-shed SD tour. That man is a Hammond B3 force to be reckoned with for sure. There was a concert show with Joey De and Van Morrison on TV (sorry forgot the network) a few weeks ago. Epic stuff!!

Date: Mon, July 09, 2018, 12:52:23 ET
Posted by: DP, BETHEL, CT

Joe Jackson did "Night by Night" in Vermont on Sunday night

https://youtu.be/pOmJJTf0XUw

Date: Mon, July 09, 2018, 12:52:12 ET
Posted by: DP, BETHEL, CT

Joe Jackson did "Night by Night" in Vermont on Sunday night

https://youtu.be/pOmJJTf0XUw

Date: Mon, July 09, 2018, 12:51:58 ET
Posted by: DP, BETHEL, CT

Joe Jackson did "Night by Night" in Vermont on Sunday night

https://youtu.be/pOmJJTf0XUw

Date: Mon, July 09, 2018, 10:26:10 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

My bad. Actually this is the better link.

http://walterbecker.com/prison.html

To get directly to the recording and skip the two pictures, go here:

https://walterbecker.com/media/prison.mp3

Date: Mon, July 09, 2018, 10:22:54 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

Thanks Doc. To save the rest of you from having to click through two different sites to find the link, here it is:

https://www.walterbeckermedia.com/forum/everything-else/uncle-waltie-s-story-time

Date: Mon, July 09, 2018, 07:37:02 ET
Posted by: steelydoc, Near the tower

Uncle Waltie�s Story Time...new at Walter Becker Media page

Date: Sun, July 08, 2018, 22:01:11 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

Sorry for the double post.

Date: Sun, July 08, 2018, 22:00:45 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

M/O/D/P, I think your keychain collection is more about you picking the least expensive SD swag on which to focus. Good job there. But yes, 25 doughlers is a bit spendy for something that is basically free, in the real world.

Last night I had the pleasure of seeing the Rebirth Brass Band, for free, at the St Augustine Amphitheatre. Just a great time. With the exception of the very poor bar setup on an extremely hot night. I won't go into the details of the bar. But as bad as it was for the customers, it had to be twice as bad for those working the bar. Just wanted to say after waiting approximately 30 minutes on line (in the scalding heat---did I mention that?) I scored a double Knob Creek (100 proof) on the rocks and a box of water. $21 (+ tip). I still think that's a much better deal than a 13.50 doughlar Crudweiser.

Date: Sun, July 08, 2018, 22:00:37 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

M/O/D/P, I think your keychain collection is more about you picking the least expensive SD swag on which to focus. Good job there. But yes, 25 doughlers is a bit spendy for something that is basically free, in the real world.

Last night I had the pleasure of seeing the Rebirth Brass Band, for free, at the St Augustine Amphitheatre. Just a great time. With the exception of the very poor bar setup on an extremely hot night. I won't go into the details of the bar. But as bad as it was for the customers, it had to be twice as bad for those working the bar. Just wanted to say after waiting approximately 30 minutes on line (in the scalding heat---did I mention that?) I scored a double Knob Creek (100 proof) on the rocks and a box of water. $21 (+ tip). I still think that's a much better deal than a 13.50 doughlar Crudweiser.

Date: Sun, July 08, 2018, 21:05:50 ET
Posted by: M/O/D/P, Unreleased

The foul drippings that follow are some previously-unposted bits, judiciously excised - in the interest of conciseness and clarity - from my recent mini-review of the SD July 02 2018 show at Toronto's reviled Budweiser Horrible Generic Outdoor Concert Venue. I'm posting these rare outtakes here now because my security staff tells me that the "unposted" section of one of my "drafts" files was compromised sometime in the past day or so. This stuff is gonna come out eventually, so it might as well come from the source, I guess. Initially, we believed it was the Russians who were behind the cyber-attack, but now it's looking more like it might have been Mormons or possibly Koreans. So, I'm trying to get out in front of this completely unnecessary/inexplicable data breach...

- Carolyn was on fire during the latter part of the concert, and toward the end of the performance she kicked the stuffings out of the stop-time in Pretzel Logic. "Where did you get those shoes?", indeed. Just awesome, and a real highlight.

- The woman seated next to me was 100% certain that the Doobie Brothers leader, who was introduced at least three times during the set as Tom Johnston, was definitely Burton Cummings. No doubt about it, and no amount of fact-based "information" from the stage (or from myself) was gonna convince her that the former co-leader of The Guess Who had not actually put down his piano in favor of a guitar. "I had NO IDEA he was going to be playing with The Doobies tonight!", she told me excitedly, fully convinced that she was in the presence of one of her all-time faves. No, she didn't appear to be drunk or otherwise wasted. Just delusional, and incorrect, but in a funny/semi-charming way because she believed it. Why the Doobies didn't play "Stand Tall" or "American Woman" that night, she'll never understand. Along with a number of other things she'll probably never understand. True story.

- Prior to showtime, a crowd of onlookers gasped in disbelief as some gullible cluck paid $25 (CDN) = $19 (USD) at the merch table for a Steely Dan Tour 2018 metal keychain. Reportedly, he did this to complete his "collection" of officially-sanctioned Steely Dan keychains which he has been "collecting" since the 2006 summer tour. That gullible cluck was yours truly. Sure, keychains are cool, but by now it must be fairly obvious that I have more money (and keychains) than brains.

- At several points during the proceedings, DF let out a loud exultory "WOOOOOOOOO!!!!!", until the final time he did it and then quickly followed it up with, "Yeah, that's getting a bit old". Of course it was, and it was nice for him to realize it before it was too late.

- Tall Cans of Crudweiser were selling (and selling quite well, I might add) for the fuck-you price of $13.50 each, I shit you not - for context, this is a unit you can buy in one of Toronto's sanitary/sanitized, government-owned-&-operated liquor stores for around $2.50 or so. No, I didn't give in and buy one. Even though I was thirsty, and it was blisteringly-hot, and even though I have dangerously-low impulse control, I'm not a goddamned idiot. Except for the $25 keychain.​

- Wait a minute! $8 for a shriveled, dried-out pizza slice? What is this, midtown Manhattan?? No...wait...I just came back from there and I know there are .99 cent and $2 - $3 slices (all inexplicably tasty, too) to be had all over the [very] high-rent district (in this case, the Empire State Building and immediate vicinity). As a guy passing by said, "No way we'd put up with that crap in The States!". He was right. The franchise/chain pizza sellers were wrong. In oh-so-many ways.​

- There were several stretchers and defibrillators strategically positioned throughout the venue. I smiled as I saw them, because they reminded me of the passages in Eminent Hipsters where DF made comments about Assisted Living and referred to people being brought into the venue on slabs. That shit was funny, then and now, especially if you didn't think it was.

Date: Sun, July 08, 2018, 00:29:32 ET
Posted by: ,

Guitar players have, you know, 20, 25, 30, 75 instruments ... are these transitional objects, that is to say, fetishes, which goes back to something to do with inadequate mothering, or something like that?

Can you repeat that?

...no.

https://youtu.be/LOXGlxVzNko?t=31m49s

Date: Sat, July 07, 2018, 19:13:27 ET
Posted by: Abu, Victor & Jeff

Just a couple more thoughts: The title track to Living On the Fault Line is a standout, so I agree with Scott Summers post from earlier today. Two SD alumni are prominent on the tune: Victor Feldman on vibes, and Jeff Baxter on guitar. Both have excellent solos. Another great song, IMHO, is South City Midnight Lady, from the Dean's fave album, and probably mine, too. Patrick Simmons wrote and sings lead. Excellent, one of my all-time favorite songs by any artist.

Date: Sat, July 07, 2018, 18:59:58 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

Dean - love Cheat the Hangman. Simmons and Skunk stretch out.

I like most of Takin' it to the Streets, Living on the Fault Line, and Minute by Minute as well.

I had heard MM on Katy Lied, but did a Double Take the first time I hear Takin' It to the Streets and It Keeps You Runnin'. Not really Motown, not really Steely Dan or funk, but a nouveau soul with a baritone belting up in the tenor range. MM and the McDoobies take the brunt of yacht rock (not to mention SD) and other jokes (the classic SCTV skit), but when they got in the groove, they hit another level. Besides the songs already mentioned:

Losin' End
Chinatown
Nothin but a Heartache
There's a Light
You Belong to Me - there's a stalker creepiness to the Doobie version completely missing in the Carly Simon hit single, and that's a good thing
Minute By Minute
Depending on You - SD lite thing going
Open Your Eyes
How Do those Fools Survive

are very, very good altered blues songwriting.

One Step Close is a real dog though besides Real Love, as Skunk had split the scene. It was a clear signal to hang it up.



