Steely Dan Fan's BlueBook-dandom.com's Guestbook

MAY - AUGUST 2008 BlueBook Entries

Date: Sun, August 31, 2008, 10:21:16 ET
Posted by: Geoff, The El Supreme new wiggy pad

GM - the new mix is up, with downloads *ON* http://www.myspace.com/saddesign

LWO - these blokes came over yesterday and moved the kitchen cabinets so the fridge fits now. I think they're going to do the new room too. Apparently they did Don Henley's house. (Not sure if we're alowed to discuss people such matters/people on the blue book, but he used to be in the Doobie brothers, who as we know, changed their name to Steely Dan when Peter Gabriel left to form Generation X)

Congrats SOH!

Date: Sun, August 31, 2008, 00:05:01 ET
Posted by: DC, DC

I have a feeling Sam Yahel will replace Jeff Young at some point.

Date: Sat, August 30, 2008, 18:36:18 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Congrats to SOH on his marriage.

Date: Sat, August 30, 2008, 18:22:22 ET
Posted by: Chan, Bsoton

Congratulations Joe!!!!

Date: Sat, August 30, 2008, 12:57:31 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Cortlandt Manor, NY

Re: Reelin', it was also played the first few shows of the '06 tour, but like another song or two, it was dropped early. I remember being at the first show in Milwaukee that tour and they started playing Reelin' just like it sounded on AIA, and a lot of people didn't recognize the tune right away. I, on the other hand, recognized it instantly and jumped up and yelled out "OMG it's Reelin' in the Years!" and people looked at me like I was mad. Well...I was.

Connie, if you ever get the chance to chat with some of the crew members (and I recommend you do, as they are lovely people!), a lot of them already have work lined up as soon as the tour is over. Sometimes it's with another artist or a group or a show, or they work in a shop for a production company or whatever. That's really just the nature of working in the performing arts, period. I noticed a lot of this when I was working in summer stock theater - one gig ends and hopefully (for crew) it's on to the next gig or back to teaching (something I noticed more with theater techs than music techs). Unless you've got a steady gig with a long running Broadway show, you just gotta keep on keepin' on.

Date: Sat, August 30, 2008, 11:18:31 ET
Posted by: Fife, Baltimore. eh

We scored $95. seats five rows from the stage way right but close to Donald WhooHoo!

Date: Sat, August 30, 2008, 10:52:17 ET
Posted by: mr belzoni, funway west

hello one and all, looks like 95 bucks will get you in row 15 in atlantic city ! here's hoping they change up the show from last time and add another show in philly! hoops maybe we can meet in a-c if there is a fest ! mr B

Date: Sat, August 30, 2008, 09:20:41 ET
Posted by: fornetti,

I do not believe this

Date: Sat, August 30, 2008, 09:16:08 ET
Posted by: Gretchen, Cheers

Best wishes to our friend Joe(SOH) and his bride on their wedding day tomorrow! May you have many, many years of happiness!!

G

Date: Sat, August 30, 2008, 07:18:27 ET
Posted by: fornetti,

I do not believe this

Date: Sat, August 30, 2008, 06:09:55 ET
Posted by: Instant recall (for once), @ Fife

Fife: "...an interview where Walter stated that they had no plans to do a live dvd because he didn't think you could capture the whole live jive and the atmosphere on it. I can't for the life remember where that came from but it made sense to me. Does anyone else remember that?"

It was in the August Rockline call-in show where he was asked about the possibility of a DVD.

Date: Sat, August 30, 2008, 02:53:44 ET
Posted by: MikeA, Seattle

Hey Hutch: Regarding the intro on Reelin, you are right, it would/should be the guitar that plays it. But, counting on my fingers, it seems like we only need 16 notes reproduced for the theme and then Jon might embelish from there. I think the other recurring riff was fine with the horns doing it, ala, the Alive in America version of this song.

I agree, Reelin is a signature SD song. I remember the first time I ever heard it. We were on a high school field trip waiting to take a boat trip to the channel islands in CA on a Saturday afternoon. It was too stormy so the boat ride was not happening. We sat on this damn school bus for a few hours next to the coast, just waiting. Someone had a transister radio playing (a Sony ) Anyway, the one song that really got me was Reelin that afternoon. All these years after, I still associate that memory of time and place with that song. That was also the day in 1973 when I became a Dan Fan.

MikeA

Date: Fri, August 29, 2008, 22:29:14 ET
Posted by: Reely Dan, Windy City

Greetings fellow jazz-rock-pop-funk-blues & soul enthusiasts! . . .

The Tribute known as REELY DAN is playing TOMORROW EVENING at the famous DURTY NELLIES Entertainment Complex in friendly neighborhood Palatine!

The show is on Ticketmaster, Tickets are also available at the door,
if you haven’t been to the newly remodeled NELLIES, it is like a scaled-down version of House of Blues. Featuring professional lights & sound, this new northwest suburban venue hosts many, many national acts every week as well as top local artists.

It is a late one: REELY DAN hits the stage at 11:00 pm, and plays to 1:30 am.

See the details below. We hope to see you all come out and support the music of the immortals, please consider joining us tomorrow night, Saturday August 30, at Durty Nellies in Palatine:

SATURDAY, AUGUST 30, 2008

REELY DAN
appearing at
DURTY NELLIES
180 N. SMITH STREET
PALATINE, ILLINOIS

REELY DAN . . . The Steely Dan Tribute Band, featuring Bob Blom, Steve Kikoen, Michael Hesiak, John Forrest, Gary Claypool, and our special guests Maggie Brown, Africa Brown, Isha Lewis, Raphael Crawford, and Ethan Bulak.

“Close your eyes and you’ll be there - a splendid time is guaranteed for all!”

Date: Fri, August 29, 2008, 22:09:10 ET
Posted by: Connie, In the Vineyard

SF Dan Fan - Acoording to the local Santa Rosa paper, Wells Fargo Ctr heard that SD was coming back West to play a gig in Las Vegas and made them an offer to play. I guess they couldn't refuse. Thank God!

Has this been discussed? I thought about this when Walter introduced all the people behind the scenes at the last show in Santa Rosa. What happens(ed) August 28th? Are the crew, the roadies, etc. independent contractors or employees? Does everyone meet up (except Donald and Walter who have taken a plane home) and get their final check, a tour bonus and, perhaps, a thank you note from D&W? Does everyone head for the unemployment office the next day and file as "Laid off as a roadie for a legendary band" and then take the next 85 days off until November 22nd?

Date: Fri, August 29, 2008, 21:45:20 ET
Posted by: Hutch, Richmond

SF DanFan - I too wonder about Reelin' and why it was only played live in '93 and '94. And even then it was a drastically rearranged version.
Reelin' in the Years is probably the single most recognized song that SD ever recorded. I'll bet if most people were asked to name a Steely Dan song they would name that one.
So why haven't they performed it in it's original form? Okay, from a guitarist's point of view the intro would pretty much have to be played note for note... or damn close to get the right effect. I mean what else could you play that would really work there? So would Jon be averse to playing it almost note for note. I doubt it since he usually plays the intro to Don't Take Me Alive note for note.
Would the lyrics or feel be too dated or awkward for DF like Wu seems to be? I can't see why. Is it a Steely Dan Anthem song? You bet it is. Every bit as much as My Old School.

Now don't get me wrong. I'm not complaining, just wondering.

I really would like to know what Jon would do with that solo in the middle though.

Date: Fri, August 29, 2008, 18:17:21 ET
Posted by: Ambrose,

Twit, congratulations on being such a stand-up American. A true spawn of the red, white and blue. We need more like you, Twit, yessiree, anonymous, cowardly, banal, all that and ready to give us exciting updates on your vacation schedule. It just doesn't get better than this.

Date: Fri, August 29, 2008, 18:02:50 ET
Posted by: SF Dan Fan, San Francisco

Great shows to end the tour. I attended the show on Wed 27th and loved it. Looks like the set list was identical to the 26th w/ the exception of Babylon Sisters inserted for FM (which I preferred since BS is a great song). I also loved that Black Cow and Bodhisattva got played.

The show at the Berkeley Greek was also most excellent!. That set list included Everything You Did, Glamour Profession and Home at Last. They aslo did Do It Again for an encore song so at least I've seen them do one of their ultra classics.

I know folks will disagree, but not playing Reelin' and Ricki was a bummer. In fact, Reelin' would have gotten the crowd up and going right away as opposed to being more subdued until late in the show. The thing about Reelin' is that the chorus is so classic you have to sing along, which gets the crowd really into it. Too bad they did not go there.

Given that they've gotten back into touring (94, 96, 00, 03, 06-08) chances are we'll see them roll out here to NorCal again, but maybe not as much. I was surprised that they were here so many time (Berkeley, Saratoga, Stateline NV, Murphys, Saratoga-again and Santa Rosa). Especially given that they were in the Midwest and ended that leg in Dallas. Does anyone know why they came back to Norcal, given the venue sizes are small?

Date: Fri, August 29, 2008, 15:23:50 ET
Posted by: Fife, Baltimore, eh

I was reading over the last couple of days posts especially the Deans posts about a live dvd and an interview where Walter stated that they had no plans to do a live dvd because he didn't think you could capture the whole live jive and the atmosphere on it. I can't for the life remember where that came from but it made sense to me. Does anyone else remember that?
Plans almost solidified for AC whoohoo!

Date: Fri, August 29, 2008, 15:12:52 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Kid C,

I agree with your assessment of Bird. Not a GREAT movie, but pretty damn good. Forest Whitaker does a fine job as Charlie Parker.

Why not make a night of it and enjoy 'Round Midnight, too. Damn fine movie, with a superb performance by jazz sax great Dexter Gordon.

Date: Fri, August 29, 2008, 15:03:17 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana, va

In that case, MANY thanks, Hoops !!! :-)
and thanks to Janie also.
Will put the movie on my netflix queue.....

Date: Fri, August 29, 2008, 14:46:09 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, @work

Hoops has long touted the Glengarry soundtrack as a great jazz album and the movie is very good as well.

"Bird" was a very good movie, in my opinion. Don't know how historically accurate it is but it's very watchable. Forest Whitaker is an excellent actor.

KC

Date: Fri, August 29, 2008, 14:44:32 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

SteelyDana,

I think it was Hoops who made that recommendation. I got it too and yes, it's great!

Date: Fri, August 29, 2008, 14:38:46 ET
Posted by: Zitomeyer,

My bad Twit. I apologize

Date: Fri, August 29, 2008, 14:33:47 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana, va

Can't remember who it was on The Blue who recommended the Glengarry Glen Ross CD....but, THANK YOU !! I found it in the $2 bin at local music store and what a wonderful CD !!!! Some really beautiful, silky smooth jazz....Very nice.
And some SD notables on the liner notes:
Jeff Porcaro
Bob Shepard
and of course, D. Fagen for the song "Blue Lou"......

Date: Fri, August 29, 2008, 13:50:31 ET
Posted by: Dan Historian, keyboard

88 was the year of Clint Eastwood's movie Bird.
I have never seen it. Should rent it sometime.

Date: Fri, August 29, 2008, 13:43:47 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., Parker's Band

On a blog I've been reading of late there's a "Today's birthday" widget from The Free Dictionary. Today's featured b-day person is...

Charles "Bird" Parker, Jr.
http://encyclopedia.thefreedictionary.com/Charlie%20Parker

He would have been 88.

Date: Fri, August 29, 2008, 12:06:54 ET
Posted by: Zitomeyer,

Anontwit
That was fucked!

Date: Fri, August 29, 2008, 08:53:14 ET
Posted by: AnonTwit, on the tarmac

This is a nice little FM, especially great due to the horn solos starting near the 5 min mark, but worth it:

The band just keeps on giving and giving

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wu_DCV84TiU

Off to Mexico for the weekend, but all you good, law abiding citizens have a great weekend.

Date: Fri, August 29, 2008, 02:32:58 ET
Posted by: Santa Rosa Dave, Pix from Tuesday

Here's a link to some photographs of Tuesday night's show posted on the local rag's website: http://www.pressdemocrat.com/apps/pbcs.dll/gallery?Avis=SR&Dato=20080826&Kategori=ENTERTAINMENT03&Lopenr=826009998&Ref=PH&show=galleries&template=multimedia

If the link doesn't work, just go to http://www.pressdemocrat.com and scroll down to "Top Photo Galleries" and you'll find the Dan in there.

Date: Thurs, August 28, 2008, 22:24:25 ET
Posted by: good, Dean!,

you took that poster's comments, you weren't Mean Dean, and you added some insight.

Cheerio, mate!

Date: Thurs, August 28, 2008, 22:21:34 ET
Posted by: Fife, Home a last

Anyone up for a chat?
Fife

Date: Thurs, August 28, 2008, 22:10:36 ET
Posted by: Jon, Benton Harbor

"Any shows they had done before or since would not measure up."

This you KNOW because you've been to every Steely Dan concert, ever.

Fool.

Date: Thurs, August 28, 2008, 21:20:56 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

While I agree it isn't likely the Dan is doing a DVD (at the Borgata, or elsewhere), it's fun speculation.

But, I seriously doubt they would pick a place like Soboba to do one, either. Based on the Plush DVD, the live stuff from Rock and Soul Revue and the PBS special, they are likely to pick a small indoor venue rather than an outdoor venue. Of course, that's just a guess.

I don't think crowd reaction is a big consideration for Steely Dan. This isn't a Bon Jovi concert we're talking about.

Date: Thurs, August 28, 2008, 20:57:41 ET
Posted by: nooooo, not the Borgata,

Borgata, not very likely. Somebody talked about low crowd energy at Santa Rosa, it ain't happenin at the Borgata. Better off doing a show in a studio and use canned applause. If they didn't produce a DVD from Soboba show they missed the best opportunity in their history. That, or they have no intention of doing live DVD's. Still, you can't rule out the possibility of a Soboba, Red Rocks or Beacon DVD someday maybe.

Any shows they had done before or since would not measure up.

Date: Thurs, August 28, 2008, 19:02:23 ET
Posted by: Conspiracy, Large Tan House

Maybe they are planning on releasing the previous Borgata show on DVD and they are going back to fill in the gaps and do a few retakes.

Basically the same setlist, but it will give them a choice of performances to pick from ...

Just a thought.

Date: Thurs, August 28, 2008, 17:16:28 ET
Posted by: Little Wild One,

Kelly Dwyer is a big SD fan....lurks around here occasionally.

It is always interesting to note when the band peaks. This year it sounds like it was late July or early August.

Oh, Banyan Nine--do we recall a lack of energy at the last shows in 2003? My memory is a bit dim on that. Must have been the jet lag.

Date: Thurs, August 28, 2008, 16:16:04 ET
Posted by: Dan Belcher, Louisville, KY

Completely unexpected Steely Dan reference of the day. A double-shot of The Dan, in fact! My buddy e-mailed me a link to a story about Jay Mariotti resigning from the Chicago Sun-Times http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/blog/ball_dont_lie/post/Jay-Mariotti-goes-away?urn=nba,104057

It includes the following: "And, as someone who apsatively refused to read his work, or watch the abomination that is Around the Horn (or, depressingly, his turns on Pardon the Interruption), I'm convinced that I have a unique view on this guy's career." And yes, the word "apsatively" is hyperlinked to the 2VN lyrics on steelydan.com. The blog entry also includes a reference to Don Henley being soulless, complete with a link to the episode of "Yacht Rock" about The Eagles vs. Steely Dan.

Date: Thurs, August 28, 2008, 15:48:21 ET
Posted by: SteelyDanaa, va

Only 85 days until the Borgata show....but who's counting?? :-)

Date: Thurs, August 28, 2008, 15:39:33 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Heading Toward the Manatee Bar

It's too bad the crowd was so subdued in Santa Rosa. I don't need the crowd to dance (a little doesn't bother me), but a lack of energy and vocal appreciation is unfortunate.

I am told that, people who have raised from their seats to dance, at this venue, were removed from some previous concerts. That, plus the security vibe raised by alan, might help to explain the lack of great energy, by the audience.

Connie, you know why Conservative Baptists don't have sex while standing up? People might think they are dancing.

Date: Thurs, August 28, 2008, 15:33:56 ET
Posted by: Connie, In the vineyard

Good one Alan - "That, to me, is almost sacrilegious." since the Wells Fargo Center for the Arts was originally built as The Christian Life Center until its demise in 1981. Maybe the Christians are still lurking. I don't think they danced either.

Date: Thurs, August 28, 2008, 15:16:33 ET
Posted by: alan, SFO

Just wanted to add a few more thoughts about last nights show.

The sound was great. We were sitting 5th row almost dead centre and there were moments when I thought I could hear someone playing a tambourine right behind me, it was almost like surround sound at times.

Carlock was impressive as always but it was a great treat for me to see Bob Shepard play, man he can blow ! Funny watching him stand beside Leonhart though, they could almost pass as father and son.

Having a bit more time to reflect about the crowd, maybe the Nazi style of security had something to do with the fact most people behaved but I swear, out of the 26 shows I have seen since 2003 that was the first crowd ( well at least the crowd on the main floor ) that didn't get up for MOS or Kid C. That, to me, is almost sacrilegious.

Date: Thurs, August 28, 2008, 13:52:41 ET
Posted by: BillfromPgh,

I like Walter's take much better than the Disney version!

>>He also reflected on the summer tour by sharing the story of the Grasshopper and the Ant. The ant, it seems, worked hard all summer stockpiling food and preparing for winter, while the grasshopper played and played. Sure enough, when winter came, the grasshopper had no food, so he ate the ant.

Date: Thurs, August 28, 2008, 13:24:52 ET
Posted by: Connie, In the vineyard

RE: Last show of the season

As it turns out, the AC was fixed for this show. WL and I talked to the AC man and the computer had shut down on Tuesday night.

Donald wore a white sports coat and tee shirt.

Walter had basically the same Hey 19 story as the night before.

The ladies looked fantastic. All 3 wore black dresses, 2 wore wide red patent leather belts and the other a sequined bustier.

The audience did seem more sedate on the main floor than Tuesday night but the balcony was rocking.

I thought Gaucho was one of the best I have heard this tour. Walter hit it perfectly.

Alan, Jeri, Steve, Kirk and Sabrina - here's hoping for WB tour.

Date: Thurs, August 28, 2008, 13:00:55 ET
Posted by: Randall,

Horse shit there DJ
The best posts came from "the man on the run"( Camel Breath)

Date: Thurs, August 28, 2008, 12:47:16 ET
Posted by: DJ, Shy-town

Hands down the best posts over the years go to mealreviewer and those posts concerning barna, rick the bagel, and their famous Steel Don cover band "The Sick Fruitty Bitches"!

Date: Thurs, August 28, 2008, 11:10:30 ET
Posted by: alan, Santa Rosa CA

Well Santa Rosa Dave and beaubo have pretty much summed up last nights show. One thing I'd like to add was that both Donald and Walter mentioned that this was the last show for this season which to my interpretation means there's more to come, how much more we'll have to wait and find out.

Dean, Santa Rosa was definitely an intimate venue and the audience last night was mostly very polite, too polite in my opinion. Bands feed off energy generated from the crowd and the crowd last night was very sedate.

Connie and Holliday, it was great to see you again and Steve it was a pleasure to meet you too. Kurt and Sabrina, great to see you again too.

Donald, Walter et al, thanks again for bring your music to the masses.

Now we are off to Indy for the wedding of the world's most eligible bachelor...

Date: Thurs, August 28, 2008, 09:47:26 ET
Posted by: Craig B,

LWO's last post was the best I've read in months.
Thank You

Date: Thurs, August 28, 2008, 09:37:22 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Dave and beaubo,

Thanks for the reports. I have always wanted to see The Dan in an intimate (and/or "sophisticated") setting...a venue designed for serious appreciation of serious music. And, before the wolves attack, by "serious" I don't mean somber or lacking in fun. I am very serious about having fun...it is the most important thing in my life!

I am sad I had to miss these Santa Rosa shows.

Date: Thurs, August 28, 2008, 07:59:24 ET
Posted by: Rajah of Erase, Douira

Knock twice.

Rap with your cane.

Date: Thurs, August 28, 2008, 06:14:51 ET
Posted by: Little M, right here

I know that they've added one show for later this year -- Nov 22 - Borgata Event Center - Atlantic City NJ | on sale Aug 30 -- but I wonder if they'll work on another album. That's what I've been waiting for. EMG came out five years ago, after all.

Date: Thurs, August 28, 2008, 04:16:50 ET
Posted by: beaubo, Cleveland

Had a quick meetup with Connie, Alan/Jeri and Holliday before the band's farewell show! Nice to meet some fellow knowledgeable and enthusiastic Steely Dan fans.

The show's setlist mirrored that of the night before.

Band's energy was probably more revved up than the crowd,though they were rfreceptive, they seemed a bit reserved compared to other shows I've seen.

Suffice to say, its been a helll of a run, and hopefully not the last!

Date: Thurs, August 28, 2008, 03:00:16 ET
Posted by: Al_Suarez, Tri Valley SF Bay Area

Oh, I loved the Walter Becker's lead vocals on Goucho. I like it better than the orginal, is that supposed to be OK? :-) Anyway....I very much enjoyed Becker's delivery and tones in Goucho on Tuesday.

Date: Thurs, August 28, 2008, 02:56:21 ET
Posted by: Al Suarez, Tri Valley - SF East Bay

If you want two pics from Tuesday in Santa Rosa, lemmeee know. I wish I could have see My Old School tonight - on a business trip...

Date: Thurs, August 28, 2008, 02:41:25 ET
Posted by: Santa Rosa Dave, 8/27 Set List

I may have used up all my superlatives last night... Tonight was every bit as good, and the room seemed cooler in every sense of the word...

Becker says, "This is the last night of our tour, and I can't think of a better place or a nicer audience to share this evening with."

He also reflected on the summer tour by sharing the story of the Grasshopper and the Ant. The ant, it seems, worked hard all summer stockpiling food and preparing for winter, while the grasshopper played and played. Sure enough, when winter came, the grasshopper had no food, so he ate the ant.

After "Peg" and before the encores, Don and Walt asked all their roadies and tech people to come on stage for a round of applause as they introduced them all very quickly, reading their names from a piece of paper. "Thanks for playing along with us on that one," said DF.

WB, who seemed quite well-lighted last night, spent the whole of tonight in the shadows. Physically, I mean - musically he was right there on Front Street. At first I thought there was an actual lighting problem, but really I think he's just got some Maynard James Keenan in him (vice versa?) and last night was a fluke. Seems like he's always preferred the background, except when he's speaking or singing.

Fagen's voice was as fine as I've heard it in recent years.

Hey, have a nice life.

Set List: Wells Fargo Center, Santa Rosa, CA 8/27/08

Instrumental Intro: Everyone's Gone to the Movies / The Fez
The Royal Scam
I Got the News
Show Biz Kids
Bodhisattva
Two Against Nature
Hey Nineteen
Godwhacker
Babylon Sisters
New Frontier
Gaucho
Black Friday
Parker's Band
Josie
Aja
Love is Like an Itchin' in my Heart
Black Cow (with Sam Yahel)
Peg

My Old School
Kid Charlemagne
Instrumental Outtro: Last Tango in Paris

Date: Thurs, August 28, 2008, 00:47:35 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Nice, belated review, Mike. Thanks.

FYI, the Mountain Winery used to be a really special venue. Now, I see they've revised it, and it seems like it is more like a typical Amphitheater, but in a really nice location. Of course, they can accommodate a bigger crowd, now.

Date: Thurs, August 28, 2008, 00:25:23 ET
Posted by: MikeA, Seattle

Chan--I am in the same boat as you. Tommorow will be a tough day for me sending the "kid" off to college. Probably cry like a baby on the long drive home. And then, if I put Deacon Blues on while driving I may cry even more and flip the truck :)

Hey, thanks for those great observations and commentary.

MikeA

Date: Thurs, August 28, 2008, 00:18:50 ET
Posted by: MikeA, Seattle

Reporting on the Saratoga show from Sunday-sorry I had no modern communication device until now.

The Mountain Winery is aptly named. Its at the end of a long single lane, winding street. The view from on top of the mountain is spectactular. The bowl surrounding the seats and the stage reminded me of the old stunt man show setup at Universal Studios. Anyway the seating is real intimate and the stage was rather small for such a large band. I was probably about 30 rows back and the sound was awesome. The venue was really cool and organized well. If you ever have a chance, check it out!!

As I said the soumd was great. However, the ususal Steely Dan light show was nowhere to be found. They used simple spots and it was really pissing me off that all of Walter's solos were in the dark. He was the only one who did not get a spotlight. And, they had him turned down a bit. I almost went back to the mixing board and complained, but thought better of it.

Bob Shepard sat in with the Sam Y "trio" and sounded fab. Also, he was really showcased when SD played. He got a lot of blow time and it was just great to see him playing with them again.

Donald started off a bit pitchy for the 1st tune or two and just like he has in the other shows I saw, got it to together in short order.

They played FM and did not play Black Cow as was reported earlier. For me, the SD show started with a few really obnoxious dudes next to us saying that Walter should hire someone else to sing on Circus Money. And for that matter, said he sucks singing live as well. Actually, this moron did not know about CS until I told him it was out. He was a greatest hits kind of drunk dude. I got another earfull when they played Goucho.

All in all the crowd was "nice" but real reserved and we only received an encore of Kid C. in return. This crowd was quite a bit different than Seattle and St. Louis. About the same age as Seattle but not as vocal and hardly any dancing. St. Louis was a lot younger on average.

Anyway, another swank show, and very tight!!! Even impressed my jazz snob musician buddy. For me, the highlights were New Frontier, Peg (great solos!), a slowed down Pretzel Logic, and then GodWacker. And for me, it changes from show to show as far as favorites.

Saw Donald making a slow walk up a long flight of stairs after he was done. Had a towel wrapped around his neck, and seemed in no big hurry to hop in what appeared to be a Lincoln Towncar. Maybe he was killing time while Walter smoked his cig. I dunno...

Both of our SD guys seem to be in pretty good shape. Looks like they take care of themselves. But, no doubt they are a bit tired after touring coast to coast for 3 months or so.

Had a laugh in the parking lot later. We arrived at the car and I heard some guy moaning and groaning. I saw that he was pissing on a tree in the dark. I mentioned it to my friend but he did not hear me. We get in the car and he turns the headlights on. The guy was facing us in mid stream all lit up and his winky sure disappeared fast as he zipped and ran away in to the night. SORRY dude !!

MikeA

Date: Wed, August 27, 2008, 22:04:41 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Chan & LWO,

Every once in a while, we need someone with some sense to put it all in perspective. Thanks to you two for doing that today.

Yes, these are the best of times for Steely Dan fans -- let's enjoy them!

Chan, can't belive it's time for your son to go off to college. I met you briefly at The Bitter End and you were talking about how he had just graduated. Time certainly flies! Good luck to him, and to you too!

Date: Wed, August 27, 2008, 21:30:07 ET
Posted by: Chan, Boston

I could not agree more with you LWO. Even if I am #6 on the list!! For me the Blue, The GreenRoom and Danfests have been about making real friends with people I have enjoyed meeting and being with. I am in contact with them and of late that has satisfied my need to be connected to with those of my kind. Some have been ill, lost family members and are struggling with the same day to day issues I and most of us have to deal with. They know I am thinking of them and they thinking of me.

I have not posted here in quite awhile. I do however check in every day. I just have not been that motivated to add my two cents. I am thrilled that so many of us have once again been able to see Steely Dan this year. Who would have ever thought that they would tour three years in a row with a Fagen tour on top of that. I laugh when I read that some don't like the set lists, or the shows were too short, or they never played Dr. Wu. Do all of you understand just how lucky we have been these past few years. Concerts, Danfests, After Parties we have had it all and it has been the best!!!

Tomorrow morning, I am bringing my son to college for his first year. He has been to a few Dan shows and Danfests with me. Some of you have met him. I call him Kid C. He loves Steely Dan, however of late I hear a lot of Jim Morrison coming from his room. He tells his friends that he knows a guy that was in the Steely Dan Plush DVD, Pete Fogel, that I smuggled him a couple beers during a show, that we sat ten feet from Walter, he wears a "Do the Wu" t shirt. I bring this up, because the time we have spent together at these shows has been truly special. We will always remember them and I will always be grateful that we shared this. Do you think it really mattered to us if they played Hey 19 every time we saw them? I think not. Tomorrow will be an emotional day for sure.

Well enough rambling for tonight. Congratulations to all of us who have shared in yet another amazing tour. See you in 09???

Date: Wed, August 27, 2008, 21:17:56 ET
Posted by: Steely Fan, NJ

Aja download is now $6.93 at Amazon.

Date: Wed, August 27, 2008, 20:46:55 ET
Posted by: suggested list update,

Top 10 Blue Writers of All-Time

1. Rajah
2. Bullgoose
3. Alkali
4. Lurker Ray
5. Daddy G.
6. Angel
7. sue dave
8. Girl M.
9. RJ Squirrel
10. IDTC

Angel's reviews were quality and were published, so she should be added. Some others might be Doc Mu and maybe Woodman.

Date: Wed, August 27, 2008, 18:11:17 ET
Posted by: angel, LA and wishing I was in Santa Rosa

Connie: Some real nice shots.
Hey, I resemble that green shirt, uh well you get the idea...I own that green shirt. :-)

Alan and Jeri: Have a GREAT time tonight!

Date: Wed, August 27, 2008, 17:40:35 ET
Posted by: alan & jeri, 6 miles from Wells Fargo Center, Santa Rosa CA

Well folks we finally got here after a 13+ hour flight across the Pacific and a detour of downtown San Francisco ( damn google maps ).

Going to head now and scope out the venue, who knows we may be lucky enough to hear them rehearsing Dr Wu. ( ahhh wishful thinking )

Will try to post something after the show if we aren't too inebriated.

Date: Wed, August 27, 2008, 17:37:46 ET
Posted by: Connie, In the vineyard

Photos from last night's show -

http://www.pressdemocrat.com/apps/pbcs.dll/gallery?Avis=SR&Dato=20080826&Kategori=ENTERTAINMENT03&Lopenr=826009998&Ref=PH&show=galleries&template=multimedia

Date: Wed, August 27, 2008, 17:21:11 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Yes, the Blue is getting pretty cheap and chippy, today.

Gina and PGE, thanks for the good info.

Date: Wed, August 27, 2008, 16:09:58 ET
Posted by: angel,

Gina: The more you try, the more you find news about Steely Dan.
Isn't life funny like that... :-)

Date: Wed, August 27, 2008, 15:31:26 ET
Posted by: Rajah of Erase, Darah, an oasis

My dear old friend, you wouldn't know the truth if it struck you in the ass and exploded in a chorus of, "Put on Your Old Blue Bonnet."

But you will soon feel its consequences, I'm afraid.

Date: Wed, August 27, 2008, 15:22:21 ET
Posted by: Dugan, This Dirty City

Carlock's at the Bitter End on Sep 8th with the Oz Noy Trio. I'll be there and at the ready if anyone wants to hang out and get weird. Look for the pack of Lucky Strikes and you've found me.

-Dugan

Date: Wed, August 27, 2008, 15:14:00 ET
Posted by: Gina/Mizar6, Sun Mountain

http://www.joeydefrancesco.com/

howdy PGE :-)

as i'm so-not-desperately trying to kick the old Mizar5 habit which ain't that difficult because i could easily STOP looking for Steely related news and leave it to Radio Dupree and others to post Steely Dan stuff, (pardon the bad grammar and linguistic esthetics here) i must have done something wrong and found myself in shock for stumbling upon this...

was editing a review for All About Jazz about an authorized bootleg from JoeyDeFrancesco in which the reviewer talks about Coleman and Miles Davis, when i had to insert a link to JDF's website. when i went there, i was confronted with a news item about highlights coming out soon, from the tour they did with...

Steely Dan.

still. it won't make me change my mind :-)
therefore i post it here so it's out of my head.

Date: Wed, August 27, 2008, 15:00:09 ET
Posted by: PGE, summer's over ...

For all who have no subscription to the Dandom Digest (shame on you! ;)

+ + + + + +

After reading Lonnie the Kingpin's mention on the Bluebook that Walter
Becker is producing Roger Rosenberg's upcoming album "Baritonality" I
wanted some more information. Thanks to the wonders of Internet here's
what Roger kindly replied:

"It is a jazz CD with Mark Soskin on piano, Chip Jackson on Bass, Jeff
Brillinger on drums, with a guest appearance by Peter Bernstein on
guitar. I'm playing baritone sax, bass clarinet on 1 track, and
soprano sax on 1 track.

It consists of 4 quartet tracks. a duo with each member of the group,
a trio with guitar and bass, and a solo piece. Except for 2 tunes,
they are all my originals. Working with Walter in a jazz context was
amazing.

We recently finished the mastering and are exploring the best avenue
for release. I hope by the end of the year.

Track listing:

1. Baritonality
2. 3/4 B
3. 43rd St. Mama
4. Mike
5. Paradox
6. Spring Can Really Hang You Up The Most
7. The 8TH Day
8. Someone To Watch Over Me
9. Birds and 'Tranes"

- This has been another non-aggressive, plain informative post from the country of rampant suicide and free sex -
;-)

Date: Wed, August 27, 2008, 14:35:43 ET
Posted by: Little Wild One, down in the bottom

Blame it not on the planetary alignment.

It's just the beginning of the post-tour blues. The only difference this year is that we are damn near certain there will be at least one more show to look forward to.

In the past, there was no such assurance and things REALLY got desperate, dark and ugly.

As for legendary posters, there are more than a few of us who don't feel the need to voice our opinion every other second or be elected Mr. and Ms. Bluebook. As has been mentioned in other posts, the friendships we have made will far outlast as of the words that have been posted here.

And isn't that what matters? I think so.

Date: Wed, August 27, 2008, 14:30:57 ET
Posted by: Refugee,

Dr Wu - I thought this was the Tom Petty board?

Date: Wed, August 27, 2008, 13:47:19 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

Very ugly on The Blue today !!
Planets must be out of alignment, or something.......

Date: Wed, August 27, 2008, 13:37:52 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Not on the grid

"Twit, I grieve for the mother who bore you and the father who spawned you. I am many things, but a wife beater is not one of them. How dare you judge me in this way? Have you ever lived with a difficult person? Have you ever had to deal with someone who knows no consequence of dialing 911? I have. And I have paid my small debts to society for my infractions. Check out my mug-shot sometime and witness the blood on my face and the bite marks on my person, you dickless piece of shit...

Pray, Twit, pray hard that I never discover your ID. My name is David Di Giannantonio and as sure as I live, if I do someday find out whom you are, you will be laughing out of another side of your face.

I have a long memory, my dear friend. For this night, sleep well."

Yikes!

Dude... it's a Steely Dan discussion. Take a deep breath, play your newly downloaded .99 cents Aja from Amazon.com, select "Deacon Blues" and r e l a x...

Then... when you are ready... post something nice and Steely related, like what is your favorite song live or something sweet like that...

Ok, freak? ;)

Date: Wed, August 27, 2008, 13:32:39 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Not on the grid

Well, IMO, the holy trinity of Bluebook posters are:

1. The Dean (Don't take no shit from Rajah)
2. Girl Margaret
3. Hoops

In the order.

Date: Wed, August 27, 2008, 13:29:13 ET
Posted by: I know the truth, la

Rajah, you are a hopeless liar and a pathologic alcoholic, wake up to the fact that you are a spineless piece of crap. Stop boring everyone with your pitiful ramblings. The only blood on your face is from the cuts you probably received falling down drunk. No one would chance biting you for fear of ingesting your venom, or getting alcohol poisioning.

Date: Wed, August 27, 2008, 13:22:26 ET
Posted by: Rajah of Erase,

Twit, I grieve for the mother who bore you and the father who spawned you. I am many things, but a wife beater is not one of them. How dare you judge me in this way? Have you ever lived with a difficult person? Have you ever had to deal with someone who knows no consequence of dialing 911? I have. And I have paid my small debts to society for my infractions. Check out my mug-shot sometime and witness the blood on my face and the bite marks on my person, you dickless piece of shit...

Pray, Twit, pray hard that I never discover your ID. My name is David Di Giannantonio and as sure as I live, if I do someday find out whom you are, you will be laughing out of another side of your face.

I have a long memory, my dear friend. For this night, sleep well.

Date: Wed, August 27, 2008, 12:59:41 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

"Donald announced that this was the second to last night for the summer tour"

Hmmmm, I find it interesting that he referred to this as the SUMMER tour. Kind of leaves things open, doesn't it?

Date: Wed, August 27, 2008, 12:39:57 ET
Posted by: Anon Prick,

Anontwit - Holy crap did you hit the nail it on the head about Dean! When I expose him he just comes back at me with links to websites about trolls.

Date: Wed, August 27, 2008, 12:34:33 ET
Posted by: CJB, VYR, CA

Jesus, Joey, give your relentless self-aggrandizement a rest. Thanks for your attention.

Date: Wed, August 27, 2008, 12:18:06 ET
Posted by: Sandman,

Joey - How ironic. You come on here with your consistent annoying baby talk but yet you rate yourself as a great writer. You're an ass.

Date: Wed, August 27, 2008, 09:50:32 ET
Posted by: AnonTwit, at the Airport

Let's not forget difference #5:

Raja is a wife-beating criminal coward who has no sense of place or decorum.

The Dean is not.

Date: Wed, August 27, 2008, 09:46:16 ET
Posted by: Joey,

" 4 Top 10 Blue Writers of All-Time "

1. Rajah
2. Joey
3. Alkali
4. Lurker Ray
5. Daddy G.
6. Chan
7. sue dave
8. Girl M.
9. RJ Squirrel
10. IDTC

You make Joey blush .

J.

Date: Wed, August 27, 2008, 09:44:25 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Raj and Dean have huge egos? Perhaps, but I don't think I've ever seen either of them “grade” other posters. You have to have an ENORMOUS ego to do that and it looks like you fit the bill.

But thanks for the info on the Borgata. You seem to know a lot about AC despite your obvious distaste for the place.

Date: Wed, August 27, 2008, 09:29:19 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Not in CA

Geoff, you're going to be twenty miles from the concert tonight and you're not going to go?? I thought this was already decided! Go, have fun, and raise a glass for me at the Danfest. And if you don't go, well, you're a stronger man than me.

Alan and Jeri, have a great trip! Looking forward to reports from the west coast Danfans tonight!

Date: Wed, August 27, 2008, 08:37:31 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Great stuff, Dave and Connie. Can't wait to hear more.

BTW, one more thing Raj and I have in common is we always post under our regular handle, and don't hide our attacks under disguised , less-than-clever monikers. Carry on!

Date: Wed, August 27, 2008, 06:44:59 ET
Posted by: 4 things we have to get straight here,

#1 Ninety-nine cents for Aja is a steal. That’s worth about Nineteen cents in 1977 money, when most of us suckers paid about six dollars for the vinyl LP. And some of us have never gotten the digital CD version via cheapness or our appreciation of the analog sound. Cheap bastards NOW is YOUR chance!

#2 The Borgata, a Steve Wynn masterpiece of a building, is one of the finest, well thought out structures in the Western Hemisphere. This includes Vegas, where the only thing that matches it might be Mandalay Bay or Bellagio. You would have to go to maybe Malaysia or Dubai to find something more spectacular. Also, it NOT “on the strip”, and you better have good directions to it if you are going there since it is surrounded on three sides by water and only two streets lead up to it. Whomever said Atlantic City itself is “dumpy”, well that is being kind. In reality it is a dirty, dangerous place and the casinos which have been there for 30 years have not lived up to the bullshit promises made in the 1960’s and 70’s that they would improve the city. All the high rollers, players and well paid staff commute in from elsewhere.

#3. Rajah vs. The Dean

Similarities:

Both kept the Blue Book going.
Both are insightful.
Both have huge egos, but this masks some insecurities.
Both are has-beens of some prior success whose stars have fallen.
Neither of them work nor have any visible means of self-support.

Differences:

Rajah has about 30 IQ points more than The Dean.
Rajah is more worldly and philosophical and makes others think.
Rajah is more broad-minded with sense of the possible, The Dean limited imagination, strictly concerned with facts, or more specifically whatever agrees with his viewpoint.
The Dean grades your posts, bristles and belittles if you don’t think what he thinks, Rajah builds on the discussion points.
The Dean is mean spirited at times, seldom admits there are other possibilities or error on his part. Rajah most of the time respectfully disagrees, with explanation.

#4 Top 10 Blue Writers of All-Time

1. Rajah
2. Bullgoose
3. Alkali
4. Lurker Ray
5. Daddy G.
6. Chan
7. sue dave
8. Girl M.
9. RJ Squirrel
10. IDTC

Date: Wed, August 27, 2008, 03:59:09 ET
Posted by: Al Suarez, Tri-Valley area

Wow, a great show. My forth time seeing them this year. Berkeley, Saratoga, Saratoga, and Santa Rosa. Tonight was extra special. Thank you WB and DF! Yeah, Keith Carlock is new favorite drummer!!!

Date: Wed, August 27, 2008, 02:43:36 ET
Posted by: Connie, In the Vineyard

Thanks SR Dave - my set list is on scraps of paper.

It was friggin' hot in the center. Donald asked the audience if we were hot and then yelled to the managment to turn up the AC with some frosty air so the audience can enjoy the music. He then proceeded to take off his brown suit jacket and performed the rest of the show in a black tee shirt. I don't think I have ever seen his forearms before tonight.

Sam Yahal joined SD on stage for Black Cow.

Donald announced that this was the second to last night for the summer tour.

Wicked Librarian scored Donald's 2 coke cans after the show.

The 3 ladies had afros and cute 70's style dresses.

Walter's Hey 19 rap was appropriate for Sonoma County - You go to the show, you buy lots of merchandise, you go home with your girlfriend and know the best is yet to come. So you go down to your wine cellar and look over the 2005 merlots, 2000 cabs, and then you spot a golden bottle of amber liquid from the 60's but you can't remember the name....

The audience was timid about dancing (except for a few of us).

Date: Wed, August 27, 2008, 02:22:05 ET
Posted by: Santa Rosa Dave, 8/26 Set List

Oh, My God. Brilliant. Inspired. Wonderfully mixed. Don and Walt and the whole band, fully ON, audience fully engaged, paying rapt attention and cheering wildly as appropriate. Standing O for Carlock / band after Aja. Truly an awesome show.

The room was too damned hot, and DF mentioned it after Gaucho. It's difficult to say if the AC was ever actually adjusted after that.

Movies / Fez Intro
The Royal Scam
I Got the News
Show Biz Kids
Bodhisattva
Two Against Nature
Hey Nineteen
Godwhacker
FM
New Frontier
Gaucho
Black Friday
Parker's Band
Josie
Aja
Love is Like an Itchin' in my Heart
Black Cow (with Sam Yahel)
Peg

Kid Charlemagne
LTIP Outtro

Will report back after the Wednesday night show.

Date: Tues, August 26, 2008, 23:43:51 ET
Posted by: Alan and Jeri, Still at the airport, ready to board

Geez Geoff, it is only about 20 miles from Petaluma to Santa Rosa (aren't google maps great?) - if nothing else you can come just for the Danfest!

Don't you owe me a wedding drink or something since you missed the festivities?

Jeri

Date: Tues, August 26, 2008, 22:23:33 ET
Posted by: alan & jeri, Sydney Airport

Come on Geoff mate, be spontaneous, just do it !

Date: Tues, August 26, 2008, 22:05:32 ET
Posted by: Gretchen,

Actually, driving west on Sunset would take you straight to Gladstone's parking lot.

G

Date: Tues, August 26, 2008, 18:10:54 ET
Posted by: Geoff, San Jose, CA

Alan mate

I'm actuaslly going up to Petaluma tomorrow... not far from Santa Rosa... I'm thinking... AGGGHHH no I can't. See you next time!

geoff

Date: Tues, August 26, 2008, 17:54:01 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

Raj,

I agree with much of what you say, re: The Dan and the LA/NY arguments. Always thought is was silly, actually.

But, as another guy who has lived in those two cities (and Boston)...San Francisco is IT. SF is where it's at. Maybe not for an actor...but who really cares about actors? :#)

Date: Tues, August 26, 2008, 17:37:21 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Alan,

Have a safe trip and a GREAT TIME!!!

Date: Tues, August 26, 2008, 17:35:33 ET
Posted by: Rajah, burning desert sands

How many of you here have lived and worked as a musician and actor in Manhattan and LA? From my poor experiences of both, along with going to bed hungry because of it many a night for the privilege, let me tell you something now and you can either forget it or...three snaps up...remember it later: these cities represent the best and worst of American culture as we know it, and by that I mean, if there even is such a thing as, "American culture," these two cities are IT.

So the answer to the musical question of Steely Dan being allied more to NYC or LA is a pointless and provincial polemic, posited by, excuse me, very narrow minds who have very little credibility. And it sure as heck doesn't matter WHERE Steely Dan play last on this or any other tour.

I've got to get back on my camel now, the sun is setting and I have just enough water to get to Khartoum. May the Prophet bless you and walk along with you by your side, Farengi...

Date: Tues, August 26, 2008, 17:33:36 ET
Posted by: alan, Shellharbour AU

Well the bags are packed I am all set to make the journey across the Pacific to once more for the last show at Santa Rosa which looks like brewing into a hot show in more ways than one...95 F geez

Looking forward to hooking up with Connie and the Wicked Librarian and the rest of left coast contingent for what should be a hell of a danfest.

Date: Tues, August 26, 2008, 17:02:37 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana, counting my pennies

According to Live Nation, the ticket prices for the Borgata show are going to be $135, $95, and $85.

Date: Tues, August 26, 2008, 16:48:57 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana, va

It's not listed on comcasttix.com yet either.....

Date: Tues, August 26, 2008, 16:32:54 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

And, still nothing listed on the Borgata website for this show...

Date: Tues, August 26, 2008, 16:22:43 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana, va

Just had an email alert that the Borgata show tickets will be available through Live Nation site.....even though the Borgata isn't a Live Nation venue.
Also said ticket sales start at 10am EDT on sat Aug 30.

Confusing ??

Date: Tues, August 26, 2008, 15:13:28 ET
Posted by: Joey,

" Donald and Walter are East Coast guys at heart! They won't end a touring season on the West Coast. God, I love them both. "

Well , who's to say they will not end a touring season in the Midwest ?! ... !!!

Who's to say Walter will not sing lead vocals on Dr. Wu this fall ?! { After all , it DOES say ' All Songs written by Donald Fagen and Walter Becker ' }

Developing ......................

Skittles Joe ! ™

Date: Tues, August 26, 2008, 12:37:26 ET
Posted by: Fife, Florida but soon to be home at last!

Thank you everyone for your condolences. Dean I'm sorry to hear that's your reason for being in Florida as well. Being middle aged sucks sometimes.
I don't think I will ever tire of live performances perhaps it has to do with the fact I never got into them when I was younger and to be honest I'm totally addicted to the Dan shows. I don't care what the set list will be I just love going. It also has to do with the fact that I get a chance to see my friends that I've met here and who have been there for me in tough times. I will always be grateful for that. So AC here I come! Who else is in? Do I hear the calling of a Danfest, you know I do!!
Fife

Date: Tues, August 26, 2008, 12:21:34 ET
Posted by: steelydoc,

hey kids, don't forget: the Borgata is NOT a ticketmaster location....you have to buy through comcasttix.com

Date: Tues, August 26, 2008, 10:02:54 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Zembo,

:-)

Date: Tues, August 26, 2008, 09:41:02 ET
Posted by: zembo, Fredneck, MD

Thanks for the push, Janie. I enjoyed it!

Date: Tues, August 26, 2008, 08:34:54 ET
Posted by: Gretchen,

Acknowledging. Damn "L" key!

G

Date: Tues, August 26, 2008, 08:32:55 ET
Posted by: Gretchen,

I was just acknowedging that it's nice of the boys to swing back around to the east coast this year, since that's where they're from. I wasn't saying "Caifornia sucks", because that's far from how I feel about the place. I love much of CA, but had some bad experiences in LA, and am just not a fan of that city.

G

Date: Tues, August 26, 2008, 08:06:10 ET
Posted by: Zitomeyer,

I got an email this morning stating that I won the Irish lotto so I'm in for 11/22. No that was Rajah messin with me

Date: Tues, August 26, 2008, 03:52:57 ET
Posted by: St. Rosa, Shell Beach Dua

I just don't think I can make it. I would have to drive North East for an hour and then shake the sand out of my flip flops and possibly sew the hem on my ripped sarong. I think I will be horizontal at that hour concentrating on my exhalation.

It sounds like too much work and I have a yoga class at six.

I never heard of that place. Is it the Luther Burbank Center renamed?

Standing room only. Will they be auctioning cattle off or just be playing beer pong?

Not about to stand up all night when I could be laying horizontal.

Could there come a time in life when one gets just too old for concerts?

Date: Tues, August 26, 2008, 03:35:28 ET
Posted by: The Real Tour, Dogtown USA

http://www.mcyogi.com/tour

“MC Yogi channels the ancient devotional spirit of India in a completely original way with love, respect, humor and joy.”

Krishna Das

Date: Tues, August 26, 2008, 03:19:35 ET
Posted by: Ha-ha, w

And tonight I'm emailing the Aja info out to a friend of mine who is in college, broke, and loves the band but doesn't have a copy to call his own.

Yes, we all have Dan copies several times over. While stopping for a last-minute purchase of toiletries at a Wal-Mart four hours into a road trip last week, my better half and I picked up a copy of the album for about seven bucks, and spent the last 45 minutes of the trip burning through the midnight air and cranking the thing as we hit our destination. From my vantage point right now, typing this post, I can see five CDs of Aja alongside three LP versions (I pick one up whenever I see one).

This is my quibble with concert-goers that feel a need to shout out the song that's coming next or yell out the (full) name of a soloist during a show, much less sing the lyrics at top volume. Yes, we all know Michael Leonhart's first name is "Michael," and the bridge from "Show Biz Kids," but a spirited "woo" and clap would suffice and take much less time. And also take up less of the ear space of those who are trying to hear the band.

So, yes, we all have Aja. Doesn't mean that we don't want to hear things like what Chris W sent to Hoops.

Date: Tues, August 26, 2008, 01:44:10 ET
Posted by: California, CA

Hey Gretch
please drive west on Sunset into to sea

Date: Mon, August 25, 2008, 23:18:51 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

The point is strictly that the album is going for 99 cents. That is what is post worthy. Chris doesn't know what the Bluebook is.

Date: Mon, August 25, 2008, 22:45:56 ET
Posted by: Gus Winterbottom, Torrance, CA

Hoops and Chris W,

Thanks for the post about the Aja MP3 availability. Yes, I have enough copies of Aja myself, but I have a twenty-something co-worker who has watched, bemused, while we have planned our last two summer vacations around Steely Dan tours. So I gave her the info, and I think that she will be downloading the files tonight. Who knows, you may have a new Steely Sister by the next tour.

Even Eskimos can have relatives in the tropics.

GW

Date: Mon, August 25, 2008, 21:27:26 ET
Posted by: The Wicked Librarian, Where the Boys Are

As my date, Dan, is my witness, last night while the orchestra was playing Last Tango in Paris, we made our way to the walkway behind the stage right seating below the egress for the Boys. I shouted to WB who was having a smoke near the limos, "WALTER!!!" about 3 times. When he looked my way, I shouted, "SWANK ALBUM!!!" and waved, and he waved back.

My life is almost complete.

Date: Mon, August 25, 2008, 21:18:48 ET
Posted by: Lonnie the Kingpin, Santa Rosa

Gretchen,

A final thought - despite the random 11/22 show later this fall, this tour is also ending in California.

Lonnie

Date: Mon, August 25, 2008, 21:16:58 ET
Posted by: Lonnie the Kingpin, Santa Rosa

Gretchen ~

Just FYI, Steely Dan has ended various tours on the west coast. I was at the final show in 19 and 94 (9/18/94) in Phoenix and they did it again in 2003 when (I was at that show, too) they ended the tour in Concord, CA (killer venue). There were two other shows even further west in Hawaii but those were not full production shows. The 2003 started in Orange County (I was at the show) and the tour ended in Calif. as noted above.

Lonnie

Date: Mon, August 25, 2008, 20:54:42 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Steely Fan, what a stuck up post: I posted the email I got from Chris W . No kidding everyone here has it--and probably has it 20 times over, at least I do. It's a facinating bit that it's going for 99 cents.

Date: Mon, August 25, 2008, 20:09:26 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Keith,

I'm not suggesting they won't add more dates, but if they don't, you shouldn't be surprised either. In January of 2007 (17th and 19th), Steely Dan played two shows in California.

I believe the previous show was in Sept of 2006, and the next date was in may of 2007. Sometimes SD does things that don't necessarily make sense, on the surface.

And who keeps talking about raising the ticket prices, for this show? Not me.

Date: Mon, August 25, 2008, 20:02:03 ET
Posted by: Steely Fan, Nj

Chris,

Nice find, but posting it here is kinda like trying to sell ice cubes to Eskimos.

Date: Mon, August 25, 2008, 19:56:58 ET
Posted by: DC, DC

a few great single seats now coming up for Santa Rosa through SD website.

Date: Mon, August 25, 2008, 19:46:43 ET
Posted by: Chris W,

I'm not sure how long this will last, but I do know it's active at the moment I'm sending this e-mail. Amazon.com is offering a download of "Aja" (the entire album) for just $0.99. The songs are in MP3 format at 256k bit rate. Here's the link:

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000V63CYO

Date: Mon, August 25, 2008, 19:28:12 ET
Posted by: been here, done that,

Silly Anon...

The Blue has been used as a personals service almost since its inception.

Do I hear any complaints? Nah...

Date: Mon, August 25, 2008, 19:23:39 ET
Posted by: The Wicked Librarian, Where the Boys Are

The EMG Tour in 2003 ended in Concord on the Mainland and then in Hawaii. First leg ended in NY.

The Wicked Librarian

Date: Mon, August 25, 2008, 19:07:38 ET
Posted by: Gretchen, that great celestia plain.........

Sorry, I meant Donald. My "L" key isn't working correctly, for fuck's sake.

Fife, Alan, should we start panning? I mean planning!!!!

G

Date: Mon, August 25, 2008, 19:04:15 ET
Posted by: Gretchen, it took me by surprise........

Donad and Water are East Coast guys at heart! They won't end a touring season on the West Coast. God, I love them both.

xoxoxo
G

Date: Mon, August 25, 2008, 18:58:08 ET
Posted by: The Wicked Librarian, Where the Boys Are

Yes, indeedy. I got a date for last night's show via Craigslist. I contacted some fellas who were looking for dates for the Berkeley show after the fact. I had 4 takers and made my selection. Of course his name is DAN!!! He also ended up buying Connie's ticket for the Ironstone show as well as her extra at Santa Rosa for tomorrow night.

Life is real good right now.

I detect the El Supreme-o in the room at the top of the stairs...

Date: Mon, August 25, 2008, 17:16:54 ET
Posted by: Rajah in Exile, Morocco, French Foreign Legionaire

Anon, really now: Dean, the new.... ME?

Let's not burden him with that.

Dean's OK by me. It's the rest of you who are boring me senseless...

Sharpen your shoes, Blue.

My condolences to you, Fiona.

Tony, there's my email. Interpol be damned.

Date: Mon, August 25, 2008, 17:03:31 ET
Posted by: Warren Kruger, West of Saratoga

Wicked Librarian,

Did you manage to rope some Gaucho into bringing you to a show? Never saw the Blue used as a personals page before.

WK

Date: Mon, August 25, 2008, 16:53:59 ET
Posted by: Keith,

FYI - I think what Anon Prick was trying to say is that Atlantic City is a dump, not the hotel. And I believe that SD/Fagen have played the Borgota at least 3 or 4 times over the last few years. So how could you justify raising the ticket price a substantial amount from the last time they played there? It doesn't make sense. And it doesn't make sense that this will be the only show added. Or should I say common sense.(Dean)

Date: Mon, August 25, 2008, 16:53:09 ET
Posted by: Trolls, Trolls, Trolls

I think this kind of sums it up:

http://www.flayme.com/troll/

Date: Mon, August 25, 2008, 16:50:40 ET
Posted by: Trolls, are everywhere

You know these trolls, they're everywhere and you just can't get rid of them!!!!!!!!!!!

Date: Mon, August 25, 2008, 16:39:10 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

The "more to come" is an interesting thought. Daddy G. That sure would be nice. It would not be unprecedented, though, for SD to do a relatively isolated show. Perhaps they have another (big $$) private gig around the same time. That would still be relatively isolated, IMO...but, it would make it more doable for the band, I would think.

To you anons, VOR: I was simply speculating on what a venue might have to pay SD to come and do a show, when they aren't actively touring..."an isolated date". I said nothing about how much tickets will cost.

Some of you should try reading, and politely asking for clarification, if you are unsure about what a poster means. If yon't like my contributions? Fine. Try contributing something...ANYTHING of value, and maybe I will consider your objections. Until then, Fuck you!

Date: Mon, August 25, 2008, 16:37:57 ET
Posted by: FYI, :

Anon, just so you know, the Borgota in far from a dumpy casino; it's probably one of the nicest on the strip. Maybe that's what will dictate ticket prices.

Date: Mon, August 25, 2008, 16:24:35 ET
Posted by: Anon Prick,

Dean- Come on dog, you're smarter than that. Yeah, lets charge $500 a ticket because it's a isolated show at a dumpy casino in Atlantic City. Dean is the *new* Rajah!

Date: Mon, August 25, 2008, 16:04:55 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Well, it's not the Beacon or Roseland but it's the east coast and that's close enough for me!! YIPEE -- I'm there!

Date: Mon, August 25, 2008, 15:51:16 ET
Posted by: Ha-ha, w

Bob Sheppard started going out with Vicky Cave in 2001.

Date: Mon, August 25, 2008, 15:43:35 ET
Posted by: V.O.R.,

Exactly Daddy G, thank you.

And why would ticket prices be any different?

DUH Indeed!

Date: Mon, August 25, 2008, 15:38:56 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., NJ

Dean, I'm guessing that maybe VOR was merely speculating (if not hinting) at the possibility of more to come????

Date: Mon, August 25, 2008, 15:35:51 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., NJ

SteelyDoc, THANKS for the quick heads up on that! Interesting...

I too will be curious to see if any other gigs pop up around that show. Will have to ponder the possibilities. Don't know that I'd spring for a primo seat like last time (and so soon again), but a "cheap" seat might end up being doable. Before the late June show I moseyed on up to the rear seats just to get an idea of the stage view and they didn't seem bad at all, nothing my small pair of binoculars (for the occasional closer) look couldn't alleviate. I'm sure the sound should be fine as I don't know that there's a bad seat in the house, as they say.

Date: Mon, August 25, 2008, 15:32:58 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

Sorry, Steely Doc. Didn't scroll down far enough to see that you had already posted the Nov 22 date.......

Date: Mon, August 25, 2008, 15:30:33 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Chronologically isolated, VOR. Not other shows near that date.

DUH!

I'm guessing that reading the entire post would have made that obvious.

Date: Mon, August 25, 2008, 15:29:26 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

Another date was just added to the Think Fast tour; it's on the SD website !!!
Nov 22 at Borgata, in Atlantic City; tickets go on sale Aug30 !!!

WOW !!

Date: Mon, August 25, 2008, 15:25:51 ET
Posted by: V.O.R.,

Who says it's isolated?

Date: Mon, August 25, 2008, 15:25:02 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Oh, Fife, I am so sorry. Hopefully we can chat soon.

Take care.

Date: Mon, August 25, 2008, 15:10:55 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Fife,

Sorry to hear about Step-Mom. I wondered what brought you to Florida. Family health issues is why I am here, too.

Nov 22nd? What do you think they charge to do an isolated show like that? It has to be far more than a show in the middle of the tour, no?

Date: Mon, August 25, 2008, 15:01:55 ET
Posted by: Fife, Florida but soon to be home at last!

Doc what great news! I really needed it, it's been a tough couple of months here in Florida and it's been a very sad few days here for us. (My Step-Mum Shirley passed away after a brave fight against pancreatic cancer on Saturday)
Thanks for spirit booster!
Fife

Date: Mon, August 25, 2008, 14:48:51 ET
Posted by: steelydoc, near the Tower

STEELYDAN.COM UPDATED WITH A NEW SHOW!!!!!!!

DATE ADDED !

Nov 22 - Borgata Event Center - Atlantic City NJ | on sale Aug 30

Date: Mon, August 25, 2008, 12:58:31 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Glen Lake

Thanks WL for the setlist.
And thanks Sam - Bob Sheppard!!!
That's awesome. I saw him at Herb
Alpert's club Vibrato about a month
ago and when I asked him about still
doing gigs with Steely Dan, he was
very "coy" about his answer. What
a great sub for Walt W. Perhaps
they will work up Deacon for the
lucky Santa Rosa crowd.

Date: Mon, August 25, 2008, 12:24:41 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Unfortunately (or, perhaps, fortunately) that's as deep as my "knowledge" on the situation goes...and I think I read it here.

So...take it for what it is worth.

Date: Mon, August 25, 2008, 12:11:56 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

Thanks for the scoop, Dean. Figured someone on here would know .

Date: Mon, August 25, 2008, 12:10:13 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Dana,

The rumor was that they were an item, for awhile.

Date: Mon, August 25, 2008, 12:03:13 ET
Posted by: Reminder, just a tickler

THE BIG ADIOS DANFEST

This Wednesday

Details at

http://www.dandom.com/danfests/bayarea/santarosa/index.html

Date: Mon, August 25, 2008, 11:56:55 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana, va

According to wiki:
While collaborating with Steely Dan, Bob Sheppard met Victoria Cave, "with whom he developed a relationship". ?? professional or otherwise, or both, one wonders??

Date: Mon, August 25, 2008, 09:52:54 ET
Posted by: Sam the Sham,

Bob Sheppard filling in for Walt W.

Date: Mon, August 25, 2008, 09:33:29 ET
Posted by: Leo Fender,

Freddie on catching the groove...

http://www.bassplayer.com/article/donald-fagens-freddie/Mar-06/18804

Date: Mon, August 25, 2008, 05:23:59 ET
Posted by: The Wicked Librarian, Where the Boys Are

Saratoga 8/24/08
Setlist:

medley of Everyone's Gone to the Movies & Fez Orchestra
Royal Scam
I Got the News
Show Biz Kids
Bodhisattva
2 Against Nature
Hey 19
Godwhacker
Pretzel Logic (Slowed Arrangement. Awesome crowd pleaser!)
New Frontier
Gaucho (Lead Vocals by Becker)
Black Friday
Parkers Band (Vocals by Chorus)
Josie
Aja
Love is Like an Itchin' in My Heart
FM
Peg
Encore: Kid Charlemagne
Outtro
Last Tango in Paris

Black Cow was played but I missed it in the sequence. Please someone correct me.

More in the day...

The Wicked Librarian

Date: Mon, August 25, 2008, 03:42:05 ET
Posted by: Scouser, tonyland

Thanks Jake for the funny post !

Date: Sun, August 24, 2008, 23:38:52 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

In the past,I have found the bass to be a little lost (or slightly muddy) in some live SD shows. But the past two years, it was loud and clear, at least the shows I was at (in the seat I was in).

Barney was a little more active, but Freddie is funky as hell. With Carlock so active, I think it might work better with Freddie. With Barney and Ricky Lawson, it was the reverse, I think, as Ricky was not nearly as active as Keith.

Just an observation.

Date: Sun, August 24, 2008, 23:35:19 ET
Posted by: Jake, band on the run

Scouser - No problem. I'm just not sure if the European prison system lets there inmates use the internet.

Date: Sun, August 24, 2008, 23:32:39 ET
Posted by: Chad,

I saw SD 6 times this tour and heard Freddie loud and clear every time. I'm a musician myself. I actually think Ready Freddie is a better fit than Tom Barney for this band. Although I do love Tom's playing very much.

Date: Sun, August 24, 2008, 23:29:58 ET
Posted by: Scouser, tonyland

Hey Raj ... You still alive mate and did you read my last post about Helga...
Sorry to the blue book folks for posting personal stuff

Date: Sun, August 24, 2008, 22:48:42 ET
Posted by: gentleman loser, nz

Regarding one who usually gets left out - was just curious about Ready Freddie. Youtube is not a good indicator, and the one and only time I've seen them I have to say (along with others who caught them this tour) that he got lost in the mix.

Now I have no doubt that like the rest of the band, he has the pedigree or he wouldn't be there. And everyone knows the coolest/baddest cat in the band (Chuck Rainey's reference) is the bass player. Does he just lock it down so that Keith Carlock can be so 'propulsive'? Is his playing more Tasty than Thumping?

Maybe his particular style impacts on the rest of the band in being implied more than heard. Every bass player I've ever played with has been very keen to be heard as part of the engine room. I was just wondering if anyone was able to notice anything he did during this tour that made them swear out loud.

Date: Sun, August 24, 2008, 18:36:53 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Connie,

What a great write-up; thanks for sending it.

Although he fails to mention Herington's contribution, I can't think of a better way to describe Carlock (the propulsive Keith Carlock), can you?

"This ensemble is no exception, with the propulsive Keith Carlock on drums, an all-star four-piece horn section and a pair of female vocalists who appeared in Berkeley in luxuriant Angela Davis afro wigs and who sang the lead together on "Parker's Band," a tribute to jazz great Charlie Parker."

Date: Sun, August 24, 2008, 17:09:12 ET
Posted by: Brutus Charisma,

I like the fact that with all the financial/personal success WB and DF have acheived as of late, they don't take themselves or their good fortune too seriously.

They seem to realize that life, the insidiously ephemeral and ironic thing that it is, can be over tomorrow, and it's all just hopefully happy and loving memories for those that remember - or CARE to remember.

Date: Sun, August 24, 2008, 15:33:26 ET
Posted by: Denise, Hinktown

Thanks, Sparkle...love those lights!

Date: Sun, August 24, 2008, 14:54:40 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

From the article Connie linked to:

Casual Steely Dan listeners may not get all the allusions in the songs. But that doesn't bother Becker: "I want some people to get it, but I don't care if everybody gets it."

Awesome!

I envy you Connie. Soak it in, and let us know about it...please.

Date: Sun, August 24, 2008, 14:03:39 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

In my previous post, I meant tonight's show at Mountain Winery, not Ironstone Winery.
I goofed :-(

Date: Sun, August 24, 2008, 14:00:36 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana, va

Connie:
Nice article/preview in your local paper about the WFC shows coming up this week.
Would give my eye(gold) teeth to be there !!! What a great venue to see and hear the Dan. Can not wait to hear your reviews/impressions from the shows !!

Date: Sun, August 24, 2008, 13:33:19 ET
Posted by: Connie, In the vineyard

I got the news - Sunday's Sonoma County local paper

"It'll be like playing a nightclub." Donald Fagen, phone interview re WFCA

http://www.pressdemocrat.com/article/20080824/ENTERTAINMENT/808240302/1327/entertainment&title=Steely_Dan_to_do_it_again_at_WFC

Date: Sun, August 24, 2008, 12:07:21 ET
Posted by: Sparkle in your China, Southwest air 233

Dale Earnhardt Industies Intl.

Date: Sun, August 24, 2008, 11:24:22 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana, va

Anybody going to the Ironstone Winery show tonight??
Maybe "The Boys" will make a slight reference to last night's private gig in Vegas??
Wishful thinking....

Date: Sun, August 24, 2008, 11:10:44 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Dana, I searched for "deii", and found nothing (at least, quickly) that could possibly be big enough to hire SD for a corporate gig. S, I'm a little confused, too.

Date: Sun, August 24, 2008, 10:59:25 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana, va

Oops, Dean, you beat me to it :-)
And, Christie, just curious how you found this info.....

Date: Sun, August 24, 2008, 10:57:48 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana, va

"DEll", as in Dell computers?? or DEll, as in who-knows-what??

Date: Sun, August 24, 2008, 10:50:37 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

You got something against Dell, Christie?

Date: Sun, August 24, 2008, 09:50:12 ET
Posted by: Christie,

The coporate gig was for DEll?WTF

Date: Sun, August 24, 2008, 02:34:20 ET
Posted by: HouDanFan, Houston

Hey GM...sorry your experience in Houston was not that great. I agree the venue sucks. It's nothing but a piecemeal theater, more geared to younger crowds. Plus, weekday crowds are never going to be as good as weekend crowds. And sorry about your experience here MikeA. Even though most of you on here think Houstonians are gun-toting republicans, its actually a very diverse city in terms of demographics, similar to where you live.

As far as corporate events go I've been fortunate enough to attend a few. These events are pretty cool because they are usually held in conventional halls without seating. They are at night with typically no more than about 1500 people. You can go right up to the stage and be up close and personal with the band, away from the "stuffy suits" who are usually hob-nobbing in the back, close to tne make-shift bars. I wish I was at Ceasaers tonight. Unfortunately, our company never hired Steely Dan.

Date: Sun, August 24, 2008, 01:38:15 ET
Posted by: MikeA, Seattle

SteelyDana--Hey You! Thanks for Summarizing/Distilling with and Concurring with what I had to say about setlists in my longwinded diatribe. You captured what i was attempting to lay down.

Dean-I have been digging your takes and spins recently. Not bad for a former baby killer. I am pulling your third leg here! keep it up. I can tell you have passion, and for good or bad, thats where I come from also.

As for Houston: Forgive me Houstonions: Thats where I got robbed and I hate that place/ Never going back to my old bluddy stool (in this case)

Can't beleive I will see my 4th show this tour in Saratoga. Never seen more than 1 per tour since 93. Impressions will follow assuming I am able.

Peace Luv and understanding to all of you....

MikeA

Date: Sun, August 24, 2008, 00:41:46 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, The wiggy pad

Greetings all from Dallas! I'm just catching up on several days of posts and Texas reviews and just wanted to add my own and reply to the mind-tingling threads!

In a nutshell:
Houston and Dallas were a lot of fun song wise, band wise, but the audiences were not as hot. Dallas was the stronger of the two shows, with only a milder better audience, at least from where I was sitting. The audience in Houston was fairly dead and it was such a bizarre place to play, the sound wasn't as strong as could be because the place was so open, it was just kinda weird. Plus the sound and light boards were all the way in the back, so I guess the only way to hear great sound was to stand all the way in the back of the theater? Nokia in Dallas was a much better performing space, brings back fond memories of the birthday of 2006, and while I enjoyed the folks in my section, I was totes disappointed that a sea of people made their way to the bathroom/bar during 2vN. It started innocently enough, with one or two people getting up, but then everyone else was like "Well, I guess since their up already, I may as well get up too." WHY?!?! But it was still a great show to end my summer tour on (11, SteelyDana, since you asked) - yes, you won't be hearing reports from me in Vegas. Not likely you would see my at a corporate event anyway, surrounded by stuffy suits who just want to hit the bar and could give eight shits about Steely Dan. And the set is probably all of 45 minutes. I have dreams about Steely Dan that are longer and more exciting than that.

"I'm Jeff Young's bitch" was supposed to be "I'm Jeff Young bitch!" Perhaps a crossed wire in the process of texting, but it was meant to be a shoutout to Kid Clean and the Chicago crew in reference to how fucking awesome Jeff Young is.

Nothing special for Walt Weiskopf at the Dallas show. I think someone mentioned something special with him and Sam Yahel, but I missed Sam's set, so I couldn't say for sure.

Regarding Steve Miller Band, I've always loved his music and finally got a chance to see him live this year - at Bethel Woods two days after Steely Dan. As far as I know, he plays at the same venues Steely Dan plays at. I tried to see him in 2006 and he was basically at the same sheds the Dan was playing, often a few days earlier or after.

Dr. Wu, you are correct, I would never complain about a set list. I can understand why people WOULD complain, be they die-hards or casual fans, but I'm happy to see SD period. Over the last three years I've gone to a bucketload of shows each year - because I'm very lucky and perhaps criminally insane, not because I'm rich or have wild connections - and after the first show or two I start to develop an expectation. If they do a song I'm really excited to hear, then I'm excited that I'll get to hear it again. If they replace that song with another song I was not expecting to hear, that's exciting, too. I'll never go into a concert - Steely Dan or otherwise - and expect to hear a particular song, something I posted about some weeks back. Perhaps it's because I'm a concert junkie and try to go to a shitload of concerts every year, or perhaps because I'm a musician who just fucking loves her artists so much she doesn't care what they play as long as she can see them live, OR perhaps it's the wisdom that comes with experience, but I've learned to be happy with the experience. I watch the musicians and try to learn something from them, or maybe they'll just play something really cool, I don't care. As long as it's a good show and I was completely surrounded by assholes and I get home in one piece in under three hours, then I'm fucking happy :)

Alright, that's enough rambling for now. Time to rest up for my return to New York tomorrow and back in the office on Monday!!!!!

Date: Sat, August 23, 2008, 23:56:40 ET
Posted by: Bob,

anybody have tonight's set list from Vegas any news??

Date: Sat, August 23, 2008, 22:29:10 ET
Posted by: Lexmark 60, Left Slot

"...no one else wants too." Duhhhh! Oops, pardon me...gotta run too the store too buy a sponge too warsh the car.

Date: Sat, August 23, 2008, 20:48:16 ET
Posted by: Fife, Florida,eh

Anyone up for a chat? I'm hanging in the green.
Fife

Date: Sat, August 23, 2008, 20:47:59 ET
Posted by: Fife, Florida,eh

Anyone up for a chat? I'm hanging in the green.
Fife

Date: Sat, August 23, 2008, 19:57:26 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Not on the grid

Paul from Baldwin, NY

You're an asshole.

I'm not 12, nor am I 13.

Hope you make yourself feel good with your funny little comments. Too bad you probably have no family or friends to show off your wits.

And if I was 12, how does that make you feel? Making fun of a 12 year old... feel good!? Feel big!? Feel like a man!!?? Got nothing else to do with your life so you try and match wits with a person you think is 12, and then laugh at it by yourself (cause no one else laughs with you)

Go fuck yourself. I am sure no one else wants too.

Date: Sat, August 23, 2008, 19:50:08 ET
Posted by: Mountain, Whinery

2nd show added because the first was on July 28th

Date: Sat, August 23, 2008, 19:35:59 ET
Posted by: Hutch,

Now this is kind of curious. The Mountain Winery website says a second show has been added.

http://www.mountainwinery.com/Events.asp

Date: Sat, August 23, 2008, 17:52:35 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Hi Fife,

The music isn't bad, considering how many different bands they cover (as per their website) but you're right, the vocals don't cut it.

Hope you're feeling less lost now that you're here :-)

Date: Sat, August 23, 2008, 17:34:21 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Thanks for that link Dean -- a fun read!

Date: Sat, August 23, 2008, 17:13:55 ET
Posted by: Fife, Feeling kind of lost

I found this video http://www.philhullmusic.com/Bodhisttava.html
Not bad for what looks like a bar band. The singing needs something though.

Date: Sat, August 23, 2008, 13:50:33 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Oh, and speaking of variety in setlists, I again can go both ways with that. I think it’s nice (and fair) for every audience to get the same show but it really kinda sucks for those that go to more than one show. I especially hate it when they (the artist) give the same spiel, in the exact same words, every night. It’s almost like you’re seeing a taped performance. Thank God our boys don’t do that. And I know a lot of people enjoy Walter’s Hey 19 Cuervo Gold stories, which he changes up a bit, but I only find them amusing because they're so queer.

Personally I would like a different show every night but I’m okay with just a few different songs. I cannot tell you how overjoyed I was to hear "Time Out of Mind" and "Third World Man" on June 13th at the Beacon. You don't hear those too often and it was exhilarating!

Date: Sat, August 23, 2008, 13:28:31 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Dean / Paul:

Last night was the first time I saw Larry Carlton so of course I was quite happy -- had nothing to compare it to. Unfortunately, no SD solo medley. And, I don't care who you are or where you play, a 70 minute set just ISN'T long enough. He blamed it on the venue but I don't know how true that is. Would definitely like to see him again though, but somewhere different than The Blue Note.

I actually considered flying out to Santa Rosa for the last show but sadly, decided against it. I'm not crazy or rich enough to do that!!

Date: Sat, August 23, 2008, 13:08:54 ET
Posted by: HouDanFan, Houston

How does a 12 year old get Dr Wu naming rights? That's just not right...ha

Date: Sat, August 23, 2008, 13:03:18 ET
Posted by: Paul, Baldwin, NY

I'm not sure if you people know it or not but "Dr. Wu" is like 12 or 13 years old. So please be easy on him and his buddy Tom Petty.

Janie Runaway - I saw Larry Carlton at the Blue Note as well last night. I was very disappointed that he doesn't rock anymore. And what's with the 3 piece band? I've seen LC about twenty times over the past 20 years. He has always went out with a keyboard, sax and percussion player. Maybe he needs to make more money these days? Anyway, he seemed to be catering more to the fluffy CD 101 easy jazz fans, and not to the avid blues/rock fans that use to support him. He showed flashes of brilliance but you would have never guessed this was the same guy that ripped it up on the Royal Scam! I left the Blue Note not shaking Larry's hand, but shaking my head instead.

Date: Sat, August 23, 2008, 12:51:04 ET
Posted by: HouDanFan, Houston

Dean...I think the setlist this year, over the course of the tour had a lot of variety. In Houston they played Black Friday, Black Cow, Pretzel Logic, Bodhisatva, My Old School and Josie, all of which were not played in Albq. In Albq they played Every You Did, Babylon Sisters, Glamour Prof, Home at Last and Dont Take Me Alive, which were not played in Houston. Fortunately I picked my 2 shows right this year.

Date: Sat, August 23, 2008, 12:03:17 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

Video of Bernard kickin' Cat Stevens (been lookin' for this for awhile...the sound/sight synch could be better)...Purdie starts to simmer @ 13:33 http://www.livevideo.com/video/55F2366FA2E647499BE37491FC6D7ABA/cat-stevens-the-foreigner-su.aspx

OK, here goes...as good as Carlock is, I don't hear that very appealing "skipping" quality in his "Purdie Shuffle" that Bernard all but created...look at how relaxed Bernard is...Keith always looks up-tight to me. When I first saw Carlock, it struck me how well he can play utilizing that technique of seemingly driving each 8th or 16th "ride" note from the shoulder...I'm really surprised he does that as it seems extreme and counter to a "jazz school" technique (i.e. wasted motion/effort)...to my ear, the result is a slights (and I mean SLIGHTLY) less than fluid or integrated sound in instances where the music requires offbeat hi-hat/ride patterns (Fez, KC, GE)...before stripe-ripping commences, remember: I'm comparing him to the best...opinions differ and I'm certainly not saying I don't like Carlock's playing as I like it very much.

Date: Sat, August 23, 2008, 11:56:22 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

I know, Houston, and I wasn't attacking Wu, at all. But, he asked:

"do you care if the band (Steely Dan, U2, whatever) doesnt chance the setlist each night aside from a song here and there, or would you rather see a setlist like Bob Dylan or Pearl Jam... no setlist is usually close to the same as the last one. "

Well, my point was, you can't expect a band like Steely Dan to change their setlists like those other bands, for the reasons stated. I suppose U2 might have a hard time to, with all of the staged stuff, they do. (I suppose Bono could adapt his pretentious posing to a varying setlist, though.)

So, I'd rather see Steely Dan, of course, for all the obvious reasons...and I understand that they aren't likely to have a very diverse setlist, over the course of the tour. Of course, I rarely see any band more than once per tour, so it's not that big of an issue, to me. As for Pearl Jam, well the smaller and shorter the set, the better.

Date: Sat, August 23, 2008, 11:31:48 ET
Posted by: HouDanFan, Houston

Dean...I didn't get the impression Dr. Wu was comparing bands, just setlists.

Date: Sat, August 23, 2008, 11:27:18 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

It is preposterous to compare Pearl Jam, or even Dylan, to Steely Dan. Their songs are nowhere near as complex, and their live performances don't compare to SD's in terms of tightness and perfection (and grace...).

Pearl Jam is a garage band, for Christ's sake. Dylan always travels with a very good, and pretty tight band, but c'mon, they aren't doing what SD does.

If given a choice, I'll take a smaller list of perfectly crafted and executed songs, over a huge list of adequately performed songs (a la the Grateful Dead)...especially for a bad like The Dan whose music DEMANDS that it be played to perfection.

Date: Sat, August 23, 2008, 11:03:10 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Not on the grid

I was just reading a review from a paper online on the lastest Tom Petty concert from last night... and the reviewer was pissed and bitching that Petty played almost the same setlist as he did when he came around the area 2 months ago. The end of the review had this little hypothetical question left by an imaginary TP fan.

"All the same, I can't help but wonder if "OlSkool" (the imaginary Tom Petty fan) isn't scratching his head like I am, baffled by the repetition. "But Ben," you plead, "these cats are getting older. Maybe it's better for them to stick to routine. Steely Dan, Fleetwood Mac, ZZ Top, the Who, U2, your precious David Bowie – they scarcely change things up, either."

Yeah – they should be fined, too."

Now... aside from the fact that the guy mentioned Steely Dan, which is always cool, but it does bring up a question...do you care if the band (Steely Dan, U2, whatever) doesnt chance the setlist each night aside from a song here and there, or would you rather see a setlist like Bob Dylan or Pearl Jam... no setlist is usually close to the same as the last one.

I personally like the same setlist for each night. That way when you go on the internet and see other setlists, you don't feel bad for missing certain songs. On the other hand... after seeing setlists online and maybe being disappointed, you go to the concert and get serval suprised that you weren't expecting. So there are pros and cons... but what do you think?

Date: Sat, August 23, 2008, 11:00:57 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

That's great Janie. I haven't seen Larry for a few years, now. Did he play electric and acoustic? Did he do his Steely Dan solo medley?

Date: Sat, August 23, 2008, 10:59:41 ET
Posted by: Peter Folger,

It is all bullshit

Date: Sat, August 23, 2008, 10:38:54 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Saw Larry Carlton last night for a great (but short) show. His son Travis played bass, Billy Kison was on drums and he brought up Laurie Wheeler, who was amazing, for a few songs.

Got to meet him after the show and got a big hug from the "original Kid C" :-)

Date: Sat, August 23, 2008, 07:46:25 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

Absolutely agree that it is such a treat to go to a SD concert and hear what re-arrangements they have worked on older or newer songs !
Keeps all us crusty old fans on our toes and is such a wonderful surprise to hear what wonderful new intros and/or arrangements they have come up with.
So much talent in these guys; it boggles the mind, and we LOVE it !!
We should all just be thankful that they are still touring at all. There will come a very sad day when the touring stops and then we will really have something to whine about.
Enjoy the LIVE Steely Dan and hope it keeps on coming for many more years.
Okay....off my soap-box now :-)

Date: Sat, August 23, 2008, 05:10:01 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Thanks, Ray. I missed Gauchoamigo's post, apparently.

The storm wasn't too bad. Kinda fun, actually...but I really like weather. Thanks for asking.

Date: Sat, August 23, 2008, 03:50:35 ET
Posted by: Scouser, Tonyland

Hey Raj, just thought id let you now that old Helga from Malibu past away.

Scouser

Date: Sat, August 23, 2008, 03:32:19 ET
Posted by: SS, HK

Old songs by white guys ?

Give the horns a rest, put a bass in WB's hands, and turn over a part of the show to the way it used to be. WB, Jeff Young and Jon H can sing. Maybe three songs old school....or old school with the usual SD twist. Put DF on an acoustic piano for good measure. Do-able, though not likely.

Date: Sat, August 23, 2008, 03:18:22 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Glen Lake - But My Body Is Still On Malibu Time

Deano -

1st Clue - Donald & Walter have not
done more than two shows in a row all
tour. And we know from the late press
release from Wells Fargo to drum-up sales,
that they are hosting the "final" two nights
of the tour. That leaves only one possible
date, Saturday the 23rd.

2nd clue -
Date: Tues, August 19, 2008, 12:20:44 ET
Posted by: Gauchoamigo, Back in North Hollywood

"I've got an itinerary of this years tour, but it only goes up to august 10, and lists future shows, with a show at Caesars Palace on August 23"

Hope you and your family weathered the storm.

Date: Sat, August 23, 2008, 00:39:39 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

How do we even know the show is Saturday night? Where did that tidbit come from?

I know I read they were doing a private show in Vegas, but the article I read didn't include the date, I don't think.

BTW, I'm not doubting that it is true, just curious where that info came from.

Date: Sat, August 23, 2008, 00:16:28 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Glen Lake

Bob-
Pete Fogel's last show of the tour
was Pala. I hope someone with some
booking contacts will spill the beans.
I am also interested in knowing.

Perhaps someone under the Interstate
44 underpass could tell us. Oh wait,
I forgot that he was busy servicing
um... young Billy Goats.

Date: Sat, August 23, 2008, 00:01:24 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Check this out:

http://www.bohemian.com/bohemian/08.20.08/music-steelydan-0834.html

Interesting, but very confused.

Really the "Yacht Rock" article (the first one) is the one that is currently relevant...but, I included the link with all the Dan articles at that site, as a bonus.

Date: Fri, August 22, 2008, 22:49:45 ET
Posted by: Josh Hancock, I-44

We're lucky to have the Dean providing reason and clarity to this board.

If only
he would
learn
to
post in
this format
his stuff
would
be
unmatched.
Oh, wait,
that
would
be

stupid and bizarre. Thanks Dean for your contributions. Much appreciated.

Date: Fri, August 22, 2008, 22:31:14 ET
Posted by: ex bitcher and moaner,

Yes, I was the WORST set list complaining mo' fo' on the Blue.

But you know what, when you can only play about 20 songs out of a catalogue of about 150 and have been around as a group and as solo artists for almost 40 years, such as Steely Dan, and you are trying to serve the casual, the hard core and anybody in between--you can't really ask for much more out of a set list.

Really.

Otherwise, you would definitely be hearing it from ME. With both barrels.

Date: Fri, August 22, 2008, 21:55:05 ET
Posted by: HouDanFan, Houston

I saw two shows this year with different setlists that varied by 4 or 5 songs. I couldn't be happier with both setlists. This was by far the best tour since 2000, in my opinion. And as Ive said before on here, a Steely Dan performance at a smaller venue is the way to go. I envy those of you who are attending the Wells Fargo shows. That looks like one helluva nice venue. Have fun.

Date: Fri, August 22, 2008, 19:33:41 ET
Posted by: Bon,

Pete Fogel

Can you shed any light on the Saturday night Vegas gig?

Are you going?

Date: Fri, August 22, 2008, 19:17:17 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

geo,

The truth is, there are complaints both ways. The recent conversation here, is about people leaving Dan shows and complaining that they didn't play song X or Y. They are pissed that the show is too "deep cuts" and not enough "hits"

But, you are correct if you are talking about the typical complaints from Blue posters (not so much this tour) that the show is all hits, and not enough deep cuts.

My favorite is when a poster complains that the show was too many hits, and a review of the same show complains that they didn't play enough hits. Doesn't get any better than that.

For those who go to multiple shows on the same tour (lucky bastards), you KNOW that you will hear Josie, Peg, FM, Kid C, Hey 19 at every show, and a few others at most of them. If you don't want to hear those songs again, why do you continue to go to the shows? On the off chance that, this time, they will change the setlist? Sounds like a gambling problem, to me.

Date: Fri, August 22, 2008, 18:37:51 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

Donald was definitely HOT in that white jacket and dark shades !!!

And, I, for one, will not be at all surprised to log onto this site late saturday night/early sunday morning and find that Girl Margaret has posted the set list from the private gig at Ceasar's in Vegas.....

You go girl :-)

Date: Fri, August 22, 2008, 18:09:43 ET
Posted by: Joey,

" Walter's guitar solos were wonderful, Herrington was equally awesome, and Keith Carlock is like a jazz Keith Moon, incredibly active and perpetually spot on. "

Nice ' Keith Moon ' reference there .......

Christ , that is " Miracle on Ice Postin' "

J. Fly !

Date: Fri, August 22, 2008, 17:55:49 ET
Posted by: Humongous Fan,

Dr Wu says: "If you see 8 shows on a show, why would you complain after one of them that they didnt play Everything You Did if you already heard it six times?? If you are going to 10+ shows and are complainin"

Just go to another concert, and complain that they didnt play Everything You Did, even though you must have seen it at least 3 time this tour.

That's because we've heard Peg and Josie ten thousand times you idiot!

Date: Fri, August 22, 2008, 17:46:20 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Not on the grid

"The majority of people that get a bit pissed off about that are the fans that see them play 7, 8, 9 or 10+ shows on the same tour."

Um...no. Definitly, 100% wrong on that. You guys should be the last to complain. If you see 8 shows on a show, why would you complain after one of them that they didnt play Everything You Did if you already heard it six times?? If you are going to 10+ shows and are complaining about the setlist, then you are a angry person. No one who gets to see the Dan ten times on one tour should ever complain about what songs they didnt play... because you know you will see the song tomorrow!

"You can't blame those of us that go to a ton of shows and complain."

Yeah, we defintily can. If Girl M started complaining about what songs they didnt play on a certain night even though we all know she saw them about 10 times this tour, I think we would all say she is a spoiled little girl. Not that SHE would ever do that, I just used her as an example because we all know she goes to a lot of shows.

So if you are complaining about the setlist and you are seeing them 8 times this tour, you are a spolied little brat, and we don't wanna hear your excuses as to why you think that since you go to more shows you have the right to complain.

You guys should be thankful that you have money to burn and are able to go to so many concerts. Maybe you have better stuff to spend the money on, but you go to concerts. Nothing wrong with that, but some of us don't have the time/money/ride/etc to go to more than one concert. You would think we should get to complain, not the guy who gets to see them tomorrow...

Just go to another concert, and complain that they didnt play Everything You Did, even though you must have seen it at least 3 time this tour.

Date: Fri, August 22, 2008, 16:49:25 ET
Posted by: geo,

Dr Wu and others who don't understand the complaints about the setlist.

The majority of people that get a bit pissed off about that are the fans that see them play 7, 8, 9 or 10+ shows on the same tour. You can't blame those of us that go to a ton of shows and complain. I know that the band is playing to the other 90% of the fans that only go to one show. By this tour you know by now what you're going to get as far as the setlist goes. So it's your choice to keep on going. What I don't understand is why they took 'Everything You Did' off the set list. Now that really sucks for the 'hardcores'!

Date: Fri, August 22, 2008, 16:46:34 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

Black and White,

Most of what you post is true, I think. The only thing I seriously doubt, is that it has much to do with why Don doesn't want to play many songs from the earlier albums. Those songs could be rearranged and can easily accommodate female background singers, along with Jeff Young's very strong vocals.

Date: Fri, August 22, 2008, 16:43:46 ET
Posted by: Mr LaPage, Dallas

Great show last night! Much, much better than two years ago. Does anyone have a complete set list? I think we've got just about all of it but I think we're missing a couple.

Date: Fri, August 22, 2008, 16:40:49 ET
Posted by: It's all Black and White,

At a Steely Dan show;

You'll probably never hear most of any early Dan again.
Repeat: You'll probably never hear most of any early Dan again!!!

WHY? WHY? WHY?, you say.

The reason is that if you listen songs such as Reelin, Brooklyn, Cruiser, Boston Rag, Rose Darlin--many of the songs up thru about Katy Lied there were lots of white male singing harmonies on those songs. White male harmonies were in vogue at that time, such as Steve Miller, Eagles, Grand Funk, Kansas, Styx, Yes, CSNY, Moody Blues, Three Dog Night, Chicago, Doobies. This is what the producers, such as Katz pushed at that time. Donald can't "loop" his voice on stage, and you don't have Hodder or McDonald around, and they aren't what they used to be, in order to reproduce that classic sound.

Today, the producers are now pushing Hip Hop and smokin hot young bitches who can't sing and lip sync over recorded tracks who are now the top sellers. Maybe 20 years from now, the way much of entertainment is deteriorating, talent wise, we will look back fondly at Kanye West, 50 Cent, Britney Spears etc. as artists of relatively unimaginable talent-- as the Quincy Joneses, Bob Dylans, John Lennons of the early Millenium.

When the Dan started moving toward predominantly using black female harmonies (virtually none on CBAT, and almost all of Aja) which was more the norm of traditional soul and jazz, which is the way that their musical style went, this is what they decided to replicate on stage. Black chicks wearing fro's. Not white boys in fringed leather vests and cowboy boots with rings in the straps.

White male harmonies are hsrd to come by these days, outside of the Country genre. That is, unless the Dan wants to hire the Jonas Brothers or Hanson to sing backup.

Date: Fri, August 22, 2008, 16:28:55 ET
Posted by: George, in Paris

Okay, one more "final" note about last night. The Sam Yahel open seemed a lot more about showcasing Walt Weiskopf and Michael Leonhart than about living large with Sam Yahel. The longest piece they played was written by Weiskopf. It was nice.

Date: Fri, August 22, 2008, 15:49:01 ET
Posted by: Crusty Punk,

The tour is almost over...now what Angel

Date: Fri, August 22, 2008, 14:48:19 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

That Preston Jones review really WAS great; I thought it kind of summed up what a lot of us have been talking about..

Angel, I think you bring up some VERY GOOD points about concert goers. I tend to feel the same way as you do.

Date: Fri, August 22, 2008, 14:44:26 ET
Posted by: MikeA, Seattle

As for the setlists, dumbing it down, whining etc.--Once in awhile, I will be disapointed with not hearing a certain song or two or three. That's only natural, no big deal. I also note that there are not very many "new" Steely Dan tunes played anymore. Look at the setlists, it's mostly all the "classic" SD material. Yeah, I am disappointed in that, because the recent SD and solo albums are, in some cases, better than the old classic pieces. But, for all the reasons you have outlined in the Bluebook, it is clear why SD has gone that route.

Having said all, "it is, what it is". I am just gratefull they are still touring. Remember pre 1993???? Second, I really enjoy hearing the new arrangements of all the old familiar songs. It'always interesting to see how they may have reworked a tune. Third, the shows are never identical, there is some amount of improv and also the dynamics of the band on any given night are different.

It's just awesome to see great musicians playing my favorite music.

Date: Fri, August 22, 2008, 13:35:23 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Not on the grid

Thank you Dean... of course I meant leaving the concerts like that asshole who went to Fagen's limo and said "Where is Deacon Blues!?"

I thought that was obvious...

Date: Fri, August 22, 2008, 13:19:12 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

JH,

Who said people doing the whining were "on this board"? A quick read will reveal most of the discussion is about people overheard leaving shows.

read before you post

Date: Fri, August 22, 2008, 13:16:08 ET
Posted by: JH, DC

WHO ON THIS BOARD HAS BEEN WHINING??!!!

read before you post

Date: Fri, August 22, 2008, 13:11:08 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Not on the grid

I can't take all these fuckers complaining about the setlist...

Sure there are certain songs I wanted to hear and I didnt, but it didnt take away any amazment of the show (one of the best of my life!)

Just be glad Steely Dan is touring.

I would love to see them go out to huge crowds and just blast them with all deep cuts.

Date: Fri, August 22, 2008, 12:54:52 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

What a difference between the two Dallas reviews posted by Web Searcher.

While both reviews are quite short and are very positive, the Dallas News reviewer gave the kind of bland "great show" review you might read in a small town newspaper, or an advertiser.

OTOH, the reviewer for the Star-Telegram was clearly more familiar with the works of The Dan, and gave an interesting account (if too short) of the show. This caught my attention, as it is apropos to the discussion of set lists, below:

"...and despite sterling performances throughout — it was clear that the hits were what the crowd (which gave Becker and Fagen a standing ovation upon entering) came to hear.

As soon as Bodhisattva’s final notes faded and the band picked up with Two Against Nature, the title track from 2000’s comeback album, there was a notable uptick in the number of folks heading for the lobby, uninterested in hearing the less-familiar tunes.

Fagen and Becker certainly deserve better than being treated like the bands who gladly tour as jukeboxes with pulses, cashing in on the past without trying to advance their art.

Steely Dan remains as vibrant as it was in the ’70s. Fortunately, if the fickle nature of some fans bothers them, it doesn’t show."

Bravo, Preston Jones! Well put.

Date: Fri, August 22, 2008, 12:52:07 ET
Posted by: AnonTwit, Home at Last

To all the whiners, why don't you just sit back and enjoy the friggin' music?!?!!?
The quantity and quality of musical talent on stage at any Steely Dan Show is mind-blowing.
And how about the fact that *ahem* Steely Dan is playing LIVE?!

Steely Dan!
Live!

WHO CARES what they play, because it's all good, so quit yer whinin'.

Date: Fri, August 22, 2008, 12:49:44 ET
Posted by: Craig B,

Did anybody find a color pic of DF in his white coat from Dallas?
Thanks

Date: Fri, August 22, 2008, 12:40:53 ET
Posted by: angel,

People who spend lots of money to go to a show by a band they know 4 tunes from, get exactly what they should expect. A bad experience. You don't know the band, you won't enjoy the show. I have no sympathy for them.

How many times have we read reviewers who have to go to these shows, because of work and they dis the evening?
Send someone who has familiarity with the artist, or DO YOUR HOMEWORK! Buy a few tunes from ITunes or get a CD ahead of time. I never go to a concert that I pay good money for, without a courtesy knowledge of a groups work.

==

Girl Margaret!
You have let the Steely Women down. How could you have not told us that Donald was HOT in that White Jacket. OMG!!!!!! ;-)

BTW: Appreciate you texting and Hoops putting them up for us. It's an exciting thing to read. Especially after being at a show. You can feel the killer vibe.

Date: Fri, August 22, 2008, 12:02:24 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Tiny,

SD wouldn't do it, because SD couldn't do it and still maintain the quality they demand, and that we are used to. Let's be honest, like him or not, Elvis Costello songs and arrangements are nowhere near as complex as those of SD...and, was EC traveling with a 10 piece-band?

beaubo, except for the oddball non-SD tunes the boys sometimes throw into the opening, or closing, of the show, I know every song of every SD tour...with the exception of when the preview songs that have yet to be released...and I LOVE that, as it tells me I have new SD wonders to look forward to.

The idea of designating shows (100% greatest hits, 75% greatest hits/25% deep cuts...) might be interesting, except you know that will never happen. Donald and Walt have never been all that interested in what the audience wants to hear (THANK YOU!). But, they aren't oblivious and lack ing in any concern. With the McDonald tour, they realized that they would be getting many fans that were probably only slightly familiar with their stuff (or not at all), and they understand that at certain venues (casinos, for example), they are likely to get the same kind of crowd. For them, they "dumb it down" (Fagen's words, apparently) to the degree you can dumb-down Steely Dan. They don't dumb down the music, or the arrangements...that's somewhere they refuse to go (THANK YOU!). The best they can do is try to include more songs that got radio play, in the hopes that people will at least hear something they are familiar with.

Which brings me to my final point of this post. If a "casual" Steely Dan fan isn't familiar with most of the following tunes [Josie, Peg, FM, Kid Charlemagne, My Old School, Bodhisattva, Hey Nineteen, Aja, Black Friday], can they be called Steely Dan fans, at all? People who are pissed that they didn't know every song in a show, or that they didn't hear one or two songs they had hopped to hear, aren't "casual fans", they are fucking morons. I feel the same way about the so-called "hard core" Dan fans that complain because the set was "too commercial", or whatever. If you come away from a Steely Dan show, and are complaining about the set list, I have to ask, "are you really a "Steely Dan fan"? They just played an entire concert of Steely Dan songs, and yet you are complaining. Yikes!

Date: Fri, August 22, 2008, 10:55:08 ET
Posted by: tiny fan,

"Or pull an Elvis Costello...one year he toured with a rotating wheel that had every song on his catalogue. He simply spun it after each song and whatever came up, he played!!!! THAT WAS COOL"

Yes it was! And SD wouldn't do that in a million years!

Date: Fri, August 22, 2008, 10:50:02 ET
Posted by: George, in Paris

One last note. Recall that in New York one night, Walter complained about the high price of Circus Money CD's and gave away that night's supply. They were selling for a bargain $10 last night in the lobby.

Date: Fri, August 22, 2008, 10:10:54 ET
Posted by: beaubo, Cleve

With the advent of the internet, I think there is plenty of opportunity for concert fans to get educated about bands' setlists (other than the first couple of shows of a tour), so they can make an informed decision if the setlist meets their threshold to justify buying a ticket. There are band blogs and websites, newspaper reviews all that give apretty good overview of what to expect.

Best of all worlds, bands (not just SD) would simply have a ballpark setlist on their websites...talk about transparency and truth-in-advertising.

The reality is that SD is the exception to the rule, most working classic rock bands play the vast majority of their hits laced with a couple of new songs if relevant and an occasional deep cut.

SD has the right to choose an eclectic setlist, and as a result, they have the right to end up making a lot less money and playing smaller venues because their setlist decisionmaking narrows their paying ticket fanbase. Some might call SD's current setlist choices self-indulgent, others fascinating and fresh. When the band focused more on the hits in '06, some called it fantastic, 'I-knew'every-song', some called it dumbed-down.

An intrigiung touring strategy for 09 (!!!!!!) might be to play multi-nights in big markets and each night would be specially labeled-
* 100% greatest hits
* 75% greatest hits/25% deep cuts
* 50% greatest hits/50% deep cuts
* 25% greatest hits/75% deep cuts

Or pull an Elvis Costello...one year he toured with a rotating wheel that had every song on his catalogue. He simply spun it after each song and whatever came up, he played!!!! THAT WAS COOL!

Date: Fri, August 22, 2008, 09:40:20 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Fagen looks a little like "the fella in the brite nightgown" in that photo from the Dallas News!!

Margaret, you go girl! You really are fabulous!!

Date: Fri, August 22, 2008, 09:39:55 ET
Posted by: George, in Paris

And by "they" in the last line of the preceding post, I meant the band, not the disappointed attendees.

Date: Fri, August 22, 2008, 09:29:59 ET
Posted by: George, in Paris

The Dallas show was unbelievable. It occurred to me during 2vN that it takes guts to face down 5,000 (or however many) people and play songs that many of them haven't heard, weren't expecting, and would prefer replaced by a "hit." But they did it all night, and the music was tight.

I got a few chuckles. Some guy behind me yelled "King of the World" between most of the songs, and as I was walking out a guy said to me, in kind of a hangdog voice, "I guess they just don't play Rikki any more." We walked out a side exit and as D and W's limos drove right past us, some jerk yelled, "What about Deacon Blues?" I wanted to ask them all if they had paid any attention to what they had just experienced, but I didn't bother.

They had the right dynamic for the New Frontier.

Date: Fri, August 22, 2008, 09:14:47 ET
Posted by: Web Search, keyboard

Texas reviews

http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/ent/stories/DN-steelydan_0822gl.ART.State.Edition2.4e702bb.html

http://www.star-telegram.com/live/story/852089.html

Date: Fri, August 22, 2008, 06:40:17 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

Thanks, Girl Margaret and Hoops, for posting the Houston and Dallas shows. Sounds like they were still as fabulous as they have been all tour.
And, Girl Margaret......you are a maniac !! How many shows does this make for you this tour??
I am sooooo envious !!! :-)

Date: Fri, August 22, 2008, 00:58:52 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Girl Margaret texted the set list while she was at the shows in Houston and Dallas. She texted them to me and I posted.

Date: Fri, August 22, 2008, 00:54:06 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Glen Lake

I thought GM was just posting
for someone reporting in from
Houston & Dallas? LWO perhaps.
Either way, thanks again to all
involved.

DALLAS -

Anything special onstage for
Walt W's last show tonight?

Date: Fri, August 22, 2008, 00:34:41 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Not at the Steely Dan show tonight...

Glad you had a great time at the concert, Girl! (Even though I hate you for getting to see them so many times!) ;)

Date: Fri, August 22, 2008, 00:32:34 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Not on the grid

"What you are talking about are "shallow" fans. Pinheads who only care about hits. Fuck em"

Haha... very well put. But all I know is that after the show in Canandaigua we both saw I heard more than a few people complain that they didnt hear certain songs and that (get this)... they couldn't think of a worse encore!

But you are right... fuck 'em!

So I should have said shallow fans... but I think there are a lot of shallow fans that won't buy tickets unless they hear the entire "Steely Dan - Greatest Hits" CD and nothing more...

Date: Fri, August 22, 2008, 00:26:27 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Great job Girl M. thanks

Dr Wu, casual fan vs. hard core fan? sure

But, even a casual fan, who appreciates great musicianship and outstanding song writing, should never leave a Dan concert pissed-off. Plenty of people go and appreciate music they have never heard, before.

What you are talking about are "shallow" fans. Pinheads who only care about hits. Fuck em

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 23:11:30 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Glen Lake

Thanks for all of the great Texas Two-Step
reports! I hope tonight's Dallas crowd
gave Walt W. some major ovations.

Thanks for an amazing tour Walt. W!

It wil interesting to see who tries
to fill his shoes.

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 22:05:15 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Not at the Steely Dan show tonight...

Ok... here is what I think of the whole Steve Miller Band/Steely Dan thing:

Radio stations play the big SMB his, and (at least Buffalo) play very little SD. In fact, the only songs they play are Dirty Work, Do It Again, and Reelin' in the Years. They don't get radio time, which is why they aren't as popular as other mediocre classic rock bands that have a lot of crap radio hit.

Now, in concert...SMB plays all the big radio hits, time and time again, the exact same setlist.

They play what the people want to hear. Not dissing the songs or the setlist, but I'm sure there are probably 200% more die hard SD fans than SMB fans. Most people (if not all) go just to hear The Joker. They don't want to hear some deep cut from his second solo blues album.

SMB also always goes out with a big opener. Doobie Brothers last year, Joe Cocker now... Steely Dan does not (except for McDonald once).

SMB tickets are much less expensive. Lawn seats for one venue (do not remember which) were 9 fucking dollars!! And when you take lawn seats (or GA) seats out, SD and SMB each get the same amount of people. So those super cheap crap seats make a big difference.

And here is the last reason... and for this, you gotta step out of your die hard fan body for just a second:

If you are a causal fan who paid over 100 bucks for a SD concert... and you go, and they play 17 songs, less than 2 hours, with almost no effects or excitiment on stage, and don't even play the big hits... you will be fucking pissed. Only die hards really truly care about the songs like Third World Man, Everything You Did, and The Royal Scam (and that opens the show...).

You went expecting: Do It Again, Reelin' in the Years, Rikki Don't Lose that Number, Hey Nineteen, Peg, Josie, and Deacon Blues. And there is a pretty good chance you would only see 3 of those songs at the most.

So maybe they don't wanna go and see the deep cuts when the only SD CD they have is a greatest hits...

And also!!!!!!! Let's not forget... Up until last year, SD was doing all the big outdoor venues, averaging 15-20 thousand people per concert. (I saw them in 2006, and it was 22,000 people, just as much as Tom Petty and Springsteen.)

Only in these last 2 years have they been doing 5-7 thousand shows.

After seeing the big shows for the TvN show, EMG show, and McDan show, and seeing all the greatest hits live, casual fans really didnt need to see them again, and then when not 10 months go by and they are touring again with a worse setlist?? No causal fan cares even a little.

But the main MAIN reason... they are underrated. They should be selling out stadiums every night. (Although I am glad they don't. I like the small concerts much better)

SD needs more attention on the radio. Call your stations (I did) and ask them to play more deep cuts. (I actually got Brooklen once!!) ;)

Hope I helped...

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 23:54:38 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, texting setlists from the show in Dallas

Kid c

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 23:47:27 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, texting setlists from the show in Dallas

Walter says we're a great fucking audience. my old school

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 23:46:59 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, texting setlists from the show in Dallas

Crowd is funing apeshit

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 23:39:43 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, texting setlists from the show in Dallas

Peg

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 23:34:35 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, texting setlists from the show in Dallas

Fm!

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 23:29:16 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, texting setlists from the show in Dallas

Fm!

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 23:20:00 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, texting setlists from the show in Dallas

Supremes

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 23:19:45 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, texting setlists from the show in Dallas

A fucking ja

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 23:16:04 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, texting setlists from the show in Dallas

Josie

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 23:11:41 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, texting setlists from the show in Dallas

Parkers band

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 23:09:33 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, texting setlists from the show in Dallas

Sexy sammich in the girls again!

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 23:07:12 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, texting setlists from the show in Dallas

Thank u amigos! says walter.

black friday

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 23:03:13 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, texting setlists from the show in Dallas

Gaucho

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 23:03:04 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, texting setlists from the show in Dallas

New frontier

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 23:02:54 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, texting setlists from the show in Dallas

Jeff young is king shit on p log

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 22:48:54 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, texting setlists from the show in Dallas

PLOG! muthafucker

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 22:45:54 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, texting setlists from the show in Dallas

I'm educating my row on what a melodica is. YES!

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 22:41:13 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, texting setlists from the show in Dallas

Godwhacker!

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 22:34:06 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, texting setlists from the show in Dallas

Hey 19

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 22:32:50 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, texting setlists from the show in Dallas

BIG bathroom break shame

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 22:28:04 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, texting setlists from the show in Dallas

Ok don n walt just took simultaneous solos it was the cutest thing. 2vn

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 22:22:00 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, texting setlists from the show in Dallas

Bodhi

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 22:15:09 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, texting setlists from the show in Dallas

Showbiz kids. goddamn the band is hot 2nite!

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 22:09:23 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, texting setlists from the show in Dallas

I got the news

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 22:06:37 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, texting setlists from the show in Dallas

3 girls. 3 fros. coordinated outfits. don blown back by crowd welcome

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 22:02:32 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, texting setlists from the show in Dallas

Carlock solo takes my fuckin breath away. scam!

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 21:59:38 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, texting setlists from the show in Dallas

Fez. i'm jeff young's bitch!

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 21:57:36 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret texting the setlist , Texting setlists from the show in Dallas

Set list! movies

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 20:37:54 ET
Posted by: Love those guys, Steely Dan

I have been lucky to see SD 24 times,not as many as most of you.Flew from Calif to NY this year to see them.Got close enough to Donald went he left the Beacon I was right next to the SUV when he got into the car got a chance to say thank you.With a your welcome from him.Hope they continue to keep touring.

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 16:14:18 ET
Posted by: beaubo, CLE

Well, was able to grab a First Class airline award seat and a free Hertz one day car-rental and most importantly, a 'Hall Pass" from the missus (who joined me for a great show at the Beacon, so I'm greenlighted for the Aug 27 season finale at Santa Rosa.

If there any festivities planned, kindly advise.

Truth is, hearing that the boys were adding 'Black Cow' into the setlist was indeed the tipping point for me!

Regarding the appropriate venue and/or setlist, the smaller the venue and the more expensive the ticket price, the better chance you'll hear a setlist laced with more 'deep cuts'.

The hard truth about Steely Dan is that they have toured pretty regularly since 2001, and with new product on only one of those 5 tours. And their stage productions are very laid back, its not a spectacle like Genesis or Pink Floyd and there's no force of personality like Bruce Springsteen or Bon Jovi.

So, by 2008, the casual Steely Dan fan as essentially had their fill of the group (its not a dis on the band, just a fact borne out by the trending toward smaller venues over time) especially with a high ticket price that many classic rock bands are charging.

The result is a tour like Think Fast that doesn't have high production overhead that is playing alot of venues where the house isn't looking to make any money, just draw in lots of new warm bodies (think- casinos, wineries where the band is ameans to an end for the venue to sell poker chips or Merlot). And the band can now be relatively confident that its audience is now primarily, bordering on exclusively HARD CORE fans who are far more accepting, if rabidly approving of a more varied set list.

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 14:28:50 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Chris,

I think this brings us back to the old argument about playing the radio hits. Time after time, I see people at SD concerts that look bored, disappointed, and even angry because they didn’t get to hear what they had hoped to, and I overhear their conversations confirming it. I just know they will NEVER, EVER again go to a Steely Dan concert – they basically leave HATING the band!! I once brought a friend of mine to see them and he morphed into one of those types. (It was right then and there that I decided I wouldn’t ever go to a SD show with anyone other than a true fan, even if it meant going by myself, which is usually the case). I remember the first time I saw them, they played Madison Square Garden, which is really a horrible place to see a band like theirs. They don’t play venues like that anymore (thank God!) and I too prefer the smaller venues. I think they probably do too!

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 13:45:44 ET
Posted by: Chris, CT

Thanks for the input on my post. I mentioned SMB because I just read in the most recent Rolling Stone that last year he was averaging 10,000 tickets sold and this year 15,000, not sure if he is co-headlining though. He did say he does about 55 dates a year. I too would much prefer to see SD in a small venue and am happy for us, but just wondered why they are going smaller and smaller every tour.

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 13:25:26 ET
Posted by: angel,

Gina: Look at all those Steely Dan related names on Beasley's CD. Thanks for pointing that out. :-)

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 12:58:09 ET
Posted by: ps, ...

and Dean... make sure to send him an email and let him know what you think of the music :-)

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 12:56:08 ET
Posted by: Gina/Mizar6, here

hi Dean,

you're welcome. sorry if it took you so long, i could have indeed posted the mp3 link or even refer to Mizar5, eh, now Mizar6 :-) but then again, i also sent Beas' newsletter to Dandom Digest, so perhaps it will be posted as an item in there as well.

i can say Cauldron is a very good album with plenty of Steely alumn on it should anyone prefer to have it that way... and it's recorded in the aftermath of 11TOW in 1992 and on the prestigious Windham Jazz label too. Beasley has also briefly toured with Miles Davis.

i copied this from an eBay add for the CASSETTE... wow, that IS a collector's item :-)

Track Listing
1. Beehave Yourself (a little bit of Miles Davis influences too)
2. Sierra
3. Cado Bayou
4. Cauldron
5. Catalina
6. 11:11
7. Run and Hide
8. Zulu King
9. I'm Outta Here

Details
Playing Time: 55 min.
Producer: Walter Becker
Distributor: BMG (distributor)
Recording Type: Studio
Recording Mode: Stereo
SPAR Code: n/a

Album Notes
Personnel: John Beasley (piano, synthesizer), Dean Parks (guitar), Steve Tavaglione (soprano & tenor saxophone, EWI), Bob Sheppard (flute, bass clarinet, tenor saxophone), Ricky Minor, John Patitucci (bass), Peter Erskine, Ricky Lawson (drums), Bill Summers and Daryl Munyungo Jackson (percussion).

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 12:25:10 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

I just looked at the tour dates at Steve Miller's site.

Steve Miller isn't selling out 15,000 seat venues, Steve Miller and Joe Cocker, might be.