I think the tug of war between Skunk and MM actually made the recordings better and added idiosyncrasies above just a smooth soul paradigm

Date: Sat, July 07, 2018, 18:43:22 ET
Posted by: Abu, On My Fault Line

Slight correction on my post from yesterday. No big deal, but Tom Johnston was still with the Doobies through the making of their 1977 album Living on the Fault Line, but only did some backup vocals and some guitar, but no lead on either, nor any songwriting. He decided to leave, as he felt like an outsider of sorts now that the band had taken a new direction with Mike M as the unofficial leader of the group.

Date: Sat, July 07, 2018, 18:04:34 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

Nice Doobie summary, Abu. Thanks.

IMO the best run of Doobie's albums was Toulouse Street through Stampede. (IMO, the Captain and Me is probably their "best" album in that every song on the album is very good.) Yes, there may be a clunker or two, on most of their albums, but not much. While I like McDonald, I'm not crazy about the change the Doobies took upon his arrival. Takin it to the Streets through Minute by Minute have a few decent songs, but IMO have more filler than their earlier recordings. After that, I pretty much stopped paying attention.

As Scott said, I Cheat the Hangman deserves some love.

A good friend of mine is around 73 years old. Lifelong bartender/club owner. NYC area most of his life, but now behind the bar in St Aug. When I play Doobies on the jukebox in his bar, he makes the same remark most of the time. "This is the Doobie Brothers? They sound so different from song to song." And that's just based on their pre-McMike stuff. Throw that into the mix, and the Doobies are a fairly eclectic band. Fairly high quality musicians, very good songwriters and vocals. Like SD, I even like their commercial "hits", but find their best stuff is relatively unknown. I think of them as the perfect "Guilty Pleasure" (and not all that guilty) for Dan fans.

Date: Sat, July 07, 2018, 13:41:31 ET
Posted by: Scott Summers, More Doobies Talk

Songwriting has always been a problem with the Doobie Brothers. Most of their albums contain filler material. The only Doobie Brothers albums I can listen all the way through without skipping over tracks are the ones that feature Michael McDonald. Living On The Fault Line is a great song and would qualify as "Steely Dan Lite" because of its jazzy overtones. I Cheat The Hangman is another standout track that deserves a listen. Avoid all Doobie Brothers recordings after the group disbanded in 1982.

Date: Sat, July 07, 2018, 07:37:30 ET
Posted by: *, *

https://www.facebook.com/hbassist44/

Date: Fri, July 06, 2018, 20:58:24 ET
Posted by: Abu, Doobie History

David Shogren was the Doobie's original bass player, on the first album (1971) only. He is listed as a vocalist also. Years ago I had this album but do not recall if he sang lead on any song. He was replaced by Tiran Porter on bass for the second album and beyond. Shogren passed away in 1999. Porter sang lead on at least one tune from their Takin' It to the Streets album (1976). That song was "For Someone Special", which was about Tom Johnston, who at that time had some health issues and ended up leaving the band. He came back in 1987. Of course, the late Cornelius Bumpus shared lead vocals on the 1980 title track "One Step Closer".

Date: Fri, July 06, 2018, 13:14:09 ET
Posted by: Steve,

SD's tour mate, Elvis Costello, cancelling rest of his tour to overcome aggressive form of male cancer.

Date: Fri, July 06, 2018, 11:52:02 ET
Posted by: BadSneakers, NJ

@M/O/D/P,
Thanks for your mini-review of the Toronto show.

I had been looking forward to tonight's (Friday) NJ show... But unfortunately, that's now been postponed until July 16th.

It is also unfortunate that your post smugly pushed my previous post farther down, where people might not see it.

To repeat, fellow NJ SD fans:

Steely Dan & Doobie Brothers
Friday July 6 @ PNC Bank Art Center in Holmdel, NJ
>>>> POSTPONED until Monday July 16 !

Date: Fri, July 06, 2018, 07:32:04 ET
Posted by: Gerry, DE

This weekend would have been (I believe) the only time the tour had dates scheduled on three consecutive nights. Maybe Fagen didn't think his voice could handle it and decided to nix one?

Date: Thurs, July 05, 2018, 22:58:00 ET
Posted by: M/O/D/P, Toronto, Monday July 02 2018, 7:30 pm - 10:50 pm

The Doobie Brothers - This is one of those well-known bands I never particularly liked or disliked either way. So when they played more-or-less the same song five or seven times for the first half of their set, I just sat quietly and let others around me enjoy the music. I could see clearly, though, that some of the people around us were familiar with the material (were these songs "deep cuts" [sic] or just songs I hadn't met on the radio back in the '70s? - who knows?). Around the half way mark, the band started playing songs I recognized, and I have to admit that the overall effect - factoring in the crowd's infectious enthusiasm - was pretty damn cool. Sure, the songs were radio-friendly, and yes, the band had three guitar players (and a fourth, if you count the bass player) who all played left and who often all lined up and played together in true Classic Rock Style, but still...there really was something fun about it. By the time they got to "Long Train Runnin' " (until now, I always thought the song was titled "Without Love", but what do I know?), even I was into it. Everyone in the band seemed to be genuinely into it as well, and there's something to be said for that. No, I don't need to see The Doobie Brothers again, but yes, I'm glad I didn't skip their set on Monday night.

As mentioned previously, there weren't any major surprises in the Steely Dan set, although the people around us did seem visibly confused by both Green Flower Street and New Frontier. Blank stares all around in our section, and definitely no one mouthing lyrics along with DF on those two. For my tastes, Don't Take Me Alive or Deacon Blues or Any Major Dude or quite literally anything from Two Against Nature or Everything Must Go would have been welcome, but it wasn't to be and I sure as hell don't wanna be one of those armchair I-wasn't-there setlist whiners we all know and revile. Suffice it to say that Carlock sounded like the best two, or maybe the best three drummers in the world on several songs - hair on the back of the neck stuff, really - and the band was hot and tighter than a nun's socks. If you're on the fence about this tour, get off and go. I agree with EC/NY - it is a leaner version of Steely Dan, but it's still legit - of course, Walter is dearly missed - and anyone who loves the music of Becker & Fagen should see the band in this 2018 incarnation.

The big surprise of the night for me was the audience, at least as observed & consumed from our vantage point. Not one obnoxious drunk, and not one hyper-chatty AC/DC fan (so far as I could tell, that is). We were in the second covered section, still quite close to the stage, and, yes, there were roughly thirty-five or forty empty seats around us on all sides (these seats were originally priced at $129.50 + four or six "service/convenience" charges added, not sure what they were going for after the Live Nation discounts & promotions) during both the Doobies set and SD, so obviously the asshole factor was reduced, but still, I had the sense that most of the people there were there for the music, not the Facebook or the Twitter or the Angry Birds or the loud water-cooler talk. Given the number of live events I've been to in the past few years that have been irreparably soiled by self-centered Boomers and their everything-revolves-around-me concept of The-Concert-Venue-As-My-Very-Own-Living-Room, it could have been infinitely worse. You know, like it usually is...

Date: Thurs, July 05, 2018, 22:38:12 ET
Posted by: Marv, E

Another reason I'm glad concerts are strictly a game day decision for me these days.

Date: Thurs, July 05, 2018, 22:37:37 ET
Posted by: BadSneakers, NJ

Repeat:
Steely Dan & Doobie Brothers
Friday July 6 @ PNC Bank Art Center in Holmdel, NJ
>>>> POSTPONED until Monday July 16 !

Date: Thurs, July 05, 2018, 22:34:49 ET
Posted by: BadSneakers, NJ

Just heard confirmation from a robo-voice at 1-800-745-3000

Date: Thurs, July 05, 2018, 22:29:09 ET
Posted by: BadSneakers, NJ

From a pop-up "More Info" window on PNC website:

STEELY DAN AND THE DOOBIE BROTHERS HAVE UNFORTUNATELY BEEN FORCED TO POSTPONE TOMORROW NIGHT'S CONCERT AT PNC BANK ARTS CENTER IN NJ DUE TO AN ILLNESS WITH ONE OF THE BAND MEMBERS.

THE STEELY DAN AND DOOBIE BROTHERS CONCERT HAS BEEN RESCHEDULED TO MONDAY JULY 16.

ALL PREVIOUSLY PURCHASED TICKETS WILL BE HONORED

confirmation needed!!
more info to follow ...

Date: Thurs, July 05, 2018, 19:25:30 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

First, regarding the Doobie vocalists. Most of their earlier original songs were sung by Patrick Simmons and/or Tom Johnston. Both are with the band and singing their songs (from what I understand). Of course, many of the later McDonald songs were sung by McMike. Tiran Porter may have contributed a vocal or two (can't remember). The touring band has Bill Payne, I think, and that's enough for me to want to see them even if I didn't like them.


I have heard a bit of Leonhart's Painted Lady Suite and am digging it. But it is a bit esoteric and dense. But repeated listening really does help. Haven't heard all of it, or for what I've heard, enough times to form a firm opinion. But it doesn't suck--I'll tell you that.