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 12:21:57 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Lee,

I re-read your post, and now understand what you were saying. I would guess that, compared to a large venue, the prices at a small intimate venue would be near double. That makes sense. And, SD did play more of them this year. To that, I say, THANK YOU! Seeing SD in a small venue has to be the best thing, IMO, and worth every penny.

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 12:19:32 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

I don't think the ticket prices, for most places, are anywhere near double what they were last year. I payed $125 last year and under $100, this year, for a slightly worse seat, at a similar venue.

Anyway, SD is not an arena rock band. They probably would have trouble regularly filling 15,000 seat venues, and what would be the point to it? Those places generally suck as concert venues. But, there were a few, large capacity, venues on this tour, and I think they either sold out, or came close.

But, are you suggesting that Steve Miller regularly sells out 15,000 seat venues with the kind of tour schedule (as many dates) as Steely Dan? I find that very hard to believe. How much are the tickets? Is Steve the only act?

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 12:19:09 ET
Posted by: HouDanFan, Houston

Chris...we were wondering the same thing last night. I think the problem in Houston is lack of well located medium sized venues in the city. Our only decent venue is way up north (outdoors)and on weeknights its a difficult trek. Or you have Toyota Center downtown that seats 18,000. My guess is the bean counters ran the numbers and decided to go small. That said this show sold out several weeks ago. Also, I think Steve Miller probably has a significantly larger following than Steely Dan based on radio play. Steely Dan is a 5,000 to 8,000 seat venue band. That's my uneducated take.

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 12:10:58 ET
Posted by: Lee, Houston

As far as money goes, the ticket prices are about double what they were last time around at the big outdoor venue here, and I'm sure the expenses are less, so that may be a wash.

Knowing our heroes penchant for great sound, I'd like to think they chose to play smaller venues and provide a real quality experience for the ticket buyer, which they certainly did here.

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 12:06:04 ET
Posted by: Chris, CT

I was wondering why Steely Dan has been playing such small venues, when other 70's acts ie: Steve Miller Band are averaging 15,000 seat shows? With such a large band I would think they would need to play bigger shows to make more $$$. Or is it that they just can't draw like that anymore?

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 12:04:35 ET
Posted by: HouDan, Houston

Fabulous show last night...it was the loudest SD show i've ever experienced. And I loved every second of it. The sound wasn't as crisp as the Albq show but that had to do with the venue. The horn section this year rocks. And Herrington was awesome. I love Carolyn but the three babes they have now can do it. Medeley and Scam rank as the best opening of the 8 shows I've seen.

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 11:39:34 ET
Posted by: Web Search, keyboard

http://www.canada.com/windsorstar/news/entertainment/story.html?id=61414866-6f5e-4f61-87b9-fcefec11df53

Former ABC singer loves 'puffy' songs
Ted Shaw, Windsor Star
Published: Thursday, August 21, 2008
If Martin Fry had his way, he'd load up the CD player in the car with Steely Dan albums and cruise down the highway happy as a clam.

But life as a 50-year-old father has its concessions, and one of them is giving up rights to the car stereo to the kids.

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 11:24:53 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Gina,

This Beasley tune, Beehave Yourself, is pretty nice. Thanks for posting it. I must say, though, it took me forever to find it from the home page.

The links to the tune are on this page:

http://www.beasleymusic.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=33&Itemid=48

The MP3 is here:

http://www.beasleymusic.com/images/mp3s/01_Beehave_Yourself.mp3

Again, thanks.

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 11:16:58 ET
Posted by: Lee, Houston

Great show last night in the 2200 seat Verizon Theater. I was in the rafters, stage right, about halfway back and the sound was really, really good. My only critique would be no punch to the bass - it was there, but kinda muddy. Thanks to Girl Margaret for texting in the set list as it went along. Here it is complied:

Medley Movies/Fez
The Royal Scam
I Got the News
Show Business Kids
Bodhisatva
2vN
Hey 19
Godwhacker
Black Cow
New Frontier
Gaucho (Walter)
Parker's Band
Black Friday
Josie
Love Is Like An Itchin' In My Heart
Peg
Pretzel Logic (!)
My Old School
Kid Charlemagne

Walter's vocal was the best I've ever heard from him live. Black Friday was done as a shuffle ("Texas style" said Don)- a little slower than the record and very groovy. Pretzel Logic was a real treat. Donald was very, very loose, and seemed to be having a lot of fun. As others have noted, I've never heard him play around with the notes so much - holding strong notes, and adding vocal embellishments - noodling around if you will. Walter's guitar solos were wonderful, Herrington was equally awesome, and Keith Carlock is like a jazz Keith Moon, incredibly active and perpetually spot on.

Great friggin' show.

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 11:11:38 ET
Posted by: SigmundFraud, Where did you get those shoes?

Wow wow wow. Many highlights... Bodhi was very high energy. Black Cow was nailed and had me smiling from ear to ear, it's a mantra song, an anthem. Carlock was a standout all night, but especially in Aja. It was an Aja night for sure, most of the album got played, and this version of the SDO really sounds good playing stuff from that era (and New Frontier!) Black Friday Texas style was also very memorable, very bluesy and heavy. Last, but not least, WHERE DID YOU GET THOSE SHOES?!?!! (did you spend your turkish union dues on them?)

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 11:05:24 ET
Posted by: What?,

"Steely Dan concert to loud". Boy that is really the meaning of a Oxymoron!

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 09:20:08 ET
Posted by: Bobbo, with thoughts before the show!

Wow,

Sounds like the setlist is ever-evolving, and that's cool as (well) Hell! If there were a wish-wizard, I'd pump "Everything You Did" into it full throttle, and hope that we get that in Dallas tonight, but GODAMIGHTY--"Babylon Sisters" is good enough for me. If they do "Deacon Blues," I promise to die happy someday, maybe...

My Lucky Ninth Steely Dan Show, and really--what could possibly go wrong? I have only an ugly truck (a loaner from the radio station with SPIRIT OF ROUTE 66 emblazoned all over it), an ugly hat, some dollars I owe dearly to the swag fairy, and my desire to carry and travel with, but...yes indeed. My 9th, of a series, and really...what could possibly go wrong?

See you in Grand Prairie, oh my brothers and sisters. Peace and love, and STAY OFF THE FREEWAYS FOR A WHILE, if you please. I'm on my way, for good or ill! Peace and love from the Edge of the Desert, and as always, selah.

Okay,
Bobbo

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 08:31:52 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Sad news about LeRoi moore. I was a DMB fan in high school. I lost interest with their last few releases, but I still really enjoy their earlier albums and catch a live show every few years.

LeRoi was a Steely Dan fan. He had a night off in Boston the night Steely Dan played this year, and he and Rashawn Ross walked right in front me seconds before the band came on stage. He was also a great musician able to fill a very unique roll in a very unique group. He'll be missed.

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 07:14:17 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

Thanks, Girl Margaret and whoever posted from the show ....
BLACK COW and PRETZEL LOGIC......WOW!!!!!!

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 03:34:27 ET
Posted by: Gina/Mizar6, Sun Mountain

http://www.beasleymusic.com

“Every month I will GIVE AWAY a track and the lead sheet. For AUGUST, download MP3 [right click and choose ’save link as…’] and lead sheet Beehave Yourself. It’s from my first album, Cauldron, which was produced by Walter Becker and features bassist Rickey Minor. Send me an email with your feedback.

He's got a new website with 7 hours worth of his work.

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 01:20:41 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach, Waiting for Fay

Tomorrow's Girl,

You must have very sensitive ears. Too bad you didn't think to pack some soft ear plugs...they may have helped you. Personally, I have never had a Steely Dan concert be loud enough, for my tastes...but, that's me. We all have different tolerances.

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 01:09:40 ET
Posted by: Tomorrow's Girl, after the show

Just back from the Houston show. yeah it was awesome-especially the blistering version of "Bodhisatva" and AMAZING "Black Friday" but the sound was too loud . I couldn't tell if Donald voice was good tonight. Heavy on the bass and the FANTASTIC drummer. I could sense the greatness of the music. I was gonna stay to the bitter end but left before the show was over. It was that painful. I LOVE Steely Dan but I'll never go to their show again. Big disappointment.

Date: Thurs, August 21, 2008, 00:05:09 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach, Waiting for Fay

Great job, Margaret, and whoever posted those messages. Thanks

Date: Wed, August 20, 2008, 23:57:22 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Live Texting from the Houston Show

Last tango music

Date: Wed, August 20, 2008, 23:54:03 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Live Texting from the Houston Show

kid c

Date: Wed, August 20, 2008, 23:52:58 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Live Texting from the Houston Show

Jeff young is king shit. I'M JEFF YOUNG'S BITCH

Date: Wed, August 20, 2008, 23:45:53 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Live Texting from the Houston Show

P LOG!

Date: Wed, August 20, 2008, 23:36:16 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Live Texting from the Houston Show

My old school

Date: Wed, August 20, 2008, 23:33:04 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Live Texting from the Houston Show

Peg

Date: Wed, August 20, 2008, 23:32:26 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Live Texting from the Houston Show

Supremes

Date: Wed, August 20, 2008, 23:18:06 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Live Texting from the Houston Show

Aja

Date: Wed, August 20, 2008, 23:15:03 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Live Texting from the Houston Show

Josie. jesus u should hear the crowd reaction

Date: Wed, August 20, 2008, 23:09:20 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Live Texting from the Houston Show

Time 4 a lil blues says don.

black friday texas style!

Date: Wed, August 20, 2008, 23:08:58 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Live Texting from the Houston Show

Parkers band

Date: Wed, August 20, 2008, 23:06:43 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Live Texting from the Houston Show

Ok the girls are doing some sexy sandwich dance

Date: Wed, August 20, 2008, 23:01:02 ET
Posted by: gentleman loser, NZ

sorry for interrupting the set list from GM...

Date: Wed, August 20, 2008, 22:59 ET
Posted by: gentleman loser, NZ

By choice, I finally got my copy of C$ today. I know, I know... he's a Third World Man. What I get for living down at the bottom. He who laughs third usually misses the point. Just finished first listen through.

Anyway, what I wanted to say was that I laughed during every unexpected (yet somehow familiar) twist and curve, and I'm glad I get to enjoy this point of time: you know - here and now (where I don't know the songs at all) to there and then and beyond (when they're burned in my brain). Thank you Mr Becker.

$500 for an up close and personal giggle? Hell yes.

Date: Wed, August 20, 2008, 23:07:35 ET
Posted by: gentleman loser, NZ

By choice, I finally got my copy of C$ today. I know, I know... he's a Third World Man. What I get for living down at the bottom. He who laughs third usually misses the point. Just finished first listen through.

Anyway, what I wanted to say was that I laughed during every unexpected (yet somehow familiar) twist and curve, and I'm glad I get to enjoy this point of time: you know - here and now (where I don't know the songs at all) to there and then and beyond (when they're burned in my brain). Thank you Mr Becker.

$500 for an up close and personal giggle? Hell yes.

Date: Wed, August 20, 2008, 22:57:23 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Live Texting from the Houston Show

gaucho

Date: Wed, August 20, 2008, 22:51:23 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Live Texting from the Houston Show

New frontier

Date: Wed, August 20, 2008, 22:46:23 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Live Texting from the Houston Show

Black fuckin cow i can't believe it!

Date: Wed, August 20, 2008, 22:39:53 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Live Texting from the Houston Show

Godwacker

Date: Wed, August 20, 2008, 22:32:26 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Live Texting from the Houston Show

Hey 19

Date: Wed, August 20, 2008, 22:26:17 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Live Texting from the Houston Show

2vn

Date: Wed, August 20, 2008, 22:21:08 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Live Texting from the Houston Show

Bodhi! o hell yes

Date: Wed, August 20, 2008, 22:18:52 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Live Texting from the Houston Show

Carlock just tossed a stick but didn't lose a beat. that's fabulous!

Date: Wed, August 20, 2008, 22:13:19 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Live Texting from the Houston Show

Showbiz kids

Date: Wed, August 20, 2008, 22::07 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Live Texting from the Houston Show

I got the news

Date: Wed, August 20, 2008, 22:02:53 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Live Texting from the Houston Show

3 girls. 3 fros.

Date: Wed, August 20, 2008, 22:01:29 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Live Texting from the Houston Show

Carlock. intense solo. scam

Date: Wed, August 20, 2008, 21:57:03 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Live Texting from the Houston Show

FEZ

Date: Wed, August 20, 2008, 21:53:53 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Live Texting from the Houston Show

Set list! movies

Date: Wed, August 20, 2008, 19:23:00 ET
Posted by: Hey 36, ABQ

Count me in too! I'm searching for a sugar daddy!!!

Date: Wed, August 20, 2008, 18:39:10 ET
Posted by: Mr Multiplication & Miss Division, Newton, MA

Last I read, there were about 3,000 people signed up for the Dandom Newsletter.

That would make it about $100 per fan.

Date: Wed, August 20, 2008, 18:31:39 ET
Posted by: Math Guy, in hiding

At $5,000 a pop, we only need 60 fans. 600 fans at $500 each sounds more managable, though.

Date: Wed, August 20, 2008, 17:20:18 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, Waiting for the Storm

Count me in!

For attending, not footing the bill, Dana.

:#)

I'll pay my fair share, though, and bring party favors.

Date: Wed, August 20, 2008, 16:33:21 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana, wishing

One, or more, of us Steely chicks needs to come up with a rich sugardaddy to foot the bill for our private SD show......
Any interest??

Date: Wed, August 20, 2008, 16:26:52 ET
Posted by: MikeA, Lost

KC-your 300k estimate sounds about right.

We need 600 Dan fans who will pony up five thousand bucks a piece for a real intimate show:)

Date: Wed, August 20, 2008, 15:50:56 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, @work

I imagine it would vary depending on the artist(s). For the boys, my vote is $300K.

KC

Date: Wed, August 20, 2008, 14:58:16 ET
Posted by: MikeA, Seattle

SO, what do figure a "private show" would cost?? I am saving up my pennys...

Date: Wed, August 20, 2008, 14:04:49 ET
Posted by: Fife, Florida,eh

Janie you and I share the same fantasy! Does your house include an inside pool?? You can count me in,lol.

Date: Wed, August 20, 2008, 13:50:51 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Thanks, Gus. I thought Craig was talking about two private shows THIS tour...so my bad, I guess. I just heard there was one private show this tour, and that was news to me.

I remember the talk about a private show on the last tour, but this is the first I've heard that there were two of them. So, I'm learning something new today, here on The Blue.

Date: Wed, August 20, 2008, 13:19:32 ET
Posted by: Gus Winterbottom, Coffee Break

Dean, et al:

The Chumash show of January 19, 2007 was announced a day or two before tickets went on sale, which was November 21, 2006. I have not checked back in the Bluebook, so everything below should be "fact-checked". If I recall correctly, the Friant show was January 17, and according to sources on this board, two private shows in Las Vegas were performed on January 15 and 16. If you scroll back to the Bluebook postings for those dates, I think that someone posted at least one setlist from the private shows.

BTW, special thanks to Angel for the Bloomberg links; this provides hope for Chumash II or some equivalent in the future.

GW

Date: Wed, August 20, 2008, 12:32:23 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

So, if I win the lottery, and buy a big house, and they “agree” to do a private show at my place, will you all come?

Tee, hee! Who says money can’t buy happiness!!

Date: Wed, August 20, 2008, 11:40:06 ET
Posted by: Fife, Florida,eh

They did a private gig at the beginning of 2007 that's how the couple of CA shows came to be. That's what I remember.
Fife

Date: Wed, August 20, 2008, 11:20:24 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Craig,

Other private gig? I have no idea what you are talking about. I just recently heard about the "first" one.

Kid Clean, you must have missed the discussion we had about that, some time back. Still a good re-visit.

Date: Wed, August 20, 2008, 11:14:04 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, @work

Check out #1 on the list.

http://new.music.yahoo.com/blogs/listoftheday/84689/the-top-25-aor-bands-of-the-1970s-1980s

KC

Date: Wed, August 20, 2008, 09:47:50 ET
Posted by: Craig B,

Hey Dean
When was this "other" private Vegas gig supposed to be?
Thanks

Date: Tues, August 19, 2008, 22:50:08 ET
Posted by: Gretchen,

Any word on Boston Rag? Hope he's recovering well........

G

Date: Tues, August 19, 2008, 22:04:37 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

RIP LeRoi Moore, Dave Matthews Band Saxophonist

http://www.charlottesvillenewsplex.tv/news/headlines/27158924.html

What a year.

Date: Tues, August 19, 2008, 22:02:17 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Just heard that Leroi Moore, sax player for Dave Matthews, died. So sad...

Date: Tues, August 19, 2008, 20:07:20 ET
Posted by: gentleman loser, NZ

Caesar's private giggle = Exclusive = $$$ on top of $$$.

They've been doing it since Jay & the Americans. In-jokes. Irony. This is the elitist bent that I've always admired since the liner notes from Can't Buy A Thrill. And still I was initially bummed that at the tail of another successful tour, they'd succumbed to the lure of the filthy lucre.

I would guess they're in Detroit with lots of money in the bank. Although I could be wrong...

Maybe it's another opportunity for Plush TV. Maybe it's a fundraiser for (____?) whoever they're voting for. Maybe I should mind my own... Whatever it is, they don't give a crap.

Just jealous I'm on the outer is all it is really.

Date: Tues, August 19, 2008, 17:59:57 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

Thanks to all for the continued updates.

Bill, nice stuff from Graydon.

Dash (and Ray), I think it's possible that the tour may have ended without the private gig, but not certain. If I'm not mistaken, when the list of tour dates only went to the 9th (on SD.com), there was a notice to check back as more dates may be added. At least that is my recollection. So, I don't think it was ever a "final" date.

Date: Tues, August 19, 2008, 17:49:53 ET
Posted by: George, in Paris

For Dallas, front center section, row 15 or so, just opened up on ticketbastard. Too bad those seats were nowhere to be found microseconds after the presale opened a couple of months ago. I didn't have the guts to wait them out.

Date: Tues, August 19, 2008, 17:39:53 ET
Posted by: HouDanFan, Houston

Cesear's must be a corporate gig. I've been to a couple of shows like that in Vegas and San Fran. Our company hired Loggins and Messina at one and the other was the Doobies with Mike. Both played a couple of hours and everyone was up close and personal. They are fun.

Houston show has been sold out for several weeks.

Date: Tues, August 19, 2008, 14:02:09 ET
Posted by: Would you call it, a

Geezers at Caesars fest?

Date: Tues, August 19, 2008, 13:54:22 ET
Posted by: Bill from Pgh,

SD Sideman sighting:
Just stumbled across this - anyone heard it yet:

http://aorclub.blogs.com/acmj/2008/04/jay-graydon-and.html

Jay Graydon and Randy Goodrum's new project "JaR"
According To Jay Graydon's official site, The " JaR " Album is FINISHED!!!

Jay Graydon and Randy Goodrum have now finished their first album as JaR. Two years of hard work, writing and recording new material, has resulted in an incredible set of songs with amazing melodies, subtle lyrics and outstanding playing and singing by these seasoned musicians and accomplished songwriters. I assure you - you will not believe your ears! Take Randy's dazzlingly virtuosic keys - add Jay's magical inventive guitar playing, plus both cats' voices in a perfect blend... and if you can imagine Steely Dan meets Airplay and Pages with some jazzy flavors as well, a touch of humor, strong catchy melodies with intelligent lyrical hooks - yea, there you have it!!! The mixing and mastering is done - now time to shop a deal! Stay tuned for more info as things unfold!

* * *

I just checked out his official site and found this:

http://www.jaygraydon.com/hottxt.htm

July 31, 2008
Jay Meets With Steely Dan!!!
Taking a short break from the arrangements for the release of the new JaR album (due in a few more weeks) Jay went to the Steely Dan concert at the Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles on July 23. As expected the performance was spectacular and here below are Jay's comments from the gig...

If you like melodic pop with a hint of jazz, do yourself a favor and go to a Steely concert when they play in your area. As we know, such brilliant songs! Donald, Walter and the band is outstanding with performances that would make for an excellent live recording! The band is tight and feels great! The pitch was superb, especially the horns, which is not an easy feat. Simply ear candy!

After the show, I spoke with Walter and Donald. We reminisced about the time we worked together and other fun stuff. I love these guys as they are so non-Hollywood down to earth gentlemen! - Jay

A few pictures from the gig:
Jon Herington is the guitar player with Steely Dan and is perfect for the gig! He plays the parts like he wrote them and never overplays!!! Magnificent.

Michael Leonart is a great trumpet player!!!

Freddie Washington is the bass player on the gig and is first-class!!! (aforementioned Jon Herington to the right)

Greg Phillinganes is one of the best piano players of all time and a great friend!!!

As to Walter no need to mention credits. He is a great guy!!!

Photos © Denise Marie Luko.

Date: Tues, August 19, 2008, 13:38:40 ET
Posted by: Steely Dana,

Okay....which one of you High Rollers on this site is setting up the Ceasar's gig in Vegas???!!!
Are we all invited :-)

Date: Tues, August 19, 2008, 12:36:37 ET
Posted by: Dash LaRue,

Amigo, if you scroll down and read you will see that this tour was supposed to end on the 9th. The reason it was expanded is because of that private gig at Ceasars. So Steely Dan is going to be playing a banquet room at Ceasars. I wonder who for and will it be one of those 45 minute shows?

Date: Tues, August 19, 2008, 12:20:44 ET
Posted by: Gauchoamigo, Back in North Hollywood

Another great show in Chicago, and I'm so glad I went, even though I'll be paying off the credit card for months. See, Wednesday night I went on Ticket bastard and they had row CC. I couldn't pass it up, even though it cost me nearly eight hundred for the plane. I was in Chicago in July and it was another great show, but Carlock was on fire last Saturday. Great to see Hoops and everybody at the Danfest. Lurker Ray, how did you like the Gestapo security at the Honda Center? I must have been down the row from you, because I was in section 101, row 7 seat 1, but there was a guy next to me and his wife was in row 11, seat 6, so I changed seats with her. Both Chicago shows were great, Nokia was real good, and Honda was good. I've got an itinerary of this years tour, but it only goes up to august 10, and lists future shows, with a show at Caesars Palace on August 23. What's up with that? The only thing I can't stand is the obnoxious assholes, who have to get drunk and talk during the concert. Saturday night in Chicago, I had to tell two people near me to shut the fuck up. People think cause they buy a ticket they get to talk during the concert. Bullshit. Shut the fuck up and listen to the music.

Date: Tues, August 19, 2008, 09:51:53 ET
Posted by: Ghana Rondo, Illinois

Had 5th row seats for Stl last night. Great Show. I thought DF was in great form & WB was very precise--best I have heard him. It has been several years since I have seen them & was very impressed. Harrington was very good, but I expected a more stunning performance mostly from reprts on here. Was surprised that WB took the solo in Godwhacker. Actually, I have to take exception to some who diminish Drew Zing in relation to Harrington.

Date: Tues, August 19, 2008, 08:10:24 ET
Posted by: HeyMike, these suburban streets

Hey guys,

Nice Chicago wrap ups from Hoops, GM and K Clean. It was one of the best shows ever for me and a great show to take my sons to. They really enjoyed themselves. Some of the rare kids their age that knew all the tunes and most of the words!

My son Michael, the Art Institute art student really dug the screen graphics also.

Good to see everyone, Chris Hoops and Keith and the new Mrs. Keith!

Cheers

Date: Tues, August 19, 2008, 01:32:14 ET
Posted by: MikeA, St. Louis (soon Seattle)

had to laugh department: The local NBC news affiliate in St. Louis went out with about a minute of Steel Dan playing he Royal Scam from the Fox Theatre. They set up the piece by saying "we'll leave you with the soft sounds of Steely Dan" (ugh !!)

Good night
MikeA

Date: Tues, August 19, 2008, 01:12:34 ET
Posted by: MikeA, Seattle (tonight St. Louis)

Well, I landed in St Looey to see the Dan. Before the show I met some very special relatives of Maggi McCoy. Not mentioning any names for privacy, but they were disappointed not to see Hoops and some others such as "Tall Paul". Anyway, it was very special for me to hang out with these fine ladies tonight. Thanks to Steely Dan I guess.

Now some rendom stuff...
Cutting costs, I went for the nose bleed seats. Terrible acoustics way up there. The ceilng seems like 20 stories tall and the only thing which sounded decent were the horns and guitars. Everything else kind of swirled around up there and merged. Bummer...

ANYWAY- After I went down to the floor the sound and mix were awesome except Freddy was still lost in the mix.

Highlight of the show was New Frontier. Jeff was really twitchin' playing the sequenced synth part from NF, and he played the part live hands dancing and jumping. The part sounded even better than the CD. They really swung that tune ! Best I have ever heard it. Crowd was really locked in to the grove on that one.

Jon and Walter are at the absolute top of their game now. I was blown away at how damn inventive Jon has become. Walter seemed to solo less than a few weeks ago but still was fantastic and he cut through nicely. He had a nice warm tone tonight. Our 3 girlfrens were sweet on vocals once again. Carlock took 4 solos during the evening..HOT !! Donald was good but not as strong as the Seattle show I was at. Maybe a bit tired?? I dunno..

I like the Dan better outdoors. Light show was differnt tonight not quite as vivid as the outdoor show and did not seem multi layered like before.

The set was pretty much as Hoops described from Chicago. We only got one encore song (I think). Crowd was LOUD thorughout but stayed down until the last 3 songs. Probably will have more notes when amnesia wears off:)
Next up: Saratoga on th 24th.

Date: Tues, August 19, 2008, 00:23:49 ET
Posted by: Luker Ray, Malibu

Thanks GM & hoops for those
fantastic reports! I am so
happy that you guys got to
see what this tour has become
since NY and the earlier Chicago
date. Glad to hear that you missed
the "fall out". Perhaps he detected
The El Supremo? No one has pointed
out that Walter said, "So you slide on
down to this beautiful little theatre
in Chicago" during Hey 19! Just think,
we would be reminiscing about the tour,
it would have ended on the 9th in Murphys
if they hadn't booked that private gig.
Still wonder who will be replacing Walt
W after Dallas? He is such a driving
force this year. It will be tough.
Yeah it sucks that final Santa Rosa dates
are in the middle of the week. I gave it
a hard look, but for me, there were no
hotels to be had, like Connie pointed out
when the dates were first announced. Glad
to hear that that you dug the DBOT hoops!
As I've said before, I used to be a
bartender at the Green Mill and I have
heard nothing but great things about them.

Any reports from Saint Louie?

Date: Mon, August 18, 2008, 18:20:11 ET
Posted by: paul,

I heard...... ESPN SportsCenter anchor John Buccigross say last night, Sunday, August 17, during the White Sox / A's baseball highlights:

"Carlos Quentin is to the White Sox what Donald Fagen is to Steely Dan!"
Immediately in the next highlight:
"Jermaine Dye is to the White Sox what Walter Becker is to Steely Dan!"

Talk about timing -- I had just turned to ESPN.
High-five to Buccigross!

Date: Mon, August 18, 2008, 15:46:59 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

Lonnie:
Good one...."please take me [or two] along when you slide on down".
Hope none of our fellow-Dandom brethren were injured.

Date: Mon, August 18, 2008, 15:32:37 ET
Posted by: zembo, Fredneck, MD

Just stopped into Bonefish Grill (chain seafood restaurant)and they were playing "Tomorrow's Girls" on the PA. It was nice to hear.

Date: Mon, August 18, 2008, 12:51:08 ET
Posted by: Lonnie THE Kingpin, Chicago

Hello one and all ~

I guess the guy at the Chicago Theatre took some Steely Dan "Hey 19" lyrics too seriously:

"Please take me [or two] along when you slide on down."

Crazy stuff. Need to Think Fast!

Lonnie

Date: Mon, August 18, 2008, 12:07:32 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

PRICELESS!! I guess that explains it. It's a wonder that he didn't break his neck!

Date: Mon, August 18, 2008, 12:00:25 ET
Posted by: Think Fast!,

Man injured trying to slide down theater railing

Associated Press
10:59 PM CDT, August 17, 2008
CHICAGO - Even after more than 30 years, fans are still falling for Steely Dan.

It happened Saturday night in Chicago, when a man trying to slide down a stairwell railing fell two floors during a Steely Dan concert. He was hospitalized in stable condition. His name has not been released.

Police were called to downtown's Chicago Theatre just after 11 p.m. and found the man on the basement floor. Police say he fell from the second floor and hit two other patrons before landing in the basement.

Steely Dan, founded in the early 70s, is in the midst of its "Think Fast" tour.

Date: Mon, August 18, 2008, 09:10:26 ET
Posted by: B Deutsch,

"Mind meld: Like a permanent picture of your pussyprint in cement."

WB is really tappy or what???

Date: Mon, August 18, 2008, 08:48:30 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Hoops, GM, thanks for your reviews. Hoops, you're right on about the way the set flows this year. I think that's what Walter meant when he talked about reconfigured live shows. It's much more engaging when one song can go into the next without a pause and a click track. That change, and others, really gave me the impression that after all these years they've perfected their live show.

Date: Mon, August 18, 2008, 00:13:43 ET
Posted by: Web Search, keyboard

More info on the accident at the Chicago concert. He took two along as he slid on down.

http://www.suntimes.com/news/metro/1112589,theatrefall081708.article

Date: Sun, August 17, 2008, 23:55:17 ET
Posted by: D,

Thanks for the review, Hoops and Margaret.

It's one thing to disagree, another when people are such assholes that they inhibit most of us from getting the reports we crave.

Date: Sun, August 17, 2008, 23:05:06 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

I tend to agree with Hoops about chatter (and anything other than MUSIC) from a band, while on stage. I despise the histrionics of most rock and pop stars, and quite frankly the chatter is usually fairly vapid. "Shut up, stop jumping around, and play your music!" is my motto. Bad intro are fine, and I have no problem with someone having a little fun with that.

But, a little talk from Don and Walt isn't too bad, if it is (or at least feels) spontaneous, to any degree. It shows me that they are comfortable/happy/excited to be playing this particular night. The Hey 19 story could go away, and I wouldn't be sad, at all. But, the minimal version we got this tour, wasn't too bad.

Date: Sun, August 17, 2008, 21:46:16 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

One final thing for now: before the show, several of us thought that Walter was going to work this weekend's lakefront air show into the "Hey 19" bit. Fighter planes all over all weekend.

GM: Keep in mind that Chicago is a strange anomaly--a town in the Midwest that isn't quite midwestern. ;-)

And, GM, your review: It's FABULOUS!

Jim

Date: Sun, August 17, 2008, 21:42:57 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

One thing in general I keep meaning to bring up.

As more than a few of you know, I've been to countless Grateful Dead shows -- in fact, this guestbook traces it's lineages to rec.music.gdead -- and for years I never even knew what the band members' speaking voice sounded like, save for usually Bob Weir saying before intermission, "We'll be right back in a little bit." Those shows just flowed song to song.

So I am extraordinarily pleased at what I perceive as significant reduction in stage patter between songs from Donald and Walter during this summer's tour. Everything flows so much better, the focus is so much more on the music, and the music seems so much denser and tighter.

Jim

Date: Sun, August 17, 2008, 21:37:11 ET
Posted by: Sparkle of your China, StL

I have just been told,by a VERY reliable source, that Lewis Hamilton has been listening to SD before getting in his F1 car.

So.. y'all gotta cheer for him

Date: Sun, August 17, 2008, 21:35:29 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Last night's show at the Chicago Theatre was even better than the show a month ago.

Upon coming back to the stage for the encore to a very enthusiastic standing ovation, Walter Becker said something like, "Weren't we just here a couple of weeks ago?"

But to back up, let me recapitulate the set list--thanks to Dave, GM, LWO and others for their part in the postings last night.

The Deep Blue Organ Trio was The Bomb. Of all the opening acts, this is the one I'd go out, get their CD, and, oh yes, make a point of seeing them at the Green Mill during one of their regular Tuesday night shows. Of all the opening acts I've seen in the past year, this was by far the best. (BTW: You should put Catherine Russell in that class too. I just didn't get to see Catherine Russell as an opening act in Montreal.)

Of course, there was the Overture of "Everyone's Gone to the Movies", "The Fez", "The Royal Scam". As part of "The Royal Scam", Keith held court with a fantastic drum solo that I did not recall at last month's Chicago show or the NYC and Boston shows in June that I attended.

Donald and Walter entered the stage for "The Royal Scam". The groove of the trademark riff went on and on, ever so tightly.

All three girls were also on stage wearing the noted Afro wigs.

From there it was "I Got the News", and, of course, "Show Biz Kids" which has, as you know, been perfected from the 1973 and 2006 versions for this tour into an amazing funk groove. And, of course, it's midway through when the LED backdrop is revealed. I can't help but imagine if it they had the right pyrotechnics to show that as a matrix of real flames rather than LEDs, but hey, that's my visual mind, deeply influenced by the incredibly hot playing.

From there, the heat continued with "Bodhisattva".

Admittedly, I thought I had grown a little tired of the title track from "Two Against Nature" when the girls really engaged all of us in the audience with new excitement for the track with their hand-claps sequence.

From there, it was "Hey 19". Every since Walter took over the "Cuervo Gold" lead up last year, the seemingly required song has taken on new spontaneity. This time the story was about taking one's date back to their Lake Shore Drive apartment for a drink and more. My favorite of these was during the second Boston show in 2007 which was hilariously, outrageously and spontaneously twisted, but this one gets a "4 out of 5" in my book.

"Godwhacker" really got the groove down and, ever since some BlueBook discussion circa 2003, I still can't help but think of Condoleeza Rice dressed as Slinky Redfoot.

Then the sisters were the stars of a "wiggy" "Babylon Sisters" for which there was an amazing groove.

Throughout the show, there were more than a few standing ovations.

It is so refreshing that Donald's "New Frontier" is part of the set. The marching sales drones on the LED board are awesome and lend it a contemporary context. One of the best visuals of the past 15 years.

Walter followed up wit "Gaucho". Some say, they are not nuts about Walter's vocals on "Gaucho". Personally, I don't think it matters who sings that one. I've found Donald' vocals on the original to be OK but not especially exceptional. It's the song -- the musical performance on "Gaucho" that is so great.

I wish there was also a solo track from Walter. I know Walter has said in interviews that the audience wants to hear Steely Dan tunes, but a song like "Somebody's Saturday Night" or "Three Picture Deal" are instant jukebox hits, even if I think there are better tracks off of "Circus Money". I think the audience would have gotten then right away--they are such strong tunes.

The Texas roadhouse-tinged "Black Friday" was next followed by a perfected version of "Parker's Band".

From there it was Walter with perhaps his best guitar playing ever and another amazing drum performance by Keith. Earlier in the show, a fan had to be brought out to blow on Keith--he was was giving that much. (Oh c'mon! I'm talking about an electric air fan! But Keith did probably feel better for it!)

Then it was "Aja" with all those amazing solos including another by Master Carlock.

At some point towards the end of the show, when he was behind the keyboard, Donald exclaimed something like, "What a night! You're flipping me out!"

And of course, the girls were a hit with "Love Is Like An Itching In My Heart". The Afro wigs completed the whole experience. It was during Walter's band intros that Donald got up from behind his keyboards and starting walking around the stage, kind of dancing almost. He was very thrilled. He was holding the "mystery instrument" (the melodica, of course).

From there it was "Peg" and "My Old School" and they left the stage. For the past several songs, the audience went wild and more than a few audience members were standing and dancing.

The standing ovation from the crowd ranked alongside those from the best Steely Dan audience--Boston crowds.

It was then that Walter, Donald and the band came back on stage and Walter made the comment about how they had played the Chicago not too recently, as if to punctuation how the crowd nevertheless seemed even more completely enthusiastic.

They wrapped with "FM" and "Kid Charlemagne", Donald and Walter left the stage and the band played music from "Last Tango In Paris" as we safely exited.

Regarding the Danfest, special thanks to SueDave, as well as thanks again to Keith & Janet, Chris and Lisa, Mike, Hey Mike, Hey Mike, Jr, Hey Matt, Mark, Noah, and of course Girl Margaret, Aunt Noreen and everyone else. But thanks most of all to SD!

Jim

Date: Sun, August 17, 2008, 21:35:18 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Home at last

What a fucking great show last night was! A trip to the midwest is the perfect mid-August treat for this east coast girl, especially to see such an outstanding band. It dawned on me as I was driving home today that I forgot to mention Showbiz Kids was also played last night early on - forgive me, when I got SF's request for the set we were about four songs in and I was a wee bit loaded! But other than that, I got it right.

Now, the other shows I've seen this tour have been a lot of fun, but there was something special about seeing SD in Chi-town last night. Maybe it was the month long break I've had between shows (yea, yea, I hear the violins), or all these fantastic reviews I've been reading lately, or just the relief of taking a much needed break away from everything to go out and see a Steely Dan concert, but the band last night sounded so tight and almost so perfect. There were a few glitches here and there - botched lyrics, perhaps a melodica malfunction (he was monkeying with it in a corner for a moment), but the Dan never fails to impress me. Here's a few of the highlights that stood out for me:

* I only caught the tail end of Blue Organ Trio's set, but they were a decent band - organ, guitar, and drums. Very relaxing to listen to, very pleasant, perfect dinner music, if you were having dinner at a place that offers live music.

* When the band took the stage for the opening medley, they were stepping out like they were King Shit. It was almost like watching a musical rumble, the band was there to kick some ass and they were showing no mercy! My favorite moment was the change from "Everyone's Gone to the Movies" to "The Fez" : Jeff Young (my man Jeff Young!) turns from the piano, stands up, and starts to play the opening notes on his keyboard, but last night he played it with such a force, like he was banging out the song as if to say to the audience "THIS IS MY FUCKING SONG!" It was so awesome, he was so powerful in that moment, it was intense. And as Kid Clean put it so eloquently, "I'm Jeff Young, bitch!" Intense.

* At the previous shows I attended this summer, Carlock took a short solo during the medley, and it was respectable, but not very long. I've been wondering what all the hype was lately about his solo because it didn't seem like much of a solo early on. Last night I finally understood, as his solo is now much longer than before. Sweet Jesus, I could watch Carlock solo all night.

* Three girls. Three fros. All sex appeal. With all due respect to Catherine Russell and Tawatha Agee, there is nothing finer than Miss Cindy Mizelle.

* The set was fab, but I truly miss Everything You Did.

* I couldn't say for certain, but for a moment I thought I saw Catherine Russell singing Cindy Mizelle's solo for a verse in Two Against Nature. I was sitting in front of Herington, so I couldn't see it perfectly. Whoever sang it, it sounded hot.

* Walter's Hey 19 story was a little on the long side, at some point he just started running down a laundry list of booze. Good times.

* Bodhisatva in the middle of the set was a real treat. In the past, the girls would clap when the song started, but last night the horns and Herington were clapping, too. I always clap along with the girls, but when Herington's clapping, too, you clap! Shit, Herington, could get me to do anything.

* Gaucho, fabulous as always. I cried yet again. Dammit Walter!

* Donald was in rare fucking form last night. He was yelling out all sorts of stuff during songs, most of it muddled, but you could tell he was having a great time. During Walter's Josie solo he was hollering out to him, almost cheering him on. And the dancing! He was doing some sort of melodica dance all over the stage, particularly in front Carlock's drums, and it was priceless. I don't know if he had a second helping of Wheaties for breakfast or what, but he was a hoot. I've never seen him like this before!

* My Old School was also a treat. I've always loved that song, it's such a great sing along.

* I was really hoping Howard Levy would show, but alas, there was no Levy.

* After the show, I ran downstairs to the bathroom and when I came back up there was a lot of commotion going on. The ushers were trying to get people out and there was a lot of nervous chatter. They seemed to be talking about the balcony, as they were trying to get people out of there. Then I went outside and the fire department and EMT showed up. Didn't hear about someone falling from the balcony until just now!

* The audience was fantastic. Great, great energy in that theater. After they played MOS and went off stage, the audience was making so much noise, you'd think the band was still onstage. They didn't let up for a moment until the after the band started playing FM. Wow.

And I've said it before, and I'll say it again: It doesn't matter where you are, it's who you're with. So thanks to all my fabulous Chicago friends who made my weekend a blast. Too bad it was so brief, but it was a blast. And Kid Clean, I'm still laughing about the Jeff Young thing.

Date: Sun, August 17, 2008, 21:25:34 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

"Dean, hope you're right-handed!!" - Janie

I am now!

Date: Sun, August 17, 2008, 21:04:43 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Angel, thanks for that reivew -- it is totally on-target!

Hoops, can we expect a review from you?

Dean, hope you're right-handed!!

Date: Sun, August 17, 2008, 21:00:42 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

I attended the 2003 Toronto Dan Show (the rescheduled concert due to a power outage on the original date). As we were walking toward our car, some running drunks bumped us slightly, causing a little chain reaction among our small crowd. It wasn't a big bump, or shove, but I was walking right next to a small curb-like box, protecting some landscaping, and the bump caused me to lose my balance, because my foot bumped the curb. I tried to break my fall with my hand, and ended up smashing it on the sides of one of the curbs.

Broke several bones in my left hand and fingers. Fortunately I was a little buzzed, and there was a cooler with beer and ice in the car. I got to drink some of the pain away and keep my hand in the cooler full of ice on the ride back to Niagara Falls. Don't worry...I wasn't driving.

5 years later, my left hand is still not the same as it was before that incident.

Date: Sun, August 17, 2008, 20:40:47 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

I figured something must have happened last night because there were at least two ambulances in the service alley alongside the theatre.

As someone below pointed out, the Chicago Theatre is an grand old theatre. How could someone fall from the balcony to the basement? Perhaps your first image is someone falling from the front row of seats in the balcony. But the theatre also has a grand staircase. It could very well be that the person was descending the grand staircase and fell down the stairs or over the balustrade which has through-space from the highest level all the way down to the basement. You can look down to the basement from the top level of the stairs. Falling down the stairs could account for why others were injured.

Back maybe 20 years ago, at an entirely different venue , I had a family member slip down a couple of flights of stairs after a show as everyone was descending the stairs and pushed her. It sounded similar. And no, she wasn't drunk, not even a drink.

I didn't witness any of this so I can't say what happened but consider the possibility of other possibilities.

Jim

Date: Sun, August 17, 2008, 19:42:00 ET
Posted by: FYI, Chicago

It's an 80 year old, landmark theatre.

Basement = Orchestra Pit or similar trap.

Date: Sun, August 17, 2008, 18:10:25 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Deano -
Exactly. How does the guy
end up in the basement?!
I guess the only thing that
could make this story more
absurd, is if it happened
during BF.

Date: Sun, August 17, 2008, 17:51:32 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, Reggae Sunday

Actually, Ray, it reads "the man eventually landed in the basement"

Eventually? Was this some pratfall from a slapstick comedy?

Date: Sun, August 17, 2008, 17:39:28 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Um....wow. Didn't read that in
any of reports from last night!
That sure puts a damper on things.
Jesus, he fell into the basement?!!
How in the hell does that happen?
And they are not sure if he fell
from the 2nd or 3rd balcony.
Again, he fell into the BASEMENT?

Date: Sun, August 17, 2008, 17:37:55 ET
Posted by: Hutch, rva

I can't imagine what Walter and Donald think about doing a corporate gig or "private party". The comments on Lexi Says when they did a music industry corporate thing a couple of years ago indicated obvious disdain. I wonder what the format is? One 45 minute set and get the hell out of there?
I found a booking site (one of many middlemen) that offered SD's services. I didn't bother trying to look for a figure but I did read the blurb about Steely Dan performing at your etc., etc. At one point it said booking was dependant upon band scheduling, routing of equip. and so forth and the amount of interest Steely Dan would have in doing the engagement. I thought that was kind of cool... you know they were being careful. Then I picked another artist that they "handled" and well, I hit on Bowzer! So I checked out the blurb on Bowzer and it also said "the engagement would be dependant upon Bowzers interest in doing the engagement.

So that was disappointing.

Date: Sun, August 17, 2008, 17:10:28 ET
Posted by: SaxFan, New York

Those drunk Steely Dan fans!

http://www.nbc5.com/news/17213948/detail.html

Date: Sun, August 17, 2008, 13:41:08 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

angel -
Thanks for the great links.
I knew something was "fishy"
when early on I saw that gap
between Dallas & Saratoga and
no other SoCal shows were being
added! So it's a private gig
in Vegas. Anyone know who the
gig is for? So I guess that means
that the only reason Detroit,
Chicago, St. Louis, Houston,
Dallas, Saratoga and Santa Rosa got
shows is because of this private
gig in Vegas. A guess a big thanks
is in order for who ever "bought"
that show! Ticket sales must not be
too "brisk" for Santa Rosa to cause
Wells Fargo to place that Press release
so late in the game. Isn't that Bloomberg
review also a little late? C$ has been
my favorite CD all summer! ;O)
Thanks for all of the reports from
Chitown and Detroit. How cool that
Don asked Joey to play on Black Friday
in Detroit. That was Joey's last show
of the tour. Sounds like a killer version
of BF. Speaking of opening acts, how
was the Deep Blue Organ Trio in Chicago
last night?

Date: Sun, August 17, 2008, 13:30:31 ET
Posted by: D, H

Angel,
I, too, liked that short review. The line, "If it wasn't so interesting, it might be soothing. Listening to it makes me think of reading Graham Greene..." Well, yes, there's a lot more going on under the surface. That's our Walter.

Date: Sun, August 17, 2008, 12:59:22 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, Reggae Sunday

Thanks to all for the show reports.

angel, that bloomberg review of C$ was terrific. Thanks

Date: Sun, August 17, 2008, 11:37:13 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Bodacious Cowboy,

Sounds like a GREAT show; thanks for sharing those really cool details!

Date: Sun, August 17, 2008, 10:57:19 ET
Posted by: Bodacious Cowboy, Detroit

Dr Who, thanks for your post on the DTE show Aug 15; your details are spot on and the set list was exactly the same as the Ironstone show.

Here are a few noteworthy additions from the DTE show:

Joey DeFrancesco joined the band for "Black Friday". At first, it seemed he had to ask for sound on his B3. Once that was set, I thought the dueling between him and Donald was spectacular. It was also great to see Donald get up and shake his hand.

Also, Donald commented about how they have more people in their crew from Detroit than any other city. Walter proceeded to bring them all out on stage for recognition. This reminded me of the 2006 tour when he brought Skip (his guitar tech from Detroit) out on stage to present him with a banjo for his years of service.

I have to agree with Dr Who; I've seen every show in recent years and they were better than ever. I brought a good friend - and seasoned concertgoer - to his first Steely Dan Show and he said over and over what a great show it was. Can't wait until the next time...

Date: Sun, August 17, 2008, 10:56:24 ET
Posted by: angel,

A couple of interesting articles. More about the finale in Santa Rosa.

http://www.marketwatch.com/news/story/steely-dan-plans-tour-finale/story.aspx?guid=%7B041AD1E6-51B1-45CC-8109-F551A9EB424B%7D&dist=hppr

Bloomberg News considers Circus Money a top CD for this summer. How cool is that? Walter, you just RULE!!!!!

http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601088&sid=ad_LBSu0V00o&refer=muse

Date: Sun, August 17, 2008, 10:42:46 ET
Posted by: Bodacious Cowboy, Detroit

Date: Sun, August 17, 2008, 04:02:27 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, Home at last

Damn! I LOVE Steely Dan! What a great show, better than last months, in my opinion. Bodhisattva! Bodhisattva! Bodhisattva! Easily the best version I've ever heard, Herrington was on fire. Walter...is. Donald sounded a little weak in a few spots but he was sure having one helluva time, perhaps thanks to the two women who were dancing(?) in the front row right in front of him. The audience as a whole was waaaaay into the show. All the horns were great, but Walt really stood out, great soloing. The Choir was looking fine ("Goddamn there is nothing sexier than cindy mizelle" - couldn't have said it better myself). Keith was stunning as always, several large ovations through the night. Sound was much better than last month but Freddy still sounded a little buried in the mix.

Perhaps what made it a really great night was hanging out with a bunch of cool mofo's before and after the show. Keith & Janet, Jude, Girl Margaret, Noah & Julie, Hoops, Hoops' aunt, Lisa, Steve, Mike and forgive me if I missed anyone. What a great group of people these Danfans are.

KC

p.s. I'm Jeff Young Bitch!

Date: Sun, August 17, 2008, 00:09:12 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

I amend my thanks to include the incredible, Girl Margaret!

Thank ya, GM.

Date: Sat, August 16, 2008, 23:57:33 ET
Posted by: sf, nnnn

Last Tango.

Thanks to Margaret for texting.

Date: Sat, August 16, 2008, 23:51:57 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

SF,

thanks so much for posting the updates (and of course thanks to Hoops for sending them). I really wish I was there.

SS, I thought that cover was pretty good. They did a nice, tasteful and respectful job, IMO. Sweet guitar fills, nice sax solo, good Rhodes. Typically, I think the SD covers really fall apart on the vocals (I can't get past that from most of the SD-cover band vids that are linked here). I thought this guy channeled the spirit of Donald, and the accent made it a bit interesting, too. Good find.

Date: Sat, August 16, 2008, 23:51:26 ET
Posted by: sf, 777

Kid C.

Date: Sat, August 16, 2008, 23:48:38 ET
Posted by: sf, abc

FM. first encore.

Date: Sat, August 16, 2008, 23:46:17 ET
Posted by: sf, same

"Crowd is fucking nuts. this is a great audience"

Date: Sat, August 16, 2008, 23:40:49 ET
Posted by: SS, HK

Here's a nice cover of H Gang from...Argentina.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BVJNHUDK__8&feature=related

Date: Sat, August 16, 2008, 23:38:45 ET
Posted by: sf, ioio

My Old School.

Date: Sat, August 16, 2008, 23:34:08 ET
Posted by: sf, nj

Peg.

Date: Sat, August 16, 2008, 23:29:31 ET
Posted by: sf, same

Supremes. Band intros.

Date: Sat, August 16, 2008, 23:20:23 ET
Posted by: sf, same

Aja

Date: Sat, August 16, 2008, 23:19:25 ET
Posted by: sf, same

"Donald is in rare form 2nite! he just yelled sting em walter sting em! during his solo"

Date: Sat, August 16, 2008, 23:15:36 ET
Posted by: sf, same

Josie.

Date: Sat, August 16, 2008, 23:11:13 ET
Posted by: sf, same

Parker's Band.

Date: Sat, August 16, 2008, 23:07:27 ET
Posted by: sf, same

Black Friday. No sign of Howard Levy yet.

Date: Sat, August 16, 2008, 23:00:19 ET
Posted by: sf, same

Gaucho

Date: Sat, August 16, 2008, 22:55:41 ET
Posted by: sf, same

New Frontier

Date: Sat, August 16, 2008, 22:55:03 ET
Posted by: sf, same

"Goddamn there is nothing sexier than cindy mizelle"

Date: Sat, August 16, 2008, 22:48:32 ET
Posted by: SF, same

Babylon Sisters.

Date: Sat, August 16, 2008, 22:42:00 ET
Posted by: Steely Fan, NJ

Godwhacker....

Date: Sat, August 16, 2008, 22:40:22 ET
Posted by: Steely Fan, NJ

Set list via text from GM.

"medley. scam. showbiz. Bodhisattva. two against nature, hey 19..."

Date: Sat, August 16, 2008, 22:23:34 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

I have no text messaging ability, at this time, or I would have volunteered. I'm surprised nobody else did, though.

Date: Sat, August 16, 2008, 22:12:04 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

So none of us offered to post
hoops reports? That sucks.
I feel like shit. I really
thought we would have covered
that. Sorry hoops.

Date: Sat, August 16, 2008, 19:34:08 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar

Thanks for the link, Ray. While I don't love it, I do think it is more interesting than most Steely-covers.

Date: Sat, August 16, 2008, 19:29:22 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar

Whoever just asked "Where do I download Peg?" on the site linked by Ray, I just answered your question. At the end of the article, see where it says: Listen: Cryptacize "Peg"

Click on "Peg"

Date: Sat, August 16, 2008, 18:14:16 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Well it looks like the great Cryptacize
version of "Peg" has made it's way to
Don & Walt via Michael L! -

"Michael Leonhart, the current trumpet player in Steely Dan, said he liked our version! He also said he was going to play it for Donald and Walter in the van(bus!)when they're on tour this summer!"

Read the whole story and download
the Cryptacize version of "Peg" here -

http://www.hexedjournal.com/2008/08/exclusive-cryptacize-defends-steely-dan.html

Thanks to Sig & Neb for the link!

Hello to all at the Elephant & Castle!
Wish I could be there. Have a great show!
Looking forward to hoops up-to-the-minute
reports in a while. Also looking to hear
about Deep Blue Organ Trio's set.
2 Steely Dan shows, July & August, in
Downtown Chicago. What a summer treat.
Lucky dogs! Enjoy all.

Date: Sat, August 16, 2008, 17:51:25 ET
Posted by: Towelhead,

Have a great show Chi fans...and NO DANCING IN YOUR SEATS

Date: Sat, August 16, 2008, 14:29:05 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

John, thanks for that ... I stopped playing video games in middle school but thankfully a handful of my friends didn't, hopefully they'll pick it up. I wonder if having the solo memorized helps? of course those games aren't really all that musical and most guitarists I know are terrible at them but they're still a great time.

I wonder which solo they're talking about? Dias' or Skunk's? or both ... hmmm.

Date: Sat, August 16, 2008, 14:24:01 ET
Posted by: john, detroit

oh i forgot check this out:

http://www.rockgamer.com/2008/08/15/six-new-albums-coming-to-rock-band/

Date: Sat, August 16, 2008, 14:21:17 ET
Posted by: John, Detroit

I sat 25 rows back right center and I thought that the mix during show biz kids was unbearable. I could barely make out the lyrics.

other than that a great show Don used his line again about "songs from our magnificent career...etc. and Becker's guitar sounded as though it was turned up higher in the mix than previous years.

All in all it was a decent show.

Date: Sat, August 16, 2008, 14:12:44 ET
Posted by: T. Toobs,

Dayglo Freak -

The only interesting thing about this video is the great sound mix which really emphasizes the clavinet. Otherwise, WTF?

Date: Sat, August 16, 2008, 13:02:15 ET
Posted by: angel,

Great reviews of Pine Knob (DTE).
One of my favorite venues and a real nice outdoor place to see a concert.
Glad to hear that they do not seem to be slowing down, even though the end of the tour is coming up fast.

Date: Sat, August 16, 2008, 08:49:53 ET
Posted by: El Supremo, The Great State of Michigan

Very different to the "greatest hits tour" 2 years ago - that night was at best mediocre on the stage and the crowd was a Budweiser enhanced sing-along
Down the old Pine Knob last night, reasonably large crowd on the lawn, pavelion ok except the upper wings. Could well be that the pricing at $75 plus plus plus was a little heavy.
Fagen in much better spirits, probably better than the solo stop when he morphed his cat. Becker not terribly involved is that any different to other shows ?
Energy level picked up as the show progressed, you could sense a significant upswing after Bodhisatva - crowd favorite had to be My Old School, everyone was on their feet.
Having seen them a few time, would say a very good night, tight band, vocals were strong, and band were in to it.

Date: Sat, August 16, 2008, 08:19:19 ET
Posted by: Dayglo, Freak

I thought this was funny.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fe4127Z0kCg

Date: Sat, August 16, 2008, 02:31:24 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Thanks for the report Dr Who.
Sounds like one of the biggest
crowds yet this tour. With $20
lawn tickets, how can you go wrong.
Especially with "This Economy" in
my financially beleaguered "home
state". But it sounds like people
came out in Michigan to have some
fun, like Donald tonight. Looks
like the new "dumb-down" set list
is here to stay. But that's great
for Chicago who will get a totally
different take tomorrow night.
"Beautiful, cool ‘fall-like’ night here"
How wonderful. That's not the
Detroit mid-August that I know! ;O)
Really looking forward to my trip
to Glen Lake next week.
"Come over for breakfast burritos".
Can't beat Michigan for originality.

Date: Sat, August 16, 2008, 01:20:51 ET
Posted by: Dr Who, Detoit

Just back from Pine Knob (officially DTE), SD August 15 show.

I don’t write down songs, so I had to scroll down ‘The Blue’ to find a similar set list to tonight’s show, and I believe that it was pretty much right in line with the Ironstone show that was posted by Santa Rosa Dave on August 11… So, here goes:

Overture: Everyone's Gone to the Movies / The Fez
The Royal Scam
I Got the News
Show Biz Kids
Bodhisattva
Two Against Nature
Hey Nineteen (w/Walter’s aforementioned ‘tequila rap’)
Godwhacker
Babylon Sisters
New Frontier
Gaucho
Black Friday
Parker's Band
Josie
Aja
Itching in my Heart
Peg
My Old School

Encore

Don't Take Me Alive
Kid Charlemagne

My main observation is that the band is as tight as I’ve ever seen them (and I’ve seen them at least once every tour since they started going on the road again.
Carlock is just an animal… On fire from start to finish!
Donald’s voice sounded fresh, he seemed to be genuinely enjoying himself onstage, more interactive than most shows I’ve seen in the past. I dare say, he's noticeably having fun up there.
The girls (w/afro’s), of course, sounded great, but I did miss seeing Carolyn up there (c’mon how can you not).
Everyone else was also spot on. What can I say, they all ‘brought it’!