Not sure if it's been mentioned here, but we should be spreading a little love for the collaboration between a regular opener for SD, Joey DeFrancesco and Van Morrison.
https://www.npr.org/2018/05/09/609763802/van-morrison-and-joey-defrancesco-make-a-lethal-addition-to-an-old-canon

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VS_5Xq9NzPI

Date: Thurs, July 05, 2018, 18:17:58 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Orange Tom:

I also have been listening to Michael Leonhart's new one. Purchased it through Amazon. It's excellent, but very dense...a lot to take in. There's one part that just a teeny bit reminds me of "Memorabilia" on "Sunken Condos."

Date: Thurs, July 05, 2018, 15:32:57 ET
Posted by: Dave (from acquisitions), Philadelphia

Not sure if this has been posted yet but I�m obsessed with this guys YouTube series. He picks some really great songs to breakdown. I first heard about him when he did a breakdown of Kid Charlemagne. https://youtu.be/HPNAGq0Te2U. This one is a livestream he did talking about Don�t Take me Alive.

Date: Thurs, July 05, 2018, 11:28:47 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Not sure who sung what for the Doobies when I saw them, but I know it's the closest to the original lineup possible (I believe a founding member died at some point?).

But I will say I went in not expecting much, not being familiar with their catalog outside of a handful of tunes from the Michael McDonald years, and ended up really enjoying the set. Solos, vocals etc all sounded great. I don't like crowd, venues, shortened sets and ticket prices that accompany these "package tours," but I have to admit the music was good.

Date: Thurs, July 05, 2018, 10:06:16 ET
Posted by: stephen,

Jeff
just go and see the show, i brought my son, naturally reared on the dan, and he asked 'doobie who'. but after he said he recognised a lot of their songs.
stephen

Date: Thurs, July 05, 2018, 09:23:33 ET
Posted by: Nicholas Urfe, Phraxos

Orange Tom, I've given it a couple of listens. It grew on me the second time, the overall theme became more apparent. It struck me as avant-garde, although that may just expose the limitations of my normal musical choices.

Date: Thurs, July 05, 2018, 06:43:18 ET
Posted by: Jeff, NY

Are any of the Doobie Bros. songs being sung by the original lead singer of the song? This actually might make or break my decision to hit one up as the tour passes through the area in the coming days.

Date: Wed, July 04, 2018, 19:43:42 ET
Posted by: Danfan , Toronto

A little more on Monday nights show from Toronto.
HOT HOT HOT and not just the band.
Stand outs were Keith Carlock... just a Monster on the kit.
Jon Herrington... what more can we say.
And Carolyn... what a voice.

And the Doobies... Well they were the Doobie Brothers.
An Excellent show Monday in Toronto and yes it was a sell out.

Get out and see a show on this tour... you won't be sorry.

Date: Wed, July 04, 2018, 17:52:14 ET
Posted by: OrangeTom, NoLongerInBackWoods

Has anyone else in the Blue listened to "The Painted Lady Suite" from Michaeal Leonhart? I'd recommend it.

I'm usually slow to warm to new music, but I'm only a third of the way through my second hearing, and am already captivated. Kinda like Miles meets Ellington.

At the risk of sounding like a fanboy who does not know how to coherently discuss music, I will shut up now.

Date: Wed, July 04, 2018, 09:36:54 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach. Happy 4th!

Don, glad you had a blast. Thanks for the setlist. Hopefully you can share some more highlights.

Did you catch up with (the smug and superior) M/O/P/D?

I'm hoping against hope I catch them at the Beacon this year. Ain't lookin too good at the moment, but I'm staying optimistic.

Date: Wed, July 04, 2018, 01:03:32 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol, Mtl

Oh yeah, have a happy 4th of July to all the Bbookers south of the border!

Date: Tues, July 03, 2018, 23:28:57 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol, Mtl

Setlist for Toronto:

Hallelujah Time
Green Flower
Hey19
Black Fri
Aja
New Frontier
BlCow
Kid C
Rikki
TOOM
Dirty Wrk
MyOlSkool
Band Intro.Keep that....
Peg
Bhodi
Reelin'
Pretzel
Outro A man ain't....

Yes it was hot, yes I'd had a little to drink, and yes I was high. But the set list should be right. Had a great time, met some cool folks, missed a few cool folks.But when I'm at a show with my best girl, it's always a good time! We're already stoked for the fall. So let's be nice to each other. Peace.

Date: Tues, July 03, 2018, 15:55:12 ET
Posted by: KD, asdf

I can't remember the last thing I've read backward on the internet that left me in a better place than when I started, I guess whatever I miss is this is another example of that.

Anyway, I'm looking forward to the choices for the fall, in the theatres, I'm guessing we're going to get a lot more solo stuff (that I enjoy hearing quite a bit).

Date: Tues, July 03, 2018, 15:04:23 ET
Posted by: via WBMedia, Twittersphere

Walter Becker - Ghost of Hipness Past (Improved Fidelity): http://youtu.be/Srta7VJZIQk?

Date: Tues, July 03, 2018, 14:44:46 ET
Posted by: EC, NY

Looks like the offensive & disrespectful anon post is gone.

IMHO there is no place in a civilized public discussion for character assassination directed at a deceased person, celebrity or otherwise.

Thanks, Hoops.

Date: Tues, July 03, 2018, 14:44:06 ET
Posted by: hoops, aka Jim

Just a reminder: When someone posts exceptionally obscene trolling posts, you have a choice of responding or contacting me via email where I will consider removal of the post. However, if you respond it makes it much harder to drop the subject. My preference is, "Don't feed the trolls--email me."

Jim
jjmckay at me dot com

Date: Tues, July 03, 2018, 14:38:43 ET
Posted by: EC, NY

Crossed the border into Canada Sunday night and stayed with friends outside of Toronto. Got a single ticket for way under face value, there were lots of good seats available for less than cost before show time (the show was not even close to sold out as of Monday morning, with lots of seats still available in 20 of 23 sections). There was a decent crowd by the time the Doobies came on, so the ticket promotions & discounts (along with the great summer day) must have worked. Maybe about 75% capacity?

No real surprises, although we did get Rikki (which I've never seen live) and Pretzel Logic (one of my personal all time favorites) as the encore. No Michael Leonhart, who was replaced by a trumpeter whose name I didn't catch. And only 2 Danettes, like the other 2018 shows so far. A bit of a leaner version of Steely Dan, still worth seeing, and as DF said near the end, "You have to keep going on". I'm glad I made the effort to get there.

FWIW, I consider M/O/D/P to be consistently one of the best contributors here, easily the funniest, and always an interesting read. I can't say the same about some of the anon/unknown posters who come here to pick fights and spread garbage and who contribute nothing of value. Today's vicious personal attack on Walter, who of course is no longer in a position to defend himself or his family, is really something else. Utterly classless and vile

Date: Tues, July 03, 2018, 13:41:50 ET
Posted by: M/O/D/P, Bluebook Stain & Sewage Spill Cleanup Department

I suppose I half expected a response or two - maybe even a cretinous response or two - when I referenced the obnoxious/noisy guy who was howling his lungs out behind us at the October 2017 SD show, but I never thought I'd live long enough to read a vehement defense of Classic Rock outfit "AC/DC" and its cloddish fan-base, along with a hearty endorsement of food-stained clothing in general, topped off with a particularly vile and unseemly personal attack on the late Walter Becker. And all in one rambling, spittle-soaked post right here on The Bluebook. Maybe this whole "internet" thing wasn't such a good idea after all...

Date: Tues, July 03, 2018, 12:23:42 ET
Posted by: CJB, YVR

"When he [played] it was a fucking embarrassment," says some random guy with dial-up & a chip on his shoulder.

I dunno, I was at 10+ of those post-2012 shows, instead of sitting at home spreading shit with my keyboard, & I had a different experience.

Maybe stay home in October, internet guy?

Date: Mon, July 02, 2018, 00:14:34 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol, On the road

@CJB.Looking forward to the street party! See you there!

Date: Mon, July 02, 2018, 00:12:40 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol, On the road

As a fellow Canadian, I find the "smug and superior accusation comes up also. So maybe it's a national cultural thing. Don't hate on us because of where we come from. And as always,
Peace

Date: Sun, July 01, 2018, 22:28:58 ET
Posted by: CJB, YVR

Thanks Don.

See everyone in Queens, Sunday, late October.

Date: Sun, July 01, 2018, 22:22:47 ET
Posted by: M/O/D/P, "It's late on a Sunday night, and obviously I've nothing else better to do..."

QUOTE: "Hey M/O/D/P. Your contributions here have always conveyed a sense of being smug and superior. Are you really like that?"

Hi Gabe from Pennsylvania! To answer your question directly, yes, I am really like that. All the time, "24/7" as the cool kids say. I'm dead serious about being smug and superior, because I am totally dedicated to my art. The art of being smug and superior, that is. I certainly hope this is the answer you wanted to hear, Gabe from Pennsylvania, and I hope it ends any speculation on your part that any of my occasional contributions here might just have been served up with (at least) a bit of my pudgy tongue lodged firmly in one of my bloated, puffy, beef jerky-filled cheeks. Because my posts here are never "tongue-in-cheek", pal. They're dead serious. Can't you tell? Did you really need to ask? Are you happy now that you've shockingly & unexpectedly revealed the real me for all to jeer at??

M/O/D/P

ps - On second thought, a question: Have my bits really always conveyed this negative connotation as you assert, Gabe? I mean, like "always", meaning every last one of 'em? Even the time I posted a heartfelt review of the Bruce "The Boss" Springsteen concert I accidentally attended back in the Summer of '84? (or was it '85?). That post appeared here on The Blue back a couple of years ago - maybe before your time? - but I poured my heart & soul into that contribution. That was the real me, Gabe. No, wait. That review was insulting as hell and made me sound smug and superior, like a total dick. Never mind. Guilty as charged, Your Honor.

pps- Here's the deal, Gabe. There's no need for you to rub it in any further. I already know what I am, and I'm no happier about it than anyone else is.

ppps - Hey! I'm going to see the jazz/rock band "Steely Dan" tomorrow night, live & in concert! And I still plan to enjoy myself and have fun, even though the devastatingly-cruel-but-accurate accusatory words of Gabe from Pennsylvania will be ringing in my ears as the happy folks around me play with their iPhones, their grey ponytails, and (quite possibly) themselves. Wish me luck, everybody...

Date: Sun, July 01, 2018, 15:53:21 ET
Posted by: Gabe, PA

Hey M/O/D/P. Your contributions here have always conveyed a sense of being smug and superior. Are you really like that?

Date: Sun, July 01, 2018, 01:18:47 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

Something I did not know. Paul Griffin is on piano in the iconic Bacharach/David Dionne Warwick recording of Walk on By.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=117&v=ijhL9Y7skQs

Date: Sun, July 01, 2018, 01:18:31 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

Something I did not know. Paul Griffin is on piano in the iconic Bacharach/David Dionne Warwick recording of Walk on By.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=117&v=ijhL9Y7skQs

Date: Sun, July 01, 2018, 01:05:09 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol, Mtl

Happy Canada Day to all the Canadian Bbookers out there!
Peace

Date: Sat, June 30, 2018, 23:07:59 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

not to mention the modulation...

Date: Sat, June 30, 2018, 23:07:51 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

not to mention the modulation...

Date: Sat, June 30, 2018, 23:01:54 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

Rick Beato having fun breaking down Don't Take Me Alive and Larry Carlton's guitar solos.

He really relishes the complexities of the chords, voicing, and substitutions...and keeping Carol on her toes..

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HPNAGq0Te2U&frags=pl%2Cwn

Date: Sat, June 30, 2018, 19:04:56 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol, Mtl

@ M/O/D/P
Sent you a note. Lookin'forward to seeing you guys on Monday. And any other Canuck Bbookers. Peace

Date: Sat, June 30, 2018, 18:46:36 ET
Posted by: Steve Gennarelli, Tampa, FL

Just started reading "Major Dudes" today and I find it
to be THE best publication/periodical devoted to "Steely Dan".
It chronologically takes you from the birth of the band and
on to each album and beyond.
I give it a hearty endorsement. Steve

Date: Sat, June 30, 2018, 18:46:36 ET
Posted by: Steve Gennarelli, Tampa, FL

Just started reading "Major Dudes" today and I find it
to be THE best publication/periodical devoted to "Steely Dan".
It chronologically takes you from the birth of the band and
on to each album and beyond.
I give it a hearty endorsement. Steve

Date: Sat, June 30, 2018, 17:52:16 ET
Posted by: M/O/D/P, In complete agreement

QUOTE: "...Steely Dan's real name is Walter Becker."

Perhaps no truer words have ever been posted here on The Blue.

Notwithstanding the deep thoughts of the masses of Summer 2018 concertgoers who sport ketchup-stained AC/DC t-shirts & silly baseball hats & droopy cargo shorts and who happily guzzle $18 Big Gulp Beers while not giving a flying Netherworld about who's in the band as long as they play those four or six songs we all recognize from the radio.

Thanks, Kenny, Ya made my day.

Date: Fri, June 29, 2018, 23:41:05 ET
Posted by: Steve,

Thanks for the reviews. Hope to see the band on Long Island.

Date: Fri, June 29, 2018, 12:14:30 ET
Posted by: Kenny, U

This street dedication is going to enlighten a lot of people to the fact that Steely Dan's real name is Walter Becker.

Date: Fri, June 29, 2018, 09:00:43 ET
Posted by: Nicholas Urfe, Phraxos

A reading of this, or a few select verses, could be a good fit for the celebration. Or maybe printed on the back of the program.

http://sdarchive.com/aiahowl.html

Date: Fri, June 29, 2018, 00:25:31 ET
Posted by: hoops, Chicago

This will be a fans' event. Look for upcoming information on how you can be part of this and help.

Date: Thurs, June 28, 2018, 21:35:01 ET
Posted by: FFD2, C000

1984 Rolling Stone story on Julian Lennon. "The music of choice was Steely Dan and Keith Jarrett." I wonder if Gaucho turned him on to KJ.

https://www.rollingstone.com/music/features/hey-jude-19841206

Date: Thurs, June 28, 2018, 16:35:32 ET
Posted by: The Walter Becker Way, Queens, NYC

http://walterbeckerway.com

Date: Thurs, June 28, 2018, 15:03:40 ET
Posted by: D-mod, walterbeckermedia.com

Do It The
Walter Becker Way :-)

Date: Thurs, June 28, 2018, 14:34:16 ET
Posted by: Wendell, II

The Home at Last drum cover is interesting to the extent that it's by a "Hey 19."

Date: Thurs, June 28, 2018, 13:44:43 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Keep your eyes peeled for something in the coolest "Way" happening today...😎

Date: Wed, June 27, 2018, 21:29:02 ET
Posted by: Nate, PA

To the people complaining about Katy Lied and Royal Scam outtakes being taken down from YT, here's a link to the download for both http://bbchron.blogspot.com/2011/02/steely-dan-katy-liedroyal-scam-outtakes.html?m=0

This is why I never use YouTube to listen to SD outtakes and what not

Date: Wed, June 27, 2018, 13:33:06 ET
Posted by: Aja1, Newton

After finishing the book "Nica's Dream" by David Kastin, I can't help but wonder if Donald ever met the Jazz Baroness. Their tastes, style and authenticity are seemingly very similar and given Don's early love of going to the hot NYC Jazz clubs (not to mention his career) it just seems likely that their paths crossed.

It's a wonderful book, and describes the NYC jazz scene of the 50's and 60's well.

Date: Wed, June 27, 2018, 10:05:54 ET
Posted by: KD, asdf

The Royal Scam outtakes have been shot to hell on YouTube, I had a piece on the 'Green Earring' instrumental that I'd hoped would encourage some of my younger readers to ... whatever. Stupid decision, whomever pulled those down and also the demo reels from the early 1970s.

During my constant driving this year, a listen to Porcaro on the Katy Lied outtakes on YouTube was one of my comforts, while I shivered off the hatchback sleep from the night before, trying to write about hoops in a McDonalds full of red hats.

Bummer that nobody else will have that experience. At least not for a little while.

Dandom is created off of stuff like this -- how many of us cut our teeth at Andy Metzger's site, or with the WAV files of tiny Second Arrangement clips dancing around websites in 1999? There are only nine Steely Dan albums, you have to turn in some give at some point.

Meanwhile, the Becker family is releasing everything it can because music is music and it helps, oh man, it helps.

Date: Wed, June 27, 2018, 03:00:51 ET
Posted by: Mt. Belzoni, Portland OR

Greetings Dandom.

I have intentionally avoided posting here since last October, after Hoops improvidently chose to remove my last post, apparently because it dared to characterize as 'odd' Steely Dan's decision to announce new shows only days after Walter's untimely passing. Hoops' rebuke was excessive and unwarranted, although it admittedly came during a difficult time for all Dandom.

I even chose not to post here a review of the band's (excellent) performance in Portland earlier this month.

Tonight, however, I came across something that I feel I should share with all of Dandom (unless Hoops chooses to pull this post as well.)

Some Dan fans may be familiar with the excellent instrumental jazz group Acoustic Alchemy, which has been releasing and performing great guitar-based jazz/flamenco/funk-tinged music since the mid 1980s. The group was founded by guitarists Greg Carmichael and Nick Webb. Unfortunately, Greg lost his co-founder Nick to pancreatic cancer in 1998, and eventually added another talented guitarist Miles Gilderdale. Also like the Dan, Acoustic Alchemy's band includes two siblings meshing musically on stage.