No intermission, just over 2 hours start to finish.

Not a sell-out but most all seats in the pavilion were filled, and the lawn was packed, we sat row 9, right center, in front of Walter.
Enthusiastic and loud crowd, hit all the right parts, and also helped out on Hey 19… No real mass dancing until Peg, and then no sitting down for the rest of the show. Very few ‘bathroom breaks’ during Walter’s turn at the mic (Gaucho), and I must say I enjoyed his rendition of it.

3 girls front, center in audience danced all night & held up a sign aimed at Donald several times; near the end of the show Donald mentioned that we might have noticed the sign & wondered what it said… He informed us that it said “Come over for breakfast burritos”, at which point the girls turned the sign toward the crowd.

I like the band playing as Donald & Walter exit because it somewhat cuts down the big cattle rush at the end of most shows.

Beautiful, cool ‘fall-like’ night here, and one of my favorite SD shows ever.

Date: Sat, August 16, 2008, 00:07:24 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Who will accept text messages of the set list to be posted during the Chicago show? Please reply via Email, off the BlueBook

Those attending the Chicago show: remember tomorrow night's Danfest--See:

http://dandom.com/danfests/chicago

Date: Fri, August 15, 2008, 23:34:31 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Well it's past the 11PM curfew
at the "Knob". Any word from
Detroit?

Date: Fri, August 15, 2008, 18:24:54 ET
Posted by: hanksteinebrenner, hs@nys.com

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2008/writers/john_rolfe/08/14/yankees.1993/index.html

BEST NEWS ALL YEAR IN 1993

Date: Fri, August 15, 2008, 18:22:25 ET
Posted by: hanksteinebrenner, hs@nys.com

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2008/writers/john_rolfe/08/14/yankees.1993/index.html

BEST NEWS ALL YEAR IN 1993

Date: Fri, August 15, 2008, 18:21:19 ET
Posted by: hank steinebrenner, somewhere fuming

Date: Fri, August 15, 2008, 15:33:21 ET
Posted by: El Supremo, The Great State of Michigan

Count down to the DTE - Do you think they are staying at the Royal Park ? Who is going ?

Date: Fri, August 15, 2008, 06:11:18 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

Janie Runaway:
You are absolutely correct. Nasty school boys, indeed :-)
Thanks for your help.....

Date: Thurs, August 14, 2008, 20:42:36 ET
Posted by: Dash LaRue,

Actually Hutch, There are three weeks open in the beginning of October! I've speculated that perhaps a solo Donald tour of Japan
& Australia. That would seem to work out nicely for all parties involved.

Date: Thurs, August 14, 2008, 20:00:22 ET
Posted by: Hutch, WJAZ

If a DF tour happens it will have to be in November. Carlock tours with Rudder in Japan right after the Dan tour then he's doing the Australian tour with Krantz and Tal Wilkenfeld.
Carlock, Krantz and Wilkenfeld... it boggles the mind. Hopefully there'll be a legit recording available at some point.

http://www.keithcarlock.com/gigs.htm

Date: Thurs, August 14, 2008, 19:37:19 ET
Posted by: GusMahler, Long Island, NY

SteelyDana- no problem!

Anybody out there have other info re: DF solo tour this fall? Here's hoping...

Date: Thurs, August 14, 2008, 16:17:50 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

SteelyDana,

Those nasty schoolboys are always looking for an opportunity to jump on someone...

Date: Thurs, August 14, 2008, 16:07:11 ET
Posted by: Dash LaRue,

Walt Weiskopf's final show with the band this tour will be in Dallas.
Boy has he really "brought it" this tour and will be sorely missed.
Dopes anyone have any confirmed info as to who will be replacing Walt
for the rest of the dates?

FYI - Chicago fans can see walt at Martyrs October 9.

Date: Thurs, August 14, 2008, 15:52:45 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

Yes....I was referring to solo tours and, thank you, Gus for the reference to Donald's comment about the possibility of a Fall 2008 solo tour. Funny how seemingly innocent remarks get all misconstrued sometimes.

Date: Thurs, August 14, 2008, 15:21:57 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

I believe SteelyDana is talking about solo tours, not a Steely Dan tour.

Date: Thurs, August 14, 2008, 15:15:06 ET
Posted by: GusMahler, Long Island, NY

Donald mentioned late last year a possibility of a solo tour in the Fall of 2008.

From Reuters:

http://in.reuters.com/article/lifestyleMolt/idINN2040660620071121?pageNumber=3&virtualBrandChannel=0&sp=true

Date: Thurs, August 14, 2008, 14:27:22 ET
Posted by: Jeff, Dandom land

do you really think they are going to tour again?

That's preposterous.

Date: Thurs, August 14, 2008, 13:21:16 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana, hoping

Any rumors around about whether Donald and/or Walter might be doing some solo-touring this fall/winter??? I know; I know....they haven't even finished their Think Fast tour yet, but it is too depressing to think about having to get through the rest of the year without any more SD/DF/WB concerts to look forward to !!

Date: Thurs, August 14, 2008, 13:03:23 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

Along with the new David Byrne/Brian Eno CD coming out next monday, he (David Byrne) is going to be out on tour this fall. Just got our tickets to see him in Sept. Hoping for Talking Head-like tunes :-)

Date: Thurs, August 14, 2008, 10:14:04 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, @work

Thanks for the info on Byrne/Eno, that will definately be a must see. Even better, however, would be a Heads reunion.

KC

Date: Thurs, August 14, 2008, 09:44:58 ET
Posted by: SS, HK

Well, GL, that's listening closely. And I thought about whether the first songs you mentioned - right on the same album - could be candidates. But you made an interesting slip. You skipped Peg, and Jay Graydon's solo, which might make it Peg, Home at Last and I Got the News.

Josie I have a different take on. There are a lot of live versions kicking around and I really like the WB solos on those. For instance the version on Letterman.

Date: Thurs, August 14, 2008, 01:06:58 ET
Posted by: gentleman loser, NZ

...gone to the movies movies...?

Someone bumped my stylus...

Date: Thurs, August 14, 2008, 01:00:45 ET
Posted by: gentleman loser, NZ

The next three songs in fact. Walter Becker's solo turns in Home At Last, I Got The News and Josie are shrewd and cunning. Degree of difficulty not so high maybe, I mean you couldn't exactly term any of them 'blistering'. But remember the value of a kept Steely Dan solo from the musicians' point of view and who they (WB and DF) had at their disposal. Clean, with a bit of reverb.

His humility in the rockline interview - and it wasn't forced or awkward - was most refreshing, and a carry-on from my favourite WB deflection of ego. At the end of the Aja Classic Album vid/DVD. Right after the credits, when someone says to him something like "Walter Becker? You're that guy from Steely Dan?", and he says, "uh, yeah", and then they go "no... nah you're not him." And as it's fading to black he says something like that's one of his favourite things - NOT being recognised.

Sorry, off the point a bit.

Even though they're not solos, I also think Jeff Porcaro's triplet rolls in Dr Wu, latin toms fadeout in Everyone's Gone To the Movies Movies and ride and ghost work on Your Gold Teeth II (I know I missed out Chain Lightning) are at least mentionable.

Date: Wed, August 13, 2008, 22:58:48 ET
Posted by: SS, HK

Tour down-time games:

Black Cow, Aja, and Deacon Blues feature three great sax solos in succession (Tom Scott, Wayne shorter, Pete Christlieb).

Is there another place anywhere in the SD-related canon that has solos in three consecutive songs (on any combination of instruments)that are as good as those are collectively ?

Date: Wed, August 13, 2008, 17:51:10 ET
Posted by: Eno & Byrne, new album!

How do I get a Steely Dan into this post?

Well ... According to steelyan.com Michael Leonhart has worked with Brian Eno and Hoops also writes in the FAQ about posting:

"Sometimes posts are totally about Steely Dan, while other posts don't mention Steely Dan but carry-on in our heroes' spirit of humor, musicianship, irony and hipness."

I am sure there are one or two fans of Talking Heads/David Byrne/Brian Eno here that would like to know that David Byrne and Brian Eno have a brand new album coming out August 18. Initially streamed and as a download, CD a bit later. You can go to

http://everythingthathappens.com/

and grab a first song for free. A catchy little thing called Strange Overtones.

Date: Wed, August 13, 2008, 17:25:14 ET
Posted by: Hey 36, ABQ

Dean,

I couldn't agree with you more. "If people would appreciate what they heard, instead of complaining about what they didn't hear. . . " I didn't feel cheated after finally seeing them in concert either. Hearing them live was absolutely WONDERFUL!!! Dean, you stated my thoughts completely on this subject. I think I'm in love! :)

Date: Wed, August 13, 2008, 17:04:19 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Ah, the hits vs deep-cuts discussion surfaces again. It's funny because, if you hang here, people complain that SD plays too make of the hits (less so this tour, though) and then you read a review from the same concert that complains that the band didn't play enough of their "hits". Quite a conundrum.

IMO, SD has never been a hit-oriented band. They just happened to be making their special brand of music at the time when it got some radio play, and several of their songs became what we call "hits". They were never a band that wrote certain songs for the radio, and planned for some to become hits...that's just not how these guys operate. Some of those songs they REALLY like to play in concert, though (Josie, Peg, FM, etc.). So you are pretty much guaranteed to hear 4/5/6 songs that are very familiar, if you listed to the radio in the 70's. If people would appreciate what they heard, instead of complaining about what they didn't hear, this discussion would be moot. Unfortunately, some people simply aren't capable of that.

I'm not worried about SD selling tickets to concerts, as they continue to sell out (or nearly sell out) most of their shows in all of their tours. Doing things their way has always worked out well for them, and for us (at least for me), and I hope they never change.

Would it be great if they played for 3 hours? You betcha. Of course, that would likely mean fewer concerts in fewer cities, and more days off between shows. I certainly have never felt cheated by the length, set list, or performance at a Dan concert. This tour they played for about 2 hours (and that was with an opening act). I believe that in the few shows without an opener, they played an extra song, or two. Two hours of live Dan for around $100 is a bargain, IMO.

Date: Wed, August 13, 2008, 14:58:39 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

36,

I do see a lot of shows (not nearly as many as some of the folks here!!) and GM is right: having no expectations is the best way to go. Some of the best shows I've been to are shows I only went to because I got free tickets, etc., artists I never would have gone to see otherwise.

GM, I definitely like your idea! Send the casual fans home early and let it rip!! I'll definitely see you on the 3rd. I'd love to talk more about Todd and the show you just saw. I've seen him three times -- three totally different shows but I couldn't help wishing he had played more of the stuff I had hoped to hear. I know, I know -- it's totally wrong but I can't help it!!! Again, he's had so many different phases of his career it's hard to capture it all in one show.

Date: Wed, August 13, 2008, 14:41:08 ET
Posted by: Night, By Night

Tonight I'll sing my songs again,
I'll play the game and pretend.

Paul Simon.

Date: Wed, August 13, 2008, 14:10:24 ET
Posted by: Hey 36, ABQ

Janie Runaway,

Thanks for your response. I agree with you. I want SD to keep touring too! I enjoy whatever songs they choose to play. I know all of them! I have my favorites too. I was happy they played Aja and Don't Take Me Alive. The Royal Scam is another favorite. Heck, it's hard to narrow SD down to a few favorites! I love them all and all for different reasons. I understand why some would feel slighted by not hearing all of the "hits" but Steely Dan is so different than most artists. They are hard to compare to anyone else.

I myself do not attend many concerts. I'm weird about who I see live. They have to really be a favorite. But when I do see someone I love live I am never disappointed. I love the experience of live music! The vibe of the show, the magic of seeing in person what you've only heard on records. The live banter from the artist to the audience.

I often wonder how it must be as an artist to have same songs to play night after night. I imagine you would get tired of certain songs and would want to change things around a bit.

Girl Margaret, I like your solution!!!

Date: Wed, August 13, 2008, 13:54:52 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Goin' crazy!

Thanks for the link Janie! I was going to wait til the last minute to get my SBK tix, but I've been learning the hard way today that doing that isn't always a hot idea. Hope to see you there!

Kid Clean, I have one CCR story and it's not even really mine. Everytime the radio plays some CCR, my mom starts in on her "Did I ever tell you that this was the first album I ever bought?" (Cue the rolling eyes from me and my sister) "Then when your Uncle went off to college he took it with him and I haven't seen it since!"

As far as this serious vs. casual fan debate goes, just for fun I'm throwing in my two cents again. Maybe it's just me, maybe it's because I've been to a billion and ten concerts over the last 12 years, maybe it's the wisdom that comes with both age and experience, but when I go to a concert I go in with absolutely no expectations. At most, I expect to see the band I paid to see, and even sometimes that doesn't happen (I didn't know Steve Perry wasn't with Journey when I bought tickets several years ago! But I still liked the replacement). I don't expect to hear a specific song, I don't expect the show to go on all night, I don't expect clear skies at an outdoor concert, and I don't expect everyone around me to be pleasant. I figure, if I go in with no expectations then I won't be so disappointed. Sure, I'll hope that maybe an artist I'm seeing for the first time will play the one song of their's that I really know, but if they don't, they don't. As long as I had fun at the show and can leave with a smile on my face, I'm cool. Dr. John didn't do "Right Place, Right Time" but he was still King Shit. Springsteen doesn't do the same show twice and I love surprises. Bon Jovi does very similar shows every time, but the energy is so invigorating that I can forgive that. Billy Joel is most likely to play "Piano Man," which I dread because it's so overplayed for me, but I'll still stand up, throw my arms around my family, sway and sing along with everyone else. And Todd Rundgren? The man could come onstage, vomit all over me, leave without singing one song, and I would leave the theater with stars in my eyes, "Todd threw up on me! I can die happy!"

Ok, that Todd thing was a bit extreme, but it's Todd! The man is my musical hero!

So I think I have the perfect solution, if Don and Walter are up to the challenge. At the concert, play all the "hits" first. Get them out of the way. Then, intermission - time for all the casual fans to leave and for all the die hards to hit the bar (or the loo). Then, come back and take requests from the audience. Honor or dismiss the requests as you see fit. But we have to agree that the requests will be reasonable, none of this Freebird shit. Sound like a plan?

Date: Wed, August 13, 2008, 12:56:46 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Hey 36,

It seems to me that there are two types of fans: the SERIOUS fans and the casual fans. Both attend concerts and both have their favorites but they have different agendas and expectations. Serious fans tend to be happy with any set list the artist chooses; casual fans want to hear the few songs they know. There are many differing thoughts on this but time after time, I sit next to people who are terribly disappointed when a band (usually SD) doesn’t play their biggest hits. This upsets me because I selfishly want SD to continue to draw big crowds so they’ll continue to tour. And, because I think SD is really the best, most original band ever, the less selfish part of me wants others to enjoy and appreciate the shows as much as I do, even though I can easily live without hearing the “hits”. And maybe concert-goers are just looking for a night out. I know that’s hard for us die-hards to acknowledge but it’s true. I have had many conversations with my serious music fan friends about this very subject.

Give the people what they want? Very hard to do because everyone wants something different. There has been such a resurgence of 70’s bands touring lately and it seems like many of the people going to see them want to relive that part of their lives; they want to hear the old stuff. Was just reading an article about Neil Diamond in yesterday’s NY Times where he mentions that, even though his most recent album has out-sold his others, the fans really don’t want to hear his new stuff. Personally, I say, take a page out of Springsteen’s book and play for THREE hours!! Play something for everyone!! That’s what would make ME happy!

In the past, I have told people who are considering seeing Steely Dan but are not real fans that the band doesn’t usually play their most popular songs and that they could easily be disappointed.

I have had to learn to be extremely open-minded and to appreciate each concert for what it is; to go in without any expectations, and I am less apt to see a show if I know only one or two songs. Still, with the exception of Steely Dan, I always leave a bit disappointed when I don’t hear my personal favorites. Oh well, I guess that’s life (and art).

Date: Wed, August 13, 2008, 12:48:50 ET
Posted by: Little Wild One, Houston

Kid Clean, I had the chance to see CCR (whatever generation they are in) live a few months ago and was really impressed with their extensive repertoire (and the keyboard player who flirted with me all night--I was front row, which helps.) It was a great show!

As for playing the hits, my suggestion is to send that DJ whiner some mp3s of their new stuff with a p.s. that this is NOT a nostalgia band, that they play just what they feel and to listen to the music and shut his piehole.

I saw a Lynyrd Skynyrd/Kid Rock show last weekend. The former was definitely a nostalgia act (not that there is anything wrong with that, but discriminating minds, you know) and the latter worked very hard for the money. The crowd was...well, crazy, less than half-dressed and uncivilized. Living in Texas, I guess that should not have surprised me, but for the most part, I hang with a different crowd.

Last call for pre-orders on the Danfest Texas T-shirts! One week and counting!!

Date: Wed, August 13, 2008, 12:20:47 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, Ny

If anyone is planning to go see Show Biz Kids at BB King's, NY on Sept. 3rd, Ticketmaster is running a free-ticket promotion; you just have to pay a small ($3.25 per ticket) service charge. I'm going to check them out, based on some of the good reviews they've received here.

http://www.ticketmaster.com/promo/42cbx8?tm_link=tm_home_d1

Date: Wed, August 13, 2008, 11:59:34 ET
Posted by: Hey 36, ABQ

Hi All,

I just wanted to thank everyone for all of the great info on all the shows! I also like the links that are posted to reviews and such too.

I had a question for everybody. What do I say to people that keep complaining about Steely Dan not playing all the "hits"? I am so tired of hearing how they didn't play, Reelin' in the Years, Rikki Don't Lose That Number, etc. Our morning guy on the local radio here has been whinning about this on air. How he was shocked and couldn't believe they didn't play these songs. Ugh. I guess he just doesn't understand the Dan. I even heard a few people around me complaining about this at the concert! Ha, maybe it was him!

Date: Wed, August 13, 2008, 11:14:06 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, @work

Me thinks everyone's taking a breather, like the band, this week. At least until Friday.

Myself, I am getting antsy with Chicago coming up in 3 days. If they stay with the most recent set lists, it looks like we'll get several different songs this time. I just hope they DON'T play Pretzel Logic. I would hate to hear that live. (reverse psychology in action)

On a separate note, I'm I the last one to realize what a great band
Creedence Clearwater Revival was? I recently picked up a live show of theirs from 1970, and I have to say its an hour plus of pure energy. Anyone have any in depth info on/about them? Any Dan links in their history?

KC

Date: Wed, August 13, 2008, 10:04:02 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

It's been a bit quiet here; has everyone gone to the movies?

Date: Tues, August 12, 2008, 22:46:02 ET
Posted by: ZeltarterGe, Finland

music html codes music trivia games music download service <a href=http://freepageserver.com/mmm/bluegrass-gospel-music.html>bluegrass gospel music</a> <a href=http://freepageserver.com/mmm/free-classical-piano-sheet-music.html>free classical piano sheet music</a>

Date: Tues, August 12, 2008, 18:02:50 ET
Posted by: D, H

Bobbo, darlin...I am speechless (almost)thank you! Hope you are well and in fine voice. Enjoy the shows in TX.

Date: Tues, August 12, 2008, 16:58:32 ET
Posted by: Bobbo, (clap-clap-clap-clap)--Deep in the Heart of Texas, baby!

Oh My Goodness,

Denise, I had no idea! Congratulations and salutations; it has been a long time, and we creative types get so wrapped up in expressing that we forget to check our calendars, y'know?

When I got to Cali, all frightened and weirded-out (in fact, even before I'd left DFW), who called me on my cell and wondered about when the party would begin? Who guided me (and Mister Howell), via aforementioned cell, from Santa Barbara and Buellton and Solvang, to the Chumash? Who was so sweet and giving and talented (we all have our own beautiful HIGH ROLLER T-shirts to attest, don't we?) that we made her a member on sight, and have vowed to never let her go?

It's you, babydoll.

Happy birthday, and I love you so much!...big hello to Richard, that wonderful Statesman, and I hope y'all had a special time on your birthday, darlin'. Kisses from Texas, and we'll see you when we can! Selah.

Okay,
Bobbo

Date: Tues, August 12, 2008, 16:57:35 ET
Posted by: Bobbo, (clap-clap-clap-clap)--Deep in the Heart of Texas, baby!

Oh My Goodness,

Denise, I had no idea! Congratulations and salutations; it has been a long time, and we creative types get so wrapped up in expressing that we forget to check our calendars, y'know?

When I got to Cali, all frightened and weirded-out (in fact, even before I'd left DFW), who called me on my cell and wondered about when the party would begin? Who guided me (and Mister Howell), via aforementioned cell, from Santa Barbara and Buellton and Solvang, to the Chumash? Who was so sweet and giving and talented (we all have our own beautiful HIGH ROLLER T-shirts to attest, don't we?) that we made her a member on sight, and have vowed to never let her go?

It's you, babydoll.

Happy birthday, and I love you so much!...big hello to Richard, that wonderful Statesman, and I hope y'all had a special time on your birthday, darlin'. Kisses from Texas, and we'll see you when we can! Selah.

Okay,
Bobbo

Date: Tues, August 12, 2008, 15:16:30 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

Binky:
Welcome to The Blue :-)
Sounds like you are as hooked on Steely Dan as the rest of us. You are in the right place......

Date: Tues, August 12, 2008, 09:11:32 ET
Posted by: Newerker: addendum, In haste

Sorry that was re: Lucky Henry post about dog name. Anyone own one of those Irish setter dogs? I've met a few I loved and a few who I wanted to kick. The better ones have had training -- they need it!

And Jamie in San Diego. Good read and brave. Ditto. Many Christmases ago, four of us simply walked into the exit at Columbus Zoo (for Christmas lights, etc.) and we saved $32. I now feel the need to make this right and should send a donation to Jack Hanna, director. AT first, I blamed the red-head, radical bead girl my son was dating, for urging us to keep walking without looking back. Now I claim the blame, for following along, which was wrong.

Any way, regarding seeing/hearing SD for free -- personally, we lucked out on tix $0.00 -- thank you SD -- you all are swell! SD has a way of rewarding its fans. So hang tough -- honesty is your sword and shield. I enjoyed your writing, Jamie. Don't be too hard on yourself; at least you are buying their products. I always buy new CDs when I wear 'em out, because, well, it's the right thing to do. Need a whole new Citizen Dan set. not a prob. Gotta get it soon.

This is a rush job! FYI: 2dgs croaked -- just sharing.
nwk

Date: Tues, August 12, 2008, 08:47:49 ET
Posted by: Newerker, Berlin

If she's a bitch, prehaps perhaps "Madreen" would be appropriate if she is a wanton bitch or simply a pain in the arse. But that probably isn't the case.

If she (or he) is much beloved and can do no wrong except clear coffee tables, then perhaps "Cushla Macree" for two reasons>

1) It's four syllables and 2) It sounds fetching.

"COOSH-la Muh-CREE, meaning "pulse of my heart." Irish form is " Cuisle mo chroí" as found at <http://www.namenerds.com/irish/dog.html>

nwk

Bring back the Boston Rag. Sending blessings, Mark.

Date: Tues, August 12, 2008, 01:13:31 ET
Posted by: nc bill, valley

Ironstone Winery was super. Acoustics and setting was the best....
The band was very tight as you might imagine..

Walter had some great commentary on melting the largest gold nugget in the world..(on site at the Winery) . His scheme was to commander the treasure...melt it down. and distribute the proceeds ($600 per paying ticket by Walter's reckoning)to all of the ticket holders present. Methinks Walter was playing some age old politics..and he should run for office...but Walter seems he might be the sort to run from office.....

The venue was absolutely perfectamundo...and I am hopeful to see the band again

Date: Tues, August 12, 2008, 00:54:55 ET
Posted by: Going to Detroit, Home At Last

Is anyone going to Detroit and Chicago???

Anyone interested in a reduced rate ticket?

Can't wait to see the Dan again!!

Date: Mon, August 11, 2008, 23:35:04 ET
Posted by: hoops, passing through on the quick

Belated Happy Birthday wishes, Denise.

Jim

Date: Mon, August 11, 2008, 23:12:22 ET
Posted by: suedave, seattle

Denise, my pal, Happy Belated Birthday and many more!!!

Date: Mon, August 11, 2008, 21:29:10 ET
Posted by: Denise, H

Thanks everyone. This past year has been great fun with all of you on the blue.

Woogoo, glad Abe is still with us. Still love that photo Matt took after breakfast with Mr. Vigoda holding C$.

Date: Mon, August 11, 2008, 21:14:27 ET
Posted by: Mme Erzulie, feeling Green

Anyone around?

Date: Mon, August 11, 2008, 21:08:24 ET
Posted by: Hutch, rva

Binky - Very nice. You're obviously a big fan and that was your first show. Fantastic!

Welcome to the Blue.

Date: Mon, August 11, 2008, 20:31:26 ET
Posted by: Fife, Somewhere on #19 between St.Pete's and Hudson

Happy belated Birthday Denise!

Date: Mon, August 11, 2008, 19:44:42 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Dash,

That's GREAT!! Thanks for sharing that with us!

Date: Mon, August 11, 2008, 19:05:18 ET
Posted by: Binky, I heard the call

Trying to find a review and set list of Murphys, CA show, I stumbled on this site! Been a DanFan for years and never saw them until now. I'd read a review of the Berkeley, CA show where someone said Fagen's voice was rough the first half hour then kicked in. I'm guessing he either put out big time for the Lost Wages show the night before, or he's just wearing out this tour. Didn't matter. The girls cover up for all possible vocal problems with that smooth, soothing chant-like singing. I've always found no matter how depraved the lyrics, the beat and the back up singers make it all happy for me!! Never having been to the Ironstone Ampitheater before either, the dazzling effect of the stage lights on the stone wall face of the cave behind the stage was pretty amazing! I loved every minute of the show. It would seem from other set lists for this tour I've seen, they are keeping the order pretty much the same but changing out maybe 4 songs here and there. What a band gathered for this tour!! (Of course, never having seen them before, what would I know? But we're talking expectations met and exceded here folks!)I think Larry Carlton would have been pleased with Jon Harrington and the drummer!! Oh My Gawd! I was just amazed, awed and ecstatic at this show! (Plus, they were selling bottles of wine in cute little plastic carafes for $15. So I was more than a little ecstatic, but I was NOT the drunk woman the other poster who was at Murphys was talking about. I was on the second grass tier right behind the sound booth. Swear!)For the record my favorite recordings (because I discovered I only had FIVE, but that is being rectified SOON) are Royal Scam and Gaucho and 2VN a tie for second (it took me about 5 listens through on 2VN before I became enraptured). When I was at our local 2nd hand store looking for whatever I could find that I didn't have, as well as the Marian McPartland/Fagen/Becker recording (also not there, but they'd sold one (new) last week!! Aargh. I did get MP playing Billy Strayhorn though and it is great),the guy who help me look for that one said, "And you know that Rikki opens with Horace Silver's Song for My Father opening, right?" Well, no but I do happen to have a Horace Silver recording of such and was going to compare them, and than's when I discovered I didn't have RIKKI!! But I played Song for My Father, and sho'nuff! It's the same!! I love stuff like this. Anybody else have more good info like this? I'm still excited from seeing them and thinking how I can get to the last show(s) in Santa Rosa...

Date: Mon, August 11, 2008, 17:53:08 ET
Posted by: Gretchen, @ home

Happy belated birthday, Denise! Hope we can catch up soon!

G

Date: Mon, August 11, 2008, 17:22:45 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

Dash, that was great. It put a big smile on my face.

Date: Mon, August 11, 2008, 16:56:32 ET
Posted by: Dash LaRue,

I've really been enjoying these guys for a couple of years now. I hope you will enjoy them as much as I do!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PfK-UzQ48JE

-For Issac. You're right Lurker Ray. The Duke A-#1

Date: Mon, August 11, 2008, 15:58:35 ET
Posted by: angel,

Dim Skip: I finally had time to check it out and the new pictures on Walter Becker's site are just fine. :-)

The photographer did a great job.

Thanks for bringing them to my attention.

Date: Mon, August 11, 2008, 15:53:48 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Just back from Maine and catching up

Happy belated birthday to my sister deb, Denise!

All these reports are fabulous! Five days to Chicago, woohoo!

And speaking of great talents we lost this year, let's not forget the absolutely wonderful Estelle Getty - where are my Golden Girls fans?? And why is it that I go away for a much needed vacation and Bernie Mac dies one day and Issac Hayes the next? Damn!

Date: Mon, August 11, 2008, 14:48:02 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Happy Belated Birthday to Denise and Happy Birthday to Joe Jackson!

Date: Mon, August 11, 2008, 14:09:49 ET
Posted by: abe vigoda, breakfast on broadway

Hey
I'm not dead and you can check it here
http://www.abevigoda.com/

btw Happy Birthday Denise

Date: Mon, August 11, 2008, 13:06:58 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, @work

Issac Hayes and Bernie Mac are both featured in a movie coming out later this year called Soul Man.

What are the odds of that....

KC

Date: Mon, August 11, 2008, 13:02:29 ET
Posted by: angel,

Denise: Happy Birthday sister!!!!!!!

Concert reviews are great to read. Keep it up.

SSR took a second to figure out, but it really wasn't that hard.

Date: Mon, August 11, 2008, 11:08:12 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Gus, thanks for that report. You, too SR Dave.

Date: Mon, August 11, 2008, 10:50:34 ET
Posted by: Craig B,

A belated Happy Birthday to Denise. Hope you had a great day.

Date: Mon, August 11, 2008, 03:04:47 ET
Posted by: Gus Winterbottom, Torrance, CA

Santa Rosa Dave,

Thanks for the Ironstone report.

Ray,

We missed Pala because by the time it was an official date, we were already committed to Honda and the Palms, and I am just about out of vacation time for the year. Possibly we thought a little too fast, or maybe the intent of the tour name was really "Think Fast (but act prudently)". Barring a very-near-term winning of the state lottery, the Palms was our last show of the year.

Dean,

For this show we were seated in the first row of the balcony, which is about directly above row S of the mezzanine section; we were about 6 seats house right of dead center. We bought these through the Palms box office and were told that we would be about 80 feet from the stage; in actuality we were about twice that, from what I could estimate. Still a good view, as far as I was concerned. After the show we went around the edge of the right boxes; we could still see the ladies' music stands, so at least on that side the view of the band was not obstructed. By my rough count of the seating chart, capacity is about 2100 for this setup. I don't know if the show was announced as "sold out", but I think that the farthest areas of the balcony had maybe 20 or so empty seats.

As far as speakers, there appeared to be two large banks of house-supplied speakers. I'm guessing that Steely Dan opted to use their own equipment, so their banks of speakers were mounted just inside the house units which presumably went unused. Or maybe everything was run at lower power to reduce distortion? This is just speculation; I'm no expert. In any case, acoustically I would say that from where we sat this place sounded as good as the Nokia.

A couple of comments about the visual monitors; they were screens illuminated by projectors just below us. I was concerned that the stray light from the projectors might be a distraction, but fortunately for us they did not overlap our view of the stage, and for the Steely Dan set this was a non-issue. For people farther around the balcony this could have been a problem, I guess. The monitor video sources appeared to be a number of fixed cameras in pre-aligned locations. I could be mistaken, but I don't remember any panning of the cameras during the show, and at least one of them was poorly focused.

Sorry I didn't get to the show itself in this post; I will try to do so at a later date, but briefly I thought that it was a performance on a par with the Nokia (L.A.) show.

Out for now,

GW

Date: Mon, August 11, 2008, 01:01:55 ET
Posted by: Santa Rosa Dave, 8/9 Set List

Posting this much later than I had intended.

Ironstone Amphitheatre, on the grounds of the vineyards and winery of the same name, is a pleasant outdoor venue in the middle of nowhere. Murphys, CA, in the historic gold country of the Sierra foothills, is about 140 miles east of San Francisco. Aside from its remote location and relative intimacy (it has a capacity of 3,500, probably 2/3 of which is lawn seating), there's really nothing to set it apart from any other amphitheatre experience.

It was a beautiful evening and we were fortunate to be sitting five rows back, a little stage right, between Jon and Walt. Our evening was hampered only by the obligatory falling-down-drunk women seated to our immediate left; these two (or two much like them) have followed me from show to show for the last fifteen years. I'm sad to say that it's karma, but I digress. Other than them, the crowd was great.

As was the music. Don was neither in great voice nor poor; I've heard him better and I've heard him worse. Never, however, have I heard him forget so many lyrics. I found it endearing, though, and not distracting. We're all getting older.

No real surprises in the set list:

Overture: Everyone's Gone to the Movies / The Fez
The Royal Scam
I Got the News
Show Biz Kids
Bodhisattva
Two Against Nature
Hey Nineteen / Gold Nugget Heist Plot:

"I have no idea where we are," said Walt, "but clearly it's a wonderful, wonderful place to be. Now usually I do a tequila rap at this point, but I wanted to let you know that in this very building, they have the world's largest actual gold nugget! It's worth about $3.5 million as it sits, but if we melt it down, it'll still be worth $800,000 - $900,000, which isn't bad. So I'd like to invite every able-bodied person in the audience to help us lift that sucker and get it into the helicopter, and we'll take it to LA or San Francisco or wherever it is that we're going to wake up tomorrow, and we'll melt it down and sell it, and we should have enough to pay everyone who participated in the heist the princely sum of $600...".

Godwhacker
Babylon Sisters
New Frontier
Gaucho
Black Friday
Parker's Band
Josie
Aja
Itching in my Heart
Peg
My Old School

Don't Take Me Alive
Kid Charlemagne

Will report on Wells Fargo Center shows 8/26-27.

Date: Sun, August 10, 2008, 23:47:20 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Interesting observation, Daddy G.

Date: Sun, August 10, 2008, 23:29:17 ET
Posted by: Some of us,

like Lurker Ray's posts; if you don't, it should be easy enough for you to spot them and ignore them.

Date: Sun, August 10, 2008, 23:16:41 ET
Posted by: Ernst Lehmann, Lake Constance

A thousand curses upon the soul who told Lurkass how annoying his haiku posts are...it's only encouraged him to quadruple his posts to this forum. Jesus, Lurkass, give it a rest....

Date: Sun, August 10, 2008, 22:58:29 ET
Posted by: Bio notes on Hayes ,

'He eventually teamed with lyricist David Porter to write and produce songs for the soul duo Sam and Dave, including "Soul Man" and "Hold On! I'm A Comin'."

Hayes told Reuters in 2005 that he came up with the introductory horn line for the latter tune while Porter was in the bathroom. He yelled at his collaborator to hurry up, and so Porter barreled out with pants around his ankles, yelling the words that would become the song's title.'

Date: Sun, August 10, 2008, 22:51:29 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., NJ

...Obviously "C$ nask" = "C$ mask"---typo.

Date: Sun, August 10, 2008, 22:47:59 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., NJ

Anyone else notice how the canal pic of Walter on the front page of wb.com kind of echoes the C$ nask a little bit? Walter's body represents the mask and the guitar neck is the feather. One might even make a case that his folded hands represent the main red slashing line.

Is it intentional? Maybe. Does it mean anything? Probably nothing except perhaps that I may very well be seriously disturbed---though I do feel I should assure everyone that I'm absolutely sober.

;-)

Date: Sun, August 10, 2008, 21:35:07 ET
Posted by: CJB, Just a guess

Uh, Somebody's Saturday Night?

A popular track on the new album that we've all been discussing here for weeks?

Clap on the beat, son.

Date: Sun, August 10, 2008, 21:33:41 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Special Friend,

I agree that sometimes the posters on The Blue use initials a little too often, assuming everyone will understand, or perhaps, not caring if they do. But, I'm also guessing you didn't put a lot of effort into trying to figure this one out. "Walter Interview" and "Larry K", might have lead you to look at Circus Money to see that there is a song called "Somebody's Saturday Night" (SSN). Maybe you didn't know Larry Klein produced the latest Becker album and co-wrote all but one tune. If that's the case, it would be very tough to figure out.

I thought the Rockline interview with Walter was actually pretty revealing.

Date: Sun, August 10, 2008, 21:22:33 ET
Posted by: A special friend,

"Wally wanted to drop SSN. Thank you
Larry K. For talking him out of it!"

Lurker Ray - (or LR) Why do people feel the need need to abbreviate? What is "SSN" and what does that have to do with the rest of your post? Don't tell me, you have ADD.

Date: Sun, August 10, 2008, 21:04:12 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Hey let's not forget Bernie
Brillstein. He may be a name
few of you recognize. But let's
put it this way, there would be
no Muppet Show, SNL or even
Ghostbusters for that matter
without Bernie. Always treated
us folks from Chicago with such
respect. Truly a sweet man.
Last time I saw Bernie was at a Herb
Alpert show at Vibrato Herb's club
in Bel Air in 2007. Man, did he have
a good time that night. Life is too
short, we should all learn how to
have a great time in life like Bernie.
Any reports from Murphys? I almost got
into a fight in the Hotel Bar a few
years ago. They make a shot they call,
"The Frog's Ass Shot" after the short
story by Mark Twain, "The Celebrated
Jumping Frog of Calaveras County".
They claim that they have been making
this drink for 40 years. But they make
it with Midori which turns it green. When
I pointed out that Midori first appeared
in 1978 at Studio 54, that did not like that.
Rockline Walter Interview -
Wally wanted to drop SSN. Thank you
Larry K. For talking him out of it!

Date: Sun, August 10, 2008, 20:49:39 ET
Posted by: Don't forget, Baseball announcer

Skip Caray. I can't imagine his dry sarcastic wit being lost on any Dan fans.

Date: Sun, August 10, 2008, 20:15:01 ET
Posted by: CJB, Mountaineering in the Coast Range

For those who haven't heard 'em, Woody'n'Herbie cover Walt and Don:

funky16corners.wordpress.com/2008/07/27/steely-dan-covered-twice

Date: Sun, August 10, 2008, 19:41:33 ET
Posted by: steelydoc, near the Tower

Bernard Purdie does an amazing version of the Theme From Shaft on the CD "Legends of Acid Jazz: Bernard Purdie" ...

Date: Sun, August 10, 2008, 19:34:29 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Yipes!

I don't even want to imagine the day when I have to type RIP to one of the two greats... hopefully it won't be for decades.

Still going strong in 08! With no sign of stopping!!

God bless ya Don and Walt!! Stay strong!!

Date: Sun, August 10, 2008, 19:32:44 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Wow...

- Bo Diddley
- Tim Russert
- George Carlin
- Bernie Mac
- Issac Hayes

That's only some of the big ones in the last 3 months!

This is a rough year.

Date: Sun, August 10, 2008, 18:56:54 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

No more Issac Hayes? Shut your
mouth. Sad day indeed. In the
90's I was involved with the
opening of The House of Blues in
Chicago. It was a two day
star-studded affair headlined by
James Brown both nights. The
highlight for me was walking into
the hotel lobby after the first
night and Issac Hayes was sitting
at the hotel piano holding court,
playing songs and telling stories.
One of the greatest nights in my life.
I think it was 4:30 AM when we finally
all went to our rooms. I rode up
in the elevator with Paul Shaffer
who told me as I stepped off the
at my floor, "We will remember
this night". The Duke. A Number 1.

Date: Sun, August 10, 2008, 18:37:12 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

We have Dean, we have...

Date: Sun, August 10, 2008, 18:32:22 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

RIP

Issac Hayes, Black Moses, the best thing about Shaft, Chef.

His Hot Buttered Soul will be missed.

It seems as though we've lost a lot of talent, this year.

Date: Sun, August 10, 2008, 18:23:37 ET
Posted by: Gretchen, What a shame!

RIP to the baddest of mutha's..........who was oh so good.

G

Date: Sun, August 10, 2008, 17:53:05 ET
Posted by: steelydoc, near the Tower

RIP Isaac Hayes...

Date: Sun, August 10, 2008, 17:21:02 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Houston,

If you are referring to the Pretzel Logic video, that is Drew Zing on lead guitar, I believe.

Date: Sun, August 10, 2008, 17:14:11 ET
Posted by: Denise, H

Thanks LWO and Walaka. Appreciate it. Enjoy the rest of the weekend.
D.

Date: Sun, August 10, 2008, 16:07:57 ET
Posted by: Jude, Home

I don't want to discuss this in more than one post to stay w/n blue guidelines. But I wanted to let folks know I have a detroit ticket for sale and you can email me at viandante2@hotmail.com. Please don't post anything else regarding this just email me personally if you want to discuss it--thanks

Date: Sun, August 10, 2008, 15:54:12 ET
Posted by: walaka, atsome rest stop between here and hell and gone

Denise

Congrats on making it thru another 365

Date: Sun, August 10, 2008, 14:26:21 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Laughing at the frozen rain...

Hey... any setlist from yesterday?

Date: Sun, August 10, 2008, 13:45:20 ET
Posted by: Little Wild One, Who says today's a fun day?

To all of you Texas types, the plan is set for the Texas Two-Step. Check out the fine job hoops did of posting our invite on the official Danfest pages!

T-shirts, you say? We've got a prototype and are taking orders. Looks inspired and many thanks to Denise of Hinktown (near Boston, as I understand it) for lending her creativity! If you're interested and not on the Texas Danfest list, give me a shout (or an e-mail will work, too)!

And in fact, a very happy birthday to Denise, whose special day is today! Many more, my friend and thanks for all you do for Dandom!

Date: Sun, August 10, 2008, 13:21:51 ET
Posted by: HouDanFan, Houston

HeyMike...nice vid...who is the lead guitarist?

Date: Sun, August 10, 2008, 12:30:14 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Bad sneakers?

Bob, that was horrible. So horrible, in fact, that I spit coffee on my computer from the sudden outburst of laughter. Bastard!

:#)

Date: Sun, August 10, 2008, 12:15:53 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

As there was a post or two mentioning Nixon, has anyone considered that "Bad Sneakers" may have been inspired by and refers to the Watergate break-in?...they were, afterall, bad sneakers...weren't they?

Date: Sun, August 10, 2008, 10:01:58 ET
Posted by: HeyMike, blacked out on the stairs

Yeah, I was trying to avoid politics, I have never heard that Nixon Reference either. It's been a while since I picked up Sweets book, but I dont recall that.

Jesse Collin Young-I have a SD concert poster from '74 with Young on the bill in Hawaii.

Date: Sun, August 10, 2008, 01:43:08 ET
Posted by: SS, HK

Interesting link HeyMike...i got caught up in the Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young song from Wembley in 1974. A 32 song setlist backed up by Joni Mitchell, The Band, and a guy called Jesse Colin Young.

Date: Sun, August 10, 2008, 01:07:03 ET
Posted by: DimSkip, Eternal Path

Whoops. That other "new" photo is the one featured at the top of the faq page. Still, it's a nice shot. I like the general redness of it.

Date: Sun, August 10, 2008, 01:00:03 ET
Posted by: DimSkip, Eternal Path

Just taking a peek at wb.com for the first time in a while and noting some minor changes/additions that I don't think have been pointed out (but I could have missed it if they were).

The promo images page now features 2 new photos of WB, one is just the same shot (though larger) from the front page of wb.com, but the other is a new one to me. Each is offered as 72 or 300 dpi jpgs or 720 dpi tif...

http://walterbecker.com/cmelements.html

http://walterbecker.com/img/cm/wbcanal72.jpg
http://walterbecker.com/img/cm/wbstandingbass72.jpg

Here's a page with a blurb list...

http://walterbecker.com/cmblurbpop.html

...not sure if it's the same list that appears in the animated blurb gif or not.

On the faq page I notice that the question about the C$ mask story is now phrased slightly different, but I doubt it means anything...

http://walterbecker.com/cmfaq.html

* Why not use an actual mask?
Excellent question! And a corker of a story
for another time.

Of course, there could be other minor changes/additions, but those are the ones I noticed.

And oh yeah, by the way, when I was in a local Best Buy a week or two ago I did another check for C$ and they actually had a copy or two in stock. So it may have been slow making it to the stores, but it might actually be generally available now if anyone out there is still looking for a physical CD who didn't want to (or maybe couldn't for any reason) order it online.

Date: Sat, August 09, 2008, 23:57:31 ET
Posted by: DC, DC

LuckyHenry:
I would name it John Edwards.

Date: Sat, August 09, 2008, 23:08:07 ET
Posted by: Gauchoamigo, North Hollywood

"I'd love to tour the Southland with the traveling Steely Dan show, Yes I'd love to tour the Southland with the traveling Steely Dan show. I'd look so fine, upon that hill, watching Walter and Donald do what they will."

Date: Sat, August 09, 2008, 23:06:20 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, west allis canon

I'm pretty sure that Pretzel Logic clip is from the A & E NYR&SR special. I've got a copy of it somewhere.

KC

Date: Sat, August 09, 2008, 23:04:12 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Nothing really new about that Pretzel Logic vid. It's been kicking around for some time (years, actually), and was recently posted (again) a day or two ago. No worries, though, as it is a great vid and always good to see.

But, I've never associated that song with Nixon, before. Back to the analysis booth, for me, I guess.

Date: Sat, August 09, 2008, 22:57:16 ET
Posted by: Gauchoamigo, North Hollywood

I always thought the line was, "Did you realize, that you were Italian in their eyes."

Date: Sat, August 09, 2008, 22:08:57 ET
Posted by: bikemann17, nj

HeyMike Thanks for direction to that video. Its great! Gotta wonder where is the rest of the show.

Date: Sat, August 09, 2008, 22:06:50 ET
Posted by: Lucky Henry, Baltimore

If you were Walter Becker, and you were writing a song that included a "dopey Irish Setter dog," what would you name that dog? Hmmmm...

Date: Sat, August 09, 2008, 18:45:36 ET
Posted by: HeyMike, sorry here's the link

http://www.jambase.com/Articles/Story.aspx?storyID=14751

Date: Sat, August 09, 2008, 18:45:01 ET
Posted by: HeyMike, blacked out on the stairs

Scroll down this one for a gem i've never seen before

Date: Sat, August 09, 2008, 16:38:16 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Gus, thanks for the list. I sure hope you give us some more detail when you hit a more reasonable (free) connection. The Palms looks like a spectacular venue. I'm very curious to get your take in it.

Yes, Ray, the Palms has a studio attached for recording. I'm sure it isn't up to SD-snuff, but I would love to see/hear it, anyway.

Date: Sat, August 09, 2008, 16:16:22 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Thanks for the set list from
the Pearl Gus! Looks like
you are seeing more shows than
even GM this tour. Did you
go to Pala?

"Hard wired to The Studio at The Palms, The Pearl allows artists to create a cost-effective live album with efficiency and without additional venue set-up."

Sure would be nice if they were
rolling tape or hard drives!
;O)

Date: Sat, August 09, 2008, 16:05:54 ET
Posted by: Gus Winterbottom, Downtown Las Vegas, @ $0.25/minute

Belated Palms Setlist from 8/8/08; had to find a computer that did not require my credit card to be "swiped":

Orchestra intro: Everyone's Gone to the Movies/Fez/Carlock Solo/Royal Scam Intro
Royal Scam when Walt, Don, and ladies enter
I Got the News
Show Biz Kids
Bodhisattva
Two Against Nature
Hey 19 (including soliloquy by Walter Becker)
Godwhacker
Black Cow
New Frontier
Gaucho (Walter on Vocals; "A true story", he said at the close}
Babylon Sisters
Parkers Band (chorus) 3 backup vocalists, with afros tonight
Josie
Aja
Love is Like an Itchin' in My Heart/Band Intros
Peg
My Old School

Encore:
Don't Take me Alive
Kid Charlemagne

Orchestra Outro:
Last Tango In Paris (instrumental)

As far as the Danfest went, we showed up at the Island Bar at 5:00, waited/drank for over an hour, and did not run into anyone else. We left, but I kept checking the bar and the Mint Lounge as well, but to no avail. Perhaps I set the starting time too early. I don't know how many potential attendees there were; we only saw a couple of responses on the danfest bounce mails by Thursday AM.

No more comments now, as I am running low on time here and besides I can still taste my foot from Tuesday's post. So I won't say anything hastily.

Flying low,

GW

Date: Sat, August 09, 2008, 11:37:26 ET
Posted by: Hey, Ponder this....

Why don't you stick the Steely Dan in your mouth and shut up.

Date: Sat, August 09, 2008, 09:59:13 ET
Posted by: Ponder this ,

Would the Steely Dan itself be considered a Dan-genital item?

Date: Sat, August 09, 2008, 09:19:08 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

Dan-gential item:
Bernard Purdie is playing in the NY Public Theater's Shakespeare in the Park revival of "Hair".....woohoo......
Article in yesterday's WSJ...." Six Flags Over Woodstock"

Date: Fri, August 08, 2008, 23:26:09 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

GM, Anon, Newerk & Deano -
As Donald has been fond of saying
in his lower monotone this tour,
"Thank You". Enjoy your vacation
GM & Chi-town! Wish I could go.
I don't get my vacation until the
20th this year. Heading up to
Glen Lake near Traverse City, in
Michigan. Looking forward to some
R&R. Couldn't pass up a Boz show
especially in San Diego outdoors
near the water & right after a
Steely Dan show. Thanks to Dan B.
for the early Boz report this year.
Your best bet so far to see SD & Boz
was The 1992 NYR&S Review.
bassicinstinct -
Yup, the "44" is the background
electronic stage display featured at
some of the bigger venues this tour.
It looks like the number "44" as
displayed on an old "PONG" game.
Art Bell moment, There are "44" dates
in the Think Fast 2008 tour.
Cue, creepy organ music.

Date: Fri, August 08, 2008, 22:52:38 ET
Posted by: Ernie Smith, Oak Park

Walter must be a huge Cubs fan for him to have yelled "Go Cubs!" during the Chicago band intros...I'm sure he enjoyed today's game, what with Edmonds hitting TWO home runs and making a gallant game-saving catch in center. Sweet! As he said, "Go Cubs!"

Date: Fri, August 08, 2008, 21:13:12 ET
Posted by: I knew it,

Just as I suspected.

The Anon Twit is in fact a big dude.
How I did I know this? A truly little Twit would NEVER refer to himself as such.

Date: Fri, August 08, 2008, 21:06:24 ET
Posted by: Fife, Florida, eh

Anyone up for a chat this fine evening?

Date: Fri, August 08, 2008, 18:00:29 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar

Wow, the Blue is really cooking, today.

Ray, great reviews, as always. Thanks so much for the detailed description of the Pala venue. Sounds like a great place for a Dan concert, to me. So does tonight's venue, The Pearl (at the Palms Hotel). I'd prefer these places not be in casinos, where the boys feel the need to "dumb it down"...but, what the hell. But, I don't understand why you felt the need to cheap-shot Drew Zing. I love Jon, but Drew was outstanding, as well. No need to dis one person in order to praise another...just IMO, of course.

I haven't seen Boz for many years (15 or so?). Glad to hear he still puts on a good show.

AnonTwit, I agree about the new SD album somewhere around 2010 (maybe 2011). I certainly think there will be a new SD album before Walter or Donald put out a new solo record. (Notice, for you, I didn't call them Walt and Don.)

Dana and Margaret, thanks for those links. Both are funny and interesting.

A hockey arena and a basketball arena are the same thing, even in Canada. Just ask anyone from Toronto where the Maple Leafs and the Raptors play in the same arena (Air Canada Centre). I'm sure if any other Canadian hockey cities had B-Ball teams, they would share the arena, too...just as the teams do in Boston, New York, Philadelphia, LA (you get the picture). Detroit is one of the very few places that has separate arenas for the teams, and even then, the Pistons have played games in the "Hockey arena".

Man, I wish I was in Vegas right now, with a handle in my hand, waiting for the concert to start.

Date: Fri, August 08, 2008, 15:39:24 ET
Posted by: Dan Belcher, Louisville, KY

Girl Margaret, I'm right there with you. Seeing Steely Dan and Boz Scaggs two weeks apart this summer was great enough, but it'd be absolutely amazing to have both of them on the same bill in one night.

Date: Fri, August 08, 2008, 15:12:00 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, 15 hours to vacay

Concert etiquette - don't be THAT guy!

http://www.spinner.com/2007/06/13/guide-to-concert-etiquette-rule-10/

If nothing else, it's good for a laugh.

Lurker Ray, I forgot to mention earlier my pangs of envy that after SD you got to see Boz. I don't think I've ever been to a sexier concert than when I saw Boz last summer, and he is the perfect complement to The Dan! Put those two on the same bill, I may not live through the show.

Date: Fri, August 08, 2008, 14:23:39 ET
Posted by: HouDanFan, Houston

Hey Steven P...dont ask a Canadian the difference between a BB arena and a hockey arena. You might have to drop the gloves.

Date: Fri, August 08, 2008, 13:47:25 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana, green with envy

Girl Margaret:
In my next life, I want to come back as YOU !! A gazillion Steely Dan (and other) concerts, August vacations in Maine, etc etc.....
WAY too much fun :-)

Date: Fri, August 08, 2008, 13:15:37 ET
Posted by: steelydoc, near the Tower

I think that Lurker Ray was just saying that the Pond at Anaheim was originally built for the Anaheim Mighty Ducks hockey team.....there wasn't a basketball team that was using the building...at least that's what I remember about the place when I lived in LA a long long time ago...

Date: Fri, August 08, 2008, 13:12:53 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Becoming a Third World Man

Hey, thanks a lot for the great Dandom digest today Hoops!

Still thinking about Boston Rag.

Hope you have a great vacation Girl Margaret!

Have fun everyone who is seeing the Dan tonight!

Date: Fri, August 08, 2008, 12:58:23 ET
Posted by: Casual Fan, Orlando

SP, I didn't read Lurker's sentence about the Honda being a hockey rink as opposed to a b-ball court as an attack on you, at least not one that was loaded with anything other than the mildest poking of fun. I took it as more of a chuckle than anything else.

Besides, being from Florida and having hockey rinks here, I can tell you that I always sense some irony whenever I read/hear about hockey being played south of North Dakota. Bottom line, I gather from all the posts about that show that, unless you were in one of the 300 seats that happened to be situated just so, the sound was crap.

Reminds me of seeing them for the first time live in 2000 at the St. Pete Times Forum in Tampa, also incidentally a hockey rink at times. Horrid sound. Muddy would be a compliment it doesn't deserve.

Saw them this year at Ruth Eckerd Hall, which is designed as an arts and music venue. Enormous difference.

I suppose that if people are going for lights camera action type theatrics, the bigger the better when it comes to the venue. But if its the music you like, I'm officially a fan of the tighter and more cloistered (is that redundant?) seating arrangements.

Date: Fri, August 08, 2008, 12:09:02 ET
Posted by: Steven Pomorantz,

Lurker Ray - I'm the one that called that shit hole (The Honda Center) a basketball arena. I mean really, what the heck is the difference between a basketball arena and a hockey arena? That was a pretty stupid comment for such an intelligent person.

And instead of admiring Pete Fogel's pass at the Pala show, why didn't you ask him what was the best Steely Dan show ever? I mean Pete has probably seen almost every show since 1993! You could have finally settled the "greatest show ever" debate. You had your chance and blew it! Instead of asking him you just "lurked".

Date: Fri, August 08, 2008, 11:35:51 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

Hoops:
Thanks for compiling all the concert reports in the Dandom Digests. Huge amount of work for you, I'm sure. It is greatly appreciated :-)

Date: Fri, August 08, 2008, 11:28:07 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

Very fine article/preview of tonight's Vegas show in today's Las Vegas Sun. Cute caricature of "our boys" too :-)

lasvegassun.com/news/2008/aug/08/beg-borrow-steal-ticket.

Date: Fri, August 08, 2008, 11:13:02 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, 19 hours to vacay

Lurker Ray, damn, can you write a commentary! Your vivid and colorful descriptions of your adventures make me antsy for Chicago. My trifecta of vacays kicks off tomorrow morning with a trip to Maine, of which I am very excited about, but I can hardly contain my excitement about going to Chicago next weekend!

Boston Rag, Mark, my dear friend, you are in my thoughts. Get well soon!

Date: Fri, August 08, 2008, 11:11:01 ET
Posted by: ears, don't really need to SEE pix of those old codgers

i wonder when we will get a nice soundboard of the tour
the audies are nice but . . . . .

drink real beer - sierra nevada.

Date: Fri, August 08, 2008, 10:39:31 ET
Posted by: steelydoc, reaching the sprangle...

I wonder when we will see some tour pics on SD.com....

Date: Fri, August 08, 2008, 10:10:50 ET
Posted by: AnonTwit, In Recovery

just so you know: damn it, I hate it when I'm called out, but honestly, you're pretty close. I've lost a little weight, and I'm sitting around 280. Back still hurts though. Recently, I've been thinking about taking some competitive diving classes. Y'know, cause water is so 'healing' and stuff.

Lurker Ray: Although I was there in Pala, I must say, anonymously, that your colour is of the calibur of something I haven't seen or read in quite some time. Extra Fine Kudos to You. Awesome read. That stuff keeps on giving.

The Dean: (Since we don't know each other, I will use the formal): I've been 'round these parts since it started, but I'm really old and jaded and have long since made numerous contributions of the Steely Kind.
I used to know a guy who thought Fagen was singing "Dine behind the Wheel" in Deacon Blues.
I know another guy who found that synth that Donald Fagen trashed during Katy Lied sessions.
I think there will be a new Steely Dan record in 2010.
(Just a guess, though)

I'm looking forward to seeing the band tonight - its seems that they just get better and better.