In any event, Acoustic Alchemy played the Aladdin in Portland tonight, in between stands at Humphreys in SD and Jazz Alley in Seattle (7 shows Th-Sun., if you're up there). Midway through their great set, they introduced a new song, dedicated to a person for whom we had the greatest respect: Walter Becker. (A sustained round of applause followed.) The song is a catchy blues shuffle which they've named Blues for Mister Mu? (clearly a reference to the famous Steely Dan Mu major chord).

Great song - it will be released in October on their new CD 33 1/3.

For a taste of Acoustic Alchemy, try https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4NDjcFTowok

Date: Tues, June 26, 2018, 20:58:13 ET
Posted by: Sky Blue, Denver CO

Sorry, but die-hard Steely Dan fans don't want to hear recent Home At Last drum covers. I noticed YouTube removed Katy Lied & Royal Scam outtakes. Booo!

Date: Tues, June 26, 2018, 20:46:34 ET
Posted by: Gil, N

Recent Home at Last drum cover.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QyeELM0qWoM

Date: Tues, June 26, 2018, 20:09:20 ET
Posted by: SoulMonkey, Louisville, Ky

If anyone wants to hang, we'll be at Lebo's on Kellogg Ave in Cincinnati around 5 tomorrow.

Date: Tues, June 26, 2018, 17:08:49 ET
Posted by: KD, asdf

howdy everyone, I had a lot of fun at the Steely Dan show on Sunday:

https://tsa.substack.com/p/steely-dan-in-indiana


Cincinnati conditions make it so that might be my last tour of the shed season, but we'll see, what a band

Date: Tues, June 26, 2018, 11:33:30 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Green Book has a very similar rhythmic keyboard figure, but harmonically it's quite different.

Date: Tues, June 26, 2018, 10:22:26 ET
Posted by: Aja1, Newton

Warren Bernhardt's solo on Teahouse during those '93 shows was some of my favorite piano work ever. Absolutely jumpin'.

Wait, what song on EMG is a recycle of Teahouse? (Blues Beach?)

Date: Tues, June 26, 2018, 07:26:19 ET
Posted by: Dan Belcher, Louisville, KY

Hoops really nailed how things felt for me Sunday night in Indy, er, Noblesville, Indiana.

Setlist:

Hallelujah Time
Green Flower Street
Hey Nineteen
Black Friday
Aja
FM
Time Out Of Mind
Kid Charlemagne
Black Cow
Green Earrings
Dirty Work
Babylon Sisters
Bodhisattva
Keep That Same Old Feeling
Peg
My Old School
Reelin' In The Years (encore)
A Man Ain't Supposed To Cry

I really enjoyed the new intro before the traditional beginning of Kid Charlemagne. Also, as a Crusaders fan anyway, I really liked Keep That Same Old Feeling as the bad intros song. Beyond that, the band was exceptional as always. I really enjoyed the Doobie Brothers set, but after hearing them, it really reinforced just how insanely talented the Steely Dan Band is, and how fucking good Donald and Walter's songwriting is. It was a lot of fun, I'm glad I went, but Walter's presence was dearly missed.

I went to Indy since it was the closest show to Louisville and it was going to be the only one near me not on a weekday, but since it was a Sunday night I still had to drive home after the show back to Louisville to go to work early the next morning, so I got a whopping 3 and a half hours of sleep. So of course the very next day a show in Louisville got announced...

Date: Tues, June 26, 2018, 05:43:45 ET
Posted by: Steve Gennarelli, Tampa, FL

Thanks Hoops for a great and touching review.

Date: Mon, June 25, 2018, 21:02:05 ET
Posted by: Pete Di Nabile,

Hoops - I'm asking if WB's had/has a son names Kawai, in view of the recent article his daughter Sayan wrote about him.

I thought he had/has a son given this article: http://somethingelsereviews.com/2013/03/31/steely-dan-sunday-little-kawai-1994/

Date: Mon, June 25, 2018, 20:08:07 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Tinley Park, IL
Thursday, June 21, 2108

Hallelujah Time (band)
Black Cow
Hey 19
Black Friday
Aja
FM (with Donald explaining the movie didn't do well, but the song did)
Greenflower Street
Kid Charlemagne
Rikki
Green Earrings
Dirty Work
Don't Take Me Alive
Peg
Keep That Same Old Feeling with intros
Bodhisattva
My Old School
Reelin' In the Years (Encore)
A Man Ain's Supposed to Cry (Outro)

===

I attended the Grand Rapids, MI show a few weeks after Walter passed away. It was a lot like a wake. Great show, good to see people, but of course a lot of reminiscing. For me the peak was when Donald performed "Book of Liars" with a montage of Walter photos in the back. A subtle aspect was when band members handed off the introductions of each other.

I understand and respect that some are still not ready to attend a show with Donald and the Steely Dan band and without Walter. To each their own. I wanted to see and hear firsthand what it was about.

So the Thursday evening at the Tinley Park show, just outside of Chicago, was a very wet night but the show went on. The show had far from sold out, but for the attendees seated outside the area of the pavilion roof, especially the rain poncho-dressed fans on the lawn, the cool part was that the venue upgraded everyone to covered seating. Many of the upgraded seats were in the first several rows, center. I was in the 16th row center section but moved up to 8th for the last third of the show.

So what was the show like? The band played impeccably. The Doobies are great musicians but they didn't compare to the talented perfection of the Steely Dan orchestra. I know some people like to focus only on the set lists, evaluating a show by developing comparative ledger sheets. But with this band for the past 10-12 years, it's been all about the subtlety of the performances, the special nuances, unique moments that transcend. That was always the case for me as well with Grateful Dead shows. And of course, let's remember that for years we only had the same seven Steely Dan albums but after perhaps what was the 808th listen, I had an epiphany about some note or way a lyric was sung. So the band was wonderful. Never a dull moment.

But what about things without Walter? He was extremely missed and as always with Walter and Steely Dan, you sense it but it's hard to put the subtleties about what was said by not being said into words.

To me, it reminded me of one of a family's first holiday gatherings after one of the parents passes away. In my case, getting together with family after the first Christmas after my dad passed away was melancholy. It was good to be with loved ones, but he was missed, especially during certain rituals or a laugh that might be heard or an update from him that we had come to expect. You're glad to be together, but it's not quite the same. So Donald was his wonderful geeky-humored self with wonderfully geeky remark or laughs, but that chemistry when Walter would introduce a slyly risqu� comment or incisive quip was gone. You felt it during the spot when Walter would do the "Hey Nineteen" rap, it kinda slipped by. The band intros were nicely handed off between band members, but it also left me with the same feeling as when mom asked, "Which of you kids will carve the turkey as your father used to do?" And then as the kids cut the turkey, you think about how dad would have cut it thinner and more consistently,..you get the idea,

With Steely Dan being all about subtlety, the most subtle tribute to Walter was the unused mic stand and then there not being a second guitarist to replace Walter. Jon played great--to me he's the best of all the Steely Dan guitarists. He can do it all. But listening to the show, I was reminded of this compact Montgomery Ward stereo record player we had in the late 1960s-early 1970s. You know the kind that unfolded two speakers and a turntable from a suitcase-like configuration. Ours had a short in it and every so often you had to smack it to get the right speaker to work. Only the left speaker could be heard. So it was sort of the same thing here. I kept noticing I wasn't hearing all the sound--we just had Jon and not both Jon and Walter's playing of each other. That Walter wasn't replaced with a second guitarist really was a Steely Danesque kind of statement that those who were really listening and appreciating Steely Dan could hear.

Just a few stray comments: Donald just did one solo track--"Greenflower Street." Granted it was a mixed audience of Doobie and Dan fans, but I was surprised to hear a couple of different people on either side ask, "What is this song? What album is it from?" Also there was a bit of a run for the potties. Reminded me of something similar on "Gaucho" night during "My Rival." Frustrating. Another comment I have that I've always loved the studio version of "Rikki" but it previously never sounded as good for me as a live version. Thursday night it sounded great. Last point, Donald's voice sounded really good.

Date: Mon, June 25, 2018, 14:37:22 ET
Posted by: lil known, fact

Teahouse was in contention to be the title track. Or at least radio stations were, in late 1992, announcing it as the title of the forthcoming album.

Date: Mon, June 25, 2018, 13:18:57 ET
Posted by: Nate, PA

Ahh Teahouse on the Tracks. One of my top favorite DF tunes. I always listen to it when I'm in a good mood. Not sure about the setting, but I know it goes along with the whole story of Kamakiriad and how the main character contemplates wether he should keep going on his journey or not.

Date: Mon, June 25, 2018, 12:43:29 ET
Posted by: Joe Char, Huron

Fagen like Teahouse enough that he went �green� and recycled it on EMG.

Date: Mon, June 25, 2018, 12:24:57 ET
Posted by: Johnny C, Los Angeles

I love Teahouse On The Tracks. SD used to play this when the tours first began in 1993. Anything Donald writes is good.

Date: Mon, June 25, 2018, 11:45:44 ET
Posted by: Aja1, Newton

Al,
I've always wondered about Teahouse on the Tracks as it is one of my top three DF solo songs. I've always believed that it is about a club somewhere in one of the Villages of NYC. I have been reading a book called "Nica's Dream" which is about the Jazz Baroness of the 60's who came to NY and independently supported some of the Jazz greats (Parker, Monk, Blakey and others) both financially and emotionally. In the book, there are several, now defunct clubs that made me wonder if they might be part of the inspiration for the song.

Anyone else have thoughts on the setting for Teahouse?

Date: Mon, June 25, 2018, 07:37:15 ET
Posted by: Al, MI

I always thought Teahouse on the Tracks was inspired by his Cleveland jaunts. In the 80s, the Cleveland flats had an active club scene with live music. One of them was called Fagan's.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=izdei9e-KxY

Date: Mon, June 25, 2018, 04:51:11 ET
Posted by: Steve M, Scotland

Very poignant quote about Donald right at the end of the article CJB linked to:

"If you want to see him smile," his mother
remarks, "You have to see him with Walter"

Date: Sun, June 24, 2018, 22:56:14 ET
Posted by: CJB, YVR

Kreg's mention of DF's sister sent me searching for corroborating details.

Link below is to a transcribed Ohio newspaper article about the Fagen family, c. 2000, which I haven't previously seen, containing lots of local color:

https://groups.google.com/forum/#!topic/alt.music.steely-dan/Q3Q2T5xZWXk

Date: Sun, June 24, 2018, 01:47:17 ET
Posted by: Kreg, OH

Too bad Donald had a falling out with his sister (per his book.) Blossom used to be his family gathering show.

Date: Sat, June 23, 2018, 22:08:56 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol, Mtl

Got a buddy sending me updates from Blossom tonight. Seems like a good show. And a decent crowd. Venue was nice last time we saw them there.
Peace

Date: Sat, June 23, 2018, 11:57:58 ET
Posted by: Johnny C, Los Angeles

I rewatched this video again and it's almost unbearable. I avoid concert footage on YouTube where the camera only focuses on one musician and the songs are incomplete. Only good thing about this video is the high quality picture and sound.

Date: Fri, June 22, 2018, 21:39:03 ET
Posted by: CJB, YVR

Johnny, maybe try watching it with the sound on?

Date: Fri, June 22, 2018, 18:43:51 ET
Posted by: Johnny C., Los Angeles

I hate the video. You can't see the whole band. It just focuses on Donald's face. Stinks!

Date: Fri, June 22, 2018, 08:34:06 ET
Posted by: Nicholas Urfe, Phraxos

That is quite a video. I like the way you can see Freddie Washington laying down the groove most of the time that DF is on camera. Sadly, the Danettes are missing.

Date: Fri, June 22, 2018, 02:26:38 ET
Posted by: CJB, YVR

Excellent front-row footage & sound from the tour:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OdCbk3Upgj8

Date: Wed, June 20, 2018, 16:49:09 ET
Posted by: D-Mod, walterbeckermedia.com

My only "complaint" about the Major Dudes book is that several topics I would think are important are treated only briefly. For instance, material on 11 Tracks of Whack is limited to not much more than a single short review of no particular depth. Yeah I'm biased -- but wouldn't you think that (and any release, actually) merits more than that....or at least a cross section of opinions rather than a single review? Or some historical context (such as Jon Parales naming it one of his top 10 of the year), etc. Won't give any more spoilers.The material that's there is fine, and from legit sources. It's just not going to inform many dissertations on the music of SD :-)

For my money, John Granitino's masterpiece and labor of love "Steely Dan Reader"
steelydanreader.com/
is the place to go for in-depth coverage of everything.
Moreover, he is adding material all the time. In fact, if you have a pdf or text version of anything he doen't yet have online, you can help out by sending it to him.

Date: Wed, June 20, 2018, 16:07:14 ET
Posted by: Josey, Mass

Also, I assembled a desk fan this morning. I don't wanna call this the best day of my life, but I'd be damn stupid not to buy a lottery ticket on the way home.

Date: Wed, June 20, 2018, 16:03:57 ET
Posted by: Josey, Mass

Just got off the fence and got VIP tix for the Xfinity Center show in Mass. It's only 15 minutes from where we live - who knows how much longer this can go? No idea what VIP entitles us to other than better parking and a couple extras. Should be a good time.

Date: Wed, June 20, 2018, 01:07:27 ET
Posted by: AnyManLeft, Rio Grande

Just got Major Dudes today. After 89 pages my initial reaction is the material is an easy reading mix of prior reviews and interviews, some which are very repetitive material and some with new insights and information. Overall it's a generally historical collection of already published material that starts with the pre-SD years.And I did notice in the Contents there is a chapter on Walter's untimely death at the end of the book, which I am holding off to read until I get there.

Date: Tues, June 19, 2018, 14:09:40 ET
Posted by: Public Service, CT

If you'd like to peruse the book.

https://tinyurl.com/y9uo6mea

Date: Tues, June 19, 2018, 13:31:48 ET
Posted by: Major Dude, hanging out

I encourage all Steely Dan fans to pick up this book. It's a fun book to read with a lot of interviews.

Date: Tues, June 19, 2018, 10:48:54 ET
Posted by: Benny, Tempe AZ

That's probably the reason why Donald decided to put Any Major Dude on the setlist earlier on this tour. Maybe the book wasn't selling well or Donald read something he didn't like so he nixed it.

Date: Tues, June 19, 2018, 09:10:39 ET
Posted by: Selfish Gene, Where the hell's my apostrophe?

QUESTION/QUOTE: "Is it by any chance entitled �Steely Dan: Major Dude�s�?"

I recently bought a new SD book on eBay, but my hardcover copy didn't come with an apostrophe in "Dudes". I'm worried I may have inadvertently purchased one of those shoddy Chinese counterfeit Steely Dan books that seem to be flooding the market of late. Damn.

Date: Tues, June 19, 2018, 00:55:06 ET
Posted by: XR, N

And not so recent years.

Date: Mon, June 18, 2018, 22:24:46 ET
Posted by: BobO, ��-

Is it by any chance entitled �Steely Dan: Major Dude�s�? If so, it�s simply a compilation of other articles that appeared in recent years.

Date: Mon, June 18, 2018, 21:11:11 ET
Posted by: Steve Gennarelli, Tampa, FL

There's a new high profile "Steely Dan" book out. I saw it yesterday at Barnes & Nobles. Looks like an excellent read.

Date: Mon, June 18, 2018, 11:29:10 ET
Posted by: via MK, -

Lovely new short piece from Walter's daughter over on his site.

http://walterbecker.com/daughters2.html

Date: Mon, June 18, 2018, 09:05:55 ET
Posted by: Bookkeeper's Son, Florida

Have to admit (as I referenced in my earlier review) the crowd in Tampa for the DB/SD show was surprisingly into the music of both bands. Maybe it was the section where I was sitting. But don't think that was it as I have sat in that same section (Orchestra) many, many times before and typically encounter the "hit seeker" crowd who talk even during those very hits they seek. In spite of a generally great crowd there was one guy (isn't there always) who felt it necessary to yell a conversation to the person he was with during any part of any song. Maddening. Protected freedom of speech you say? I say, nay nay!!

I don't think anyone mentioned the other class of self absorbed yahoos who attend concerts these days. The ones who talk loudly ABOUT their personal devices and how to work their FakeBook accounts, etc.., for the pictures they are trying to post. All the while staring and comparing said personal devices.

In my observations, this phenomena of talking about everything but the entertainment you are there to see is not restricted to concerts. Been to plenty of NHL Hockey games where the conversation is entirely about something else.

Date: Mon, June 18, 2018, 01:26:13 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol, Mtl

Re:Toronto Amp. Sure,the venue's not the greatest. But going to shows is now for me,a chance to hang with those of our kind,so looking forward to seeing Canuck Bbookers. We also had our first Non-Walt show last year(Windsor), and look forward to seeing DF+Steely Dan Band for a second time. And also the Oct run. Had to pass on Sat.Blossom show. But maybe 'Toga to see some other people from past shows. Peace

Date: Mon, June 18, 2018, 01:26:12 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol, Mtl

Re:Toronto Amp. Sure,the venue's not the greatest. But going to shows is now for me,a chance to hang with those of our kind,so looking forward to seeing Canuck Bbookers. We also had our first Non-Walt show last year(Windsor), and look forward to seeing DF+Steely Dan Band for a second time. And also the Oct run. Had to pass on Sat.Blossom show. But maybe 'Toga to see some other people from past shows. Peace

Date: Sun, June 17, 2018, 20:44:18 ET
Posted by: M/O/D/P, Recalcitrant, or not - YOU decide!