Date: Fri, August 08, 2008, 09:01:20 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, @work

From his description, I would venture to say that '44' refers to the stage lighting hanging in the background, which does resemble two staggered 4's, and it's exclusion from this show.

Date: Fri, August 08, 2008, 08:49:31 ET
Posted by: nwk,

Lurker Ray: Your writing made for a fun morning-coffee read this morn--as entertaining as your last review -- never change, dude.

Yea, the 44; my guess it's a suit: the "44L" would be a long cut suit for an average man, but not a big guy, just a slim, tall guy.

Lurker, you made the weekend begin for moi. Gotta date with a freigh train in Easton! Later, ! newerkes

Date: Fri, August 08, 2008, 05:41:42 ET
Posted by: bassicinstinct, Nottingham UK

Pardon my crass ignorance, but I have to ask:

WTF is the "44"?

It's been bugging me for a while now. LOL

Date: Fri, August 08, 2008, 03:47:16 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu - Back From Pala

Steely Dan – Honda Center Anaheim 8/04/06 & Pala, CA 8/05/06 &
Boz Scaggs Humphrey’s By the Bay San Diego 8/06/08

Just back from seeing Boz to close out my “trifecta” and sadly the last of my Steely Dan shows this year. So let’s get down to it.

A Love Letter to The Honda Center - Anaheim 8/04/06

Steven P. posted that the Honda Center is a basketball arena. Anaheim has a basketball team? Actually the Honda Center was built for “hockey” and as I said at the start of the tour, “The Honda Center for “music” is a shit hole”. For that reason I will not go into a lengthy report. I was lucky, through the AmEx Gold card Pre-Sale I was able to grab 7th row directly in front of Don. And people in the lower far removed “side-sections” paid the same price for tickets as the floor! What a rip-off. The floor is the ONLY place to truly enjoy a show in that horrific set-up they have at the Honda Center. It’s as if all the other seats are just “acoustic baffling” for the people on the floor. And they left an entire 1/3 of the floor bare of seats!!!! They easily could have put more people on the floor. Who devised that seating plan? I thought I would never say this, but if Steely Dan ever wants to play a larger venue in Anaheim, PLEASE go back to the Verizon in Irvine! Sound for me was great. But then again I was so close. For that reason, it was a fun show for me. How in the hell could you not have giant High-Def screens flanking each side of the stage for those unfortunate folks delegated to “the sticks”? Not one f$cking screen in the entire place! You mean to tell me The Country Fair in Paso Robles can do that and the Honda Center can’t?!!! Shame. Oh and hey thanks for that hefty parking fee even though you are surrounded by parking spaces. I hope you put the money towards buying a couple f*cking video screens. What a marketing debacle. They should have just given away tickets to the entire nose-bleed section. They would have filled the place with fans and made up for it in concession sales. Show – Strong B+ Venue – Strong D-. A few highlights:
The “44” was back. The three gals in matching blue “Cleopatra Jones” jumpsuits! Michael dressed all in white. He looked like a cross between Ricardo Montalban on “Fantasy Island” & John Travolta in “Saturday Night Fever”. The before and after gathering of fans on the outdoor patio at the splendid JT Schmid’s Microbrewery across the street.

Pala Casino & Spa - Pala, CA 8/05/06

What a difference a day makes. What a gorgeous drive into Pala from Temecula where I spent the night before heading to San Diego. The winding road cutting through the hillside rocks made for a beautiful yet “careful” drive into the Casino & Spa. Then there it was, rising up like a Myan temple. That is if the Myan and their stonecutters took a liking to Frank Lloyd Wright’s Park Inn Hotel & Kentucky Knob! Headed through the casino and spotted Pete Fogel & Shari with their Steely Dan “passes to anywhere” displayed around their necks. Thought I would walk outside and look around the “theater” set-up. There is a lovely grass and tree-lined courtyard next to the Pool at Pala. This is where they set up the white folding chairs to create the space. It looked like Steely Dan was going to be playing a wedding this evening or better yet a live theater event in a park in some smaller community. That should give you an idea of how small and intimate this show was! No matter who you are seeing, I highly recommend the Starlight Palomar Theater at the Pala Casino & Spa. Talk about up-close! They had a special mini sound rig set up. Looked a lot like the set up at Soboba. The sound that night was easily the best I have heard the entire tour, and remember, the sound at the LA & Paso Robles was stellar.
Who do I spot next? Catherine Russell! She was so gracious and sweet and just loved all the compliments. Forgot to ask her if Donald and Walter had always planned on three girls this tour or if they asked her after her guest spot that third night at the Beacon. I thought maybe the Pool Bar would be open, but it closed early because of the show. It was a good guess though because Jeff Young was sitting at a table relaxing! Got to finally meet Jeff. Again, like anyone else I have met in this band, totally down to earth and gregarious. I told him how much I enjoyed SFARW and continued my stroll among the grounds and thought I would head back inside and find a gathering of fans or a spot to relax before the show. I kept going and found a spectacular spot I have not experienced at any SoCal casino before. At the southwest end of the complex there was a HUGE veranda. Not quite as long as the veranda as say The Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, but just beautiful scenery and great people watching. It was just the spot to relax and enjoy some beverages and watch the sunset before the show. The libation values were just as spectacular as the view. 4 dollars for a high-end vodka martini and 3.75 for imported beer. They even had “Fat Tire” on draft. This must have been the spot, because shortly after I arrived on the veranda, Pete & Shari and their party settled in on the veranda also. And who needed an opening act? We were treated to the feed from the “Blues Band” playing inside the casino nicely emitting from the veranda’s PA system. It finally reached 7:15 and I figured it was time to head over to the show for the 7:30 start. The weather could not have been anymore perfect for this crowd dressed mainly in shorts and short sleeves as the band took the stage at around 7:45.

Everyone's Gone to the Movies - I had third row in front of Walter and I can tell you, I have never been so close to the stage since Roseland. What fantastic sound! And it just started. They were blasting straight out of the gate. It’s as if they couldn’t wait to play and forget the fact that they could only give 1/3 of the crowd at Anaheim an “up close” experience the night before. This could shape up to be quite a show. Great run by Jeff. No “44” this evening. But three trees
as our backdrop. They looked like the trees on the cover of PL. Only it was summer and the trees had leaves and the vendor was a lot “happier”.

Fez – Jeff & Jon took us on a funky ride to a dusty café in Marrakesh. Really locked in and banging this evening. In blows a strong wind by Walt W., “The
Tarboosh Express”. Extended Carlock quake. 7.0 on The Richter Scale.

Royal Scam – Is that another tremor? No it’s this crowd welcoming Don & Walter to their only “San Diego Adjacent” show this tour. What a thunder from easily one of the “smallest” sold out crowds of the tour. Don picks up on the crowd and shows us the “glory”. Life is sweet. Jon makes us all just drop our jaws and leaves us to babble in the back room.

I Got the News – Boy I hoped they recorded that take. Perfect example of what a true “unit” this band has become. Two great solos by those fellas who concocted
this whole “addiction” of ours.

Show Biz Kids – How in the hell did they make this tune funkier?! One part Donald Fagen. One part Jeff Young. Then everyone else in the band, including Walter B. tossed in potions into this voodoo caldron. What a “swamp” take. I had to brush aside the Spanish Moss so I could see our narrator on stage. Street Car Named Steely Dan. Brutes.

Bodhisattva – Always a guilty pleasure. But I must admit, they cleared the smog out of China with that take at Pala. Becker was our shaman. The only thing missing was his Yupik mask.

Two Against Nature – Wally continued to break the badass news. Man were the horns blaring. The gals were amazing. A few “housewives” in the crowd began to dance.

Hey 19 – Walter was inspired. Took us through his entire “lonesome hotel mini bar” soliloquy. Made famous at the old Blackstone in Chicago. Shades of Peter Falk in “Glengarry Glen Ross”. Then Jim Pugh let us know that we got “trouble right here in River City”. Jeff and the gals provided us with a “Doo-Wop” ending worthy of a PBS Pledge Drive Special.

Godwhacker - In the beginning we could hang with these “dudes & gals”. Not tonight. They were all on top of the glacier. On the case? They closed that file and went out for donuts and coffee.

Home at Last - Epic take. Freddie and Keith lay down the foundation, followed by the amazing framework of Jeff & Donald. Becker and the rest of this crew finish this Habitat For Humanity project. Picture perfect.

New Frontier - Summer smoker. Jesus, what incredible sound tonight. Donald was playing with the phrase, “You got to have some music”. Jon took us on his escalator to new heights. Donald was dead, solid, perfect. Stellar take.

Gaucho – Man is the sound killer tonight. Bodacious take.

Babylon Sisters – Totally took me by surprise. No spasm. That night in Pala, one of the best versions I have ever had the pleasure to witness. Cold and edgy, yet so fulfilling like a Santa Barbara olive at the end of a perfect martini. Shaken, not stirred. Turned out to be my favorite show of the tour.

Parkers Band – Man how many new inventions does Jon have? Don provides the “tingles” on the Rhodes and the girls provide the vocal “rig”. Keith supplies the “junk”. The Andrews Sisters meet William S. in the desert in SoCal.

Josie – Amazing. Shouts of “let’s start dancing!” is heard from the crowd.

Aja - Something is brewing in this crowd. But who could blame them. That live take could easily be the B side to any Steely Dan “single” release. Up on the hill? Try K2. Keith Carlock. Keith Carlock.

Love is Like an Itchin' in My Heart – Tell me what you gonna do? Dance fool. You don’t have another choice.

Peg - Joshua posted earlier, “I am sure the San Diego crowd will be on it!” I was waiting for the moment like in 2006 at Bayside when the crowd rushed the stage and danced. Finally it happened. Packed dance floor upfront. Security crumbles. It’s on.

My Old School – What a smirk on Donald’s face before he started. But who could blame him. The dance floor up font was packed. It was later that I realized that was the best take I have ever heard. Jon “schooled” us and proved why Drew Zing is playing in Vegas. Jon Herington School Project : A+

Encore:

Don't Take me Alive – Who’s this joining us in the dance pit upfront? It’s Pete Fogel.

Kid Charlemagne – While the music played, this crowd “worked it”. Dancing freaks. Jon was inspired. Wow. Book ’em Dano. Okay, best version so far for me this tour. Man was that smoking.

Last Tango In Paris – No butter needed. This crowd is loose. Too bad they won’t get more.

The closest seats to the stage I have ever seen since 2006 at Soboba & Bayside. Still not quite sure as to why they couldn’t have added a show at the spectacular Bayside before Vegas!? Early August dates were/are wide open on the Bayside schedule. Like I said earlier, this was my favorite show of the dates I saw this year on the tour. Factoring in that this was easily the most “intimate” outdoor Steely Dan show this year and coupled with the amazing sound, energy & looseness of the band and the crowd response. But I must say there was more dancing at Paso Robles. And as I reported earlier, Donald was really energized and appreciative of all of us dancing fools at Paso Robles. I still prefer the non “dumbing down” sets better and I did really miss EYD. That “Gaucho” set list at Nokia is still one for the ages. The most “Gaucho” tracks ever in a Steely Dan show. But looking back, I was treated to three amazing shows with completely different set lists. Can’t ask for anymore than that with this great band that is Steely Dan – Think Fast 2008. Favorite set list – LA Nokia. Favorite crowd – Paso Robles. Favorite so-called theater to bag on – Honda Center.
After the show Pete said that this was also his last show of the tour. Perhaps Pete “knows” that it is going to be “dumbing-down” set lists for the rest of the tour and has chosen to skip the rest of the shows. Though he did confide that he could pretty much run his booking biz from the cell phone! Next up on the “brush with greatness” was Jim Pugh! It was finally nice to get to meet and talk with master of the bone. He has been “blowing me away” all tour. Totally great guy, and since he now lives in Champaign, IL we of course talked about the crazy weather they have been having in Chicago and in central Illinois. Final BWG – Keith Carlock. Always a great guy and laughed at my jokes. We talked about the live alligator & marsupial on stage during the encore at Paso Robles. Keith said, “I still don’t know what the f%ck that was! I know someone in the crew set that up, but no one will fess up to it”.
So that closes this years SoCal “Double-Double”. Waiting for Walter to announce the LA, San Fran & NYC dates for the C$ tour ;O)

Boz Scaggs – Humphrey’s By The Bay – 8-06-08

Quickie – Always love this venue and another great San Diego crowd. Shorter set list than Steely Dan, but then again the ticket was half the cost. Great show put on by Boz and band. Really enjoyed his guitar player. And plenty of dancing and beautiful “people”.

Good night all.

Date: Fri, August 08, 2008, 02:16:20 ET
Posted by: SS, HK

There are no bad SD-related songs, just the occasional underappreciated one, like Charlie Freak. And Springtime.

Date: Thurs, August 07, 2008, 23:22:54 ET
Posted by: Phred,

Check out Rollins' Sax collossus for an interesting collection of muzak. His rendition of Mack the Knife amuses...he's more early bop than a 'trane sort of player, in ways; a bit like a Bird of tenor. Ironic, a bit absurd at times, but quite melodic, instead of just shredding.....Weiskopf sounds somewhat Rollinsesque at times

Date: Thurs, August 07, 2008, 23:22:24 ET
Posted by: gentleman loser, NZ

just so you know:

Was that a pointer to a half-scale battle of some kind? I think I get the 'be as snarky as possible' angle. Jump on the bandwagon, let's look for a traffic jam.

I could be 4'5" and weigh 310 lbs - (not far off actually) - and I'd still rather take my time to get into a virtual stoush with anyone in here. Then again, the thought of DF and WB singing 'Give Peace A Chance' screws the nose up slightly.

They're touring as we babble on and on about - hell, about what exactly? C$ is still seething beautifully. The Dean: don't bite. Let them stir.

Yes, I'll match him whim for whim now.

PS Hope Phelps doesn't beat Spitz. Never hear the end of it otherwise.

Date: Thurs, August 07, 2008, 21:21:55 ET
Posted by: Hector E.,

The work of The Dean is important, he sort of grades our papers (posts).

This is cool so you all should want to keep posting just to see what The Dean will say if nothing else. Kind of like shaking up the old Magic Answering 8-Ball.

Date: Thurs, August 07, 2008, 21:19:04 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Danfest Directory Updates

http://dandom.com/danfests

Including updates at:

- Las Vega$ - http://dandom.com/danfests/vegas
- Bay Area California (Murphys) - http://dandom.com/danfests/bayarea
- Houston and Dallas - http://dandom.com/danfests/tx

Date: Thurs, August 07, 2008, 21:09:25 ET
Posted by: just so you know,

Few people know this, but the Anon Twit stands about six foot five and weighs a solid 310 lbs. and at one time was under serious consideration for a career in the then World Wrestling Federation (WWF) until a back injury ended his hopes.

Date: Thurs, August 07, 2008, 20:48:04 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Ha-ha,

Again, I don't think it's out of the question that he would be in New York. After all, the west coast is not Europe or Asia and quite frankly, I don't think that $1,500.00 is to Don what it is to the average person.

Date: Thurs, August 07, 2008, 20:47:35 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Ha-ha,

Again, I don't think it's out of the question that he would be in New York. After all, the west coast is not Europe or Asia and quite frankly, I don't think that $1,500.00 is to Don what it is to the average person.

Date: Thurs, August 07, 2008, 19:53:46 ET
Posted by: Ha-ha, w

Janie, just stop it.

You weren't thinking and you put together a silly post. Big deal. Don't hang on to it just because you can. Having an apartment near Central Park means absolutely nothing when you're thousands of miles away and dealing with a scheduled itinerary that was created six months ago at least.

Sonny tours all the time. He's a road dog, essentially, compared to his contemporaries. Don can see him several times a year if he wants to. Doing it on a whim on the 6th would probably end up being a $1500 concert trip for Fagen. Maybe more.

A lot of Steely Dan fans get this jazz stuff mixed up. Just because they deign to see one show with an act that is tangentially Dan, it doesn't mean you're going to see Don or Walt on your way into that place. Just stop now, while you're behind, and admit that the fun of the concert may have gotten to you a bit.

It's just fine to appreciate a legend without having to do it underneath the Dan umbrella. Stop letting the idea of what these two think change the way you take in other forms of entertainment.

Date: Thurs, August 07, 2008, 19:42:43 ET
Posted by: DC, DC

Talk about "going down the dark ladder:
"Hillary will hold a rally on Obama's behalf in Las Vegas on Friday"
-hopefully not near the Palm's Casino-
There will be broken dishes and stabbing wounds.

Date: Thurs, August 07, 2008, 18:54:32 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

Anon,

Are you "Anon Twit", or a different Anon twit? Anyway, perhaps I post too much, and you find me annoying...fair enough. But, what about you? I actually bring info in many of my posts, help other posters with their questions, when I can...you know...CONTRIBUTE to the board.

What is it that you do, here? Well, you just addressed Janie's Donald/Sonny issue. Of course, I had already done that several posts ago (and I managed to do it without the snotty attitude). So, now you are copying the poster who you find annoying? Genius!

Do you contribute anything of substance to this forum?

I thought not.

Date: Thurs, August 07, 2008, 18:50:57 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Anon,

A few reasons:

1. Donald LOVES Sonny Rollins and he LIVES in New York, just steps from Central Park;
2 Two days off from performing might merit a trip home to see a musician he cites as a mentor and major influence;
2. Airplanes make travel from the west coast to the east coast pretty easy

So, it's really not out of the question.

Date: Thurs, August 07, 2008, 18:28:47 ET
Posted by: Anon,

Janie - Steely Dan is on the west coast. Why would you be looking for anyone from this band at a Sonny Rollins concert in Central Park?

Dean - You're taking Rajah's place on this book as the most annoying person that posts here. At least Raj was clever.

Date: Thurs, August 07, 2008, 18:07:51 ET
Posted by: Jamie, Sunny Side of San Diego

Well, well, well.....Another year or two goes by, another Dan tour....I was reminiscing about the Dan with my friend - another member here- and I realized- I am only 34 - but have been seeing SD live since the early 90's !!!

7 shows in 5 different venues nationally......

On to the show at the Pala Casino:

First of all, I have developed a very annoying habit. I take my old skills learned on Dead Tour, and I hax my way into shows. This is not a good habit- and I think the Dan show might be the last time I do it. Guilty ? perhaps....But like I say- if I hax my way into the show- I buy a t-shirt to show my gratitude { I am almost willing to wager the profit margin is greater on a T-shirt then a ticket- but I digress from my current digression]..

So, I am in the bowels of the Pala casion [ Casino ? All that money ? No guards ? jeez ] and I stick my head through a door. No SD- but I can hear them now ? I keep up my recon - I burst through a kitchen - through some double doors- and where am I ? BACK-FUGGEN-STAGE folks, literally ! I can see the goose-neck on Becker's guitar, I can see the back-up piano player in front of me, and Fagan's head barely visible.

What is nasty schoolboy to do now ? I can sit where I am , watch the show from the back, and GREET Walter and Donald when they come off stage !!! Great idea- but I want to SEEEEEEEEEEe the show. So I deciede- hell with it- I am taking an empty seat, right in front of there personal security, 3rd row, aisle.....I take the seat, remained unnoticed and unharrassed.

The show- They are playing something I don't know, probably older, and it's ok....Its the Dan ! It's better then ok ! They finish - I wonder- how late am I ? How many songs did I miss ? They go into Gaucho......Now, if you were there, Gaucho was off this hook!!!!!!

So I am sitting there, and these 2 lovelies come up behind me, start talking [ I shooosh them ] dancing, and having a good time. The notes of Babylon Sisters begins to eminate from the stage. Folks- I have never and will never be this close to DF again. There he is ! RIGHT There ! I turn to the woman next to me and say- On cue- looks like my Babylon Sisters just showed up !!!! She laughs , I leave the seat, join the girls, and commence to party all show.....

As to the show- I remember, Peg- great, Josie- great- AJA- FUGGEN GREAT !!!!!!

At this point- we basically take front row- I lead the girls up there- and now folks - I have Cindy Mizell to my right, Donald Fagen 5 ft in front of me. I am so close- he is spitting on us........Unbelievavble ! He is the man - Walter is the man - It was so fantastically cool I was like a little girl at a Beatles show in the 60's!!!!! I have photo documentation to prove it.....

Next up- Kid Charlamenge, Green Earings [ I think ] and a litany of other fantastic tunes. One of there best shows I have seen - amazing energy- closer with Don't take me alive= Who knew that song was so great ??? ME ????? Yes !!!!!!!

I will post pics when able- took some of Donald for the girls, and made sure they got one of me with Donald.......Great energy, great music, great humor!!!!! What a band !!!!

Date: Thurs, August 07, 2008, 17:39:31 ET
Posted by: Doug, Hartford

Come check out Show Biz Kids tonight at the Hungry Tiger in Manchester! Show starts at 9:30pm.

www.thehungrytiger.com

www.myspace.com/showbizkids

Date: Thurs, August 07, 2008, 15:36:18 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Janie,

If Donald was in NYC, I'm guessing he would be there. It is unlikely that, on a day off of a west coast swing, he would fly back to NYC, if he didn't have to. Just guessing, of course.

"Anyway, is there really ANY SD song that SD fans DON'T like? I don't think so; it's just songs they like a bit less than others, in my opinion."

I'm with you on this one, but that doesn't seem to be the case with many others, here. I don't think SD has ever officially released a bad song...period. As you say, there are some that I care a little more, or less, for than others...but that changes from time to time, too. Some songs took me a little longer to warm up to, some were overplayed at one point and so I avoided them for a while. But, I can count on one hand (and have fingers to spare) the SD songs that I don't think are total masterpieces...and even those few songs are pretty damn good.

Date: Thurs, August 07, 2008, 15:10:10 ET
Posted by: Craig B.,

SteelyDoc has a babe in every port

Date: Thurs, August 07, 2008, 15:07:44 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Dean,

I thought that Donald would be there and looked everywhere but I didn't see him. Of course I was in the "cheap" seats but it's a small venue. I can't believe he'd miss Sonny just a few blocks from him apartment.

Yep, Sonny is still blowing strong!

Anyway, is there really ANY SD song that SD fans DON'T like? I don't think so; it's just songs they like a bit less than others, in my opinion.

Date: Thurs, August 07, 2008, 14:42:14 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

BTW, how was the Palomar Starlight Theater, as a venue. What a great name. Obviously, at least according to Steven, it was better than the Honda Center...but I'd love to hear more from any attendees. Thanks in advance.

Janie, Sonny is fucking awesome! But, you know that. I have seen him a few times, and try to do so whenever he is anywhere near me, as he is getting up there in age. Can't tell in concert, though (at least you couldn't 4 or 5 years ago). Glad to hear he is still blowing strong. And, yes, there is a strong similarity:

http://www.donaldfagen.com/imDisplay.php?galleryID=1005&imgid=17&group=28,26,23,22,21,20,18,17,16,15,14,13,12,9

Newt, very funny. Hoops (Fearless Leader of this site), has been busy and under the weather. Cut him some slack.

Date: Thurs, August 07, 2008, 14:26:43 ET
Posted by: steelydoc, reaching the sprangle...

..some SD-related places perhaps?

one of my good customers from the Czech Republic sent me a little brochure about her town...inside I saw a listing for these places :

IGY Cafe

Partyhouse (snowbound!)

Babylon Internet Cafe

also saw this place listed under 'cultural and art venues' called: IRON VIRGIN wonder if it is related to the original Steely Dan device...

Date: Thurs, August 07, 2008, 14:17:16 ET
Posted by: Phred,

car pool/road trip to SD Murphy's show on 8/9 from El Lay area ?? Split petrol, BYOB, etc. send email if interested.................

Date: Thurs, August 07, 2008, 13:04:30 ET
Posted by: Hutch, rva

SteelyDana - I'm not with a band right now. Lately I've been doing some recording in my home studio with a few friends. Just recently bought a new 16 track recorder.

I'm thinking AnonT is referring to a band I was with in 2000 when I hosted a Danfest in Richmond celebrating the release of 2vN. I was playing a gig the night most of them arrived and they came to check us out. We had a great time that weekend... dinner at the Tobacco Company and then we went out to a buddy of mine's studio and jammed till late in the evening. Lots of good folks and good memories.

Date: Thurs, August 07, 2008, 13:02:10 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

I saw Sonny Rollins in Central Park last night; what a Great band and a great show!! They played for two hours!

I swear I saw traces of an old (and black) Fagen in him!!

Date: Thurs, August 07, 2008, 12:08:02 ET
Posted by: Phred,

In Burroughs' Naked Lunch, the Steely Dan is a huge steam-powered uh dildo used to pleasure japanese prostitutes (rah-thur unPC). Maybe the marketing dudes should consider like the Machine as part of the tour, put it on tshirts, and place one say, out near ye olde Willco, for the more adventurous femmes (or, wannabe femmes...)........

Date: Thurs, August 07, 2008, 11:49:41 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana, wondering

Mr. The Hutch:
We don't live too far from Richmond. What is your band and where do you play? Would love to catch a show :-)

Date: Thurs, August 07, 2008, 10:44:28 ET
Posted by: its's, your holiness hey zeus

hey deanie - your flight will be in in plenty of time.

showbiz kids are playing at 930 and the gig is not that far from hartford airport.

i realize that you insist on being strip searched everytime you fly, but we'll make it.

its $3 retsina spritzer night at the bar too!

can't wait to hear dr wu live AGAIN.

H\z

http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendID=97575266

Date: Thurs, August 07, 2008, 10:40:15 ET
Posted by: AnonTwit, Vegas

Mr. The Hutch: Glad to hear. Hope your band is doing well - sounded great last time I saw them. you rock.

Briefly, any insinuation that a Fanboy was being too familiar should not be overblown in all directions.

Seeing Steely Dan in Vegas will be too surreal. "See the Glory".

Date: Thurs, August 07, 2008, 10:28:09 ET
Posted by: H,

Dean... I believe we were typing at the same time. Brain wave frequencies moving back and forth.

Date: Thurs, August 07, 2008, 10:24:45 ET
Posted by: Hutch,

Dig? Not really but to each his own.

Should we be like the NY Times and start calling them Mr. Fagen and Mr. Becker? "Wow, Mr. Fagen's voice is sure strong on this tour. And I'm really liking Mr. Becker's guitar work".

Richmond is just great Twit. Couldn't be better.

In fact a couple of recent posts about Jack Bruce reminded me what a great town it has always been for terrific shows. I saw The Jack Bruce Band with special guest Ginger Baker at The Flood Zone several years ago. A show I'll never forget. Jack came out with his band and did a set, then after the break the drummer was replaced by Ginger Baker. They did a lot of Jack's songs and a fair amount of Cream tunes. Great show.

Yep, I went by Art Pepper for a little while here. Thought I'd start using something tangential to SD instead of an abbreviation of my last name. Pepper has always been one of my very favorite alto players and I figured D & W probably liked him too.
But after a while I decided to change back to the original. What was it Shakespeare said?

A Walter Becker solo tour would surely be da bomb!
T'would be a wonderful thing to behold.

The Hutch

Date: Thurs, August 07, 2008, 10:14:26 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Anonymous Twit,

I don't know you well enough to type "Anon". I apologize for being overly familiar (or lazy) in not typing Catherine Russell's entire name. Rather, for the sake of brevity on an Internet board, I shortened it to her well-known nickname. What was I thinking?

I trust I won't see you typing "Don" (or "DF") for Mr. Donald Fagen, or Walter, (or W.B.) for Mr. Walter Becker, in any of your posts.

I hope you understand that I wasn't taking a shot at Catherine Russell, at all. I was suggesting that those who built her site did a poor job. If Catherine Russell built the site herself, then I do apologize to her for the tone, but not the content, of my post. And, while I like Catherine Russell well enough, I am far from an overzealous fan. I own none of her records (not even "Cat") and don't post on her fansite. Maybe you are confusing me with Lurker Ray.

And, Anonymous Twit, please note that, to you, it's "The Dean", not just "Dean". You don't know me well enough to be so familiar.

Date: Thurs, August 07, 2008, 10:08:37 ET
Posted by: Fife, Florida,eh

Chris I knew that was someone from the blue who was asking that question. Funny how he just skirted around it and chose something that very few would have gone to. I didn't know anything about Steely Dan in '74 I was just getting into Supertramp then. I'll never forget lying in my dormitory listening to the top ten coming from Luxembourg and hearing Dreamer for the first time. A very nice change from glitter rock and the Bay City Rollers,yuck!

Date: Thurs, August 07, 2008, 09:45:08 ET
Posted by: AnonTwit, Vegas

Not at all, Art Pepper.
Just don't like to see overzealous fans breeding overfamiliarity, dig?
How's Richmond?

Date: Thurs, August 07, 2008, 09:39:01 ET
Posted by: Hutch, morning scan

Large pole stuck up ass Twit?

Maybe there'll be an update on Lexi Says soon.

Date: Thurs, August 07, 2008, 08:45:38 ET
Posted by: AnonTwit, Vegas

Dean: I don't know, maybe it's just me, but Cat? as in Russell?!?
WTF? Who TF are you?

Back in the day one used a formal approach towards someone that you admired, and in all my years of humankind meeting, you were proper until otherwise advised.

Do you know Catherine? You know here well enought to call her Cat? What, do you pick up her tissues backstage? Or do you just dream about it?

And what is this THE Dean? Like Parks? idon'think so.

I would love it if you had a chance meeting with Catherine, and you called her Cat and she kicked you right out of whatever place you were. Because you don't make nicknames on folks where they don't tell you PERSONALLY you can use a nickname. If I used Cat to her face, she would slap me.
Because otherwise you're being disrespectful.
And I don't think you want that.

Date: Thurs, August 07, 2008, 01:13:06 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Got through. Tried to put the "greatest show" matter to rest, but Walt's answer was non committal. He did mention the recording of Bodhisattva on Gold.

Date: Thurs, August 07, 2008, 00:27:53 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Fion...er, Fife,

That's a GREAT question. Good job!

Date: Thurs, August 07, 2008, 00:26:47 ET
Posted by: Fife, Florida,eh

My question was: Are you planning to do any solo shows once the Dan tour was finished? He answered that he was thinking about it but it would depend on if he was still alive. He then talked about how he had updated his will and that all his guitars would have homes, lol.
Fife

Date: Thurs, August 07, 2008, 00:12:59 ET
Posted by: Wlm, .

Fiona's question was fine! But my god, this last question for example - "do you prefer writing songs about people or about situations?'" WTF?! Even a bright and funny person lijke Becker can't help but come across like a dope . Ok that's it from me tonight..

Date: Thurs, August 07, 2008, 00:06:45 ET
Posted by: Fife, Florida.eh

Fionna was me by the way. Hope the question wasn't too stupid!

Date: Thurs, August 07, 2008, 00:04:53 ET
Posted by: Wlm, .

Oh god. one of the call-in calls asked about "how did you guys know Chevy Chase and how was that". Now the DJ is following up with several questions about....CHEVY CHASE. Come on!! Is that the best we can do??? Depressing...

Date: Thurs, August 07, 2008, 00:01:47 ET
Posted by: Freakin' Charlie,

Charlie Freak is one of the best cuts on probably their 2nd or 3rd best album.

So what does that tell you?

Date: Thurs, August 07, 2008, 00:01:01 ET
Posted by: Wlm, .

Stream the show, I meant

Date: Thurs, August 07, 2008, 00:00:15 ET
Posted by: Wlm, .

the replay will be fine.So far its the usual dreck/ Lots of commercials. DJ asking the usual boring questions. Playijng clips of CM but all cut up, 10 secs here, 10 secs there. Has played 2 SD songs so far. Call in questions not so goo eiather so far. DJ just mentioned they will stream the song for 2 weeks

Date: Wed, August 06, 2008, 23:56:26 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Thanks, seeing as I missed the first 25 minutes, or so, I'll listen to the replay tomorrow on the RR site.

I tried a three (or was it four?) stations, and they all had different programming.

Here it is, I tried SF (playing the Outlaws...nice), Portland (stream didn't work) and W Palm Beach (playing some horrible garbage).

Oh, well. I wasn't planning on calling in.

Thanks again. Hope it's great/.

Date: Wed, August 06, 2008, 23:52:02 ET
Posted by: Wlm, .

I'm listening to a Boston station
http://wzlx.com/
but I tested out a few before the show and they all worked fine for me -- such as Panama city, Portland, Co Springs ..

Date: Wed, August 06, 2008, 23:46:38 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

What chanell, Wlm? I;ve tried several, so far and no luck.

Thanks

Date: Wed, August 06, 2008, 23:41:09 ET
Posted by: Wlm, BC

Hi Fife -- I'm listening , a streaming channel

Date: Wed, August 06, 2008, 23:38:06 ET
Posted by: Fife, Florida.ehf

Anyone else listening to the Becker interview?

Date: Wed, August 06, 2008, 23:28:27 ET
Posted by: Damn It, He's right

Those building new websites oughtta look at both Walt's and Don's--lots of content, little horseshit, very accessable. Web nerds harrassing the Dean--jesus!

Date: Wed, August 06, 2008, 23:17:03 ET
Posted by: And To Respond to Dean,

Dean...

Please post the urls of 5 of your sites so that we can pick them apart as well.

Sheesh!

Date: Wed, August 06, 2008, 23:03:52 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Dam It,

Cat Russell's website is not well built, at all IMO. Great content, horribly executed. The gallery opens a new (small) window for every pic clicked...that's just lousy web work. It looks like they used too many bells and whistles, too. It wow's 'em in the presentation, but only serves to make the site less usable for many people. I hope she doesn't pay the bill.

Date: Wed, August 06, 2008, 22:56:13 ET
Posted by: Damn It, Everywhere

Too bad Catherine's website is a jilion billabigaboolites --would take about an hour to load for us poor dialup customers. Bet it's fun, though

Date: Wed, August 06, 2008, 22:44:55 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Geoff,

I don't know that anyone in particular here doesn't like Charlie Freak. I have never heard "the powers that be" (that'd be Hoops) diss it. Perhaps one of the trolls that like to stir shit has dissed it in the past, but I have no memory of it.

I'm guessing SS meant that it gets ignored here, when the discussion of great SD tunes is underway. And he is right, it rarely gets mentioned. It should!

Date: Wed, August 06, 2008, 22:19:09 ET
Posted by: Anon,

Geoff - I love Charlie Freak! Great tune! Who cares what Dean thinks.

Date: Wed, August 06, 2008, 22:12:25 ET
Posted by: Catherine Russell Fan Club, http://www.catherinerussell.net/live/

You can go to Catherine Russell's website and you will see pictures of Louis Armstrong holding a very young Cat.

http://www.catherinerussell.net/live/

Date: Wed, August 06, 2008, 22:11:14 ET
Posted by: Geoff, On my way to Ramsbury

SS, Dean, Jive:

I've always thought Charlie Freak was one of SD's underated gems.

I didn't realize that the powers that be here on the Blue Book loath it.

-geoff

Date: Wed, August 06, 2008, 21:56:36 ET
Posted by: Bill Greer, Dallas

Pittsburg Bill--that is so cool, the Catherine Russell-Louis Armstrong connection...it must make her a good luck charm of sorts for any project the guys can use her on.
This, and Donald's playing Benny Goodman's 'Goodbye' on his DJ gig--(with that beautiful Bunny Berigan trumpet) PLUS his reference to Bix's Wolverines online some years back--shows D and W's deep appreciation of jazz, all the way back to its roots. The more you learn, the more fun this Steely Dan thing becomes!

Date: Wed, August 06, 2008, 21:55:15 ET
Posted by: hey mofo, you carazy deano

the vault is cool - they should feature the night - traffic spirit lemon pipers and spooky tooth played.

daniel j levitin

Date: Wed, August 06, 2008, 21:51:51 ET
Posted by: hey deano, you crazy mofo

what i really want to hear is the 15-20 tracks that j bruce did for a cd with andy summers and dennis chambers.

never got released.

i'd also like to see a tour of jacks quieter tunes with him switching to piano and cello on some songs. classy or what???

hz

Date: Wed, August 06, 2008, 18:50:42 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

angel,

nostatic's podcast is audio-only, and really well done. You should give it a listen.

Christine, LR?

Date: Wed, August 06, 2008, 18:17:15 ET
Posted by: Christie,

You what happens when you are too full of yourself and alcohol
RE: LR

Date: Wed, August 06, 2008, 15:37:01 ET
Posted by: angel,

I did not view the podcast, but the discussion of Charlie Freak and the bells brings back other discussions over the years.
To me, the bells sound like happy times. Think Christmas Time.

Steely Dan adding them to a depressing situation and story such as the one related to us via the narrator in Charlie Freak is just masterful.

Date: Wed, August 06, 2008, 15:22:43 ET
Posted by: BillfromPgh,

Heard our own Catherine Russell on NPR's "World Cafe" last night. Didn't realize she had such an interesting background - her father was Luis Russell, a pianist and arranger with many jazz legends including serving as musical director for Louis Armstrong. He died when she was 7. (That makes her a year older than me - yikes, she's held up well). See http://www.redhotjazz.com/russell.html She said she studied many instruments when younger, including tuba (easier for her to play than trumpet), sax, piano, etc. They joked about a photo showing her at age 4 being picked up by Satchmo and looking rather unhappy about it.

She did three songs with a jazz trio including one of hers entitled "Luci" which was a portrait of Lucifer as a woman - she said it was about Satan. Interview segments were brief, no mention of her work with SD.

Date: Wed, August 06, 2008, 14:19:19 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

nostatic,

Very interesting podcast...and i like your site. I'm not sure I buy your theory (bells = death), but I don't discount it, either. It's good SD discussion material, for sure.

Wolfgang, Jack Bruce is the bomb. I have yet to hear his new stuff with Robin Trower, but I hear good things about it. It's interesting that he's with Trower. I always thought that James Dewar (RIP) was criminally underrated. BTW, I LOVE the Vault!

Date: Wed, August 06, 2008, 14:13:25 ET
Posted by: angel,

Pala Pala: Identical set list at Honda and Pala. I liked the fact that they closed with Kid C. Interesting and more upbeat.

By the way, was that you, EB, texting the set list?

--

For those who know, review is up on my blog.

Date: Wed, August 06, 2008, 14:09:09 ET
Posted by: wolfgangs vault, jack bruce is god

Two numbers from the How's Tricks album follow, each dramatically different than what preceded them. That album’s opener, "Without A Word," features intriguing lyrical poetry from Brown, beginning slow and dramatic. A strong fusion-esque solo follows Bruce’s emotive and tortured vocal before suddenly taking off into a smoking jam that recalls Aja era Steely Dan.

As they wind toward a close, the group launch in "Pieces Of Mind," one of the standout tracks from Bruce's 1974 album, Out Of The Storm. Released again in live form on his Jack Bruce Band Live album, his enthusiasm for this number is palpable and the entire band, although clean and concise in their playing, cook up a storm. This particular rendition is quite different to the studio recording, again showing the distinct influence of Steely Dan, who was at the peak of popularity during this time. Following six minutes of outstanding ensemble playing, Simon Phillips takes a drum solo that is quite impressive.

Date: Wed, August 06, 2008, 13:50:54 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana, wondering

So....where is our fellow-DanFan, Lurker Ray, with his outstanding comments/reports from the Honda and Pala shows??
Looking forward to reading his impressions !!

Date: Wed, August 06, 2008, 13:46:44 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Wowie!

The letters NB or Nb refer to: (as N.B.) an abbreviation for nota bene, a Latin expression meaning "note well" and the post of Dean's that I was referring to was:

"IMO, Steely Dan concerts are never very loud...for me, that is. We all have our individual tolerances, though"

Date: Wed, August 06, 2008, 13:16:46 ET
Posted by: nostatic, socal

As said below, location, location, location. There was decent sound to be had at the Honda Center - but likely only in a few spots. Thankfully I was sitting in one of them. I would have preferred to see them at Nokia but had already booked a vacation with my son. Life gets in the way sometimes.

As for Charlie Freak, one of my favorite tunes. In fact I did a podcast about that tune along with Jack of Speed and the use of sleigh bells to signal death:

http://nostatic.com/podcasts/bellsCast.mp3

Date: Wed, August 06, 2008, 12:33:59 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Thanks for the heads-up, Chris. No local station carries it. I guess I will listen to it (live or replay) on the internet.

Date: Wed, August 06, 2008, 12:13:24 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

SO, Becker's going to be Rockline tonight at 11:30 EST. Anyone planing on calling in?

WB.com has a list of stations that carry it. I plan on trying to ask something, but I'm not sure what yet.

Date: Wed, August 06, 2008, 11:46:13 ET
Posted by: Joshua, Orange County, CA

Regarding the sound at the Honda Center....I do believe I was at least spoiled comparing the sound at the Honda Center to Nokia. The more I think about it the Nokia theater is about the best that a venue can get. From the plush seats to the plasma screens it was class A.

Someone here mentioned the sound bouncing off the back wall at the Honda Center....it sounded everytime I turned around like there was all kind of whisper and chatter coming from behind. I was on the floor 13 rows from the stage so I won't be too negative since I had an awesome seat.

Date: Wed, August 06, 2008, 11:37:40 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Seat location really makes a big difference at any show, but even more so at the poorer acoustic venues. And, as you note, Gus, it tends to have a big impact of the enjoyment of the show (at least to me).

I had a decent seat for this year's show...great sound, good site lines, etc. But, I think I would count this as the best SD show ever, had I had a GREAT seat, as I did last year (front row, just right of center, directly in front of Fagen). In 2006, I also had great seats, and it really made a difference, I think.

Date: Wed, August 06, 2008, 11:21:29 ET
Posted by: Gus Winterbottom, A Cubicle

To Steven Pomorantz,

First, my apologies; I should have qualified my statement better. What I heard in one location has no bearing on your opinion of the sound where you were. Thanks for sharing Ms. Russell's assessment with us as well. Based on posts from various locations at the show, it seems that the rolloff from optimum mix was pretty major as one moved away from the soundboard. From where we were, about even with it but roughly 120 feet house left. The music from there sounded fine to me, but the lyrics from Don and the other vocalists were difficult to discriminate on many songs. Nevertheless, this was not our worst sound experience at a Steely Dan show. I won't discuss that on this board, but we were probably seated at roughly the same relative location to the stage that you occupied on Monday. If you are interested, my e-mail is on previous posts.

Dean,

The seat location issue sort of extends to the MM discussion as well, at least for us. For the Verizon/Irvine show that we saw in 2006, we paid big money to sit in the third row. So I can't say much about the relative applause levels, etc. behind us. Irvine seems to me to be another facility where the enjoyment level falls off rapidly as you get farther from the stage. I'm not sure whether the problem is architecture, acoustics, or both. My memories of the 2000 show there are not great because we were most of the way back in the seated area.

GW

Date: Wed, August 06, 2008, 10:23:37 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Wowie,

N.B. (Nota bene). It means "pay attention", "take notice"...that sort of thing. So, N.B., Wowie. Many professional use EAR PLUGS to help prevent ear loss. I know the difference between a monitor and an ear plug. My brother was a professional musician nearly his entire life. He didn't use ear plugs until later in his career...a little too late, as he now has pretty severe hearing loss.

YOU don't feel the need for earplugs at a SD concert (and neither do I). What's so amazing is that you simply can't understand that others may feel that need...people are different, ya know. I know that I would be better off using earplugs when I have had great seats, and a good venue, as I am positive the noise level there is well over 100 db. That is plenty loud enough to cause ear damage if experienced over a period of time (N.B. Daddy G's post)...but, I choose not to. Chastising someone for taking proper precautions is absurd, especially when it is a fellow SD fan.

Gus, I don't think I did a good job of explaining what I meant in my MM post. My take on the Doobies was simply my opinion, and I realize that many others disagree with that. It wasn't meant, in any way, to bolster the premise that more people attended those concerts to see SD than MM. I am sure that plenty of people love MM and went to the concert simply to see him. Others (most?) probably liked both bands, so went to see the show for that reason, and then there were the SD fans who would have gone with (or without) SD. I am guessing that the latter group outnumbered the first group by 2-1, or more. I make the judgment based on the following:

Many people were still entering during MM, but I didn't see people leaving during SD. The audience reaction to their respective shows was noticeably different. SD got much bigger applause, standing ovations, etc. And, finally, the conversations I overheard before, during, and after the show.

Now, the show I attended may have been atypical, but I kinda doubt it. I agree that MM has his share of fans, though.

Finally, thanks to PP and Steven for the Pala updates. Looking forward to a thorough review/account from someone, later today.

Date: Wed, August 06, 2008, 08:36:42 ET
Posted by: AnonTwit, Calif

Jess: yes, yes, yes, Morph is brilliant. I don't understand why people don't get it. That's classic. With all the same players here now, basically.

I am looking forward to the next Steely Dan record, tho probably a few years off.

For those guitar lovers, let's do Jon a favor and get it right: HERINGTON, ok? Mind the spelling of someone you admire. It's not difficult. Donald Faygun? Walter Bekkur? How about http://jonherington.com/

On with da tour - the band was hotso...

Date: Wed, August 06, 2008, 04:59:08 ET
Posted by: Scouser, Scouser

Hey Raj,
Please call i need to talk to you me old mate

Date: Wed, August 06, 2008, 03:55:48 ET
Posted by: Steven Pomorantz,

Gus - The Honda Center did indeed sound like crap. At least from where I was sitting on the side of the stage. Those basketball arenas are awful when it comes to acoustics. The the set list(which I loved) had nothing to do with horrible sound. Carlock's kick drum was bouncing off the back wall and echoing all over the place! Typical sound in these types of arenas.

I was at the Pala show tonight and it sounded amazing! Before the show I ran into Catherin Russell in the casino area around 5:30. I told her that I hated the sound the night before at the Honda Center. She agreed with me saying it was "a joke in that place". But I guess she's wrong as well.

Date: Wed, August 06, 2008, 03:35:40 ET
Posted by: Wowie!,

Janie Runaway - I have no idea what "n b" means.

Dean - The ear plugs you see the musicians wearing on stage are inner ear monitors.

I'll say it again, something is wrong if you have to plug up your ears at a SD show!

Date: Wed, August 06, 2008, 01:28:32 ET
Posted by: Gus Winterbottom, Torrance, CA

Dean,

Re the MM discussion, I forgot to mention that my wife is a big Doobie Brothers and MM fan, more so than am I, and was elated with the 2006 lineup, especially with MM returning for the closing Steely Dan numbers. Who knows how many others felt this way as well?

GW

Date: Wed, August 06, 2008, 01:23:01 ET
Posted by: Gus Winterbottom, Torrance, CA

A few more comments about the Honda show last night before the Pala reviews hit:

Angel, Nostatic, and Amanda, et al, glad the sound was good where you were; it could have been equally good over most of the seats. By the way, we were far from disappointed last night. While the sound for us was a notch below Nokia (we might have gotten spoiled over there), I would not agree with the "sounds like crap" assessment. We enjoyed the setlist changes as well. One moment in particular stands out for me: the final Bodhisattva solo, beautifully played by Walter. For that brief moment the whole sound of the band seemed to change; the sound was for me much more "early Steely Dan". Possibly those of you more astute than I have been hearing such things all along and I am behind the curve, but for me it was a first. I have never noticed this during MOS, for example, or in earlier hearings of Bodhisattva itself.

Best Wishes to Mark.

GW

Date: Wed, August 06, 2008, 00:42:11 ET
Posted by: P P,

Encores:

Don't Take Me Alive
Kid Charlegmagne

Date: Wed, August 06, 2008, 00:26:09 ET
Posted by: P P,

Itchin' in my Heart
(Quick band intros)
Peg
My Old School

Date: Wed, August 06, 2008, 00:14:05 ET
Posted by: P P,

Parker's Band
Josie
Aja

Donald on the mobile midi mystery instrument

Date: Wed, August 06, 2008, 00:12:56 ET
Posted by: SS, HK

Charlie Freak gets dissed, not discussed, here. But that's how it goes. It's on the least favourites list for a few people (not me). One strange thing: in the commercial sheet music for Charlie Freak, the piano part is written out as it is actually played, which is more or less unheard of in pop music transcriptions. Usually the publishers are combining the different parts in the song and they put the melody in the right hand (for piano players), rather than coming up with a rythmic accompaniment pattern for singing. Not Charlie Freak though. It defies guitar chording or putting a piano vocal line in the right hand. An easy to follow lyric. One with the usual riddles.

Date: Wed, August 06, 2008, 00:00:57 ET
Posted by: P P,

The Big O (STANDING) after Babylon

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 23:52:33 ET
Posted by: P P,

Gaucho
Babylon Sistas

Girls have 'fros tonight

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 23:47:04 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

I'm with you 100%, Jive, on both songs.

I find myself singing Only a Fool to myself on many occasions. And Charlie Freak is a classic, as well.

I hope PP keeps the playlist coming.

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 23:40:49 ET
Posted by: P P,

Godwhackerrrrr
(the band is hotso!)
Home at Last
New Frontier

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 23:34:33 ET
Posted by: Jive, The foot of Mt. Belzoni

Dean,

You're spot on about Thrill. Only a Fool always sticks with me.

One of my very favorite SD tunes that's rarely discussed: Charlie Freak. In a strange and twisted way, feels almost as though inspired by JS Bach.

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 23:26:16 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

tonybass,

It's good to hear someone else sing the praises of Fire in the Hole. It has always been one of my favorite SD tunes (which means one of my favorite tunes, period)...a real masterpiece, IMO. And as you note Heartbeat (I'll add Midnight Cruiser) and the entire album, is really sensational. When I got that album, I had no idea what it meant for a song to be a Steely Dan song (it took a while), but I knew it was something special.

Few bands have starts that impressive. Almost none, continue that excellence (and improve on it) for as long as Don and Walt have. The allure of $$ and stardom is just too much for most.

Bob, I have always love that clip, and that version of PL. Thanks for bringing it back. I love when SD plays live in the small setting. If they ever decide to record another live album, I hope they take that approach, instead of the AiA route.

And, Ruth, you bring up an interesting topic. When MM was announced, many derided the choice, while others questioned who would be the "main act". IMO, both of those points of view were absurd. MM has been a FOD (Friend of Dan) for as long as his career has been active. He is an outstanding musician and vocalist. But, SD plays the same venues (and sells out, or close) without Mike. The reverse simply is not true. There was never any question who would be the opening act, and I would bet dollars to donuts that many more tickets were sold to SD fans, than to MM fans.

The decision to use him as the opener worked on many levels. If they did it every tour, I would complain. For that one tour, I thought it was just fine. Artists more interested in $$ than in music (read "most artists") would have miked that formula to death. IMO Don and Walt NEVER sell out...and that's only one factor (but a big one) that makes them so special.

As much as I like and respect MM's abilities, I can't say his career has been entirely sensational. His stint with the Doobies was interesting and that iteration of the Doobies produced some decent music. IMO, though, the Doobies were better (far better, actually) in the early days, before Mike and Skunk joined the band. After the Doobies, Mike started to record fairly bland stuff, again IMO. As great of a voice as he has, it works better in the background than it does as a lead (with the exception of the occasional song). He just isn't that interesting of a singer, as a lead, and most of his stuff starts to sound the same...but hey, that's me.

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 23:19:59 ET
Posted by: Pala Pal-a,

Bodisattva
Two Against Nature
Hey 19

Crowd is getting wound up.

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 23:04:46 ET
Posted by: Pala Pal-a,

2008 Medley opener

Royal Scam
I Got the News
Show Biz Kids

(In crowd: Bob Tedde, Pete n Shari and her mom, Cathy)

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 22:48:52 ET
Posted by: Ruth Paine, Irvine, TX

Bob:

That is a GREAT clip--thanks for posting the link! Kinda makes you wonder, tough...what the hell was all the hew and cry about McDonald being the opening act on the '06 tour? He was W & D's "discovery." Great contributions to many classic SD songs. Moved on to enormous commercial success when the guys decided to do other things. (People who don't know Donald Fagen from Donald Duck know and love Mike M.) So why the resentment, why the anger at this talented artist? I'm sure as many people bought tickets to see him at those shows as did those who went to see SD.

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 22:41:01 ET
Posted by: tonybass, camarillo

I, myself, just dusted off my copy of "Can't Buy A Thrill"...with expectations of hearing "that same ol' record again". I just can't belive how great of a debut that was for any band. "Fire In The Hole" is just superb as well as "Turn That Heartbeat Over Again. Blown away once again.

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 22:02:18 ET
Posted by: Denise, H

Mark, you must get well so you can travel to Santa Rosa! You know you want to...

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 21:58:29 ET
Posted by: Jess Stacy, Akron

Dusted off my copy of Morph the Cat tonight...what a fine record!

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 21:57:28 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Doesnt matter

Best wished Boston Rag = Mark!

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 20:54:00 ET
Posted by: Bob,

http://blog.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendID=3634821&blogID=407429827

Interesting video with Fagen...ENJOY>

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 20:41:31 ET
Posted by: Chan, Boston

Get better soon Mark. From your fellow Celtics, Patriots, Red Sox, and Steely Dan fan!!!

Chan

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 19:56:09 ET
Posted by: WET OF HOLLYWOOD, West of Disneyland

Ditto wishes for Mark.

Going back with Al to the mid 90s and on President St. with Don and Walter when they were in Bklyn in the mid 60s, gotta say it's nice to chime on the blue and out of it, if only to blare my bones and see if it survives the rancor -- yellow residue perhaps? Dubito.

It's been 15 years since their first reunion round through the southland and when I saw them at Glen Helen Blockbuster... Nothing will compare with the majik of that night -- cuz we never thought we'd ever see them again (or EVER as in my case). Hearing Babylon Sisters last night, great as it was, surely lacked that literally 'fantasy' quality the 93 gig had. But on the other hand, nowhere better to here the Santa Ana winds coming again than in Santa Ana's backyard.

Highlights from last night were Bodhi, New Frontier, TAN, Godwhacker, Aja, Gaucho, Josie. Lowlights were the mix whereby vocals were mostly overwhelmed (Walt had to verily scream the intros) and the cigarette and pot smugglers in the crowd. Yah of course the ambience was classic quintessential suburban sterile -- oh the irony of the backdrop for New Frontier! Oh and talk about IRONY!? "Beautiful housewife in deep distress, especially you..." But nice that one properly placed glare about that beer you drinking in the seat behind can be so effective. Such order -- symmetrical and kleen... and deeply inhibited.

Players sounded and looked good, the sistahs too, but still prefer Zingg to Herrington.

Oh and that opening trio was fascinating. I'm amazed at what I must be missing in the appeal of "music" like that..

And hell ya I wore ear plugs myselfâ€¦ Never an Angel fan (strictly Mets), but gotta side with her there.

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 19:29:53 ET
Posted by: Mer., Boston

Boston Rag== sending you good karma and well wishes-- hope you're better soon. Don't let the Bastids get you down.
Peace- Mer.

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 17:54:56 ET
Posted by: nostatic, socal

btw, my son wore ear plugs. I didn't, but have been an on-again/off-again gigging musician for almost 30 years now, with many years of loud amps reverberating through my head. I do sometimes wear them when I gig (though I rarely do a loud show any more), and try to wear them when I ride my motorcycle and certainly when I shoot.

Different ear plugs have different sonic qualities. I found that I don't really like them when I play because I lose all the high frequency information (and since I'm usually playing bass that doesn't help me find my way). Some of the more expensive ones I've used in the past were better about that, but I'm cheap these days...

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 17:50:17 ET
Posted by: nostatic, socal

Saw the Honda show last night. Sadly was out of town for the Nokia show, but we do the best we can. I was sitting in the first row off the floor just stage left of the soundboard...ie pretty much within spitting distance of the sound guy. While it was pretty much "wall of sound" (no nuanced like previous shows at Universal, Greek, etc), I could hear everything so I was happy.

Having seen them in '93, '94, '00, '03, and '06 I have s reasonable SD Thermometer. I'd have to say they were as close to as good as I'd ever seen ('03 Universal show holds that honor). Fagan's pitch was spot-on. This show certainly made up for a less-than-stellar Irvine show in '06.

Carlock continues to cause serious abrasion to my jaw. He transforms the band and creates grooves so wide you could drive a truck through them. Show Biz Kids was wicked (as it was in '06), and Home at Last was sublime. My g/f cried during that tune (her first SD show). My 11 year old son never cried but did manage to fall asleep a few times.

Harrington amazes and confuses me. Sometimes it feels like he's lost (his halting style), other times he just blazes. He seems most comfortable channeling Carlton, and his work last night on My Old School, Alive and KC was near epic.

The crowd was reserved but appreciative. I was actually thankful that NO ONE near me yapped during the show. Maybe it was the OC stormtrooper-esque security but on that front I had no complaints. I happily listened unfettered by stories of car repairs and tampon brands.

Still, Carlock is the story. He is just sick. And the band was tight yet relaxed. Great show.

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 17:18:22 ET
Posted by: MikeA, Seattle

TampaDan--THANKS. I am researching this now. May post what I find regarding all SD & solo album songs which were never performed live since 1993.

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 17:14:54 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., NJ

Wowie!...

I don't feel I >>did<< waste my time (and if I did, it was minimal). But apparently you feel I wasted yours. So be it.

It's obviously a matter of opinion and I just disagree with your stated view. Neither one of us (or anyone else) can be generally "right" or "wrong" on such a matter except insofar as each individual can judge right/wrong for him/herself on a personal basis. I will also add that the positioning of one's seat may play a part as well might the venue too---indoor or outdoor, large or small. I may even grant you that the type of music plays into it, but there comes a point when loud is loud regardless of genre.