Well, tickets went on sale a few months ago for an early July Steely Dan/Doobie Brothers double bill at Toronto's awful, awful "Budweiser Generic Horrible Outdoor Concert Venue" (the former awful, awful Molson ArmpitTheater). For the first time in well over two decades, though, I wasn't exactly salivating at the prospect of scoring SD seats day-of-sale. Firstly, no matter what they call it, the venue itself is excruciatingly dreadful, and given this fact it tends to attract way too many of the type of fans who (perhaps unwittingly, perhaps not) always conspire to ruin the experience for me. Loud (and idiotic) non-stop conversation during songs, too many Big Gulp Beers, constant obsession with electronic devices throughout the performance - you know, perfectly acceptable public/concert hall behavior for 50-to-60-something "mature adults" [sic] circa 2018. As Popegreg just said, "Good show despite a terrible, horrible, no good very bad crowd". Terrible is bad, horrible is worse, no good is no good, and very bad just completes the shitty fourfecta. Again. And so it goes. I feel yer pain. Or, I'm about to, again.

Anyways, regarding the upcoming July 2nd show, in my own defense, I figger I've already seen my Steely-Dan-Without-Walter-Becker show. That was the Casino Rama (Ontario, Canada) show back in The Fall of '17. Not that I wouldn't have gone anyways - I would have - but I actually bought the tickets in mid August, well before the bad news came on September 3rd. The show ended up being a real downer for me, despite the usual high standard of musicianship et cetera. As Hoops noted here at the time, it was "very melancholy, indeed like someone had died". For me, for sure, and probably for a few others, but apparently not for most that puke-stained [tunic] October night. What follows is a previously-unpublished review of that October 2017 concert. Read on, if you dare...

As I have sometimes done at past live music events, I talked to a number of people before show-time in an effort to see what like-minded/"kindred spirit"-types might have to say. On that particular night, though, looking for kindred spirits at the casino was like looking for diamonds in a septic tank. Like paging C. Everett Koop in the smokers' lounge at The Limelight, circa 1956. Like searching for Jessica Alba on Skid Row. Or trying to find a prospective Mensa member at a Springsteen concert. You get the picture. Of the nine diehard Steely Dan fans I spoke with - that is to say, folks who liked or recognized the brand name "Steely Dan" enough to leave the confines of their bug-infested hovels and drive from parts unknown to attend the show, hell, maybe even actually pay for their goddamned tickets - incredibly, only ONE knew who Walter Becker was...and even that guy wasn't too concerned about any possible difference in the music with Walter missing. [FUCK]. Another veteran concertgoer flatly stated that he simply didn't care who was in the band - whatever act he was seeing - he'd seen 'em all, he told me - it didn't matter, he was clear on that - but rather it was the songs that mattered. When I told another fellow concertgoer that the band would likely be doing a couple of Donald Fagen solo numbers tonight, his response was unequivocal. "Well, I hope not. I came here for the hits, not for new material!". Obviously, for at least one diehard fan, songs from The Nightfly qualified as dreaded "new material".

At the merch table, a sloppy guy (55+ years old/bloated, distended belly/food-stained track pants/crude-looking "Aerosmith" t-shirt/in public - that surely matches the Oxford Dictionary definition of "sloppy", no?) remarked unfavorably about the posted price of an Aja shirt (or maybe it was a "hoodie" [sic], I dunno), with the comment that, "I like to listen to his music, but no way I'm paying $75.00 for a shirt!". So I also learned that as late as Fall 2017 we still had stunned people aimlessly wandering about the terrain referring to Steely Dan as "him". I honestly though that vein of stupid had by now been strip-mined well past the bedrock, but I was wrong. Or, more accurately, "wrong again". Again, in my own defense, I find myself on the wrong side of wrong a fair bit these days.

Anyways, at several points during the show I found myself thinking about our Norwegian friend Jazzassin's Bluebook post from September 4th. If you didn't read it back then, you should go back and read it now. It states exactly how I felt at the time, but he put it better, more viscerally, than I could have, then or now. "This is all just a sick joke, right?". Of course, it wasn't. As noted in other Bluebook reviews of those October '17 shows, the band played Book of Liars to a backdrop photo montage of WB, and his old space was left (appropriately, I think) empty. It was a nice respectful touch. At the show I attended, during the band intros, Jon Herington started introducing DF with, "the original, the originator..." a la Walter, then his voice dropped off in mid-sentence leaving the rest unsaid. Another quiet tribute. And so it went.

Several times I just stared at the stage and felt a lump in my throat, so I coughed quietly to get rid of it. Fucking lump.

In the end, a fat old lovable goofball-type sitting directly behind us - one who had been consistently loud throughout the entire performance, not surprisingly talking a lot (during songs, of course) about how much he loved & respected geriatric/perennially-embarrassing Classic Rockers "AC/DC", all while proudly wearing an "AC/DC" t-shirt - summed it up succinctly for the majority of the audience that night when he drunkenly hollered, "ROCK AND ROLL!!!!" repeatedly during each of the final three songs of the Steely Dan set. To be clear, he really didn't appear to be bothering anyone but me, and, in fact, at least a couple of people seemed to be cheering him on. See, he was in his element...among friends..."kindred spirits". And I'll bet my last piaster he'll be there - in spirit, if not in body - at every single Steely Dan/Doobie Brothers outdoor shed show this summer.

So, yeah, I'm going to the July 02 Toronto show, despite my reservations. I'll get to hear a really great live band play music I love, for one last time, and I'll get to hang out with fellow Bluebook poster Don Patrol. There's still something to be said for that...

Date: Sun, June 17, 2018, 18:28:18 ET
Posted by: Abu, No More Play Video, Rodie

Hey Steve, at least they finally stopped playing that annoying previously unknown SD tune called "Play Video" every other song. And to think that they did that four consecutive shows on May 30, Jun 1, 4 & 5.

Date: Sun, June 17, 2018, 17:50:59 ET
Posted by: popegreg, MKE

Well, Toby, Any Major Dude was played ... by me in the car on the drive out to Madison! ;)

Good show despite a terrible, horrible, no good very bad crowd. I wish I'd been wherever "Hey" was standing because everyone around us was taking loudly during both sets. Not much dancing going on either just asshats standing and carrying on loud, incessant convesations about shit like work schedules and law school. The irony of everyone yakking during a song called "Listen to the Music" was not lost on us. At least since it was GA, a few songs into the SD set, we were able to move a better spot that was more off center but not as chatty as where we were earlier. I just don't get why people pay money to go to concerts to talk, and are sofa king oblivious to those around them (who want to do crazy stuff like actually listen to the music).

Earl, I did not write down the setlist but we did get FM and DTMA !!! (which count as "suprises" to me.) I'd been hoping to hear FM again since that Beacon show in '15 when DF's organ broke and they stopped the intro and skipped it. It was a nice version, can't hear that one enough! Also in the "not every night category" were TOOM, Rikki, Dirty Work, Green Earrings, Josie. No Greenflower Street (or any DF solo), Aja or Black Cow. They opened with Bodi.

DF sounded pretty good and was quite animated despite the heat. The band sounded great but I agree with those who say that they could use a rhythm guitarist to augment Herrington. If they can have a 4 piece horn section they can add a guitarist.

Our first show without WB, boy was he missed. We could not hear what DF said about him over the crowd talking, but we did raise our cups to him during Hey 19.

Hoping for another good show on Thursday in Tinley Park. I'm going solo on that one and I may not get there until after the DBs go on. They were good and all but I enjoyed the latter half of the set better, which was more hits than deep cuts. Also, please let the crowd be better behaved since I can't move away from any idiots in my vicinity at that venue.

Date: Sun, June 17, 2018, 16:10:14 ET
Posted by: Hey, Madison

Madison�s setlist was very much �greatest hits.� No solo stuff, no surprises. That�s okay, pretty much what I was expecting. Donald was energetic, got up a lot, mentioned that he was here when Amy Helm graduated college. It was a good crowd, people were standing and dancing, it was easy to get close for those who wanted to. Was very hot and humid, as Donald commented on, and he had to wipe sweat off himself between every song. Band was tight as always, probably the best it�s ever been.

Date: Sun, June 17, 2018, 10:22:17 ET
Posted by: Earl, Brooklyn NY

Hey, popegreg! How was the show? Can you post the setlist?

Date: Sat, June 16, 2018, 17:39:19 ET
Posted by: Steve, St Paul

Last night's setlist:

Hallelujah Time (band)
Greenflower
Hey 19
Black Friday
Aja
Black Cow
New Frontier
Kid Charlemagne
Rikki
Home at Last
Dirty Work
Gaucho
Bodhisattva
Keep That Same Old Feeling with intros
Peg
Pretzel Logic
My Old School
Reelin' In the Years (Encore)
A Man Ain's Supposed to Cry (Outro)

Mic left open for Walter again.

Date: Sat, June 16, 2018, 17:00:10 ET
Posted by: Rodie Joe, Denver

We all know this isn�t the �real SD� never the less Pretzel Logic sounds sooo good!

https://youtu.be/BkvoSHNkXVo

Date: Sat, June 16, 2018, 12:17:31 ET
Posted by: Toby, eating breakfast

They ain't gonna play Any Major Dude.
Donald scrapped it from the setlist early on the tour.

Date: Sat, June 16, 2018, 08:08:40 ET
Posted by: popegreg, MKE

Gonna be a hot one in Madison tonight! I�m still questioning the (pretzel) logic of this show at a soccer field with mostly standing areas. At least folks should be up dancing instead of toe tapping in their seats, if they�re not too overcome by the heat. Looks like it�s close to sold out too. Hoping for Deacon Blues or FM or DTMA or freaking Any Major Dude! Any of those will make it a cool show and worth the time spent baking.

Date: Sat, June 16, 2018, 01:35:20 ET
Posted by: Ports, Minneapolis

Gaucho & Pretzel Logic in set list St Paul tonight!

Date: Fri, June 15, 2018, 16:55:46 ET
Posted by: J, Hey

Michael Leonhart�s new one drops a week from today...

Radar: Take a Majestic Orchestral Journey with Michael Leonhart on 'The Painted Lady Suite'

http://www.tinyurl.com/ydaxwueg

Date: Fri, June 15, 2018, 16:32:59 ET
Posted by: J, Hey

Originally published in January 2013, this was re-published today:

�Five ways to play like Donald Fagen�

https://www.keyboardmag.com/lessons/5-ways-to-play-like-donald-fagen

BONUS TIP #6 �It helps if you actually are Donald Fagen.�

Date: Fri, June 15, 2018, 00:35:15 ET
Posted by: D-Mod, waltebeckermedia.com

Doc Mu - I hope you and others also put your comments on wbmedia discussion boards too...it's where, for instance, people like Larry (and a few others..) are most likely to read your compliments ... :-)

Date: Thurs, June 14, 2018, 19:39:29 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

Crap - "Carlock." Damn auto-correct.

Date: Thurs, June 14, 2018, 19:38:15 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

Larry Klein was outstanding in augmenting Walter's vision, the space within the recording, balance, and playing. Cool, but organic. Warlock has never sounded better, also.


FLAC files sound great (although I do have the original CD). It's hard to believe it's been 10 years...

Date: Wed, June 13, 2018, 20:31:06 ET
Posted by: D-Mod, walterbeckermedia.com

As many of you know, its C$'s anniversary week (month?). We're streaming the entire album from high fidelity (FLAC-level) files. Arrows will advance or rewind tracks or within-tracks.

Think of it as a listening party, open 24 hrs. Drop by to comment, read, listen.

(Almost) anything goes. BYOB, and we can always use more chip n' dip.

Date: Mon, June 11, 2018, 18:48:03 ET
Posted by: Via WBMedia,

Walter Becker Media updated with backstory on Circus Money to celebrate its 10th:

https://www.walterbeckermedia.com/forum/street-legal/circus-money-10-year-anniversary

Date: Mon, June 11, 2018, 17:10:23 ET
Posted by: Dr. H�nd, Hanging Valley Wall, Colorado

Denver, cont.

Just pulled up seats 5 rows in front of stage via Altitude for $99 ea. plus fees. I haven't seen any flash seats sell for less or what I bought mine for on Friday night but it should be interesting between now and showtime tomorrow. It seems the flash seats have firmed on price on actual sales....but, there are many listings with little action. Who knows, this is like the stock market now. Buyers vs. sellers.

Date: Mon, June 11, 2018, 16:45:47 ET
Posted by: Dr. H�nd ,

Heads up for tomorrow's show in Denver. Promoter has slashed prices although many tickets have been sold for the 20k plus capacity Pepsi Center. I think this is the future of ticket sales, taken from the airline industry. Prices were lowered this weekend with lower level risers repriced at $35 plus fees of course. Still, you can get in for under $100 for two. Surprisingly, no upper level seats available. I got lucky on flash seats and and had my $25 bid per ticket accepted for two sweet seats right above the soundboard. $61.20 total with fs fee. They get fees from both buyers and sellers. I thought the promoter listed these but now I believe they were original promoter comp tickets. So if you can go tomorrow, check out seats directly from Pepsi Center (Altitude) and flash seats. My $25 bid were for $57 ask. Should be a good show with the right seats. No curfew.

Date: Mon, June 11, 2018, 15:43:13 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Released 10 years ago yesterday...Circus Money.

http://walterbecker.com/cm.html

Date: Mon, June 11, 2018, 15:42:48 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Released 15 years ago yesterday...Everything Must Go.

http://sdarchive.com/emg.html

Date: Thurs, June 07, 2018, 17:09:53 ET
Posted by: Yaz, Brooklyn

It would be a bad idea for Larry Carlton to join Steely Dan. Larry is a great guitarist but he's too old now and would slow down the band on the uptempo songs.

Date: Thurs, June 07, 2018, 16:45:35 ET
Posted by: Ray, .

Ned obviously has too much time on his hands.

Date: Thurs, June 07, 2018, 14:01:03 ET
Posted by: Bob ,

Don�t give up your day job, Ned.

Date: Thurs, June 07, 2018, 07:19:19 ET
Posted by: Ned, R

IHOP is changing its name to IHOB and they are inviting fans to guess what the B stands for. I will refer to them as the International House of Becker in honor of the musician who ate junkest pancakes there.

Date: Wed, June 06, 2018, 18:43:29 ET
Posted by: Pogo, CA

Too bad they pulled out Any Major Dude.

Date: Wed, June 06, 2018, 16:40:13 ET
Posted by: Rodie Joe, Chicago

looks like they are rotating setlist

i'll take the set list with FM and DTMA

june 5



Fan It, Janet
(Maynard Ferguson cover) (band only)
Play Video
Green Flower Street
(Donald Fagen song)
Play Video
Hey Nineteen
Play Video
Black Friday
Play Video
Aja
Play Video
New Frontier
(Donald Fagen song)
Play Video
Time Out of Mind
Play Video
Kid Charlemagne
Play Video
Rikki Don't Lose That Number
Play Video
Black Cow
Play Video
Dirty Work
Play Video
Babylon Sisters
Play Video
Bodhisattva
Play Video
Keep That Same Old Feeling
(The Crusaders cover)
Play Video
Josie
Play Video
Peg
Play Video
My Old School
Play Video
Encore:
Reelin' in the Years
Play Video
The Untouchables (band only)
(Nelson Riddle cover)

june 4


Setlist
share setlist


Fan It, Janet
(Maynard Ferguson cover)
Play Video
Bodhisattva
Play Video
Hey Nineteen
Play Video
Black Friday
Play Video
Aja
Play Video
FM (No Static at All) [instrumental during band intro]
Play Video
Time Out of Mind
Play Video
Kid Charlemagne
Play Video
Rikki Don't Lose That Number
Play Video
Green Earrings
Play Video
Dirty Work
Play Video
Don't Take Me Alive
Play Video
Peg
Play Video
Keep That Same Old Feeling
(The Crusaders cover)
Play Video
Black Cow
Play Video
Josie
Play Video
My Old School
Play Video
Reelin' In The Years
Play Video
The Untouchables (band only)

june 1


Setlist
share setlist


Fan It, Janet
(Maynard Ferguson cover)
Play Video
Green Flower Street
(Donald Fagen song)
Play Video
Hey Nineteen
Play Video
Black Friday
Play Video
Aja
Play Video
Black Cow
Play Video
Time Out of Mind
Play Video
Kid Charlemagne
Play Video
Rikki Don't Lose That Number
Play Video
Green Earrings
Play Video
Dirty Work
Play Video
Home at Last
Play Video
Bodhisattva
Play Video
Keep That Same Old Feeling
(The Crusaders cover)
Play Video
Josie
Play Video
Peg
Play Video
My Old School
Play Video
Encore:
Reelin' in the Years
Play Video
The Untouchables

may 30

Fan It, Janet
(Maynard Ferguson cover)
Play Video
Bodhisattva
Play Video
Hey Nineteen
Play Video
Black Friday
Play Video
Aja
Play Video
FM (No Static at All)
Play Video
Time Out of Mind
Play Video
Kid Charlemagne
Play Video
Rikki Don't Lose That Number
Play Video

Green Earrings
Play Video
Dirty Work
Play Video
Don't Take Me Alive
Play Video
Peg
Play Video
Keep That Same Old Feeling
(The Crusaders cover)
Play Video
Black Cow
Play Video
Josie
Play Video
My Old School
Play Video
Encore:
Reelin' in the Years
Play Video
The Untouchables