Nevertheless, if you had phrased your original comment as you did the next to last sentence in your most recent one ("Most of the SD shows I go to I pray that the soundman will pump it up"), thus clearly stating your own personal opinion as such without the implied derogatory comment (as I read it, anyway) toward Angel for her simple offhand coment and statement of personal experience, I would not have "wasted your time."

I still urge all concert-goers, even for Dan shows, to have earplugs available in case they become necessary. Although I didn't use mine in A.C. I have used them in the past for Dan shows and was glad I did.

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 17:04:54 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Wowie!,

n.b. Dean's post below

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 16:48:58 ET
Posted by: Wowie!,

Daddy G - I said wearing ear plugs to a Steely Dan show was ridiculous. You don't have to waste your time with all that stuff you posted. I've been to concerts where I wished I had ear plugs. But a Steely Dan concert? That's a joke. Most of the SD shows I go to I pray that the soundman will pump it up. This is one band you don't need to worry about hurting your ears.

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 16:46:32 ET
Posted by: Mapquest, Thomas Brothers Guide

Although Orange County is located "south" of Los Angeles, it is, for the most part mostly southeast. The 405 "bends" east after Torrance/Carson towards Long Beach and "The OC". The 605 runs from the western San Gabriel Valley to the OC. The 91 runs west from Orange County to Torrance/Redondo Beach. If you take the 57 North from Anaheim you end up in the eastern San Gabriel Valley (where the earthquake we just had was centered) substantially east of Downtown Los Angeles. And, of course the South Bay and the Westside areas of Los Angeles county are located west of downtown (and Hollywood for that matter). So it is very easy to live in Los Angeles west of Orange County. Trivia, did you know that Las Vegas is west of Los Angeles?

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 15:56:27 ET
Posted by: JaneLightning, .

much love to you my dandom friend
god bless
jane

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 15:44:28 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

Mark, aka Boston Rag....
Only know you from here on the Blue but have always enjoyed your posts. Am sending lots of "get well quickly" wishes your way .

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 15:22:56 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Many concert goers, and MANY musicians, wear earplugs. It isn't unusual, at all.

In college, I attended a concert that was so loud that quite a few in the audience went to the on-campus clinic (and I think a few went to the hospital) that night, and the next day. Of course, being young and stupid, I loved it. My ears did ring for days, though.

IMO, Steely Dan concerts are never very loud...for me, that is. We all have our individual tolerances, though.

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 15:13:12 ET
Posted by: angel,

Always!

Trust me, the bands are plenty loud and the sound gets through...no problem.

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 15:12:04 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., NJ

Wowie!, Ear plugs at a concert are not ridiculous at all in my book---and according to experts/studies too. Just Google the phrase "rock concert decibel levels and effects on hearing" (without the quotes) and you'll get some pages about the subject...

http://tinyurl.com/concertdecibels

I've used ear plugs at concerts on occasion although I did find the volume levels at the Borgata in A.C. this year to be very tolerable such that I didn't seem to need them. I did have them with me though just in case. Perhaps the volume was not as loud as other shows or maybe I've already suffered hearing loss.

I also use ear plugs when mowing and have even used them at times in loud movies without feeling like I ever missed a bit of dialogue. And if the conversation gets low I can always remove or loosen one or both.
_____________________________________________

From http://www.asha.org/public/hearing/disorders/noise.htm ...

The noise chart below gives an idea of average decibel levels for everyday sounds around you.

Painful
150 dB = rock music peak
140 dB = firearms, air raid siren, jet engine
130 dB = jackhammer
120 dB = jet plane take-off, amplified rock music at 4-6 ft., car stereo, band practice

Extremely Loud
110 dB = rock music, model airplane
106 dB = timpani and bass drum rolls
100 dB = snowmobile, chain saw, pneumatic drill
90 dB = lawnmower, shop tools, truck traffic, subway

Very Loud
80 dB = alarm clock, busy street
70 dB = busy traffic, vacuum cleaner
60 dB = conversation, dishwasher

WARNING SIGNS OF HAZARDOUS NOISE
* You must raise your voice to be heard
* You can't hear someone two feet away from you
* Speech around you sounds muffled or dull after leaving a noise area
* You have pain or ringing on your ears (tinnitus) after exposure to noise.

HAZARDOUS NOISE
Sounds louder than 80 decibels are considered potentially dangerous. Both the amount of noise and the length of time of exposure determine the amount of damage. Hair cells of the inner ear and the hearing nerve can be damaged by an intense brief impulse, like an explosion, or by continuous and/or repeated exposure to noise.

Examples of noise levels considered dangerous by experts are a lawnmower, a rock concert, firearms, firecrackers, headset listening systems, motorcycles, tractors, household appliances (garbage disposals, blenders, food processors/choppers, etc.) and noisy toys. All can deliver sound over 90 decibels and some up to 140 decibels.

CAN'T MY EARS "ADJUST" AND "GET USED" TO REGULAR NOISE?
If you think you have "gotten used to" the noise you are routinely exposed to, then most likely you have already suffered damage and have acquired a permanent hearing loss. Don't be fooled by thinking your ears are "tough" or that you have the ability to "tune it out"! Noise induced hearing loss is usually gradual and painless, but, unfortunately, permanent. Once destroyed, the hearing nerve and its sensory nerve cells do not regenerate!

...[B]ecause of noise in our society, hearing loss is appearing much earlier in life than would have been expected just 30 years ago.
_____________________________________________

I'm sure that's more than enough quoted material... Visit the ASHA page or any others you care to Google up for more info.

Recently I helped a cousin cutting some trees down using a chainsaw. We wore noise-canceling ear phones for protection. I mentioned to him at one point that it probably wouldn't be a bad idea for many young people to wear them for a short time and try to have a conversation with one another and then they'd have an appreciation for what it's like for older people (or others) who have lost much of their hearing because they didn't take proper precautions over the years.

But the choice is yours. And Angel's. And mine. Etc. I would never rag on someone for erring on the side of safety. That's all I have to say about it.

(Sorry, Hoops, but I had to jump in and back Angel on the issue...)

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 14:55:50 ET
Posted by: Christie, Left work

Mr Paker
Where are you and your band meeting up before the show
I got be with Bluebookers

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 14:16:57 ET
Posted by: Wowie!,

Angel - You wear ear plugs to a Steely Dan concert? You're joking right? That is one of the most ridiculous things that I have ever heard!

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 14:16:55 ET
Posted by: mr parker, socal

it's been 34 years since i've been to a sd show

but the drought ends tonight!

is there gas in the car?

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 12:45:32 ET
Posted by: angel,

Craig: No. Last night was my final concert. Have a good time and enjoy.

On the earlier post about the songs they switched out. Caves was not played. It was Home at Last.
Sorry, fuzzy brain from total lack of sleep.

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 12:24:59 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

If it was just the wine, I'd say you were hypersensitive. But, this guy was clearly a multi-offender and, just plain obnoxious. He deserved what he got, IMO.

It is one thing to enjoy the concert. It is quite another to be very loud (especially with the singing) with no regard to those sitting close by. Throw in the the fact that he was in the wrong seat, and I think you simply got stuck with a douchebag.

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 12:16:31 ET
Posted by: Fromabuick109, Portland, OR

This is a response to "The Dean" regarding my earlier post.

The guy that stole the seat next to me was singing loudly, belting out an occasional "woo-hoo" and kept turning and shouting to his buddy in the second row. Oh yeah, I forgot to mention the obnoxious wine bottle passing between the two rows during all of this commotion. Who knows, maybe I'm just hypersensitive.

Regards!

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 12:13:39 ET
Posted by: Fromabuick109, Portland, OR

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 12:02:13 ET
Posted by: Craig B.,

Angel
Are you going tonite?

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 11:36:51 ET
Posted by: Fife, Florida.eh

Mark my thoughts are with you. Please get well soon.
xoxoxoxox
Fife

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 11:34:13 ET
Posted by: TampaDan, Tampa

MikeA - try this:

http://212.178.99.195/SteelyDanDatabase/index.htm

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 11:15:56 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Yes, people can be SO annoying and invariably, the most annoying of the bunch also tend to be the nastiest and most aggressive when you ask them to shut the f*&k up, even if you ask nicely. I was at an Elton John concert and the girls sitting behind me were discussing their post 9/11 flying experiences. Made me a bit more tolerant of those (other annoying people) who sing along and stand and dance; at least they are into the music…

Music is everything to me (and I'm guessing to many of you here) but I’ve found that many people who go to concerts just don’t feel the same way OR they are SO INTO the music that they get a bit too carried away.

Boston Rag, please get well soon!

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 10:28:27 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Lonnie, Gus, Joshua and amanda,

and any others who chimed-on about last night...thanks for the reports. Too bad about the bizarre security. It sounds like things haven't changed (at least for the better) behind the Orange Curtain.

Ha-ha, your guy sounds like a freakin' nightmare...a multi-offender. I look at concert singers much the same as concert dancers. I came to hear, and see, the band. But, I don't want to be a dick to someone enjoying themselves (while not thinking about anyone else, unfortunately). If you stand and dance and/or sing a couple of times (preferably when everyone else is doing it), that's fine. If you insist on dancing and singing the entire concert, go for a lawn seat, or stand in the back.

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 10:15:58 ET
Posted by: SS, HK

Get well soon, Mark.

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 10:12:36 ET
Posted by: gypsyqueeninafairytale, noneofyourbusiness

I like this funky chick,her new album is coming out on the legendary Stax label.

http://www.myspace.com/nikkacosta

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 10:04:50 ET
Posted by: angel,

King of the World. I believe he says "My face is on fire". Check the liner notes for the 1999 reissue, for more on that. ;-)

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 10:02:09 ET
Posted by: angel,

Honda Center, Anaheim.

Great to hear some different tunes then at the Nokia two weeks ago. Bodi always gets me going and it did last night. I think we also got Caves and My Old School in the switch out. Too tired to compare set lists right now, so apologies if I am wrong.

Girls were wearing their afro wigs and wonderful gold 60's evening wear tonight. What a great impression they make, when on the stage.

Complaints. The stage lighting only is on when a player is featured. It is really starting to annoy me that you can only watch the players, during a solo.

Walter did not clear the house during Gaucho. Once again, he holds the audience. Yay Walter!

Sound...whatever. It seemed OK to me...but I wear earplugs to cut down the volume. :-)

==

Boston Rag: My best to you.

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 09:43:59 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, I knew it!

"We all know what Walter said underneath the drum set during the recording of "King of the World." "

I knew he said something! No one believes me that you can here it!

What is it exactly that he says... it sounds like "savage" (the last word in the line Fagen sings right before) but it's probably wrong.

So what does he say exactly?

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 09:36:34 ET
Posted by: heymike, <--

God Speed Boston Rag. "Get Back"

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 08:43:38 ET
Posted by: Earl C Anthony,

torrance you coconut

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 08:27:51 ET
Posted by: AnonTwit, Mapworld

Gus: "before you moved West"?

If you were in OC, and moved west, where did you go, Catalina?

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 08:10:45 ET
Posted by: Gretchen,

Mark, you are in my thoughts today and I'm wishing you the quickest recovery. Hurry back, we miss your posts!

G

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 07:33:56 ET
Posted by: Craig B, AV CA

Prayers and good thoughts for Mark

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 06:57:35 ET
Posted by: Steve,

For casual and newbie Dan Fans, Mark/Boston Rag is one of those Hoops credits in every edition for the continued existence of the Dandom Digest and this guestbook. Boston Rag, along with the late Sponge Bill, have had several of their Boston Danfests voted The Best. Mark is an easy going guy who knows what really matters in life.

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 04:46:55 ET
Posted by: amanda p., home in studio city

tonight's show was awesome. though others have complained, acoustics were not a problem from our floor seats, and the band was cookin'. the setlist was fresh and exciting, but had all the standbys that i wanted to hear too. i swear, this band just never gets boring. i wish every concert-going experience could be so satisfying!

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 03:58:41 ET
Posted by: Gus Winterbottom, Torrance, CA

Joshua,

Sorry, it is getting too late and I am missing things. Probably by the "vibe" you meant the general attitude rather than the sound quality. If so I concurred with a position that you did not take.

As far as security, I really did not notice anything during the show itself. However, during the pre-entry search, we were instructed to empty our pockets. At that point, one of the searchers saw my "leatherman micra" which is equipped with a small pair of scissors and about a 1 inch long knife, along with similar slighly less mayhem-creating devices such as tweezers and assorted screwdriver blades. He said, "That cannot go in." I then directed him to my other keychain, which included a nail clipper, and asked about it. His response: "All of that stuff will have to go back to your car." The Nokia, while equipped with walk-through metal detectors, did not seem concerned with these same accessories two weeks ago. Well, it was only about a three minute walk, as we had gotten there early. But for those readers who were walking east from the parking lot toward the main entrance, if you saw some nutty type person walking the wrong way, continously shouting such things as "No nail clippers allowed", that was me, your sometime setlist scribe, at your service. Another Security category "Danny" candidate states its case. I guess I should have known better, as I lived in Orange County for roughly 10 years before employment changes moved me west.

GW

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 03:43:21 ET
Posted by: Steven Pomorantz,

The Honda Center is a basketball arena. It sounds like crap like almost every other basketball arena. No matter how great the band is, it's not going to sound very good. And that was the case tonight. Onto the next show please.

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 03:35:24 ET
Posted by: Lonnie the Kingpin, Back from Tahoe

Hello one and all ~

The Tahoe show was wonderful -- the setting on the shores of Big Blue and amongst the laughing pines is sublime. The soundcheck before the show (as previously mentioned) revealed DF saying the show will be "dumbed down" presumably for the casino crowd. Too bad the EYD and Glam Prof got lost in the mix -- two of my faves. The soundcheck was great as they played 6 tunes (Bodhi twice, Gaucho, Do it Again, My Old School and Gowhacker). DF was barking out orders left and right to the boys.

Catherine Russell was in the Ladies Choir and that was a nice treat. My personal fave story came as the boys were playing My Old School at the end of the set and I went up front to dance with others. A security lady was hounding me to go back to my seat. I was in no mood and gave her a piece of my mind. I finished by saying to her: "I AM NEVER GOING BACK TO MY OLD SEAT!" Naturally, she did not get it by I think that was damn funny if I say so myself. I then ditched her by taking off to another section in front of Jon Herington where I stayed until DTMA kicked off the encore and then they closed with Kid C. After the show I had a nice chat with Roger Rosenberg who informed me that Walter produced his upcoming CD he said would be called "Baritonality." I complimented him on the name of the CD -- very cool. I also ran into the entire band when I arrived at the Reno/Tahoe airport on Friday afternoon. They were all getting into their private shuttle to Harvey's and my shuttle was parked next to theirs. It was nice to have a brief chat with Jon H. He is a good and humble man -- who can flat kick ass on guitar.

That is all for now. Must sleep. It was great celebratin' Sunday on a Saturday night in gorgeous Lake Tahoe!!!

Lonnie

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 03:35:19 ET
Posted by: Lonnie the Kingpin, Back from Tahoe

Hello one and all ~

The Tahoe show was wonderful -- the setting on the shores of Big Blue and amongst the laughing pines is sublime. The soundcheck before the show (as previously mentioned) revealed DF saying the show will be "dumbed down" presumably for the casino crowd. Too bad the EYD and Glam Prof got lost in the mix -- two of my faves. The soundcheck was great as they played 6 tunes (Bodhi twice, Gaucho, Do it Again, My Old School and Gowhacker). DF was barking out orders left and right to the boys.

Catherine Russell was in the Ladies Choir and that was a nice treat. My personal fave story came as the boys were playing My Old School at the end of the set and I went up front to dance with others. A security lady was hounding me to go back to my seat. I was in no mood and gave her a piece of my mind. I finished by saying to her: "I AM NEVER GOING BACK TO MY OLD SEAT!" Naturally, she did not get it by I think that was damn funny if I say so myself. I then ditched her by taking off to another section in front of Jon Herington where I stayed until DTMA kicked off the encore and then they closed with Kid C. After the show I had a nice chat with Roger Rosenberg who informed me that Walter produced his upcoming CD he said would be called "Baritonality." I complimented him on the name of the CD -- very cool. I also ran into the entire band when I arrived at the Reno/Tahoe airport on Friday afternoon. They were all getting into their private shuttle to Harvey's and my shuttle was parked next to theirs. It was nice to have a brief chat with Jon H. He is a good and humble man -- who can flat kick ass on guitar.

That is all for now. Must sleep. It was great celebratin' Sunday on a Saturday night in gorgeous Lake Tahoe!!!

Lonnie

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 03:29:21 ET
Posted by: Gus Winterbottom , Torrance, CA

Apologies to Connie in the Vineyard, if that was your report I adapted rather than TLW's; I did not notice that until I reread the board.

GW

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 03:25:47 ET
Posted by: Gus Winterbottom, Torrance, CA

Honda Setlist, August 4, 2008, adapted from TWL's Tahoe Report:

Orchestra intro: Everyone's Gone to the Movies/Fez/Carlock Solo/Royal Scam Intro
Royal Scam when Walt, Don, and ladies enter
I Got the News
Show Biz Kids
Bodhisattva
Two Against Nature
Hey 19 (including soliloquy by Walter Becker)
Godwhacker
Home at Last
New Frontier
Gaucho (Walter on Vocals}
Babylon Sisters
Parkers Band (chorus) 3 backup vocalists, with afros tonight
Josie
Aja
Love is Like an Itchin' in My Heart
Peg
My Old School

Encore:
Don't Take me Alive
Kid Charlemagne

Orchestra Outro:
Last Tango In Paris (instrumental)

Have to agree with Joshua about the acoustics tonight, but I also would concur with him that the band itself was still in top form. From where we sat (house left about even with the soundboard, about 10 rows below the first level of luxury boxes), we could hear quite a bit of echo from Joey's keyboard during the opening set. While not always noticeable during the Steely Dan set, the result was that Don's and the other vocals were somewhat muddied on Royal Scam and I Got the News. Things got better for Show Biz Kids, with less overall instrument volume to compete with the vocals. The opening instrumental numbers also sounded excellent. Face it, this place is not compatible with the quality of music that The Steely Dan Orchestra is putting out every show (5) I have heard this tour.

More later,

GW

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 02:57:13 ET
Posted by: Ha-ha, w

I had my worst seat neighbor experience this year, too. The second worst was back at the second show of the 2006 tour, which was the only SD show I've seen without cheating and looking at the set list before the show. Even for one night, for me, that was quite the task not to dash to the Blue (or St. Al's, in years past) to find out what happened.

Either way, in 2006, some dork in the 6th or 7th row would announce in a monotone, Trekkie-voice, "Do It Again is next," for nearly every song. Pathetic.

Not as bad as this year, though. I put myself in debt through 2082 to secure fifth row seats in Chicago, only to sit directly next to a guy who seemed to get off to showing off for a friend of his that didn't appear to be the biggest Dan fan. I should have known it was going to be a rough night when, during the opening triptych, as Leonhart strode up to Walt's mic, he yelled "that's Michael Leonhart, the trumpet player!"

Yeah, the guy with the trumpet IS the trumpet player. Listen, buddy, we're all close to the stage. We're all big fans. We all have the bootlegs. We all know what Walter said underneath the drum set during the recording of "King of the World." You're not impressing anyone.

His voice was worse. He sang through the first batch of songs, completely ruining "Show Biz Kids," until I asked him to let the rest of us have a chance to hear Donald Fagen if he wouldn't mind. The guy acted as if I keyed his Cayenne. But he did shut up after that. Gave me dirty looks every time he went up to get another crappy Lite beer, but it was worth to actually hear, y'know, Steely fuckin' Dan.

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 02:50:40 ET
Posted by: Joshua, Orange County, CA

I just got back from the Honda Center. Highlights were definitely Walter's Gaucho, Aja, and an awesome Don't Take Me Alive encore....The band sounded great even though the vibe at the Honda Center was all wrong. I am glad I went and saw them in LA a few weeks ago. Maybe its because it was a Monday or maybe it was the 900 security guards patrolling the floor. They all took their jobs as if they were patrolling death row at San Quentin. I swear they were just hoping for an infraction by a fan so they could take them down.

Anyway it was a great show but the crowd was such a bummer...I even saw a guy ask someone to sit down.

I am not sure on the set list...Bodi was a new addition from the LA show.

Hope you have fun at Pala if you are going. I am sure the San Diego crowd will be on it!

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 02:28:13 ET
Posted by: MikeA, Seattle

Mark always had interesting and cool things to say over at the Sign in Stranger and here in the Bluebook. I had hoped to meet up with him sometime at a Danfest or show. If everyone imagines his speedy recovery, it will happen. Prayers and good visualization for Mark...

Date: Tues, August 05, 2008, 00:23:47 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

You got it, Hoops.

B-Rag seems like an excellent guy (from what I know about him via this forum). I will keep him in my thoughts.

Date: Mon, August 04, 2008, 23:54:45 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Please keep Mark aka Boston Rag in your prayers. Mark's been taken ill with a lung infection and other complications and is in the hospital. Mark has been good to us in many ways through the years. We send Mark and his family our best. God bless you, Mark.

Jim

Date: Mon, August 04, 2008, 21:55:30 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, That's a rough story...

Fromabuick109, wouldnt expect that at a Dan show, but some people can be assholes, even Steely fans...(usually not, but hell, there are some big ones on the Blue)

Now, at the show I saw, I actually moved 4 or 5 rows up to an empty seat and got in the first row of my section. It wasnt a price differece, not thw first row, but even when I moved up, I wasnt an annoying prick like this guy sounds like. Anyone like that douchebag that moves from GA to first row and then is an asshole deserves whatever beating he gets... you were totally in the right!

Date: Mon, August 04, 2008, 21:34:43 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Fromabuick109,

I tend to side with you here. But, it might depend on exactly what the guy did to disturb you. Care to share any more details?

Date: Mon, August 04, 2008, 21:11:05 ET
Posted by: ru with me drhoo, chicago

You were totally in the right re: pr**k taking the seat by you. If he was at least behaving himself, maybe not a big deal. But if you're gonna scoff a seat, I suggest acting cool and not disrupting the people nearby.

Date: Mon, August 04, 2008, 21:01:29 ET
Posted by: Fromabuick109, Portland, Oregon

I saw the 2nd night (7/31) at Chateau St Michele, was lucky enough to score front row seats on Ticketmaster.com at the last minute. It was a good show. I think Donald's voice was a bit hoarse from singing the previous night, but sometimes that works for him. I was a bit disappointed to lose Glamor Profession & Everything You Did from the set list, however I also feel it is good for Steely Dan to keep mixing it up, which they have not been great at doing in the past.

I have been fortunate enough to see Steely Dan on every tour since 1993. I have never had any issues with the crowds, as most are made up of true fans - individuals such as yourselves. But unfortunately, the 7/31 show had some non-musical disappointments for me. Some loser came up to the front row, about 3 songs into the set and sat next to me in an empty seat. He was being obnoxious, so I asked him if he had a ticket for the seat. When he couldn't produce one, I got security's attention and had him removed. He had a buddy sitting directly behind us in the second row. So then, after another song or two, this guy's buddy comes around to the front row and sits next to me. He starts asking me why I'm such a dick and had his friend kicked out of the seat. I told him I didna't want to make a big thing out of it, but that the seat wasn't his and he was disrupting us. This guy tells me to go F myself, then returns to his seat in the second row.

During the encore (Kid C was being played), the first guy steps over the first row of seats, kicks the empty chair at me, and extends his middle finger, which he proceeded to shove directly into my face. I stood up and pushed him back, away from me. The next thing I know, I am surrounded by security guards that are escorting me out for being violent. I asked the guard if he had seen what had just happened, he said he hadn't, only that I was being violent. When I was out on the lawn, I got the attention of a female security guard and explained what had happened. She was sympathetic and allowed me back in, provided I would behave myself, which I promised to do. So now, with the show over, these two guys are waiting at the exit for us. However, not even to pick a fight with us. Just to call me "pussy" and my friend "friend of pussy." So at that point, my friend and I politely got in their faces. We even waited outside on the lawn (by the wine shop) to "talk it out" with these losers. Of course, they never bothered to seek us out, which surprised neither of us.

So the reason for this long post is to try and solicit opinions on whether or not I was being unreasonable in my behavior. I mean, my god, people - it's a Steely Dan show, not an Anthrax show. And I payed for my tickets, full price I'll add. This loser just slid in next to me in the front row, with his GA lawn seat ticket. Is that right? Anyway, when something like this happens, it always detracts from the quality of your experience. It should have been a perfect night - venue was nice and the show was good. I hope this does not occur at future shows.

Date: Mon, August 04, 2008, 19:42:01 ET
Posted by: Bobbo, just answering the man's question here...

Doctor,

It'll be this week for sure, from Noon-1pm (Central/US) time, and the toll-free number is, indeed, a nationwide line. I believe the number is (888) GO-WOLFE, but you can find out for sure at gowolfe.com, the station's official site! See you there.

Okay,
Bobbo

Date: Mon, August 04, 2008, 19:25:13 ET
Posted by: Zitomeyer, El Cajon

So where the hell is everybody meeting for the Pala show? Nothing on danfest list. Lurker Ray do you know?

Date: Mon, August 04, 2008, 18:08:51 ET
Posted by: CJB, VYR, CA

Deacon Blues was also played at White River, just outside of Seattle, in 2006. There is a full-length clip of the 2006 version of the song up right now on YT.

I caught both nights at Woodinville. Lots of energy from the band; DF has refined his "fine nasal whine" to a very effective instrument. Highlights: Scam; a deeply creepy Everything You Did; New Frontier; the long instrumental introduction to Do It Again. Last Tango. Lots of funky jamming; I agree with other posters' comments on the "harder, drier" sound, which sounds subjective until you actually see the band play.

Best spontaneous line belongs to DF: "We have to tune up like it's folk music 'cause of the humidity."

No fun: thunderstorm on the second night, massive disturbed air, rain, temperatures more like late October than August. "What a night!" Great music, a squelching mile and a half trudge back to the car.

Date: Mon, August 04, 2008, 17:37:26 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Connie,

Nice read, indeed...but, I think the author (Jeff Munson) may have his Steely Dan math wrong.

The protagonist of Hey 19, is not singing about 1967. That is, this story (about he and the 19 year old girl) is not set in 1967. In 1967 he is not an older man, rather he is a frat dude (the dandy of Gamma Chi). He is looking back on his youth. In 1967, a 19 year-old would likely know who Aretha Franklin was...no?

It is now 1980 (or so), and, at the start of the song, he is looking back to his youth when HE was 19. So, in reality, the girl would now be, say, 48...not 60.

Date: Mon, August 04, 2008, 17:25:02 ET
Posted by: Updraught, west of philly

To answer Joshua - the band played Deacon Blues at the Trump Atlantic City, NJ show in 2006

Date: Mon, August 04, 2008, 17:07:41 ET
Posted by: TOM BARNEY, NYC

BOBBO
I was the bass player in 2000

not freddy

Date: Mon, August 04, 2008, 16:42:40 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, mad that i'm not see SD tonight

Bobbo, how many times a week are you on the radio? What is the number and can you call from anywhere in America - or is it just local?

Date: Mon, August 04, 2008, 16:21:06 ET
Posted by: Christie, at work

Any danfest plans in the works for Pala??? Ther's nothing on the Danfest page!

Date: Mon, August 04, 2008, 15:39:40 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Connie,

What a fun read!! It's like "Six Degrees of Steely Dan"!!

Date: Mon, August 04, 2008, 15:30:39 ET
Posted by: Joshua, Orange County, CA

I am fired up for tonight!!! Who is coming down to the Honda Center for #2 of the 3 So Cal tour dates? I went to LA and was blown away!!!

Quick question, does anyone here know why the Dan has not played Deacon over the last few years? I know it was played on the 92 tour, has it been played since? I understand from reading the blue book, that DF seems to be quite particular about the set lists and both he and WB are obviously perfectionist...is Deacon a particularly difficult song to play live?

Date: Mon, August 04, 2008, 15:27:02 ET
Posted by: Connie, In the vineyard

Not a review but a good read

http://www.tahoedailytribune.com/article/20080802/ENTERTAINMENT/919059065/1058

Date: Mon, August 04, 2008, 15:25:16 ET
Posted by: Bobbo, (last time today, I promise)

And,

I'll always remember Walter's "Daddy Don't Live in That NYC No More," from 2000, very kindly. For me, it was quite a revelation, before EMG and 11ToW had hit me. I remember snickers from the "in the know" members in the crowd, and a generous groove from Washington AND the girls on that one. I believe Herrington stood back and grinned like a child for the entirety of that particular number...

Bb

Date: Mon, August 04, 2008, 15:21:52 ET
Posted by: Bobbo, after the show

Well,

Again, it's going much better than I'd expected. I don't know if any of you heard the show (didn't get any calls that I know of!), but it's a FAST hour. Talk radio is something I should have been doing for years, maybe...

Our Steely Span today was about the first half of the EVERYTHING MUST GO album, played background-style, while Cledus and I discussed everything from teenaged beer-runs "back in the day" to the Eagles/Steely feud, and I even managed to slip in the importance of PURCHASING new music, as opposed to RIPPING IT OFF...

Heady stuff, for Cledus, anyway, but we're getting plenty of calls, and I hope y'all will catch us tomorrow. I plan to do GAUCHO (great idea on THE NIGHTFLY for an opener, I will try!), and memories from Denver, Chumash, and the Dallas shows I've seen. It's hard, with this guy; he tends to ramble in a different direction than I, but Hell...fun is fun, right? Oh--and the toll-free number is 888-gowolfe, so feel free to bug Cledus to tears...he's slow to answer, but I'll cover ya, for sure.

Hey--is this thing on? Out, and selah.

Okay,
Bobbo

Date: Mon, August 04, 2008, 15:16:34 ET
Posted by: MikeA, Seattle

Probably a dumb question--Is there a "master list" out there that contains all of the songs Steely Dan have played in concert since 1993? I was just curious which songs never made it to the stage?

Wicked Lib-Thanks for the set list from Tahoe. Concrats on your "kiss"

For me Walter's Monkey was the best, the song was slower than on the record but was awesome...Also thought WB's vocal on Slang of Ages was very cool a few years back.

Date: Mon, August 04, 2008, 14:48:28 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana, tangled up in Blue

For all you left-coast Bob Dylan fans out there:
He will be at Santa Monica Civic Auditorium on Sept. 3
Pre-sale going on now at Ticketmaster password: lapuebla

Date: Mon, August 04, 2008, 14:45:41 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Dr. Wu, have you not heard of Youtube? I guess you are over 15.

Date: Mon, August 04, 2008, 14:13:44 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, ??

I'm sorry, but what was that last post about? Where did you get those quotes...

Date: Mon, August 04, 2008, 13:48:48 ET
Posted by: Youtube Youth Watch,

'I turn 16 in a month and I feel almost the exact same way...Steely dan has got to be one of the greatest groups to grace music.'

'im also from a younger generation. im 16, but ive always loved steely dan. theyre my absolute favorite & josie is one of my all time favorites by them'

'.....im from a younger generation, but I luckily recognize GOOD music...no matter what the era from whence it came.'

'Steely Dan is not one guy.'

'Apparently, Steely Dan appeals to us youngsters.'

'You say your're 15... well I'm twelve, and Steely Dan is the best music I've ever heard!'

'same! im 14 but ive loved steely dan all my life n my friends think its shit but they think rihanna and akon are good for gods sake...'

'I am 15 aswell this is the best song the dan ever did' (Josie)

'I love Steely Dan. I'm 17 almost 18. Some songs and artists are just timeless'

'im probably the youngest to leave a comment (1985) but i love steely dan and i love that everyone said this was a great song.....and it is'

'i was born in 1927 and still rock ( body permitting), great song.'(Reelin')

'I'm 14 and this is the type of music I listen to. I can't stand modern music...'

'im in jazz band for school and we're playing this!!! (Rikki) AHH GOO TUBAA!!! chyeahhh thats what i play.. i know im a huge band geek!! lol. :]'

'such a good song (Peg) and im 14'

Date: Mon, August 04, 2008, 13:48:35 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, too many a holes in this world...

Hoops has made a new rule to post on the Bluebook. From today on you must be at least 15 years old to post here. Come back in a few years!

I dont get it, I'm over 15.
Nice try.

I wont say anything else out of respect for the Blue and Hoops. I'm sure they dont want another fight.

--------

Dean, yeah, on my itunes seach IGY comes out at number 14 on the one hit wonders of the 80s 2. 2!! Come on! It's not even one of the top 45!! I dont know why it would be a different number for other people...

To quote Stewie Griffen... "Bogus!"

Date: Mon, August 04, 2008, 13:32:00 ET
Posted by: Messin' with Texas, elsewhere

Wouldn't the Texans rather hear With A Gun?

Date: Mon, August 04, 2008, 12:46:53 ET
Posted by: iTunes search by close-to-50, (make that Swedish iTunes)

Did the Wu-suggested 80's one-hit wonders search and looked for number 14.

Pump Up The Volume (UK 12" Remix) by MARRS

However, Donald Fagen and IGY comes in at a healthy number 6.

Donald the one-hit wonder? At least it's one h**l of a hit!

Date: Mon, August 04, 2008, 12:13:21 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Wu,

I don't have iTunes. I'll assume it is Fagen, but why don't you just go ahead and share with us.

Thanks

Date: Mon, August 04, 2008, 12:07:24 ET
Posted by: Godwhacker,

Dr Wu - Hoops has made a new rule to post on the Bluebook. From today on you must be at least 15 years old to post here. Come back in a few years!

Date: Mon, August 04, 2008, 11:48:48 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Fuck Itunes!

Type in "80s one hit wonders 2" on the Itunes search engine and then look at the Itunes essential list for it, check out number 14 on the first list of 15 and tell me what you think.

Dumbass motherfuckers!!

Date: Mon, August 04, 2008, 10:52:14 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Did I once hear / read that Donald is a runner and that he runs in Central Park on a regular basis???

Date: Mon, August 04, 2008, 10:50:49 ET
Posted by: That's a no brainer,

Wonder if "Nightfly" would work for you as your show opener....

Date: Mon, August 04, 2008, 09:53:28 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, ...not sure

"A coach, fitness, cutting back on or quitting smoking, whatever the case"

I believe (and I think it has been said here before) that Fagen has quit smoking. Good for him.

Hey, Godwhacker, dont fuck with The Dean.

Date: Mon, August 04, 2008, 09:46:45 ET
Posted by: Bobbo, about to hit the airwaves---AGAIN!

Hey All,

A bunch of you know about my exploits in commercial radio from '88 to '99...it was a great job for a kid (I left when I was 30, so there you go), and I've missed it some, but have been fairly satisfied to move on into the "grown up" world of Blue Collar livelihood, with decidedly bent-and-twisted leisure time activities taking a back seat to What Is Most Important. In other words, though the haircut is still somewhere in the future, I really DID go out and get a job, some years ago.

A fellow named John Wolfe contacted me some weeks ago to guest on his talk show, the Daily Nooner, while the sidekick, Cledus, was away. I've always wanted to do talk, and thought I'd have a knack for keeping the conversation lively, y'know. I accepted. I've done the show four times in three weeks, on various occasions, and it's just too fun to keep to myself and the half-dozen Rednecks who might be tuning in anymore!

John is gone to Puerto Rico for his extended honeymoon, and Cledus and I will have free reign over the station, and the show, all this week, from Noon until 1pm (Central/US). I can't promise anything worth a damn whatsoever, but I DO try and injest some Steely moments here and there, and the music has sure enough improved with me hanging around...

Y'all tune in if you can, on 1230 AM in West Texas (also 1550 AM in Amarillo), and ONLINE at gowolfe.com. You can also call in, and I'll make sure we get the numbers out there early, so you don't have to sit around for a longer-than-bearable amount of time, y'know? (Don't let on that you're friends of mine from the Blue--just cover the topic, or go completely off-the-wall, it's up to you! Remember not to say "fuck," and let's see if we can freak old Cledus out. He is the quintessential Country type, so it shouldn't be hard to do.)

I'll have the Blue on one of my screens, too, so I'll be with you in spirit, either way. Thanks in advance, and by-the-bye: I'm searching for the "perfect" Dan tune to open the show this week...kind-of leaning towards either "FM" or "The Last Mall". What do you think? Selah.

Okay,
Bobbo

Date: Mon, August 04, 2008, 08:56:32 ET
Posted by: Newark, Poetry Reading in CA

The End Of The Weekend by Anthony Hecht

A dying firelight slides along the quirt
Of the cast-iron cowboy where he leans
Against my father's books. The lariat
Whirls into darkness. My girl, in skin-tight jeans,
Fingers a page of Captain Marryat,
Inviting insolent shadows to her shirt.

We rise together to the second floor.
Outside, across the lake, an endless wind
Whips at the headstones of the dead and wails
In the trees for all who have and have not sinned.
She rubs against me and I feel her nails.
Although we are alone, I lock the door.

The eventual shapes of all our formless prayers,
This dark, the cabin of loose imaginings,
Wind, lake, lip, everything awaits
The slow loosening of her underthings.
And then the noise. Something is dropped. It grates
Against the attic beams.
I climb the stairs,

Armed with a belt.
A long magnesium strip
Of moonlight from the dormer cuts a path
Among the shattered skeletons of mice.
A great black presence beats its wings in wrath
Above the boneyard burn its golden eyes.
Some small gray fur is pulsing in its grip.

Date: Mon, August 04, 2008, 07:16:36 ET
Posted by: Jive Miguel, The foot of Mt. Belzoni

Oops...yes, Walter sang Gaucho, not EYD.
Pardon my egregious offense.

Date: Mon, August 04, 2008, 02:39:22 ET
Posted by: The Wicked Librarian, ...in our happy home

Tahoe setlist courtesy of Connie in the Vineyard:

Orchestra intro: Everyone's Gone to the Movies/Fez (instrumental)
Royal Scam
I Goit the News
Show Biz Kids
Bodhisattva
2 Against Nature
Hey 19 (including soliloquy by Walter Becker)
Godwhacker
Do It Again
Gaucho (Walter on Vocals}
Babylon Sister
Parkers Band (chorus) 3 backup vocalists
Black Friday
Josie
Aja
Love is Like an Itchin' in My Heart
Peg
My Old School
Encore:
Don't Take me Alive
Kid Charlemagne

Orchestra Outtro:
Last Tango In Paris (instrumental)

Cheers,

The Wicked Librarian

Date: Mon, August 04, 2008, 01:58:35 ET
Posted by: The Wicked Librarian, ...in our happy home

As Connie in the Vinyard is my witness, earlier in the show at last night's concert, Walter blew me a kiss after I said in my best lifeguard voice, "I love you, Walter."

The Wicked Librarian

P.S. I am so glad they played DTMA last night. Connie & I agree "dumbed down" meant top 40. I missed EYD.

Date: Mon, August 04, 2008, 01:05:48 ET
Posted by: i remember, still

best hoops vocal. candle in the wind - after breathing the helium out of balloons - hysterical - the night of the first show at pine knob

nina

Date: Mon, August 04, 2008, 01:04:01 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Way to keep it classy, Whacker!

:#)

Date: Mon, August 04, 2008, 01:01:44 ET
Posted by: Godwhacker,

Dean - From lurking here on and off for the past year I never really thought you knew what the f&^k you were talking about anyway.

Date: Mon, August 04, 2008, 00:16:22 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Godwhacker,

Monkey is a not a Fagen tune, it is a Steely Dan tune. Jive and I agree with suedave on this, so apparently do Donald and Walter. 'nuff said, as far as I'm concerned.

Date: Mon, August 04, 2008, 00:03:11 ET
Posted by: Godwhacker,

Jive Miguel - Walter doesn't sing Everything You Did.

Suedave- I can't disagree with you more about Walter singing Monkey. That's a Fagen tune and he's the only one that should be singing it.

Date: Sun, August 03, 2008, 22:55:11 ET
Posted by: Jive Miguel, The foot of Mt. Belzoni

Dean,

Like you, I do very much appreciate the occasional Walter vocals. Monkey was sweet, EYD was excellent, and I recall a beautiful performance of his own Book of Liars during the 9/14/94 Irvine CA show.

As to Donald's pipes..we had 7th row at the 6/13 Beacon show. The "Overture" (Movies to Fez to Scam) started at 9 sharp, and Don & Walt coolly (sp?) sauntered onto the stage as the prodigal sons returning home. Don took his seat at the keys, and launched into the Scam vocals. The power and control of his voice, compared to all the other shows I've seen ('94, 2K, '03, '06), was simply superior, and sustained through the evening. The entire band feeds off that voice. Undoubtedly Don knows that the longevity of this great band depends on those pipes, so I'd figure he's made a conscious effort to strengthen his voice. A coach, fitness, cutting back on or quitting smoking, whatever the case, he sounded superb and absolutely nailed the high notes. Hey, he gets the occasional assist from the ladies, but it's been smoothly integrated.

Every song was great, and a funked up Show Biz Kids was the most pleasant surprise of the evening.

Walter's guitar work is better than ever, with greater complexity and superb timing.

Finally, as fabulous as all the previous tour bands have been, this years group "swings" just that much more.

Date: Sun, August 03, 2008, 22:25:06 ET
Posted by: suedave, how did I get sunburnt

I had heard they'd run thru Bodhisattva in sound check before the 1st Woodinville show. I was hoping they'd play it, one of my favs.

I think every song Walter has sung in the shows over the years has been fantastic - Monkey being one of the highlights! Not that I'm surprised that don't all agree on which song, album, or show is the best. It's so damn good to have choices. Let the choices continue.

Thanks for posting those Sirius lists!

Date: Sun, August 03, 2008, 21:32:41 ET
Posted by: A goof, A Buzz

This should be declared the official soft drink of Steely Dan to be served at all forthcoming Danfests.

http://tinyurl.com/5oa5b3

As the description says, "woo, it's dynamite."

Date: Sun, August 03, 2008, 20:56:48 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Per-Gunnar,

Thanks for the lists. That's some great music, there. One thing, though...not one Charlie Parker between the two? Those BASTARDS!

:#)

As for Walter singing Monkey (and other SD songs in concert), don't get me wrong, nobody sings them better than Donald, IMO. I would never make that argument. As much as I liked Walt's Gaucho vocal (quite a bit, in case you didn't know), I don't think it was better than had Don done it...just that it was quite good with Walter on vocal. Same with Monkey. IMO, Walter didn't disappoint me, at all...I thought it was quite good, in concert...same with Haitian Divorce and Jack of Speed.

I appreciate Walter's voice for what it is (which if pretty expressive and interesting), instead of complaining about what it isn't (which is Donald's voice). Hopefully, it will never come down to this, but I much prefer Don turf a few vocals every show (to Walt, the girls, Jeff Young) if necessary, to save his pipes, than turn the vocals over to someone new. Like you, Jive, I can't imagine anyone else being the general voice of The Dan. But, I can see them writing the occasional song for Walter to sing.

But, it isn't as if Don's voice is getting thinner or weaker. If anything, his voice seems STRONGER than ever, on recordings and in concert. It may have lost some a little top end range, but overall, fuller and stronger. I think he helps himself in concert, by letting taking a few tunes off, too.

Date: Sun, August 03, 2008, 20:40:42 ET
Posted by: Jive Miguel, The foot of Mt. Belzoni

Bob,

Agreed on Monkey. Walter's voice is "OK", Donald's voice IS Steely Dan, and is magnificent.

A good friend contends that Don's pipes will eventually fade, and that he'll eventually turn over the reins to a newcomer. Call me a snob, call me a purist, but as Don's pipes go, so goes SD. My $.02.

Date: Sun, August 03, 2008, 20:36:30 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., NJ

Thanks for the Sirius report, PGE...

Date: Sun, August 03, 2008, 20:07:28 ET
Posted by: Donald & Walter as DJ:s, Pure Jazz, Sirius Radio

Here's a rundown of what Donald and Walter played on Sirius Radio this weekend. Two separate shows with Donald's being a replay of the one he did in February.

DONALD FAGEN:

1. Cannonball Adderley - Toy
2. Gene Ammons & Sonny Stitt - There Is No Greater Love
3. Miles Davis - It Could Happen To You
4. Red Garland - Birk's Works
5. Dizzy Gillespie - Dizzy's Business
6. Dizzy Gillespie - On The Sunny Side Of The Street
7. Dizzy Gillespie - Something In Your Smile
8. Horace Silver -Song For My Father
9. Coleman Hawkins - Swingin' Skotch
10. Charles Mingus - Slop
11. Gerry Mulligan - Blueport
12. Benny Goodman - Good-Bye

WALTER BECKER:

1. Duke Ellington - Jack The Bear
2. Count Basie - Li'l Darlin'
3. Charles Mingus - Goodbye Pork Pie Hat
4. Lee Konitz - Marshmallow
5. Lee Konitz & Gerry Mulligan - Too Marvelous For Words
6. John Coltrane - Little Melonae
7. John Coltrane - Dakar
8. Elvin Jones - Smoke Rings
9. Miles Davis - Basin Street Blues
10. Eric Dolphy - G.W.
11. Joe Henderson - Blue Bossa
12. Wayne Shorter - 502 (Drinkin' And Drivin')

Date: Sun, August 03, 2008, 19:37:55 ET
Posted by: Kirk, Sacto Area

1. Had all three in 'fros.
2. New Frontier was one of those that went missing. Got Bodhisattva instead--sounded good.
3. Sadly, senility, laziness, and I forget what else . . . did I already say senility? . . . prevented me from jotting down the set list. My best recollection is that it closely resembled the Woodinville set list.

It's possible that Connie or the Wicked Librarian took better notes than I. They spent the night at Tahoe, sipping chilled post-concert wine on the verandah of some posh lakeview manse. I'm sure when they return, their report will be more complete, and considerably more interesting.

Date: Sun, August 03, 2008, 17:48:46 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Thanks for the report Kirk!
2 or 3 gals?
Was New Frontier back in?
Setlist?

Date: Sun, August 03, 2008, 16:50:21 ET
Posted by: Kirk, Sacto Area

A mini-report on last night's Harvey's gig:
1. A typically beautiful evening at Lake Tahoe: cool but not cold, cloudless sky, the smell of pine (and MJ).
2. A noisier, more vocal crowd than either the Berkeley or Saratoga shows. Instantly into the mood, and very vocal throughout the concert. This might have been helped by the blood alcohol content of many of the attendees. (I was also surprised at how far into the show people were arriving--a bit distracting, and maybe rude.)
3. The crowd's enthusiasm rubbed off on the band: Walter and Donald seemed the loosest I've seen them in the NorCal series. Walter's solos were longer, more frequent, and superb. His Hey 19 soliloquy was much better than those of the other two NorCal shows. Donald was loose and appeared to be enjoying himself. The rest of the band reflected the crowd's enthusiasm. Of the three NorCal shows, this one was (in my opinion) the best so far.
4. Having said that: during the sound check (which was easy to catch because the venue is so accessible), Donald said something about "dumbing it down" . . . which I think was a reference to the set list. It tended more toward the "oldies but goodies" menu of earlier tours, but I think that reflected the assumption that most of the people in the audience were not diehard Dan fans, but rather gamblers and vacationers who were there because they'd heard of Steely Dan and knew some of their hits. So while I missed Glamour Profession and Everything You Did, I thought the synergy between the crowd and the band made up for the loss.
5. Show began at 7:45, ended at 9:45.

I'm already looking forward to the 9 Aug gig at Ironstone.

Date: Sun, August 03, 2008, 15:25:05 ET
Posted by: king, of the world

best walter vocal ever. jack of speed manassas.

brilliant.

end of discussion.

KINGO

Date: Sun, August 03, 2008, 15:17:23 ET
Posted by: Bob, on the ball of my ass

i love Water Becker but Monkey In Your Soul preformed by Mr. Becker was "not happening" in my opinion. That song must be sung by Fagen. You can't even argue that.

Gaucho works for Becker, Monkey In You Soul does not!

Date: Sun, August 03, 2008, 13:57:24 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana, va

Great "new" pic of WB and dog on WB website....click on "press and promo"......

Date: Sun, August 03, 2008, 10:53:42 ET
Posted by: Craig B,

Thanks Hoops

Date: Sun, August 03, 2008, 08:09:55 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana, wondering

So, how were The Boys and Girls at Tahoe last night??
Any reports from the show?

Date: Sun, August 03, 2008, 02:11:35 ET
Posted by: Jive Miguel, Bogata (Bethesda, MD)

I'm sure you're right on target, ha-ha. We saw SD in Irvine in '94 and 2000. 2000 opened with Boston Rag on the 2vN tour.

As to the "stuff", 1994 was sublime, 2000 was "speedy" as though cut. I recall at one point feeling as though I was sweating profusely, and yet I was bone dry. Perhaps explaining that sligh sense of dread during Monkey.

Date: Sun, August 03, 2008, 01:56:39 ET
Posted by: Ha-ha, w

That must have been some weed, Jive, because "Monkey" wasn't performed until the 2000 tour.

And what a performance it was. Still one of the top songs I listen to when I go back to old SD boots.

Date: Sun, August 03, 2008, 01:52:28 ET
Posted by: Jive Miguel, Bogata (Bethesda, MD)

By the way, Dean,

I agree with your assessment "I think this band is a better tighter unit, overall".

The 90's bands were indeed beautiful, tight and disciplined. SD 2008 is filled with session players who stand on their own more as soloists, and the genius of Walt and Donald is how they have weaved a group of players with such strong individuality into a well -oiled "team".

My cousin got comp tix for the 6/13 show at Beacon. He's never seen SD lived, but loves their studio work. He's been a writer, agent and publicist in the music industry for 30 years, and his first impression was how the band "swings" and "flies". I couldn't agree more. Such is their amazing evolution.

Date: Sun, August 03, 2008, 01:24:18 ET
Posted by: Jive Miguel, Bogata (Bethesda, MD)

Dean,

I remember the performance of Monkey very well. My girlfriend and I were very, very stoned. Just some very high quality pot grown in California with furry bright green, orange and gold buds. Almost looked to beautiful to smoke, but we got over it quickly!

Monkey came on, and it took on an entirely different demeanor than any other tune in the set. Immaculately executed, but dark, nasty and cynical. My girlfriend was kind of squirming in her seat, and she turned to me and said she thought it was brilliantly performed, but that she found it "uncomfortably disturbing". Perhaps the cold, clinical attitude toward addiction. Then again, that's what makes SD like no other act.

I'm just now exploring Pandora, so still working on fouling up the "genome". I tuned in Steely Dan Radio and have been adding some eclectic stuff. We'll see how long before it cracks, like Hal the computer in 2001 Space Odyssey. For some reason, I'm getting lots of Los Lobos.

Date: Sun, August 03, 2008, 00:59:35 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Jive,

Yes, Monkey in Your Soul was really outstanding in concert. A perfect song for Walter, live. And, that band really was terrific ("no trombones" really cracked me up)...but, ya know...I think this band is a better tighter unit, overall.

Pandora is an interesting project. I started playing with it, quite a long time ago, when it was in beta, and still go back and test it, from time to time. The problem is, I always "break" it. The idea is to develop this music genome (if memory serves me) and to decode your musical tastes based on elements of the music, itself. A quick check of Wikipedia gives some examples of what the program looks at: "There are 2,000 focus traits. Examples of these are rhythm syncopation, key tonality, vocal harmonies and displayed instrumental proficiency."

The problem is, with the possible exception of "displayed instrumental proficiency" few of their categories have anything to do with how I select/judge music (and even that is really tangential, for me). So their suggestions rarely please me, and when I add more and more artists to my profile, Pandora basically just fails, and says it is unable to process for me. But, it seems to work well for many people.

Date: Sun, August 03, 2008, 00:21:42 ET
Posted by: Jive Miguel, Bogata (Bethesda, MD)

Anyone ever heard Gold Teeth off of Ecstasy in concert? Seems like it would be tailor-made for Think Fast.

Yes, I recall Monkey In Your Soul, sung by Walter during the September, 1994 show in Irvine. 3 saxophones, no trumpet, no trombone, and the great Bill Ware on the vibes with other assorted percussion. Beautiful band. Donald introduced the ladies as "The Choir" fittingly.

If you haven't visited Pandora.com, please treat yourselves.

How are Don's pipes holding up?

Date: Sat, August 02, 2008, 23:04:43 ET
Posted by: sirius, online

Donald could be a late night dj ya know so

Date: Sat, August 02, 2008, 20:14:26 ET
Posted by: Phred,

Ah assure me you will be in lip-lock from like Burpbank to the honda-house (Anaheim), homegrrl, and ah maht spring for tick ticket, some kessler, mudmex, and lay-tex.................don't u don't it without yr fez on o no............;--)

Date: Sat, August 02, 2008, 16:11:45 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Oops! Thanks for the AIA correction!
Still wish they would have included
the great clap-along though. ;O)
Thanks suedave & MikeA for the nice
Seattle reports. Sorry to hear about
the rain. Wonder why Gene Stout thought
Donald's voice sounded a bit strained?
Glad to see so many others are enjoying
EYD this tour as much as I am! So, did
they drop EYD the second night or not?
Wonder why they dropped NF? Perhaps they
arethinking about swapping in another solo
Fagen track? I still would love to hear
Deacon this tour! I never tire of it.
Especially with this years "band"! Jeff
is having a "grand" time this year.
Wicked Librarian -
Um....wow. Don't think I have ever read
a "classified" like that here on the Blue.
;O)

Date: Sat, August 02, 2008, 15:26:23 ET
Posted by: suedave, inspired by Lurker Rays review

and another stolen inspiration

How embarrassing. Yes I was a little fuzzy. Must have been the wine.
What a maroon.

Where did the bastard run? One of the best opening lines.

While listening to Hey 19, my friend mentioned that the "fine columbian" reference dated the song. I had to agree, but it's a great line anyways. One other favorite line that always cracks me up is "I may never walk again".

Date: Sat, August 02, 2008, 15:20:07 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Dash, I thought 08 was much better than 07 in Boston. It wasn't just the setlist, either. The band was tighter, more confident, and took more chances. The only show for me that tops Boston 08 is Boston 00, my first Steely Dan show -- and rock concert -- ever. What about 07 was superior to 08 in your mind?

Date: Sat, August 02, 2008, 14:24:44 ET
Posted by: MikeA, Seattle

Through with Buzz request..That got me thinking about Monkey in Your Soul. In fact, I'd give Dean's left nut to hear that again :)

This would never happen, but it would be real cool to hear them play whole albums (same song sequence) at a concert. For example on one tour, you could hear Prezel Logic-Intermission-Katy Lied. Next tour, Royal Scam & Aja and so on. by the time they got all the albums played it would be time for retirement:)

Date: Sat, August 02, 2008, 13:28:32 ET
Posted by: hoops, for the clueless

BTW: Would appreciate being emailed off line any summary details for the Danfests planned so I can include them in the Dandom Digest -- especially those in the LA area, Pala/San Diego, Vegas, etc so I can include in the Dandom Digest and on the list. I've queried the lists similarly.

Thanks!

Jim

Date: Sat, August 02, 2008, 13:21:01 ET
Posted by: hoops, for the clueless

There are 40 people who have signed up interested in a Pala Danfest.

Of course, it looks very last minute as to organizing, but you should sign up for the Dandom list for San Digeo (get last minute emails) and check back for the Print-and-go Danfest Summary page at http://dandom.com/danfests/sandiego

I'll see that you are added Craig.

Jim

P.S Save for SueDave's post about Seattle #2, I haven't caught up here yet.

Date: Sat, August 02, 2008, 12:59:06 ET
Posted by: Larry,

Craig - I'm going to both Orange County area shows. Tell me where the party is! I'm from the east coast and I don't have a clue on where to meet up.

Date: Sat, August 02, 2008, 12:29:19 ET
Posted by: Craig B,

For Pala Show is there anybody on the Blue that is going get together
for pre show activites etc
If so please email me I'd love to meet

Date: Sat, August 02, 2008, 10:49:07 ET
Posted by: correction,

the live version of reeling in the years from AIA is from the 1994 chicago show.

Date: Sat, August 02, 2008, 10:31:26 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Whoo Hoo Gretchen! Make one for me!

Thank God we have the girls to keep the boys here from going too far astray!

Date: Sat, August 02, 2008, 10:26:52 ET
Posted by: Gretchen, squeezing limes

Hell, we'll start early. Cuban breezes for the house.......I'll take a blood orange mimosa.

G

Date: Sat, August 02, 2008, 10:10:07 ET
Posted by: HeyMike, west of that even

Uncle Bob,

That must of been Steely Dan
Live at the great, late Poplar
Creek - Hoffman Estates -
August 15, 1993 ;O)
Yup. Truly a great evening.
Our Lawn! Also that fantastic
evening's version of "Reeling"
appears on AIA. Too bad they
didn't use the audience clap-along
on the final CD.

Off to see Shep at Vibrato.

Great show, I swear thats me whistling at the beginning of the song.

Date: Sat, August 02, 2008, 08:03:34 ET
Posted by: steelydoc, near the Tower

walterbecker.com updated with a nice pic of WB...click on the pic and it links to all his interviews etc for C$

Date: Sat, August 02, 2008, 08:00:57 ET
Posted by: SteelyDanaa, va

The heat must be getting to all you boys.....

Pour them a Cuban Breeze, Gretchen :-)

Date: Sat, August 02, 2008, 05:16:36 ET
Posted by: It might be good to be tarted,

If you've been 'tarted' does that mean some loose English bird has latched on to you for the night ?

And if you're 'retarted' does that mean she's back again the next night ?

Date: Sat, August 02, 2008, 02:46:04 ET
Posted by: another bald guy,

Don't get so excited about that 1993 tour set list. The reason being is that the band they have right now is/was a lot better/tighter than that band. Now if the 2008 band would have that 1993 set list we could talk about a great show!

Date: Sat, August 02, 2008, 02:13:19 ET
Posted by: Little Wild One, ack as well

Hey Dean, we in Texas are known for our hospitable Danfests!

Y'all are welcome, ya hear.

Date: Sat, August 02, 2008, 01:21:45 ET
Posted by: almost gothic negative girl, I do know

"Had I known an innocent little baby-killing remark was going to set the discussion off in this direction, I would never have mad it."

No such thing as an "innocent little baby-killing remark."

But Dean, you partially redeem yourself through all of your other thoughtful posts, the time you put in, when you have very deep stuff going on in your personal life.

I too really like "Through with Buzz."

Date: Sat, August 02, 2008, 01:15:31 ET
Posted by: straight guy, ok!

i'd have sex with jerome aniton dead or alive to hear a good version of kullee!

aw,

you know who this is

Date: Sat, August 02, 2008, 01:05:16 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

We're good, Mike.

Had I known an innocent little baby-killing remark was going to set the discussion off in this direction, I would never have mad it.

But, the point remains: I really like Through With Buzz and would love to see it performed with strings.

Date: Sat, August 02, 2008, 00:34:41 ET
Posted by: almost gothic negative girl, I do know

Aack. Enough.

What is going on here? The band is touring in 2008, something a lot of us thought we might never see, and yet some of you folks feel the need to out-weird each other here on the celestial Blue? Perhaps dig deeper, give a bit more thought before you post... A lot of it just reads like a bunch of gnarly pre-teen crapola.

There are people tuning in to this website because of the tour, and wouldn't it be more appropriate to try and make them feel welcome into the house of Dan, rather than scare them all away with this fractious noise. Please, try to make a positive influence in the world, which is currently chock-full of bullshit.

Date: Sat, August 02, 2008, 00:19:53 ET
Posted by: MikeA, Sea

The Dean---Ok, we can shake now....

MikeA

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 23:47:44 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, ...i dont know

"Don't worry Janie, I was just bluffing. If SD took me up on my offer, I would certainly renege on my promise."

Hmm... Dean... I think that if Becker and Fagen and the whole gang came up to you with a child in hand and said they will take the offer whist an orchestra reherses in the background, I don't think you have the guts to say no to that... I know I wouldn't.

So why dont you stop and think before you say something stupid like that again, ok!? ;)

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 23:40:17 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Don't worry Janie, I was just bluffing. If SD took me up on my offer, I would certainly renege on my promise. Besides, the child might be able to kick my ass!

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 23:37:05 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Boys, boys, boys! Enough now with the raping, killing and pillaging!!!! Is the heat getting to everyone?

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 23:30:26 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Mike,

C'mon. I smiled after I said it :#)...that should make it all better.

And, of course it was in bad taste...it was meant to be in bad taste. But, funny trumps bad taste, every time. If you didn't laugh, maybe it should offend you. If you did, then everything is AOK.

I laughed when I typed it, so it's cool as far as I'm concerned.

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 23:24:35 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, wowzers!

Yikes... I love that song, but I think hehehe took it a tad too far...

Maybe just kill the grandma, but everything else is very unnessesary.

;)

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 23:22:13 ET
Posted by: MikeA, Saeattle

hehehe-your a spineless piece of shit. Grow up punk.

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 23:19:06 ET
Posted by: hehehe..., hehehe...

Quoting MikeA's quote...

"The Dean-I am quoting you below.

"I absolutely LOVE Through With Buzz. I'd kill a small child to hear them perform it live with a symphony. :#)"

Mighty poor choice of words there. Even kidding, it's in BAD taste.

MikeA "

Calm down bitch.

I'd rape and slaughter a poor widowed grandma whose retarted grandchildren (whose parents died in the 9/11 attacks) are watching and then rape and slaughter the retarted grandchildren to hear Turn that Heartbeat Over Again in concert...

:)

Hm... Dean don't sound so bad no, do he??

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 23:14:55 ET
Posted by: Hey!, Ya know what...

it doesnt matter who says they have the best show... because the first show that Doctor Wu is played at will then stand as the all time best, so why don't you all shut the fuck up...

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 23:09:08 ET
Posted by: MikeA, Seattle

The Dean-I am quoting you below.

"I absolutely LOVE Through With Buzz. I'd kill a small child to hear them perform it live with a symphony. :#)"

Mighty poor choice of words there. Even kidding, it's in BAD taste.

MikeA

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 22:56:17 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu - Off to Bel Air

Uncle Bob,

That must of been Steely Dan
Live at the great, late Poplar
Creek - Hoffman Estates -
August 15, 1993 ;O)
Yup. Truly a great evening.
Our Lawn! Also that fantastic
evening's version of "Reeling"
appears on AIA. Too bad they
didn't use the audience clap-along
on the final CD.

Off to see Shep at Vibrato.

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 22:54:18 ET
Posted by: Hot Chick, Heading for the pool

Check out this website-has a variety of set lists for different tours but includes some for the 1993-1994 tours. Those were the days of long shows and unusual choices of songs. Glad I was there!

http://www.angelfire.com/rock4/ryth1/SteelyDanSetlists.html

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 21:55:07 ET
Posted by: must.ve been the Steely Dan Orchestra Tour? , 15 years ago, not 5!

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 21:43:50 ET
Posted by: tell me more, tell me more,

Uncle Bob

Really, 26 songs, 2003 Tour, you're shittin' me? That is a SD fan's dream set list, solo walt & don, SD deep cuts, pre-SD. Damn.

If it truly existed, why don't you write a review and we'll consider the factors, like the venue, solo performances, crowd involvement, no security hassles, weather etc. I am and I'm sure others are interested in such as story.

Sounds like a list changer to me. It might even topple Soboba and Roseland for pete's sake!

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 21:23:55 ET
Posted by: Uncle Bob, Whatever happened to my ha-ha-yeah...

Quite staggering really, the premise that the all of these supposed "best ever" Dan shows have taken place over the last couple of years...

Where then would you rank a show that had this set list?

Royal Scam /Peg / Aja (Instrumental overture)
Green Earrings
Bodhisattva
I.G.Y.
Josie
Hey Nineteen
Book Of Liars
Cringemaker
Chain Lightning
Band Intro
Our Lawn
Green Flower Street
True Companion
Black Friday
Tuzz's Shadow
Deacon Blues
Tomorrow's Girls
Babylon Sisters
Reelin' In The Years
Fall Of '92
Third World Man
Trans-Island Skyway
Countermoon
Teahouse On The Tracks
My Old School
FM

Know where I'd rank it? Best show ever...Know why? Because it was my first show ever, 2 weeks short of 15 years ago today...

Get over it already...

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 21:23:42 ET
Posted by: You care about the list,

Dash La Rue- Do you "dash" across the street? Do you know that is what your name means?

Anyhow, all you have done is attack me and the list. If the list is wrong, in your opinion, what is your list? The list is there for discussion. I will tell that many factors go into making this list, of what is a great show, not just the weather. The weather, for example was horribly hot @Soboba, yet it ranks quite high. You have to go back and study the reviews over time
and weigh the key factors out.

Keep in mind that there are many lists out there that are not like a won and lost record. THe NCAA National football rankings, best dressed lists, sexiest man alive etc. really have no factual basis that can be pinned down.

So stop the attacks, and you or others might come up with a better list. For now this IS the Top 5 list until you or others re-rank it and explain why via rational discussion. The list will be updated as the Think Fast Tour unfolds and we receive more information. The reviews so far by Lurker Ray, Sue Dave and others been world-class, so there is definitely a chance that revisions are forthcoming.

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 20:50:24 ET
Posted by: Dash LaRue,

Like I said get rid of the list. Who cares? Besides you are uninformed. The party and show at Boston in 2007 WAS better.
You are wrong. And quite frankly Red Rox has an unfortunate lasting "record" for all to see. Too many audience recordings and videos of the show are out there. Truth is, the show wasn't all that grand. Don't believe the hype and again, who cares about the list!

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 20:48:43 ET
Posted by: and next he'll say he likes Eleanor Rigby.....,

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 20:22:44 ET
Posted by: stop complaining and let's improve the list ,

Dash

Boston 2008 got rave reviews this year and the setlist was longer and way better than 2007. Soboba and Roseland go without saying, they both could be tied for first. Red Rox was way up there in the number and strength of posts here, but could drop down later. Beacon #3 was already acknowledged and now Nokia, LA has gotten excellent reviews both here and in the mainstream media. What's the problem?

If you don't like the list, then rearrange it to what you think it should be and WHY. Your complaints at this point are backed by nothing and are not of any use.

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 20:09:35 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Penance,

Having to repeatedly listen to three SD songs (I don't care which three) is very light punishment, IMO. While Blues Beach and Cousin Dupree aren't my favorite SD tunes, I absolutely LOVE Through With Buzz. I'd kill a small child to hear them perform it live with a symphony. :#) Steely Dan plus strings? It doesn't get any better than that.

You are a very merciful deity, my Steely Dan friend.

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 19:20:40 ET
Posted by: Dash LaRue,

It goes & so should your list making. As per yesterday. Your grocery list is dumbass and makes no sense. Again, the 2nd Boston show in 2007 is a crowd favorite around here and topped this years Boston show by all accounts. Red Rox didn't quite rock that hard this year. After the rain delay, the band was stiff and many of the performances were not quite there. That fact has been documented by YouTube videos and about three different audience recordings. It was wet onstage after all. Please get a clue. Better yet, how about just dropping this whole list business. What is the frequency Kenneth? Where are you getting the list from Kenneth? What is the frequency Kenneth?

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 19:16:42 ET
Posted by: your penance,

M Heuer is all contrite now, eh? Serves you right for dissin' Walt!

Well, for penance you must say three Hail Marys, five Our Fathers and listen to Cousin Dupree, Blues Beach and Through With Buzz ten times each.

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 19:02:16 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, Friday Blues Bash

M. Heuer,

A couple of things. First of all, there has been much speculation that Riki was written about the wife of one of Don's former professors...her name was Riki. I don't think Don has ever confirmed that the song was about her, I might be wrong. I do believe he admits that is where he got the name from, though.

In a very old interview (the one I alluded to earlier, where Don says the only SD song he remembers writing himself was Barrytown) the boys said that, typically, Don had the early beginnings of a tune, but that the tune was far from finished. So, while Don may start writing more songs than Walt, they tend to write them together.

As far as Walt's demeanor in interviews, I must say, I get a very different hit than you. In the more recent interviews (from pre-release of 2vN, let's say) I find Walter the more open interview subject. Both Don and Walt seem more comfortable with questions, than back in the day, but Walt even more so. Just a difference in our interpretations, I guess.

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 18:36:04 ET
Posted by: it goes like this--Revision 2,

Selfish Gene, you are correct about Lurker Ray and his formula for picking the Greatest Steely Dan Shows. Could be he's onto something? Or is it something he's on?

Check THIS out. Looks like Wash D.C., Merriweather Post just today waw knocked out of the Top 5:

1. Red Rox 2008
2. Soboba 2006 & Roseland 2003
3. Nokia Theatre, Los Angeles**********
4. Beacon Show #3 2008
5. Boston 2008

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 18:19:07 ET
Posted by: rikki,

Horace only inspired two notes for Rikki.

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 18:16:48 ET
Posted by: Errrr, no,

Rikki was music by Horace Silver.

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 18:10:19 ET
Posted by: M Heuer,

Hoops, etal.:

I do, as I hope everyone here at the Blue does, truly love SD. They are, for me, the Beatles aside, the most innovative and sophisticated/classy musical group/band the US (the WORLD, as far as I'm concerned) has ever produced - bar none.

I may be remiss in stating that DF wrote all of "Rikki" - however, I'm pretty sure I read in an Entertainment Weekly article with DF re-visiting Bard that he had a thing/fling w/ Rikki Ducornet at Bard and subsequently wrote(most of) the song about her? Also, there was another article concerning the same elsewhere (Sweet's book?).

Regarding the statement that DF has more to do w/ the (horn)arrangements of especially, SD of late, and probably the fact that DF studied arranging privately, is pretty much confirmed in the liner notes of both 2VN and EMG (not to mention Nightfly [w/ Mounsey], Kama and MTC) and by WB himself in interviews.

That said, I really am pleasantly surprised and grateful for C$. It really, and I thought I'd never say this, has superceded MTC in listenability and likability for me. Bravo to WB.

I'm sorry if my last post sounded mean-spirited. Sometimes it just seems like WB puts up a defensive/protective shield especially during interviews that kind of rubs me the wrong way.

Thanks as always to Hoops for this Forum/website.

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 16:54:34 ET
Posted by: hemiola, turp+winsornewton

I heard a radio phone-in interview with Walter.
DJ Who would you consider to be your musician or group that made you want to bcome a musician?
W My dad had a hi-fi in the fifties and maybe 4 or 5 records, one was The Dave Brubeck Quartet Live and I fell in love with Paul Desmond's alto. I thought it was the most beautiful sound in the world.
DJ Which song do wish you had written?
W I would have to look at some royalty statements.
DJ What was your last straight job?
W Clerk in a bookstore.
DJ Who would you most like to work with?
W Jean Seberg

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 16:37:08 ET
Posted by: Or...,

Awwww.... Sue's OK. I'm sure SueDave was enjoying one of those Chiba-Chiba Nights that Walter sings about

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 16:34:44 ET
Posted by: The Wicked Librarian, In the stacks reading erotica...

Oh, yeah and I don't recall which it was at, Berkeley or Saratoga, but Donald sang,"...when 'I' was so inclined..." Yet another nasty, raunchy twist!!!

Oh how twist, twisty, twisted they are... I have been wanting them to play this song live for years... And hearing Walter sing would really fit into my fantasy "filthy" mind...

The Wicked Librarian

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 16:21:34 ET
Posted by: Steely Dana, sizzling

Wicked:
I just watched the youtube video of EYD from Red Rocks, and it sounded like Donald was singing "do me everything you did, baby"
there as well !!! Wonderfully nasty :-)

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 16:13:35 ET
Posted by: The Wicked Librarian, ...with the show folk on the sand

EYD is my favorite!!! It is so very twisted... At the Mountain Winery Donald and the girls sang,"Do me everything you did..." at the end of the tune.

Did anyone else catch that? I don't remember this at Berkeley, but I was super-excited and maybe just didn't catch.

F***IN' HOT!!! If you ask lil ole me...

The Wicked Librarian

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 16:06:07 ET
Posted by: Lars,

Suedave - Since 'Everything You Did' is the best song of the night I never would have forgotten if they played it or not. I wait for it! I crave it!

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 16:02:57 ET
Posted by: The Wicked Librarian, Drinking kirschwasser from a shell...

So here's the deal...

I am 47, 5'6", sterling tressed, all-the-more-to-love-sized, well dressed, smart, happy, snarky (I know, I know, that's an oxymoron) sweet, funny, and entertaining woman. See myspace.com/hollyhighbeams for pics.

I am available to be squired to the Mountain Winery concert on your dime. I am not particular about seating. I am a very exuberant and fun Dan fan. I am happy to drive and meet there or make other arrangements.

I have been to the Berkeley and Mountain Winery shows earlier in the week on my dime. I have tix for Tahoe, Murphys, and both nights in Santa Rosa. I have attended from one to 3 shows from each tour since 1993. I have collaborated on organizing 3 Danfests thus far and have a couple up my sleeve at this posting.

Contact me if you are interested hi_beemz@yahoo.com

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 15:43:27 ET
Posted by: MikeA, Seattle

Thanks for all the Rhoades info, interesting stuff! So he is traveling around with a thousand pounds of Rhoades gear. That will break the roadies back and jack up your fuel bill:)

I used to use the old MXR Phaser for guitar in the 70's. Wish I still had it. Real cool unit, but kind of noisy. I am sure DF has had his reworked to clean it up for professional use.

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 15:24:46 ET
Posted by: MikeA, Seattle

Here is a link to the Seattle Times review from the other night

http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/pop/373107_steely01q.html

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 15:12:41 ET
Posted by: suedave, memory munge or memory lapse

I take back my corrected set list - I don't remember if they did EYD the 2nd night.

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 15:10:36 ET
Posted by: Dan Belcher, Louisville, KY

"The Rhodes Suitcase models come in two parts - the piano top (around 120 lbs.) and the amp/speaker bottom (around 100 lbs.)."

Donald's pianos are all around 1975-era (before they found some ways to reduce weight) and they're all the 88 key models. Therefore, it's probably more like 135 lbs minimum for the top piece. Ouch!

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 14:45:14 ET
Posted by: names of Donald's Rhodes,

Someone mentioned one of Donald's Rhodes pianos is named "Selma".

Does anyone know the names of the other four?

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 14:43:29 ET
Posted by: Donald's Rhodes pianos,

I love this topic.

Donald's pianos have all been restored by a guy in LA (I'll try to find his name again), so they are essentially like new. They will likely last beyond Donald's live performing career.

I think Donald or Roger Nichols said in a magazine interview that the MXR is an original from the 70s. Donald has said he doesn't like buying new equipment.

The Rhodes Suitcase models come in two parts - the piano top (around 120 lbs.) and the amp/speaker bottom (around 100 lbs.).

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 14:39:00 ET
Posted by: suedave, recovery mode

Lars - my mistake - they did play Everything You Did last night after Show Biz Kids, must have been pouring wine while cluing my friend in about The Royal Scam (she doesn't have it!) when I should have been taking better notes!

Corrected set list

Medley - Movies / Fez / Royal Scam
I've Got the News
Show Biz Kids
Everything You Did
Black Cow
2VN
Hey 19
Godwhacker
Do It Again
Babylon Sisters
Parker's Band
Black Friday
Josie
Aja
Green Earrings
Itchin' in my Heart/Intro (probably came before Peg or Green Earrings)
Peg
Don't Take Me Alive
Kid Charlemagne
Last Tango

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 14:08:20 ET
Posted by: Connie, In the vineyard

Kirk from Sac -

Email me please.

Connie

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 13:56:33 ET
Posted by: MikeA, Seattle

More St. Michele thoughts from Woodenville...

Chris: Thanks for that Rhodes info. Still, with 4 or 5 duability is an issue oweing to their age and amount of travel. Do you know if DF still uses the old stomp box phaser units from the 70's?

Sue: You busted ME as well. I forgot to include Babylon Sisters and Green Earings in my setlist post. IMO, Green Earings was not as hot as in past shows. I included Home at Last and I guess I hear it in my head but they did not play it last night. I don't want to be a baby, but yeah, it was cold and miserable last night. I agree that it probably affected the playing a bit, but at least they were dry onstage. When the house lights came on, we must have looked like a bunch of wet rats to the band.

Light show was very original. Seemed real simple at first but it was multi layered and tastefully done. Started out looking like a lava lamp and morphed into chainlink fences, rotateing earth and cool LED lights throughout.

They turned the house lights up on us for the "gas in the car" bit. I thought that was pretty funny.

It gets dark late up here, and Donald commented how it finally was getting dark. Wonder what he would say in Alaska??

Jon was tuning his guitar during at least one of the songs. I think it was the 335 he was having trouble with. Maybe weather related...

Ran into my boss at the show (twice). His wife is a big fan but I had no idea they were going. Anyway at the end of the show, he said, "Now I know what a Steely Dan is". Not knowing what he meant, I said "Well, you finally know who Steely Dan is then?" Turned out he was not talking about the band, but how the band name originated. Got a good laugh out of that....

Trivia: After the show, we saw that the band was cramming into a coupleof black vans. Of course, Don and Walt were long gone by that time. No tour buses from what we saw. Probably meant they flew up here instead of the tour bus.

On the way home my wife and I were talking about the show and the band etc. She asked me how much I thought the band gets paid to play with Walter and Donald. Said I have no idea. Doing some rough math I guessed maybe average of $100,000 ($33,000/mo.) each for the 3 months?? Some get more and some less, I dunno....just a curiosity.

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 12:06:56 ET
Posted by: Stimpy, I'm a Petty fan as well, but I can't seem to forget

something that happened at one of the Fillmore shows the first time he did a 2 week stand.

It was the 2nd or 3rd night, I think.

I was down on the floor by the bar and the band started to play one of the tunes (I don't remember what) and then they STOPPED playing because the MIDI track was skipping. Tom looked a little embarassed until they got it fixed. Most of the crowd was oblivious (it smelled like Indonesia in the there).

I remember being VERY surprised that they would use recorded ANYTHING with a full band like the Heartbreakerson stage.

Everyone was plugged in, but the tape was DEFINATELY there.

It mades me wonder how common it is for even "real" performers (like TP) to use a backing track instead of playing live.

I guess it gets to be old or hard work (or both) night after night.

They gave Ashley Simpson unmitigated shlt for lip-synching on SNL, I think maybe they all cheat from time to time...

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 12:05:38 ET
Posted by: Dash LaRue, At work as usual

S. Gene? When did you start posting here? what about two months ago?
Mr. Dean & L. Ray are defintely two different people with different opinions. I cannot find where L.Ray posted that the Nokia show was
the >best<. He never used that terminology. Sure Mr. Ray has an opinion. On the flip side, you don't. I'll cut you some slack though, because it must be very hard to spend the day with your head
up your arse.

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 11:21:45 ET
Posted by: Lars,

Don't get me wrong. I absolutely love Black Cow, especially live! But they took 'Everything You Did' out of the setlist? Why???? Hopefully because they played two shows in the same venue. 'Everything You Did' is my favorite song this tour! Herington's intro is off the charts and DF sings the crap out of it!

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 11:05:29 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Wu,

The Wiki discography says, "The following list includes all of Steely Dan's Studio albums." Notice that Alive in America is not listed. So, it is a mistake, most likely. Also, Walt said there is no new material, right now (but, that there would likely be another Steely Dan album, at some time in the future).

Carolyn Leonhart provides the "featured background vocals" on Pixeleen.

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 10:50:37 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Buf.

Was just on the Dan's page on wiki... and under discography it says
Think Fast: Steely Dan - 2008

Are we expecting a live album?
Not sure...

Also, who is the lead female vocal on Pixleen?

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 10:31:20 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

It's been a bad year for jazz musicians, hasn't it?

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/07/31/arts/music/31beck.html?_r=1&ref=obituaries&oref=slogin

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 09:33:13 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

sudeave and Mike,

Thanks for the great accounts of last night's show. Even though I have seen my one show for the tour, I'm starting to get jealous. I feel almost like I did when reading these accounts before I saw the show in the Finger Lakes. I may have to find a way to hit another before the end of the month.

And Gene, although I realize you are making a little joke, nobody could ever confuse my posts for Ray's (and vice versa). Different styles, and different opinions, on many things. Plus, I virtually NEVER post about what was the best show ever, as I think that's the kind of discussion that almost always goes nowhere.

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 09:28:40 ET
Posted by: biff diggerence, West of Philly

"2VN--My least favorite from that album, BUT they smoked on this one and I take it back !"

Eh. Once you wrap your head around the 6/8, it's quite groovy.

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 08:43:25 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Mike, Fagen tours with 4 or 5 different Fender Rhodes, and they're all the Suitcase model (the speaker is attached). I feel bad for the roadies who have to lug those things around ...

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 08:41:32 ET
Posted by: Rindy2K, Big Apple

http://www.modbee.com:80/scene/story/377559.html

Our man, Walker Becker

LOL

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 07:48:27 ET
Posted by: Selfish Gene, I've Got The News?

As Ray has now proclaimed the Nokia show as best of tour this time around, the formula has finally been revealed: If you want to be sure to catch the best Steely Dan shows, just buy tickets to the same shows as Ray!

Brilliant!

And...Has anyone ever seen Lurker Ray and The Dean in the same room?

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 04:06:31 ET
Posted by: MikeA, Seattle

Saw the show at the Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery tonight.
I will try to contribute to the Bluebook despite no recording device nor any pen & paper. Also have a bad memory, but here goes:
Got there quite early in the afternoon and walked over to the Redhook brewery for a few cold ones. As we walked, we could hear the sound check for Do it again. Sounded great from 1/2 mile away !
It started raining and I let loose quite a few F bombs since I had visions of a nice dry and warm summer night. Returning to the Winery, I bought my wife a rain poncho in the wine shop. Standing in line was a stage hand (roadie guy) carrying a VIP pass and an umbrella that said Steely Dan on it. He bought two bottles of wine and took off. I was going to ask him all sorts of questions but chickened out.
Opening act Joey F. was awesome but not too many people "got it".
Light Rain was coming down steady now as the Dan took the stage.

Chateau Ste. Michelle show set list and comments:

(I believe I missed a song or two-someone help me out)
**Movies/Fez/Royal Scam medley-Sounded funky and had a great feel
Entrance by the boys was greeted with nice applause from the semi sedate crowd. The guys just casually walked in and looked cool doing it.
**Scam was great, mix was spot on.
**I Got the News sounde like the record but better.
First two numbers, Donald was not sounding too good on vocals. He was horse, and a bit "pitchy" (as they say). Anyway, I was worried, but not to worry, he kicked ass the rest of the show and was on pitch. Not sure why the rough start.
**Show Biz Kids--As SueDave said this is "funky". It was a sweet new arrangement. F word passages were repeated twice during the song.
**2VN--My least favorite from that album, BUT they smoked on this one and I take it back !
**Hey 19-Really in the pocket on this one. Usually can live without this tune, but I thought it was great tonight. Carlock had a nice groove going. Walt wen in to his spiel mid song. Was pretty funny with a local referance to Dicks (a famous local burger joint). Also mentioned something about driving with an open bottle of wine to your condo overlooking the Channel islands (in Calif). Someone corrected him that the islands here are San Juans and he said "yeah what he said". It was a crackup. Story ended with the Cuervo....
**Godwhacker--WB's solos were amazing. Unfortunately, the signature recurring song riff played by Jon H. was lost in the mix. I was disappointed with that. I am convinced it has to do with where you sit sometimes.
**Black Cow--Always one of my Favs. Horns were tight and baritone sax was the best in quite sometime on this song.
**Gaucho - Walter on vocals. The crowd was real cool and gave Walter some appreciation early on. I was proud of us. Plus he really pulled it off and did a heartfelt and convincing vocal on this.
** Do it Again--My favorite live arrangement of this so far.
**Home @ Last--Think they played this but as I said, my memory sucks and maybe they left it out.
**Parker's Band (Ladies' vocals) REAL COOL arrangement and vocals, also Jon H. SMOKED his solos
**Black Friday--- Everyone got up and danced for this slower, more bluesy version
**Josie--Another tune which I could do without. They kicked ass and proved me wrong again though.
**Aja--PERFECT.
**Love is Like an Itchin' in My Heart/Band Intros--Crowd pleaser. Also DF was pretty damn hot on the Melodica (seriously)
**Peg--Nothing different here, just sounded great..

Encore-
**Dont Take me Alive
**Kid Charl.
(Disappointed not to hear New Frontier tonight!!!!)

Random Notes:
They played for about 2 hours and 5 minutes (best guess)
Crowd was sedate to start but after enough wine, (Some too much) they were pretty damn good. Don and Walt thanked everyone for staying with them oweing to how miserable the crowd was in the two hours of non stop rain. After the last encore song, Walt signed an autograph for someone in the front. I thought that was really cool of him. It appeared to be a full house tonight. Walter just keeps getting better with his playing. I am amazed how really great And diverse he has become. Very unpredicatable with his solos as to where he is going with them (I love that). Young blew me away on the organ. He is solid. Jon H is just plain incredible. I wish he could play a few more solos live.
Don really digs playing the Rhodes on Gaucho. I wonder how they keep that old keyboard alive. I checked it out up close and it appears to be a real relic. Carlock reminds me just a little of Jim Gordon. Some things he does are real propulsive like Jim used to play.
On to Saratoga and St. Louis for my 7th and 8th SD shows since 1993. Can't match some of you hard core folks but I try. Nice to meet you tonight Sue. I will see you all again...

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 03:54:02 ET
Posted by: suedave, drying off

MikeA, you were right - Walter did introduce DF as the guy playing the Horny melodica tonight! Of course you know I'm j/k. But yes, you've busted me where my fingers slipped on the keyboard. Oops!

I've lived out here in Seattle for 24 years, and have been to a lot of concerts. This is the first outdoor show I've attended in the rain. As you can imagine, we have many words for rain in Seattle - tonight it didn't really rain, it drizzled. Whatever you call it, it isn't so bad if it is warm, but it wasn't warm tonight. I think the cold affected some of the members of the band - though Donald sounded great all night.

The set list for the show tonight was apsatively incredible.

Medley - Movies followed by a new low note Jeff Young introduction to the Fez...completed with a double drum solo intro into Royal Scam. The afro wigs are back again!
I've Got the News
Show Biz Kids
Black Cow!
2VN
Hey 19 - Walter got specific about the variety of grapes common in our area and even brought in some very specific local fast food flavor into the story before putting a golden glow around the Cuervo Gold
Godwhacker
A wiley intro into Do It Again, great Carlock solo
Gaucho, Walter vocals. I think his voice was affected by the cold
Babylon Sisters
Parker's Band
Black Friday - 1/2 the crowd up dancing, including me. Made me realize how cold I was. Brrr!
Josie - the other 1/2 of the crowd dancing. Herington having fun
Aja - Donald sounded great on this song and all night. The 2 Walts affected by the cold on their solos
Green Earrings - nice Herington solo, Jeff Young solo. Security not letting people near the stage. People are dancing instead in the middle aisle
Peg
Itchin' in my Heart/Intro (probably came before Peg or Green Earrings)
Don't Take Me Alive
Kid Charlemagne
Last Tango

Great show, great mix (from where I sat tonight the bass was mixed perfectly), great crowd. Show ended 3 minutes before the curfew. Thanks D&W and band!

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 02:59:43 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Mailibu

Gus -
Couldn't agree more about Nokia.
It will be very difficult to beat
that show this tour. I was just
really glad that HAL was so nice
at Berkeley for you. As far as the
most laid back security, it's too bad
you were not at Paso Robles.

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 02:46:58 ET
Posted by: Gus Winterbottom, Turning In

Ray,

I did not post much after Berkeley because I did not have direct Bluebook access from the various Marriotts during the last couple of weeks; I sent the setlists to Hoops while "flying blind", and he posted them. Yes, HAL was great to see, both at Berkeley and also at Saratoga. The Rosenberg solo fit well into the song, IMHO. the Greek Theatre is a good "Danny" candidate for "most laid back security", by the way (I hope that this does not bias future voting). NO searches by anyone, of anyone, for anything, that I saw. Moreover, the "no smoking" admonitions appeared to apply only to tobacco related substances.

One minor problem for us was that we could not see Carlock; he was entirely hidden by Don and the Rhodes from where we sat. The stage at the Greek Theatre is about 7 feet above the floor of the Pit, and we were in the fourth row. From what I heard, Aja sounded every bit as good at the Greek as at Nokia, but the Nokia show with its visual reinforcement of Keith at work, is the one I will remember better. We actually could also see him very well at Saratoga. The one advantage of this setup was that when the fans in the front row were standing (so they could see at all, probably), our view was not obstructed. If we visit there for another show, I would not opt to sit that close again, all things considered.

Out for the night,

GW

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 02:25:51 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

How embarrassing. Yes I did
type "lies" instead of "mind".
Must have been the wine.
What a maroon.
Gus, again, that was an amazing
take of HAL at Berkeley!

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 02:21:58 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 02:12:55 ET
Posted by: Gus Winterbottom, 25 Miles Below the Raydar

Dean,

Regarding the BYOB issue, if you fly into Long Beach airport and take PCH up to see The Lurker, we will toss you a bottle as you drive by. We are actually on the "ocean" side of PCH, but that fact is a lot less impressive in So. Torrance than it is near Ray's digs.

On a slightly more serious note from the "Now it can be told" department, on June 13, probably just after the first Beacon show ended, we were sitting down at the Gibson (formerly Universal) in LA to see Return to Forever. While waiting, I heard several people in the row behind me dismissing Steely Dan as "boring". I didn't bother to argue the point with them, but I have to wonder if any of them attended the Nokia show and had their opinions altered. I have been thinking about how to compare the two bands, and am realizing that this is probably a waste of time. Both RTF and Steely Dan are at the tops of their respective, but different, games. What RTF does with a purely instrumental show, Walt and Don convey with a combination of lyrics and music, and with them a word can be worth a thousand pictures. So I would say that there is no "better than" discussion required, just a recognition of mutual greatness.

GW

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 02:07:06 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Deano -
You still up?! Night owl.
EYD - "I know your filthy lies".
C'mon Chief. Yup, BYOW. Only
Beer & Liquor on the "Salad Cart"
as Dino & Francis would say.
Gus-
That was an outstanding take
of HAL at Berkeley!! So glad that
was your Cherry Popper.

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 01:20:36 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Ray,

"I really dig when Donald gets a little
behind and "talks" - "I know where baby's
at" and then proceeds to hold the word
"lies" during EYD. Classic."

The word "lies" in EYD?

Anyway, from what I understand, I have to bring my own wine when I visit? Damn!

:#)

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 01:19:12 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Um... also Hector,
Donald Fagen "brought" the idea
for Deacon Blues to Wally.
Rolling Stone -
"Donald Fagen said "Walter and I had been working on that song at a house in Malibu. I played him that line, and he said, "You mean it's like, 'They call these cracker assholes this grandiose name like the Crimson Tide, and I'm this loser, so they call me this other grandiose name, Deacon Blues?' " And I said, "Yeah!" He said, "Cool! Let's finish it!"

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 00:56:53 ET
Posted by: Raydar@gladstones.com, Malibu - On My Perch

suedave -
Excellent report! Thank you.
Is it just me or is anyone
else just loving when Donald
uses an affected lower register
and says, "Thank You" after
some takes this tour? It's the
new "Hey Now" ala Hank Kingsley
and has seeped into my vernacular.
Almost sounds like Howard Stern's
dad, Ben.
Gretchen -
I'm glad you didn't take my comments
personally. I met nothing personal.
As far as wine & cheese goes, as a
former Chicago bartender during my
earlier days, I can assure you that
the only wine in my house is brought
in by guests. As far as cheese goes,
I must confess I have a bag of Albertson's
shredded "Mexican" cheese that I put
on my homemade Fish Tacos. I just
find it fascinating that you have such
a different take on Soboba than anyone
else who was there, including Pete Fogel
and from what I have read, the "person"
you went to the show with. BTW, I don't
picture you as someone from the Eisenhower
era. ;O) I definitely would not consider
my place a "perch". Keep driving up the
PCH to Herb Alpert's place. Now that is a
"perch"! His roof line of the complex is
shaped to mirror the mountains in the
background. Speaking of Herb Alpert, if
anyone is going to be in the Bel Air
area tomorrow night, Steely Dan alum
Bob Sheppard will be playing at Herb
Alpert's club, Vibrato. He's actually
playing with the Tijuana Brass's original
Bassist, Pat Senatore. Really looking
forward to it.
Listening to a boot of the Berkeley show
this evening on the veranda. Nice show.
I really dig when Donald gets a little
behind and "talks" - "I know where baby's
at" and then proceeds to hold the word
"lies" during EYD. Classic.

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 00:41:53 ET
Posted by: Reely Dan, The Windy City

Greetings to the loyal Dandom!

We come bearing great news of comfort and joy: Chicago's premier Steely Dan tribute band REELY DAN (www.reelydan.com) will be performing the songs of our heroes this Friday evening, August 1st, at Finley’s Grill Room, 3131 Finley Road in Downer’s Grove, IL. Come out and help us celebrate the greatest music ever written!

We can reminisce about the incredible set many of us saw at the Chicago Theatre 2 weeks ago, or fantasize about your “perfect set list” for the upcoming August 16th show. Two SD shows within a month of each other . . . doesn’t get any better!!

REELY DAN consists of some of the top studio cats/session aces in Chicago - who love ALL things DAN! Please consider joining us if you are in the Chicago area - we hope to see you there! - REELY DAN.

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 00:26:14 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago, but wishing I was at tonight's show

Like I said, "Boredom, Inc", give it a rest.

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 00:19:41 ET
Posted by: boredom, inc.,

m heuer and hector.
You don't know and will never know the inner workings of the Steely Dan machine. You will never have evidence to support your opinions one way or the other.

Donald and Walter are successful older guys now. The circumstances that allowed them to create their run in the 70s - those days are gone forever, over a long time ago.

Session players assessment of the Steely process? Rashomon effect.

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 00:14:27 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago, but wishing I was at tonight's show

M. Hauer, Hector You spinelessly post without an email address....this was discussed ad-infinitum last Fall, beat to death--especially in October, for weeks--back when some bitter-types were saying how horrible C$ was going to be. And of course, C$ turned out to be arguably the best SD-related album since they reunited in the early 1990s. Go read there first, scroll down, follow the links, back, to the bottom and back again. Then, after reading and considering all that was written on the topic, offer your post--with an email. Clearly, M. H. is looking to dig up nastiness and has an agenda while we're enjoying the buzz of the tour. Clearly you are just trying to chase people away. Shame on you.

"Remember"--you're dead-on; shame on those who ignored your post.

[ If you have emailed me in the past few hours, sorry I am unable to respond now but will do so tomorrow. ]

Jim

Date: Fri, August 01, 2008, 00:00:03 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Hector,

While I think there is some truth in some of what you say, I also think you have missed the mark on few of your comments.

First of all Dias was (probably still is) a GREAT guitar player, but he is far more jazz oriented. Typically, the jazziest Dan solos are Denny's. Even Larry Carlton has a harder rock edge in solos, than Dias.

It's pretty clear, at least to me, that very very few Dan songs are "all Don". That just isn't how they work...at least according to Don and Walt.

As far as what Walt brings to Steely Dan, no one knows for sure EVERYTHING he brings. But, after 5 solo albums to compare to Dan works, I think it's clear that Walt brings more edge, than Don...in lyrics and music. Don smooths out some of the Walt's rough edges, while Walt adds "character" (terrible word for it, but it'll do for now) to Don's perfection. I hear examples on C$ where I think, if this song was on a SD album, this lyric (for example) wouldn't be quite as blunt. It's also common knowledge that Walt is very involved in the bass playing aspect (even when he isn't the bassist) of SD albums. Watch "The Making of Aja" or read one of the many Chuck Rainey interviews, if you have any doubt.

I will stick to my belief that, solo, they are fantastic...together they are unsurpassed.

As to the Aja remark, I think I see where you are going...but...

SD would only end up in the Spyrogyra category, if all of their subsequent albums sounded like Aja. If SD started with Aja, then released an album like Royal Scam or Countdown, and so on, I think they would have risen above the radar.

Oh...and thanks for reminding me to slip Seal Level into the next change of my car's CD changer (in the trunk). It's been too long, and I need my Chuck Leavell fix.

So, you see, we can totally ignore an ill informed post (such as the one from M Heuer), or we can make an interesting discussion out of it.

Date: Thurs, July 31, 2008, 23:37:44 ET
Posted by: Hector E.,

M Heuer is not far from the mark in what he says, but
itt is a bit extreme, and needs some qualification. Don keeps the Steely Dan operation going and I would say that Walt helps out Don. But realize tht Steely Dan would never have rocked in the 70's without Walt and some of the players such as Skunk and Dias. Solo Don might have been placed in the smooth jazz rack and not have gotten much airplay or notoriety.
Since Steely Dan was fairly big selling established act when Aja was released, it gave that album needed credibiity to get airplay. As good as it is, if Aja had been a debut record of some unknown group, Steely Dan as Solo Don might have ended up like a group such as Spyrogyra, the Art of Noise or Sea Level. Good, but under the radar.
Listening to C$, you can hear the Walt sound. And quite a few of the old Steely Dan songs which I thought were totally Don's songs actually were not. For example parts of Paging Audrey definitely takes you back to Deacon Blues, which you might have thought was a total Don song.
So to be fair about it you have to acknowledge the contributions of Walt, to a greater degree than does M Heuer.

Date: Thurs, July 31, 2008, 22:27:03 ET
Posted by: Jive Miguel, Bogata (Bethesda, MD)

Ah, the Epiphany

I recently donated my 10 year old audio gear to charity, and decided to invest in a modestly expensive surround system. I say "modestly", because my research revealed that one can invest $100k in a pair of speakers, so $6,000 can be characterized as such. PSB speakers based on the Image Performance System with T-55 towers, NAD A/V Surround Receiver, and a Rega Apollo CD player. As great as I could ever hope for the dollar. I'm hearing detail, separation and nuance I've never heard before, and naturally, Steely CDs are nothing short of spectacular.

My wife and I had a visitor for a week, a lady friend of ours from SF. She's a wonderful artist and world traveler, and her musical tastes tend toward eclectic world beat.

Steely Dan has always been "that 70's stuff on the radio". The Aja CD is a sonic miracle, so we sat her down, quite willingly, and without advanced hype, dimmed the lights, and started up Black Cow, and 45 minutes later, we had a major Dan Fan in our midst. She described the music as "narcotic", each composition like a complex painting. Then she started paying close attention to the lyrics and Donald's razor-like vocals, and was gleefully pleased with the counterpoint of bright, elegant musical composition set against songs about loners, losers, con artists, aging hipsters and danagerous women weaved into cryptic tales with little beginning, ending or context.

What a pleasure. It reminded me of my own college days experience, trolling through a local New Brunswick record store off the Rutgers campus, picking out Katy Lied. After listening from start to finish several times, I gobbled up Pretzel, Thrill, and Ecstasy. Then came Scam and Aja, by which time I was already hooked.

I think that the recent tours, particularly over the past 3 years have begun to draw in a whole new generation of appreciative fans who are hearing this unique sound for the first time, and experiencing the sort of "narcotic" attraction that many of us felt 30 some years back.

This is for me, the essence of true romance.

Date: Thurs, July 31, 2008, 22:13:48 ET
Posted by: Gretchen,

Dugan, thanks, I'm flattered! But I'm no good on skates, my balance is not all that.........

G

Date: Thurs, July 31, 2008, 21:36:50 ET
Posted by: D, H

Also...

Aug 2-4: DJ on Sirus 'Pure Jazz'

Date: Thurs, July 31, 2008, 21:33:07 ET
Posted by: Denise, Hinktown

new item on WB's site:

Becker Live on 'Rockline' National Broadcast
Wednesday, August 6 @ 8:30Pm US Pacific Time,
with Host Bob Coburn. Call in with your questions!
Find your local station or listen online here

Date: Thurs, July 31, 2008, 21:23:57 ET
Posted by: Remember,

Also we've already covered this dozens times before.

Date: Thurs, July 31, 2008, 21:22:31 ET
Posted by: Remember,

M Heuer is just trying to start something. As Hoops always asks, just ignore people who are trying to start something.

Please do.

Date: Thurs, July 31, 2008, 21:10:54 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Chris,

Don't forget Donald is also on record as saying "who cares" or "what's the difference", from time to time, when asked those same questions. Both guys aren't thrilled with answering the same stupid questions over and over, and neither really likes to talk about the process all that much.

But, if you are looking to find the "truth" in their interviews, Donald was once quoted as saying the ONLY Dan song he remembers writing entirely on his own, was Barrytown. That sounds like a specific answer, that is probably as close to the truth, as anything else.

As you note, it is common knowledge that Don did most of the heavy lifting during the Gaucho recording sessions. But, M Heur's post consists of moronic speculation with no basis in fact.

Date: Thurs, July 31, 2008, 21:07:35 ET
Posted by: M Heuer,

Chris -

What???

Date: Thurs, July 31, 2008, 21:00:21 ET
Posted by: Chris, TOO CONTINUE

... but the rest is all baseless speculation and some of it goes completely contrary to what most believe (especially the mention of Walter being the agitated one during interviews). We have solo Fagen, we have Steely Dan, and there's a huge difference between Kamakiriad and Two Against Nature.

Date: Thurs, July 31, 2008, 20:57:12 ET
Posted by: Chris, n

M, the only fact you have in that post is the bullet point about the Gaucho sessions -- yes, Walter was indeed often absent during the recording sessions

Date: Thurs, July 31, 2008, 20:21:46 ET
Posted by: We Know, the truth

That post does not even justify a response. It is nothing but mean-spirited bullshit.

Date: Thurs, July 31, 2008, 19:20:45 ET
Posted by: M Heuer,

RE: Steely Dan Interview in 1995 on YouTube:

Notice how WB responds to the interviewer when he asks WB/DF who wrote what on "Rikki" - why does he say, "What's the difference?"

The "difference" is that DF wrote the ENTIRE song.

Part of the reason WB allowed himself to become so trashed in the late '80s is because he feels/has felt musically inferior to DF.

*DF has sung lead on all of their "hits"/best songs - he is the voice of SD - and I don't care what WB says - how tuff he gets with 'tude, that has to hurt knowing he couldn't have "sold" nary a song with himself on lead vocals - back then anyway.

*DF is the instrumental writer/arranger of the 2 he knows more musically the WB - WB has admitted such in the past - that kind of stuff "kills" the subconscience.

Notice how in almost all of SD's interviews, mostly past/little less present, WB comes off as the more defensive/nastier of the 2 - why?

During "Gaucho" WB was hardly at the sessions - DF was basically running the whole show alone - I studied w/ one of the session men and DF really called all/most of the musical shots.

Date: Thurs, July 31, 2008, 18:31:20 ET
Posted by: Joey,

" Joey, why do you not like Donald singing Dr. Wu? It sounds like you would PREFER Walter singing it. If so, why? "

Damn Straight I would prefer a Walter Becker vocal on ' Dr. Wu ' !!!!!!

Why ?!

....because 2008 features the BEST WALTER BECKER YET !!!!!

Word .

J.

Date: Thurs, July 31, 2008, 17:13:10 ET
Posted by: suedave, countdown to chateau ste. michelle

MikeA - looking forward to meeting you.

Last night instead of waiting in line for the shuttlebus, we decided to walk to the car. But instead of walking straight back, we stopped at the happening little tavern at the bend in the road. It might happen again tonight!

Date: Thurs, July 31, 2008, 16:04:57 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Don't you just hate douche bags??

Thomas Earl, no, I dont think he does. But thanks for the idea, asshole mother fucker.

Date: Thurs, July 31, 2008, 14:51:43 ET
Posted by: Dugan, This Dirty City

I'm an extremely infrequent poster but I just had to jump in and say something when I saw someone slighting that fine, super-fine, cool-as-ice, totally out-there and supremely happening drink-mixer and would-be-Eisenhower-era-burger-waitress-on-wheels named Gretchen.

I met her once (just once!)at some post-SD mix-up at the Beacon Hotel and was totally knocked out by her hosptiality and undeniable cool-cat demeanor. Solid, baby, solid. Whosoever picks on her (or GM for that matter) is just asking for a demerit in this little black book. So there. Now, breathe in and sigh out...

Date: Thurs, July 31, 2008, 14:30:23 ET
Posted by: David MacFadden-Elliott, Crawdaddy!

Hi there,

I noticed some nice words from BillfromPgh about a Circus Money review I wrote recently (Cheers, Bill) and thought I'd drop off my take on a recent SD show (July 26th at the Greek Theatre). It's a little long for the board, so I guess I'll just post the link. There won't be much--if anything--in here that you folks don't already know, but take a look if you have a minute.

http://crawdaddy.wolfgangsvault.com/Article.aspx?id=8556&page=2&cpage=1

Cheers, David, Crawdaddy!

Date: Thurs, July 31, 2008, 14:28:46 ET
Posted by: MikeA, Seattle

SueDave--I was waitng for your post and the wait was worth it ! Thanks for capturing the highlights from last night. The wife and I will be there tonight and I can't wait. Hopefully, the traffic will allow us to hit the Danfest.
I was concerned that the noise ordinance would eat in to the setlist. From the list you gave, it appears the set was intact. Awesome...

"Horner" Melodica? I think Walter was pulling your leg:) Tonight it will probably be "Horny" Melodica. At least I hope so....

Date: Thurs, July 31, 2008, 13:59:53 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

An inflatable casino? That is wild and just way beyond my comprehension!!

Date: Thurs, July 31, 2008, 13:51:47 ET
Posted by: Lonnie the Kingpin, Tahoe

FYI - I have an extra ticket to the Tahoe that I can sell at face value. IN the alternative, I will trade my two tix for one great seat up close. E-mail me with any inquiries.

Lonnie

Date: Thurs, July 31, 2008, 13:49:54 ET
Posted by: Lonnie THE Kingpin, Tahoe

Hello one and all ~~

I will be in Tahoe all weekend and I cannot wait for the return of the SD Orchestra to the shores of Big Blue (as in 2003).

If you will be there, please e-mail me and we can connect and have a cocktail or two. Maybe some Cuervo Gold!!

Lonnie

Date: Thurs, July 31, 2008, 13:45:09 ET
Posted by: Dash LaRue,

Doc, Where did you get that dumbass list from?????????
Have you seen these:

blogs.westword.com/backbeat/2008/07/live_review_steely_dan_at_red.php
Date: Fri, July 18, 2008, 16:02:45 ET
Posted by: Rain, Schmrain,
And yes, we got PRETZEL LOGIC for the encore, followed by Kid C. Floored! The setlist was mostly autopilot.... I’d give the show an 8 out of 10. The sound was great but several of the performances were just okay.

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 04:27:02 ET
Posted by: Rajah,
Gus, Soboba will long live in my memeory banks as one of the great shows, sizzling hot, like 110 F, in a godforsaken edge of the California hinterland that few GPLs could track. A surreal drive through yellow-green grasslands and dried river beds, there it stood, a fucking inflatable casino packed to the gills with Steely Dan fans and Steely Dan characters, the losers, the ne're do wells, the mendicants, the 5 cent slot grandmas. Oh the misery, the appalling wretchedness and distress that attended these casino dnizens. The misgiuded exultation of the sign that read, "Coming soon! Penny slots!" Then the strains of Dr. Wu rising up from the desert, heard only by yours truly thanks to a well-timed phone call from my old friend Luke, if I could have imbedded that phone into my eustachian tube, it would have been the surgical intervention of the new century.
Miss Thang up there shaking her booty, gotta say, she wasn't a hooker cause she never let go of her purse. This was a good show. Improbable and more than a little taste of the theater of the absurd.
Soboba-Soboba-Soboba as the Maestro keened out at the end.

DC 2000???????????????????????? - Back to back shows at Universal that in LA with Denny Diaz & Dean Parks!!!!!!
I did hear that the third Beacon show was hot, but not as rocking as LA this year.
Boston 2008? - I think that anyone who was at the second Boston show last year would argue that one also.

Date: Thurs, July 31, 2008, 13:24:18 ET
Posted by: Thomas Earl , Gainesville, Florida

Dr. Wu - Maybe Tom Petty has a "bluebook". If he does, you can post over there where people might care.

Date: Thurs, July 31, 2008, 13:00:46 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, No where

1. Red Rox 2008
2. Soboba 2006 & Roseland 2003
3. Wash D.C. 2000--i.e. Columbia MD, so Chattanooga Matt, we were at the same show! Not far from BWI where we flew in, but closer to D.C. right?
4. Beacon Show #3 2008
5. Boston 2008

I'm just looking at this list and other reviews saying things like "Watch out Roseland!"

Date: Thurs, July 31, 2008, 12:08:38 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

It seems to me that shows seen in the rain (the stormier the better) tend to be quite memorable for many people. I’ve only been at one show where it rained and the band stopped playing altogether (not SD) so consequently, I have come to dislike (hate) outdoor shows. However, my friends are ALWAYS fondly reminiscing about the shows they saw in the pouring rain twenty years ago!! I think that the fans admiration for a band that plays through the rain is greatly increased, and vice versa – I think the band is totally appreciative of fans that tough it out.

On another note, what made Roseland great for me was that there is no assigned seating. I prefer to stand AND you can get really close. You don’t have to deal with Security sending you back to your seat but you DO have to deal with fans who, like you, want to be resting their elbows on the stage!!

Date: Thurs, July 31, 2008, 12:04:05 ET
Posted by: Dash LaRue,

Doc Wu,
Best show Red Rocks???????????????????
Where are you getting your intell from? Have you read the many reviews of that show? Have you procured the various boots of that show. Best show? Dude, not even close. As far as this tour goes
perhaps you should check out this review -

http://www.ocregister.com/articles/steely-dan-nokia-2103549-theatre-donald

Date: Thurs, July 31, 2008, 12:03:58 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago but wishing I was at tonight's show

SueDave...thanks for the OUTSTANDING show wrap up! I really sense your excitement about the show--that's the best part of it all.

SteelyDana, others, thanks for the good wishes. Mainly I came back from NYC and Boston at the end of June with bronchitus (not helped by being stranded at BOS for almost a day and a huge tree that had fallen over in my yard while I was away) and, while I was pretty much over it for the July 15 Chicago show, I have a lot of catching up at work to do. Thanks again for your generously kind vibes.

As for the "Best Show" debate--really, the posts read like it's pretty much the same person. I've been to, I dunno, something like 70 SD-related shows in the past 15 or so years. And even with that experience I feel discomfort at definitively declaring The Best Show. I have been reading fan reactions for a long time, so that gives me some insight. I wish you people with the strong opinions would instead call it what it really is, your Favorite Show, not The Best. Some of you who are so insistent about their views about The Best have issues beyond the scope of this forum.

Fly low and be cool,

Jim

Date: Thurs, July 31, 2008, 11:43:49 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, ...i dont know

Here is the story... what do you think? Do I get all time best Petty show?
(I know it's not Dan related, but you guys seem to know what makes a concert truly legendary... and I was hoping you could back me up...)
Many thanks!

...
Tom Petty gets on stage, and the sold out 25,000 people at Buffalo's Darien Lake were more than ready, singing every word to the opener You Wreck Me.
Now I was on the lawn, so I saw everything... because when he got up there, big black storm clouds rolled right over the amphitheater. No one thought anything about it except when it started lightning right over the f**ing stage! All the drunk happy go lucky fuckers would go crazy when they saw the lightning. Everyone was loving the lightning...

Then... during the last verse of Mary Jane's Last Dance...
"It was too cold to try when I woke up alone. I hit last number and i walk to the..."

BAMMM!!
A mile long lightning bolt strikes, the stage goes pitch black and all power goes dead!

25,000 screaming drunk fans go dead silent for about 2 seconds, then start screaming, swearing, and shouting for Petty to come back! They were flipping out!
"Petty!" "Petty!" "Petty!"
Of course, he and the Heartbreakers never stopped playing! They just couldn't hear him. They get power back up, and they finish the song with strength and confidence.

Then... the sky started pissing.
The downpour starts.... for and hour and a half.
The fans are going insane.

"You guys are crazy!" Petty yells... and goes into Breakdown... with every person singing along.
Not many rockers will keep going in the lightning and the downpour, but Petty played the longest show of the tour so far!

With the downpour getting worse and lightning sticking around, he keeps jamming. Not letting up at all.

He goes into Saving Grace from his latest album, and the fans love it.

"And it's hard to say who you are these days, but you run on anyways, don't you..."

BAM!!!!

Black. Dead. Again.

If he had not come right back, there would have been a mob. 25,000 drunk Petty fans were not happy. I was on the lawn as said before and it was getting crazy. Everyone was flipping out, and everyone was loving it! I saw some crazy stuff... two lesbos making out and more... ;)

But the power goes back up, he keeps going (never missing a beat) and the fans are loving it!

Petty gets to the mic. "Alright you crazies!! They said it is gonna rain for 15 more minutes, so it's almost over. And if the power goes out again, we are hooking up to a generator, and I'm paying for it."

The fans, once again, go nuts!

He's a great musician...shitty weatherman.

It pissed throughout the entire rest of the show, but everyone loved it. He just never stopped!

"You guys are the best fan!" He scream...

Cold, pouring, lightning, power outages, sold out 25,000 crazy drunk fans... the best Tom Petty concert ever!

One of Buffalo's most memorable concerts ever!

Petty never stopped, he's the real deal.

Date: Thurs, July 31, 2008, 11:33:33 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Listening to C$!

I have been listening to the debates on the best SD show and I just have a couple of questions...

I see why Soboba has been ranked so highly. Killer 2 sets without Michael McDonald, the heat.. .Donald must have really liked it.

I see why Red Rocks is so high with the rain and all...

But what was so special about Roseland? The one that has been named the all time greatest (according to some people)
I obviously wasnt there, so I was justh hoping someone could tell me what happened there that made it so special...

**And I see not one person has ranked any shows in the 90s in their "Greatest SD Show" lists... I wonder why... I mean, it must have been the first time seeing them for most of you, but were they just going through the motions as heard on Alive in America?

--------------

Also, since Red Rocks currently leads all time best, you think I could make a case to my Tom Petty fans that I was at the best Petty show? (if you dont know the story and care at all, scrowl down and see my account of the concert)

Date: Thurs, July 31, 2008, 10:36:12 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana, va

Hoops:
We've missed you !!
Feel better / stay well for the August 16 festivities :-)

Date: Thurs, July 31, 2008, 09:51:06 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Gus,

Thanks for that detailed description of Mountain Winery. While not quite as special as it used to be, it sounds like it still has some charm. Glad to hear the sound was good.

As far as the crowd leaving early (that didn't happen at the show I attended), it is probably due to the day of the week and the difficulty of leaving the parking lot at the venue. I always plan to hang around for an hour, or so, after shows and sporting events: have a beer, debrief with other fans, crank some tunes, etc...but, hey, that's me.

suedave, thanks for the outstanding take on last night's show. Sounds like another great show. This tour is setting records for great nights, I think.

I find the interest and discussion of the "type of crowd" (blue collar/wine and cheese) humorous, but ultimately irrelevant...at least to me. When I judge a concert, the crowd is one of the least important factors I consider...unless, of course, they are disruptive. Years ago, people dancing might have bothered me, but as long as the people in front of me aren't standing (thereby forcing me to stand) the entire time, I'm fine with it now. You wanna dance during Peg and stand for the encore? I don't have a problem with that. But, what ever happened to the fine art of chair dancing (dancing with the upper body, while seated). I'm a master. Learned it from taking long drives with great music playing. I do tend to get a lot of odd looks (and attract a lot of laughter) from other drivers, though.

Also, I have noticed that, when attending the symphony, during a waltz (Beethoven’s Diabelli Variations, for example), the audience rarely starts waltzing in the aisles of the concert hall...even with a "blue collar" concert crowd. :#)

Date: Thurs, July 31, 2008, 08:33:24 ET
Posted by: Gretchen, Good Morning

Ray, I don't get why this debate is so important to you. I can't take it personally, as we've never met :). However, I guess it's easy for you to go to Soboba and be entertained by the "blue collar crowd" knowing you will return to your perch in Malibu.(wine and cheese, anyone?) Now, shall we get into the reason you like to use those narrow little columns in your posts?

G

Date: Thurs, July 31, 2008, 08:18:18 ET
Posted by: mr sparkle, osaka

could it be a C$ video...?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wm1i7xOfIIA

Date: Thurs, July 31, 2008, 04:54:33 ET
Posted by: Ann Again, Northern California

HeY Gus Winter...and other fans,

Your description is, shall I say, well, quite amazingly detailed - How do you remember it all - haha?!

Hey the wine and cheese crowd is just that, isn't it though? The venues tight on moving out of your seat without feeling like you'll be asked to sit down again.

My seat neighbor was Noreen, the one who first danced down to the front and was directed back up to her seat! I went with her the second time where I swear I heard 'Thanks Girls' after the tune. I'd love to get playback of that if it happened!~

Well sidenote to good karma she accidently grabbed up my jacket and close to 45 minutes after the show when almost all the wine and cheeses left we ran into eachother up in the parking lot and I got my fleece zip up back! SWEET!

They are back in Saratoga next week, I believe it's a Friday night and even if they are tight on dancin and I swear I tripped on the little half stone steps they have in that venue - no one else would have noticed unless they tripped like me, Twice! I'll be looking for two tix to enjoy one more night of serious "bring me back to some certain time" classic SD tunes!

Date: Thurs, July 31, 2008, 04:52:38 ET
Posted by: suedave, seattle

Thank goodness for pieces of paper with blank back sides that happen to be in your purse - I know, not everyone can say that. It worked for me tonight. I apologize for not making the Danfest - traffic congestion. You know what it's like.

The Chateau Ste. Michelle show set list for the first night:

Funked up Everyones Gone to the Movies/Fez/Royal Scam medley, with Donald and Walter joining during RS. I was close enough to the stage to see faces - the guitar tech was bopping his head during the Fez, Herington, Walter, and the guitar tech took turns laughing during the medley. Carlock did a double solo, the crowd loved it, which lead into the Scam, where Walter bounced in from the left, and Donald from the back right. The girls appeared on stage with the afro wigs - great prop! They also wore long sleeve jackets and both looked gorgeous. Good plan on the jackets. Summer here is about 20 degrees cooler than in other parts of the country.

I Got the News

Funky Show Biz Kids - band is tight. Fagen delivery oozed with disdain - awesome. Fagen talked about what a nice place the venue was and went on to mention playing songs from their "magnificent career" while rolling his eyes, and the band broke into

Everything You Did
After which the band started tuning all their instruments! Donald mentioned something about the humidity. We didn't mind. Someone behind me yelled out 'make us dance Donald' followed by a women yelling "take off your clothes" all of which made DF grimace, yes there are creeps in the crowd. But it got the band to kick straight into

2VN - where Walter quickly traded out his blue Sadowsky to another guitar, but got it back before his solo, which he nailed. The crowd up front knows the music and is happy! Walt W. soulful on sax. Walter still unhappy with the guitar.

Hey 19 - Walter moved in front of Jeff to play guitar where he did a nice solo before moving back to his regular spot on stage where he told a long story about going to a wine festival and got to see a favorite rock band from another era. Was so rapped up in the music that when he go home, he realized he was sober, which didn't jive with the Jimi Hendrix posters on the wall. Or the lava lamp even though it died 5 years ago. Then something about a cat with diabetes. I'm confused about that one, but I'm not about to argue. Maybe he knows something I don't? As the story goes, the need is to feel lubricious. Isn't that a great word? So we try to warm up our baby's feet, but that's not quite enough. So we go over to the liquor cabinet and see the bottle we're saving for Halloween. What is it girls?

Godwhacker - Roger with a fabulous wild solo, followed by Walt solo, Michael lets loose, then Pugh - I love this band

New Frontier - Herington cookin'

Gaucho - Walter on vocals - the crowd loved it. Interesting that instead of the original lyrics, Walter sang ...One more expensive ripoff...

Tight MF horns opening up Home @ Last
This is the point in the show where people lots of activity passing the stage indicating they can't continue sitting in their seats without a break

Parkers Band sung by the girls, JH on fire - crowd is totally along for the ride and loving every minute of it

It's about 9pm, and getting dark. Time for the blues Fagen said and the band broke into Black Friday. Walters guitar is smoking. Some guy bounces across the aisle in front of the stage from left to right to the beat of the music. Hysterical! Herington's guitar on fire. This is the song that the crowd becomes true believers - no turning back, the band can do no wrong.

Josie - one of many sing alongs. I don't remember the lighting being this good at the Beacon shows, but it could have been. The crowd is starting to get rowdy by standing and dancing!

Aja - and the crowd explodes. Tasty WB solo, JH incredible. Fagen's voice strong and right on target. Carlock as good as ever. Crowd appreciates the stars on stage.

Itching in my Heart / Intros - all as expected except that Walter introduced Michael as playing a melophonia? An instrument that looked like a trumpet with a much larger cone. Not sure I spelled it right. And introduced Donald as a HORNER melodica player.

Right about now security lost control of the crowd as the crowd rushed the aisle in front of the first row where people danced and grooved and sang along to Peg.

Kid Charelemagne was a total sing along and when the band came back for the encore they played

Dont Take me Alive
FM

but those people up front made the sound so muddy I couldn't really understand what Walter said, but it sounded something like we were the best audience THIS WEEK. Ouch! A friend was recording during that and I'm sure I'll be able to get that corrected soon!

Though I'm tired, I'm feeling pretty good now, I hope I can still say that tomorrow morning.

Can't wait for tomorrow's show!

Date: Thurs, July 31, 2008, 02:37:34 ET
Posted by: Gus Winterbottom, Torrance, CA

Dean,

To supply some technical answers to your questions about Saratoga, the seating arrangement shown on Google Earth as of today is no longer there; it has been replaced by a semicircular amphitheater with fixed seats about 20 rows deep from the stage. Above that there are bleachers in the center, and house right where there are multiple bleacher levels. Of the longest of the two roofed areas of the old building the front and rear walls have been preserved, but I don't recall whether or not the rest of the building was demolished and filled in with new materials. Of the shorter of the two peaked roof areas, it has been demolished except for the rear wall which is being propped up as a facade for the new structure. The original building is about 3 stories high; judging by the ironwork in place in the new section it will be the same area and will have a similar tower at its southeast corner.

Lots of interesting observations before this show. For at least one-half hour before the start of Joey's set, I noticed All of the horn section, Heringtion, and Carlock, on the stage at one time or another working on their equipment. The stage area itself was about 3 feet off the ground, possibly supplied by the band itself. Concurrent with all of this activity we could see a lot of musicians and crew in the area under construction, since there was as yet no front wall. Conditions were quite cramped; in fact when Walt made his entrance for Royal Scam he had to let Leonhart return to the horn section before making his way around to the front; there was no room for two people to pass each other. Skip and the guitars resided immediately off of the stage to house left in the very rear corner of the stage. Also no electronic background for this show, as it would have blocked the double doors used as an entrance (Don, Jeff, Freddie, and the ladies entered from out of a side door and climbed up the stairs stage left to get to their positions).

We were roughly 18 rows from the front (house) left corner of the stage, viewing Carlock almost directly behind Herington. I noted that the speakers had been reduced in number; only 12 per side, with three more at the rear corners facing out at us. I was a bit worried, but the Defrancesco set sounded fine. During a large part of that set, Roger Rosenberg took in the show from the platform near the edge of the seats; I was a bit too far away to say hello.

The good sound continued for Steely Dan; those sound people know their jobs. From where I was this show sounded just as good as Berkeley; Also I think that the band was in equally good form as at Nokia and Berkeley. The crowd at this show was the least responsive of the four shows I have been to this year, however. Not much of a reaction for Hey 19; Gaucho got a pretty good response, but the first standing ovation did not come until Aja. After Peg, the scene was somewhat reminiscent of the end of the seventh inning at Dodger Stadium when I used to go to games; people were starting to leave to beat the crowd. Perhaps this has been going on all tour, but this was the first show where we were far enough away to observe it. My speculation is that the lower crowd energy could be due to the day of the week. In past years with other groups I have seen relatively subdued crowd reactions on Monday shows. Just my opinion of course.

We did observe the woman (Ann?) dance through the aisles before being walked back to her seat to our left; I could not help but think of Soboba, but with an easier step up she did not encroach into the stage area itself.

Clearly this facility is open, but not completed. I'm guessing that the inside of the original building, while fully enclosed, is not completed either; otherwise there would have been no reason to resort to the use of the unwalled area for show preparations. I think that there are some deficiencies in the new design, as well; bathrooms, as previously mentioned, among other things.

Out for now,

GW

Date: Wed, July 30, 2008, 23:30:46 ET
Posted by: it goes like so--revision 1,

1. Red Rox 2008
2. Soboba 2006 & Roseland 2003
3. Wash D.C. 2000--i.e. Columbia MD, so Chattanooga Matt, we were at the same show! Not far from BWI where we flew in, but closer to D.C. right?
4. Beacon Show #3 2008
5. Boston 2008

Date: Wed, July 30, 2008, 22:32:08 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Mlaibu

Gretchen -
Your remarks about Soboba are even more
confusing two years later.

If the show was so "uncomfortable or uninspiring"
how could you then say that The Steely Dan Band
"played their hearts out"? Yes they did. Why do
you think people are still talking about this show two
years later? The ENTIRE band clearly had a blast that
night and fed off of the energy from that amazing crowd.
Great vibe & performances. The sound on that special
"mini rig" that night was impeccable.

"The hideousness of the situation put a damper on the whole evening".

Clearly the only one who had a damper on their evening
that night was you. After two years, it is still apparent
that you are in the minority. Sure Soboba is not a picturesque
place for a show. No one ever claimed it was. It was definitely
not the wine & cheese crowd. But that is one of the things
that made it so great.

I'll take a blue-collar, dancing Steely Dan crowd over
a sedate wine & cheese crowd any day.

That being said, I'm looking forward to the reports from
the "wine & cheese" crowd tonight and tomorrow! ;O)

Date: Wed, July 30, 2008, 22:31:38 ET
Posted by: Selfish Gene, Jim's House

How's that for some clarity and closure?!

Date: Wed, July 30, 2008, 22:15:18 ET
Posted by: DimSkip, Eternal Path

Dr Wu, Here's the Mar. 4, 2006, set list for the Fagen show at the Tower Theatre in the Philly area...

1. Here At The Western World (revved up)
2. The Nightfly
3. Green Flower Street
4. Teahouse On The Tracks
5. New Frontier
6. Third World Man
7. Home At Last
8. Snowbound
9. H Gang
10. What I Do
11. Black Cow
12. The Goodbye Look
13. Misery And The Blues
14. Mary Shut The Garden Door
15. I.G.Y.
16. Pretzel Logic (encore)
17. Viva Viva Rock And Roll(encore)

Excellent show, of course. The biggest highlight for me turned out to be "The Goodbye Look" which surprised me because it was never my favorite song on The Nightfly album, but it was tremendous live. "Western World" was a really cool opener imo even in it's highly altered revved up form. Loved the two covers as well. "Viva Viva" was a rollickin' closer to send folks out into the night.

But I make no claims (nor can I) of it being "the best" show or anything like that as it was the only Fagen show I attended. I'll let others argue the best-ness of various shows. I find such debates to be an exercise in futility (much like, uh... well, >>actual<< exercise for me at this point in my life). I only attend one show per tour and, in fact, I even voluntarily skipped last year's tour altogether as I just didn't find the reported set lists to be compelling enough to warrant the always escalating costs of such events.

Date: Wed, July 30, 2008, 20:08:33 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, not sure

Hoops, if it isn't too much, can you post a couple sample setlists of some Fagen solo show? Thanks a bunch! ;)

Date: Wed, July 30, 2008, 19:36:08 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar

Hoops,

Nice to see you back and posting. Hope you are feeling better.

Date: Wed, July 30, 2008, 19:13:52 ET
Posted by: Max Pruss, Lakehurst

Again, looks like this intelligent point of view needs to be reiterated...

Date: Sat, July 19, 2008, 22:57:06 ET
Posted by: The Commish,

Royal Fan, hilarious post. It speaks volumes.

A reasonable, educated person can debate both sides of an issue. Most of the ills that the world has suffered and will continue to suffer until Armageddon is the result of virtually no one being capable of or at least making the effort to do so. If you are not with us, you are against us, if you are not for something, jeez, you must be against it!

In the grand scheme, it doesn't matter if you have been to 2 shows or 200 shows, you can't go to 'em all, although some might die or go to the poor house trying. Two or 3 shows per tour is enough for me. Some, who are rich, are unemployed, have lots of time on their hands or are totally obsessed with Steely Dan go to dozens and dozens. I don't agree with it, but everybody is into something and there are far more unhealthy, dangerous or costly things to be obsessed with than globetrotting to Steely Dan concerts, to see what is essentially the same thing with little or no variation during any given tour. I can see this other side, and I won't condemn it, it is just not for me. But I could debate both sides, the other side could be rationalised such as meeting people, maybe old friends in other cities, in which case the show is what brings you together, and you can't put a price on that!

But it would be interesting to hear how and why fans of a musical group might spend most if not all, or more than their disposable income, miss days of work, jeopardize their jobs, if they have one to attend dozens of shows on the same tour?

What we do know, and since none of us has, or could have been to every Steely Dan show are the accounts of and the presumably truthful, corroborated details of happenings at the many shows. Roseland and Soboba are clearly the most talked about and legendary shows by accounts of the writers on this site. A major reason for this could be that NY and LA are the #1 and #2 metro areas in the US and a correspondingly large sample of writers on this site come from these areas. But there are a fair number that go to shows on either coast that are in the best position to compare and contrast.

There are now a lot of strong accounts coming out of the Red Rocks show, a city with one tenth of the population of NY or LA, and probably one tenth of the writers on this site. Whether or not you are a Soboba fan or a Roseland fan, a reasonable educated person will keep an open mind that someday some show is going to come along that, by all accounts is going to exceed either of those shows. Babe Ruth was for a long time the all time HR leader, then came Aaron, Bonds and probably the next will be A-Rod.

So, it is not that far out or impossible for Red Rocks to surpass both Soboba and Roseland in terms of the Greatest Steely Dan Show Ever, whatever that means BTW. Is it the best audience? Venue? Weather? Concessions? Setlist? Permissive security? Chicks storming and dancing on the stage? A mosh pit? Band performance? Improvisation?

If we could upload an Excel Spreadsheet to this space, I mean we could do like a Consumer Reports comparison matrix by categories and determine which was the Greatest Steely Dan Show of all. Or could we?

Date: Wed, July 30, 2008, 19:04:02 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago, but wishing I was at tonight's show

What does it tell you?

Well, for starters, Ambrosia has some great playing, some fine harmonies. I'm mainly just familiar with their hits, but sublime playing, sound and production. "You're the Biggest part of Me" — what a great intro and "build up" and all . Their lyrics are, however, of the Hallmark Card variety — the music waits for better lyrics. I'd say much the same about Toto too. (And Toto II). Throw "Little River Band" in the class.

As for SD not playing Roseland since 2003:

These days the owners of the Beacon—MSG's Dolan family—are part owners of Irving Azoff's management company. 'nuff said.

In reading all the reviews of Soboba in the past couple of years, I'll vote for it as the hottest (weather-wise) Dan Show and the Biggest Drunkfest at a Steely Dan show.

Jim

Date: Wed, July 30, 2008, 18:55:42 ET
Posted by: Gretchen,

For people who weren't at either show, how quick you are to jump on someone expressing an opinion. SD has returned numerous times to New York, but not San Jacinto. That's my point. And since I was at both shows, I feel well entitled to my opinion.

G

Date: Wed, July 30, 2008, 18:26:57 ET
Posted by: Ambrosia?,

Gretchen>---
You didn't like Soboba. We know. But then again you like Ambrosia.
Steely Dan has also NEVER returned to Roseland since 2003! What does that tell ya!

Date: Wed, July 30, 2008, 18:21:48 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar

Thanks for that Walter interview.

Gretchen, I'm curios did The Dan play Roseland in either 2007 or 2008? They were NYC numerous times, and cerainly had the opportunity. Don't get me wrong, I was at neither concert, and your take sounds like a nightmare (other than SD playing), but I think your logic is flawed, there.

Joey, why do you not like Donald singing Dr. Wu? It sounds like you would PREFER Walter singing it. If so, why?

Date: Wed, July 30, 2008, 18:05:33 ET
Posted by: 15 minutes with Walter on BBC Radio Ulster, available for download

http://www.sonic360.com/audio/walterbecker/Walter_Becker_BBC_Radio_Ulster_Interview.mp3

Don't tell me you've missed it? ;)

Date: Wed, July 30, 2008, 17:53:23 ET
Posted by: Gretchen, not Soboba

Donald's commenting "Soboba, Soboba" etc. had to be tongue in cheek, or the heat was making him woozy. The place itself was the worst venue I have ever been to in my life. A total wasteland comprised of an inflatable casino and hotter than hell tent over smoldering asphalt, it couldn't have been more uncomfortable or uninspiring. It was 100 degrees at 9pm. Althought SD played their hearts out, the hideousness of the situation put a damper on the whole evening. You really would have to have been at both the Roseland and Soboba shows to make an informed statement about which was "best," in my mind there is no contest. You'll notice, however, SD has not returned to Soboba in 07 or 08. I wonder why?

G

Date: Wed, July 30, 2008, 17:46:21 ET
Posted by: Joey,

" Yes, Hoops, quite right, except the band's printed songlist that night had "Dr. Wu" inserted between Hey 19 and Haitian Divorce. I am a witness and I would not lie. "

Are you serial ?!

' Dr. Wu ' on the friggin SET LIST ?! .. ? .. ! .. !!!!!!!!!!

Why ?! .... WHY not Walter Becker on lead vocals for Wu ?!

WHY ?!

J. Fly !

Date: Wed, July 30, 2008, 17:37:03 ET
Posted by: The Dan, Manatee Bar

Janie,

Soboba is in San Jacinto, Ca, due east of Long Beach and just north of Hemet. Dunno if this link will work, but here ya go:

http://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&rls=com.microsoft:en-us:IE-SearchBox&rlz=1I7GGLG&q=san+jacinto,+ca&um=1&ie=UTF-8&sa=X&oi=geocode_result&resnum=1&ct=title

Date: Wed, July 30, 2008, 15:26:14 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Hey, I'm all about New York (and Roseland) and God, I never even heard of Soboba before the Dan played there (I'm still not quite sure what / where it is) but Dr. Wu at the sound check? Geez, that HAS to count for a lot!!

Date: Wed, July 30, 2008, 15:01:05 ET
Posted by: Non-Native New Yorker,

God's Eye View let me tell you this. Last month at the Beacon, Donald said at one of the shows, "New York, New York, New York, New York..." Since he said "Soboba" three times but "New York" four, it's clear that Donald thought the New York show was better!

Really, it's getting kinda obvious that it's the same few people posting under different names about how Soboba was best ever.

Ok, so everyone's wasted in this gruesome dream known as Soboba.

Date: Wed, July 30, 2008, 14:32:13 ET
Posted by: God's Eye View, Soboba

They wouldn't let us into the seating area. But you could just stand right were they take the tickets and see the stage. Still have
goosebumps thinking about it. As Fagen said-Soboba! Soboba! Soboba!

Date: Wed, July 30, 2008, 14:24:08 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Where were you during the soundcheck? Right inside the concert area, or outside the main event space? If inside, were you close to the stage, or standing in the back?

Just curious.

Date: Wed, July 30, 2008, 14:13:56 ET
Posted by: Remembering Soboba,

Not only was the "Vibe" supreme. So were the "Performances". That is why the show was so historic. Also, if you got there for soundcheck, you were treated to "Dr. Wu" sung in it's entirety. What night.

Date: Wed, July 30, 2008, 13:39:53 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, not sure

Hey, thanks a lot Hoops! You do man!!

Geepers!! Doctor Wu! What a song to drop! If I was at that show, I dont think I would want to know that was the one song they dropped that night.

Date: Wed, July 30, 2008, 13:12:33 ET
Posted by: Rajah's Ghost,

Yes, Hoops, quite right, except the band's printed songlist that night had "Dr. Wu" inserted between Hey 19 and Haitian Divorce. I am a witness and I would not lie.

Date: Wed, July 30, 2008, 12:19:59 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago, on break

From the Dandom Digest for September 12-13, 2003

-----------------------------------------------------------------
Subject: SPOILER: Set List for Roseland both nights
From: hoopsATdandomDOTcom

Since this is the most popular question by far, the following is has
been the set list for at least the past three weeks.

SET ONE:
1. Cubano Chant, Ray Bryant Tune, before Donald and Walter take the stage)
2. Aja (Aja)
3. Time Out Of Mind (Gaucho)
4. Godwhacker (EMG - Everything Must Go)
5. Caves of Altamira (Royal Scam)
6. Black Cow (Aja)
7. Babylon Sisters (Gaucho)
8. Slang of Ages (EMG) (sung by Walter, featuring Band intros)
9. Peg (Aja)
10. Home at Last (Aja) (Empire State Building Images)

SET TWO:
11. The Steely Dan Show (band and backup singers without D +W, debuted on 2000 European tour)
12. Janie Runaway (2vN)
13. Hey Nineteen (Gaucho)
14. Haitian Divorce (Royal Scam) sung by Walter
15. Lunch with Gina (EMG)
16. Everything Must Go (EMG, of course)
17 Parker's Band (Pretzel Logic) (Sung by the girls)
18. Josie (Aja)
19. Kid Charlamagne (Royal Scam)
20. Don't Take Me Alive (Royal Scam)

ENCORE:
21. My Old School (Countdown to Ecstasy)
22. FM (FM Soundtrack)
-----------------------------------------------------------------

From Dandom Digest for July 19-27, 2006

-----------------------------------------------------------------
Date: Sat, July 22, 2006, 06:46:41 ET
Posted to Bluebook by: Gus Winterbottom, Torrance, CA
SUBJECT: SPOILER: Soboba 7/21

Turtle Talk
Steely Dan Show (sung by the ladies)
Time Out Of Mind
Aja
I've Got The News
Hey Nineteen
Cousin Dupree
Josie
Any World (That I'm Welcome To); Jeff Young vocals on 2nd & 3rd Verses
Glamour Profession
Black Friday
Bodhisattva

INTERMISSION

Green Earrings
Monkey In Your Soul (WB Vocals)
Band Intros/Show Biz Kids
Black Cow
Do It Again
Dirty Work (Vocals by Ladies & Jeff Young)
Peg
Don't Take Me Alive
Kid Charlemagne

ENCORE:

My Old School
FM

-----------------------------------------------------------------

Date: Wed, July 30, 2008, 12:13:34 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago, on break

We have most everything posted to the bluebook on line back to June 2001 when it was started. There is, however, a glitch such that some of the items from 2006 and early 2007 are currently offline.

You can read about Roseland 2003 at this page

http://www.dandom.com/guestbook/092003.html

I will dig up the others from the Dandom Digest.

When I have read about Soboba, (I wasn't there), it comes across that it is indeed all about vibe and everyone being in a really partying mindset with a lot of liquor and recreational chemicals flowing; I read relatively little about the actual performance. Also consider that it was only one of two shows that year that had the long-time format that is sorely missed: two sets with an intermission. It's been rectified a bit since--or at least we've gotten used it it, but it especially during 2006, it felt like we were just getting warmed up at the one set shows when it call came to an end. Although Michael McDonald was a "warm up" I also look back and felt it was a bit of a shift between both acts.

Roseland 2003 was about both vibe and performance.

And while were at it, Roseland 1995 was about vibe and a really good performance. Roseland 2003 built upon the Roseland 1995 rep--that was part of 2003's success.

Jim

Date: Wed, July 30, 2008, 11:30:54 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana, va

Niiice article/interview with Keith Carlock in Modern Drummer:

moderndrummer.com/updatefull/200001158/Keith%20Carlock

Date: Wed, July 30, 2008, 11:30:41 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, dont worry bout it

Yeah, I know... I have heard some stories.

I would just like to see the setlist.

I actually have one for Soboba, but if I could see one for Roseland, I would appreciate it.

Date: Wed, July 30, 2008, 11:26:10 ET
Posted by: Soboba vs, Roseland

Dr Wu- It wasn't the set list as much as it was the vibe.

Date: Wed, July 30, 2008, 11:22:53 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

One final Dan-related Cuil remark.

In a search for Steely Dan on Google, Dandom.com is about the 15th listing, on the first page for me (I have my results set at 50/page). Very findable and usable.

In a search for Steely Dan on Cuil (using Firefox 3) Dandom.com is not listed in the first TEN PAGES of results (with the setting at 3 columns).

Date: Wed, July 30, 2008, 11:17:20 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Not on the grid

So apperently Soboba 2006 & Roseland 2003 are the two best Steely Dan shows ever??

I was hoping someone could give me a setlist for each show?? Just to check 'em out?

Thanks a lot!

Date: Wed, July 30, 2008, 11:10:13 ET
Posted by: Matt, Chattanooga, TN

Well, having been to more than several shows, I can attest to the fact that DC wasn't even the best show of the 2000 tour, so has no place on the list. I mean, sure there's a decent quality boot floating around out there, but I don't think that the quality of a bootleg recording really speaks to the quality of the show. Nissan Ampitheatre qualifies in my bottom 2 or 3 big outdoor sheds at which to see a show, if that matters at all.

In my personal experience, the Merriweather Post Pavilion in Columbia Maryland on July 14th, show in the rain was the best show of 2000. The San Diego show was close behind. For completists, the Albuquerque show is to date the only live performance of Almost Gothic. The first LA show had Denny Diaz on guitar, and Tim Schmit on backing vocals for FM. Dallas included Dean Parks on guitar solos for Peg, Kid Charlemagne, Don't Take Me Alive, My Old School, and FM.

I can't speak to Red Rocks or Roseland or Soboba, but I can speak to the 2000 tour, and DC isn't on that list for me.

Date: Wed, July 30, 2008, 11:10:10 ET
Posted by: Raven , laptop desktop

I have been eating up the bluebooker reviews here! Better than grasshoppers! Great posts Bill from Pittsburg. Gotta get out to Kennywood soon. A lot of thought went into a lot of posts lately! I am grateful and funny, Matt! good one!

Speaking of recent grass-smoking college reviews, evidently, colleges aren’t the only place where the stuff that burns is making a revival: Reportedly, a band [*delete*] now on tour actually turned out the whole bar at a recent East-coast outdoor show, so the noise goes. [ugh hum, clear throat]. Hear the tix weren’t cheap either; now this bird knows why.

I am really digging the reviews of CA: Lurker, Connie, girl marg, Kirk, et al. Thanks for the bird feed. I love the new digs GM! Well done! Yea, it took flying to a Leo Kottke show the other night to get my mind off SD grub. Still in a tizzy from it – I may never fly again and will have to forage in the field for now.

And despite what was written in some Camden, NJ, reviews (where reportedly the cigars were supreme, according to Jeff who thanks Lucky Henry to this day for sharing his good taste; and where friends Ken and Security Joan surfaced, and NJ John, Bill, Aubrey and the RV gang turned out [sorry I was busy regurgitating earlier ]) -- despite all: my demise (offered in Newark's blog below) in an amusement park incident was, well, incorrect. I suspect the accident involved a crow who must’ve looked like me. tsk tsk (Sometimes you gotta let one fly by.) So Newark, just wanna tell ya that I’m fine--just needed a break; sorry for not showing up for work the past few weeks. You know why--SD is still evil. I’ll be in touch. RE: blog found at Newarkstation on Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/newarkstation

You're doing great Steely Dan; ignore the tremors. Ravin'

Date: Wed, July 30, 2008, 11:08:41 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Cuil issues:

Hutch, it's always interesting to see a new search engine, IMO. Year, after year, new SE after new SE, Google still remains far ahead of the pack, unfortunately, IMO. ASK recently spent a ton of $$ in development (supposedly) and advertising (certainly) only to deliver the worst piece of shit I have ever used. Google remains Google, for the most part, while enhancing it's functionality all the time.

So, what about this Cuil? I notice that, for the moment, it is strictly web search (no image, news, blog, newsgroup,etc search). No problem, they will probably add more later. The display preferences are very limited, it seems. 2 or 3 columns and the option of "safe search".

Bottom line is, of course, how good are the results. So, I searched for "steely dan 2008 concert review" (without the quotes) and here is what I get:

In Firefox 3, Cuil tells me that there are 4,196 results for steely dan 2008 concert review. However, it shows me only THREE results...that's it. In IE7, the results are different (huh?). Cuil says there are 7,343 results for steely dan 2008 concert review, and shows me a total of SEVEN of them. What gives?

OTOH, Google reports 44,300 results and shows 10 pages of results (@ my setting of 50-results per page).

Furthermore, the of the THREE Firefox results, only one of the results is what I was looking for (a review of a concert on this tour). That one "good" result is absent in the IE search results. The Google results are chock-full of relevant results.

I will keep playing with it, and trying different types of searches, and changing parameters before I come to a final conclusion. But, the early results are very poor, IMO.

Date: Wed, July 30, 2008, 10:58:20 ET
Posted by: Larry, Farmingdale, New York

Lurker Ray - I was told that Ms. Russell will be doing the rest of the SD tour once her own shows are finished.

By great luck I'll be out in Southern Cal next week on business. That means I'll be able to make both shows in that area. Do you know of any pre/post show parties going on? I would like to meet some west coast Dan fans!

Date: Wed, July 30, 2008, 10:41:45 ET
Posted by: Hutch, rva

There's a new search engine out there. Heard about it on some TV ad.
It's called "cuil", which is some sort of variation of "cool".
Figured I'd try it out by typing in, well... guess what?

I kinda like the format.

http://www.cuil.com/search?q=steely%20dan&pi=0&sl=long

Date: Wed, July 30, 2008, 10:34:56 ET
Posted by: well, Matt,

you missed the boat. you chose the wrong shows.

Date: Wed, July 30, 2008, 09:35:31 ET
Posted by: Matt, chattanooga, TN

It goes like...

That's impossible. All the shows I've been to are way better than the ones I haven't.

Date: Wed, July 30, 2008, 09:26:17 ET
Posted by: HouDanFan, Houston

Dean...Never been to a Toby Keith concert but I would bet there are lots of scantilly clad gorgeous women there. I'm hoping that was Jon's motovation.

Date: Wed, July 30, 2008, 08:15:01 ET
Posted by: it goes like so,

1. Red Rox 2008
2. Soboba 2006 & Roseland 2003
3. Wash D.C. 2000
4. Beacon Show #3 2008
5. Boston 2008

Date: Wed, July 30, 2008, 02:01:32 ET
Posted by: artist_nine,

My apologies, if this issue has already been discussed, but... was there any particular reason why Fagen & Becker stopped using Roger Nichols as an engineer after EMG?

Date: Wed, July 30, 2008, 01:35:33 ET
Posted by: Kirk, Sacto Area

Hi Connie,
My impression of the Berkeley vs. Saratoga concerts:
1. The Berkeley crowd was into the mood much sooner than the Saratoga crowd. The pharmaceuticals in the Berkeley air might be a partial explanation.
2. Shorter show at Saratoga: Glamour Profession was cut, and the encore was just one number.
3. Both venues are listener-friendly, but Saratoga is especially comfortable (new seats, lots of leg room, cup holders), and there's not a bad seat in the house.
4. Saratoga: first time I've ever had to wait in line to use the men's restroom. I considered using the ladies (where there was no line) but wasn't sure how I would be received.
5. The dress code at the two venues was markedly different: saw a 60-ish guy at Berkeley in a tie-dye suit (pants, shirt, and matching jacket . . . where else but Berkeley?). Lots of leather and iPhones at Saratoga.
6. Donald and Walter seemed relaxed at both concerts, but perhaps slightly more so at Saratoga.
7. While Saratoga is a great venue for a concert, it is the WORST venue once the concert is over. There is one narrow, winding road that leads to/from the winery. The snarl begins as the encore ends, and lasts about 60 minutes. Might as well bring a sandwich and wait in your car till the knot untangles.
8. The '08 Steely Dan Band was tres tight, and gave us the musical perfection we all expect from them. As the concert was nearing its end, the woman next to me said, "It's going by too fast." Amen.

Date: Wed, July 30, 2008, 00:31:53 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu - Still Didn't Tumble Into The Sea

Yeah we had a bit of a "rumbler"
out here in SoCal today. My friends
in Chicago always call and email
after a quake report. I have to remind
them of the summer of '95 in Chicago
when we ran out of room in the morgues.
I'll take a little rumble over that any day.
GalMarg -
Great report from the Todd Bearsville show!
I'm with you, I'd stay at the show as long
as Todd wants to play. Nicely done. I'm
envious. Sounds like you had a great time.
Connie -
Sorry to hear about the uptight security at
Saratoga. Couldn't agree more about Cat
Russell and what she adds to this year's tour.
For sure she will not be at the Woodinville dates.
She is in Newark. That is her last solo date.
Boy I hope she appears for the rest of the
August dates. But we will have to wait
and see. But I have got a hunch. Wonder why
no "44" in Saratoga? It's not like the Berkeley
& Saratoga shows were back-to back. SEE! –
Toby Keith gets the fireworks, comped rooms
for friends and The FULL Fair Queen and her
Court![Emoticon of your choice]
Not sure why Jon was checking out Toby Keith
though?
Lutz -
Jay Leno IS NOT funny. That was
funny.[Emoticon of your choice]
Deano -
Eric Estrada has some vaction
property in Arkansas that he would
like to sell you. [Emoticon of your choice]
Lonnie -
Why did you pass on LA & Paso Robles?
You missed out buddy. Are you coming
to Anaheim or Pala? I would like to
discuss that "recording" you said you
have and maybe twist your arm.
[Emoticon of your choice]
Selfish Gene –
You are the dullest “tool” is His “shed”.
This is my house and here’s your cab.
[Emoticon of my choice]

Date: Tues, July 29, 2008, 23:31:01 ET
Posted by: Selfish Gene, His House

The "Soboba vs. Roseland 2003 debate" exists solely and completely in your mind, Ray...

Date: Tues, July 29, 2008, 23:09:24 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Thanks, Connie

I had a fairly clueless idiot in front of me, at the show I saw. Oh, well. BTW, while I loved the background at the show, I found it distracting during New Frontier. Perhaps if it wasn't the same thing over and over, I would have liked it more.

The story with the guy taking Jon to see Toby Keith is funny (and I don't really doubt it). I have found professional musicians are more appreciative of artists that you wouldn't imagine them liking. But, Toby Keith? Yikes! :#) I bet he has a real good band, though.

Date: Tues, July 29, 2008, 21:30:10 ET
Posted by: Connie, In the vineyard

Hey, Kirk from Sac and WL chime in on this since you were at both -

Dean-

Smaller venue at Saratoga so my seats were better - at The Greek I sat next to a 22(?) y/o who said "I never heard of Steely Dan" and kept getting up for Buds (and buds). He was dragged there by his girlfriend's parents. After about 6 Buds and after I told him about the Grammy in 2K over Eminem (who also didn't know who SD was), he finally appreciated it and was impressed by SD.
At Sartoga my benchmate was a man who had his elbows on his knees and his hands on his face who 'let loose' with his forefinger tapping out the beat on his cheek.
The roar of the crowd in Berkeley (imho) fed the band. The set was longer, Keith was showcased. But having Catherine Russell at Saratoga added so much more. Not having the light show, was a big minus. I loved the light show in Berkeley - especially New Frontier.
Saratoga venue is beautiful, more relaxed than the Greek but so was the audience.The sound was better for me in Saratoga because I was closer.

I don't know if this is true but before the show in Saratoga I was talking to a man who said he worked for Toby Keith on the sound and drove Jon Herrington up to Lake Tahoe on Sunday night because Jon wanted to see Toby. They saw the show w/fireworks, Jon was blown away, they had comped rooms, blah, blah, blah...

Date: Tues, July 29, 2008, 20:41:41 ET
Posted by: Lutz, SF

Dean, that's the second time today I basically was told not to apply for Jay Leno's job just yet...
glad I have a job...

Date: Tues, July 29, 2008, 20:39:46 ET
Posted by: Lutz, SF

Date: Tues, July 29, 2008, 20:35:52 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Oh, one more thing:

Are you yanking our chains (about Carlock's van), Lutz?

Date: Tues, July 29, 2008, 20:34:36 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Quick post on Mountain Winery.

I have been talking up this venue for a while now. I just discovered that there has been a fairly major renovation. From what I can tell, the venue that I loved so much, is no longer. According to some accounts from those who have attended concerts before and after the change, the venue is now much more typical of many outdoor amphitheaters. I hear it is still scenic and nice, and all... but the old venue was really special (IMO) and not, at all, your typical outdoor venue.

Of course, I'm sure SD made the venue special, nonetheless.

Connie, how did the concert (venue, band, sound, etc) compare to the Greek?

Thanks.

Date: Tues, July 29, 2008, 20:13:41 ET
Posted by: Connie, In the vineyard

More on Saratoga -

Catherine Russell - YES
Afros - No
Walter's Hey 19 dialogue - There was no "happy ending" rap. Just You're driving up the 280 and stop in a tavern for a drink ask the big blonde waitress for a... what was it ladies?"
Light show - No
Encore song - only 1 (WL thinks that they cut this short since so many of the audience were leaving to avoid the car jam (Ha, unless you were first to leave you were in a log jam - one narrow, narrow road out)
Keith Carlock showcased - No
Twisting on twisted lyrics - Yes, yes yes!
420 - No
Wine - Yes and lots of it
Uptight security - yes

The sound system was excellent.

Date: Tues, July 29, 2008, 20:08:28 ET
Posted by: Drewslo, San Luis Obispo

Steely Dan and Todd Rundgren are my two favorite artists so it was great to read Margaret's Todd review and know there are others out there like me.

I missed Todd's west coast swing on this tour but I caught Steely Dan in Paso Robles and agree with those who have commented on the shows this year. I've caught the '94,'96,2000 and 2003 shows previous to this one. My favorite show was probably 2000(at Shoreline Amphitheatre) because of the great set list, but this year was probably the best overall performance.

Date: Tues, July 29, 2008, 20:00:29 ET
Posted by: Lonnie THE Kingpin, TAHOE

Hello one and all ~~

TAHOE is where it is at this weekend. Be there or be square. Nothing better than the Dan on the shores of the stunning Lake Tahoe. Out there it is truly Two Against Nature.

It will be somebody's Saturday night!!!

Lonnie

Date: Tues, July 29, 2008, 19:37:13 ET
Posted by: marachino cherries , we don't need no marachino cherries

Why you should NEVER eat maraschino cherries...

I learned today why maraschino cherries are so disgusting. Let me first say that I have NEVER enjoyed maraschino cherries. "Why," I thought to myself, "would anyone purposefully do that to a cherry? I mean cherries are delicious and that is just...ugghh." Let's face it, you might as well top a desert with a piece of poo, and after this, you may agree with me.

My kiddies and I went on a field trip today to the Big Red Barn and Mountainland Apples in Santaquin. It was a lovely day. We rode a hayride through fruit orchards out to a pumpkin patch where the girls each carefully chose the perfect pumpkin to cut open, gut, and carve into disturbing shapes for All Hallow's Eve. And there was a cider doughnut thrown in to boot. But, I digress...

The first activity of the day was a Short lecture about how the fruit is grown, harvested and picked. At the end of the cherry explanation, some woman raised her hand to asked how maraschino cherries are grown. Are grown?! Are you kidding me? She can't honestly believe those are grown! OK, well, technically, they are grown...but, I digress.

The farmer-turned-lecturer said, "Well, those ain't grown, they're made. We don't do that here...I can tell ya how those 'r made, but you ain't gonna wanna eat 'em after that." As if anyone in their right mind did want to eat them before that. Come on. I digress...

"Well, maraschino cherries are sweet cherries that are picked and then they are dumped into a vat of bleach. It's a brine, really, of bleach."

The woman: "Bleach? Isn't that toxic?"

Farmer/lecturer: "Well, yeah, I mean it is bleach. Sure it's toxic."

I knew there was something inherently dangerous about maraschino cherries.

"So, after they sit in the bleach fer a while, they get all white and lose all their flavor, 'cause they're bleached, y'know? Well, then they put 'em in another vat and cook 'em with high fructose corn syrup and color and flavor and stuff."

Gross.

"That's what a maraschino cherry is. We don't make 'em here."

Well hallelujah Mountainland! More power to you! Can you imagine my distress when I found online that many maraschino cherries are made from Queen Anne or Rainier cherries?! What?! Have you TASTED a Queen Anne or Rainier cherry?
And people (supposedly in their right minds) are taking those delectable morsels from heaven and bleaching them into a white NOTHING and then filling them with high fructose corn syrup, almond flavoring, and red #2?! What is wrong with these people? Honestly.

On the upside, The Big Red Barn and the Mountainland tour and hayride was a lovely diversion and the kids had a ball. But, I digress...

Maraschino cherries...not in MY pantry, and now--I hope--not in yours.

HEY CHECK THIS OUT WHILE YOU ARE AT IT - MUCH MORE UPLIFITING:

http://www.seedsofdeception.com/GMFree/AboutGMFoods/WorldAccordingtoMonsanto/index.cfm

Date: Tues, July 29, 2008, 18:08:17 ET
Posted by: Cheech &, Chong

Bard tops Cannabis College list - celebstoner
New York’s Bard College leapfrogged past Warren Wilson College to become the No. 1 so-called “Reefer Madness” school in the Princeton Review’s 2008 rankings.Last year Bard was second to Wilson, but the college immortailized by Steely Dan in “My Old School” can now claim the “widest use of marijuana” among its student body. The University of Colorado at Boulder climbed 12 slots to No. 3. The University of Vermont at Burlington and New College of Florida round out the Top 5.

Date: Tues, July 29, 2008, 17:48:48 ET
Posted by: This just in..., Bard tops Cannabis College list

New York’s Bard College leapfrogged past Warren Wilson College to become the No. 1 so-called “Reefer Madness” school in the Princeton Review’s 2008 rankings.Last year Bard was second to Wilson, but the college immortailized by Steely Dan in “My Old School” can now claim the “widest use of marijuana” among its student body.

http://www.celebstoner.com/marijuana-news/bard-tops-cannabis-college-list.html

Date: Tues, July 29, 2008, 16:59:43 ET
Posted by: Dan Belcher, Louisville, KY

Yeah, the recipe for a black cow is different everywhere you go. I used to stop by the ice cream stand near the University of Louisville to get a chili dog and a black cow about once a week. Their black cow was merely chocolate ice cream and your choice of root beer or Coke. Simple, but delicious, and a perfect complement to their fantastic chili dogs. (Boring but true story: the first time I ever got a black cow there, I was listening to the Aja album in my car and Black Cow came on right as I got to the parking lot. I had never noticed the black cow on their menu before, but needless to say ordered once as soon as I spotted it.)

Date: Tues, July 29, 2008, 16:49:52 ET
Posted by: Bootyfull Housewife, Rudy's

I'd druther use chocolate ice cream and Donald's favorite, Coke.

Date: Tues, July 29, 2008, 16:02:21 ET
Posted by: Phred,

Saratoga! Steely Dan Inc, and the Wine Country and gated community tour du jour. Apart from a few attempts at post-bop (green earrings, at least when the fellas get it nearly right), strict-leee commercial.......

Date: Tues, July 29, 2008, 16:00:59 ET
Posted by: Mme. Erzulie, just right for a hot summer day

Black Cow

2 scoops vanilla ice cream
10 oz root beer
1 tbsp chocolate syrup
1 1/2 oz whipped cream
maraschino cherries

Pour root beer over ice cream and chocolate syrup in a large tumbler glass. Garnish with whipped cream and a maraschino cherry. Serve with a straw and a long spoon.

Date: Tues, July 29, 2008, 15:44:14 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana, va

DF and WB guest-dj on Sirius Radio Pure Jazz this saturday, Aug. 2 at 10pm ET. More info on Radio Dupree homepage.

Date: Tues, July 29, 2008, 15:38:29 ET
Posted by: chris, nh

GM, youre totes my LJ friend now omggggg

Date: Tues, July 29, 2008, 15:28:14 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Cortlandt Manor, NY

Last night I was at Bearsville seeing Todd Rundgren, jesus he's fantastic. Several people asked me to post about the show, but in the effort to save some Bluebook space, here's a link to my Todd-ventures:

http://girlmargaret.livejournal.com/155152.html

Date: Tues, July 29, 2008, 15:12:17 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Heading Toward the Manatee Bar

Daddy,

Yes, the boys played in what's called Northern California (but, is actually closer to mid-way up the coast), last night. They are probably headed to the next venue (Washington state) and should be quite removed from the quake area.

Date: Tues, July 29, 2008, 14:53:45 ET
Posted by: Daddy Gee, the right coast

California tumbles into the sea...

Am I right in that D&W are in Northern CA and out of danger

Date: Tues, July 29, 2008, 14:05:54 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Thanks, Ann, Gus and Dan (dom):

I hope you'll indulge a few more questions. I just read a review of Sunday Night's Emmylou Harris show at Mountain Winery, and they mentioned the "brand-new amphitheater". Dan mentioned construction.

What's up? I assume this in the same place as the old Mountain Winery venue. Can anyone compare the new and old venue (the old venue was fairly small and intimate).

Anyway, how was the show? Was the sound good? Were the boys relaxed and happy?

Thanks for any info you have.

Date: Tues, July 29, 2008, 13:45:31 ET
Posted by: Ann,

Hey Dean and Dan yep I was, am still, in a Steely Dan Daze!

The back exiting of Donald and Walter was surreal it must be nice to be them!!!

It was easy to follow his exit from the stage and up and around to the back - right up to the road where there Lincoln and escort from the Sherrif awaited.

I was sitting, standing right along that far end of seating closest to their exit - that was the best exit I've ever witnessed!

I was seriously considering driving into Saratoga and getting breakfast somewhere in hopes of bumping into them since we live up the road in Boulder Creek!

Yea Dean not sure I would now how to answer your question bout Keith - sorry...Peace and Get

Date: Tues, July 29, 2008, 13:01:56 ET
Posted by: Dan (dom),

Dean - Since Ann seems to be in a bit of a daze...here ya go [via Gus Winterbottom's post to the Dandom Email List] :

Steely Dan Set list, Mountain Winery, Saratoga, CA, 7/28/08

Intro: Everyone's Gone to the Movies/The Fez/Carlock Solo/Royal Scam Intro
Royal Scam when Walt, Don and Ladies (Three, including Catherine Russell) enter
I Got the News
Show Biz Kids
Everything You Did
Two Against Nature
Hey 19
Godwhacker
New Frontier
Gaucho, Walter vocals
Home at Last
Parker's Band (Ladies' vocals)
Black Friday
Josie
Aja
Love is Like an Itchin' in My Heart/Band Intros
Peg
Kid Charlemagne

ENCORE:

FM
(no other outro tonight)

The backstage area of this amphitheatre is still under construction,
which enabled those of us seated higher up house left to witness Walt
and Don exiting the second floor backstage level and entering their
limo while FM was still in progress on stage. Probably a scene many
fans have imagined, but a bit surreal nonetheless when I actually
experienced it.

Date: Tues, July 29, 2008, 12:21:14 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Ann,

Interesting post. It sounds like you had fun...but you don't tell us much. From what you post "we parked by SDs drummers van" [sic], it suggests that Keith Carlock drives his own van to the gigs. Anyone have any info on that?

So, Ann, now that you've talked about you, do you care to share ANY info about the show? We'd love to hear it.

Date: Tues, July 29, 2008, 11:10:31 ET
Posted by: never mind, i found out myself

laff
http://www.netfunny.com/rhf/jokes/88old/bulb.html

Date: Tues, July 29, 2008, 06:11:06 ET
Posted by: Ann - lets ust keep it simple!, Saratoga Ca

It is all about me!

I just want to post that from the moment of the first heard SD notes I had to sit down, take it in - this is me walking down to the venue, mind you.

The scenery was Amazing at lot of acreage one can view from the tip of Pierce Rd in beautiful Northern Cali.

Parking was SWEET we parked by SDs drummers van and got along with the Roadies, that was Fun(!*@ you guys are cute up there and have a safe trip up to Seattle - - would Love to go, You know!

And if you are reading this and may wonder, who is this person, well I'm the dark curly haired girl at the top far right off the stage me and that blond who danced her way down to the stage and was escorted out of the first row to a low murmer of a few boos.

I swear me and her were dancing our way down the mid section later and along to the left of stage and up when the tune ended and Donald said "thanks girls"!

See you were right, it was all about me, mostly...peace and love !@%&

Date: Tues, July 29, 2008, 04:05:23 ET
Posted by: Michael, Still in your house

Oh, and here's an interview from 1995 with the boys ~ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bdW9q-JGg0Y

People have been posting concert videos from this year so check those out too.

Sorry for the double-post.

Date: Tues, July 29, 2008, 04:02:25 ET
Posted by: Michael, In your house

In case you missed it, someone just posted Don & Walt winning the Grammy for TAN on YouTube ~ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gP9nTx_rinM

Date: Tues, July 29, 2008, 00:21:16 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Thanks for the props Javier.
I was truly just a "Lurker"
before the amazing Soboba 06
show. In fact it nudged me
to make my first ever post
here. Actually, I did write
quite a bit about the show and it
pretty much launched the entire
Soboba Vs Roseland 2003 debate.
I still feel that Soboba was
"earned" while the two nights
at Roseland in 2003 were "gimmees".
I also got pretty slammed for
having the audacity to write
that I thought the sound at
Red Rocks was sub-par beyond
the 20th row. I still do.
Truth be told, I was a little
gun shy to post a full "review"
(I really don't like that word,
I prefer, "report")of Soboba.
There was really quite a heated
verbal battle going on here back
then. I must admit that I feel
more comfortable here now at this
amazing forum Jim has provided
us with. I've been posting here
a while now. I just try and let
it rip. From the heart.

Date: Mon, July 28, 2008, 23:54:49 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu, not serving 2 masters

Selfish Gene and God's Eye View are some of my fav tracks because of the choices made... The caliope sets up the goofy loping...Souza and backup in the chorus and of course the bridge...doubled up. Walter's ability to construct a conversation. Feel the Party...a Mummy Party.

God's Eye View flaunts major 'tude...and the backup singers make the most of it including Was/Not Was' Sweet Pea Atkinson and Sir Harry Bowen. The house always wins.

I'd give anything to see Walter pull this one out as the first encore!!! LOL

Date: Mon, July 28, 2008, 23:50:09 ET
Posted by: sitting here, wondering with a match box over my nose

what ever happened to all the great lightbulb jokes?

Date: Mon, July 28, 2008, 23:27:47 ET
Posted by: Javier M., Indio

Lurker Ray great reviews, smokin' mad writing skills. A novel, play-by-play style.

A question though, did you have or where were these skills which would have captured the legendary show @Soboba? What happened?

Date: Mon, July 28, 2008, 22:50:05 ET
Posted by: But,

And...don't feed the troll. It's only little bill.

Date: Mon, July 28, 2008, 21:34:53 ET
Posted by: soboba, near you

Soboba.

Date: Mon, July 28, 2008, 20:31:04 ET
Posted by: Hey 36, ABQ

Lurker Ray,

I LOVE your reviews! I'm jealous!!!

Date: Mon, July 28, 2008, 20:25:48 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Maybe Wlm is speaking for the insecure schoolboy (girl) in all of us...remember, we ARE Dan fans and that makes us different from everyone else!

Date: Mon, July 28, 2008, 19:31:34 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

And Wlm, I certainly see your point, but we get it, so who cares?

Date: Mon, July 28, 2008, 19:26:55 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

I think Souza's vocal makes Gene sizzle. But, I certainly understand Wlm's point. There was a poster here, right after the release of C$, who was dissing the backup vocals on C$ in general and Gene, in particular.

I guess don't really care what those who don't get it think. I'm just glad that Walter probably doesn't really care, either.

:#)

Date: Mon, July 28, 2008, 19:18:45 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Wlm, I love her work on Selfish Gene. Its slinky and sexy as hell. Like she's stoned out of her mind or something.

Date: Mon, July 28, 2008, 17:21:58 ET
Posted by: Wlm, BC

Dean, I'm of two minds about Souza on Selfish Gene. Her style is that understated, low, and 'flat' sound production that's so essential to so much of Bossa Nova singing. Applied to Selfish Gene, it adds something to the tune which is a bit spooky and strange and a little "twisted" -- which I think is GREAT! It really does do something different and cool to that tune. However, the first time I heard it, my "second" mind thought, "oh no, so few people are going to 'get' this voice of hers, and how and why it's a good choice here". It's immature of me, a bit like high school, I want "our boy" to be popular . You and I enjoy her work on that track, but I worry and assume that we will be in the minority.

Date: Mon, July 28, 2008, 17:11:31 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

Lurker Ray - when reading your post, I felt like I was there...thanks.

Date: Mon, July 28, 2008, 17:10:26 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

Date: Mon, July 28, 2008, 17:08:21 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

pergunnar,

Thanks for that Sara Colman link. I'm not a big fan of most of the cover attempts at Dan (or Dan-family) material. That was really beautiful, IMO. Color The Dean impressed.

Bill and Wlm, what do you think of Luciana Souza's work on Selfish Gene? I freakin love it.

And Bob...you talkin to me? Well, thank ya, and back at ya.

Date: Mon, July 28, 2008, 17:07:35 ET
Posted by: And,

Phred, please, drop dead!

Date: Mon, July 28, 2008, 16:59:16 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

The Dean - a personal thank you for your posts...they are always interesting, informative and directing (in always the right direction).

Date: Mon, July 28, 2008, 16:41:22 ET
Posted by: Phred,

Steely Burt..aka Bacharachsvatta! That's SD, distilled (about 45 minutes of semi-interesting TV theme muzak, with Donny F's attemps at some Bill Evans sap ... )

Date: Mon, July 28, 2008, 16:06:21 ET
Posted by: Wlm, BC

Hello Bill from P:

if you are looking for another Souza-SD connection the BEST in my opinion is the song "Love is For Strangers" on her album of last year ( The New Bossa Nova).

The song was written by Becker and Klein. It is incredible. Talk about Bacharach in bunches. And in addition to the melodic coolness, the lyrics are incredibly dry and great -- a Sondheim quality to it. Well worth $.99 to check out..and tell me if you don't think its a great song of its type (even if that type is not your thing. It is mine, with a background in musical theatre)

A song like this makes me excited that Klein and Becker could write some fantastic songs for *others* now, too!

Wlm

Date: Mon, July 28, 2008, 15:34:02 ET
Posted by: Covering Walter?, Book Of Liars and Sara Colman

Steely Dan songs have been covered by other artists. Donald Fagen songs as well. But how about Walter tunes?

Here's a jazzy take on Book Of Liars from Sara Colman:

http://www.myspace.com/saracolman

It's in the player on the page and will be on her upcoming second solo album.

Sounds (very) fine to me!

Date: Mon, July 28, 2008, 15:25:47 ET
Posted by: Phred,

Joni the Yoni! She was at her most authentic attemptin' me n my uncle. Then to folkie-doke, to narcisso-rock (with Crusty, Swill, Stash, Dung no less) to emo-jazz, to plagiarizing WB Yeats. Havin' some manhattan gangstas along, or Larry Stein, or la session wankers don't avail. Stick to the cezanne-esque greeting cards and boo-coo xanax, dearie

Date: Mon, July 28, 2008, 14:37:57 ET
Posted by: Bill from Pgh,

Tangentially Dan, I just heard Herbie Hancock's grammy winning "River: the Joni Letters" for the first time today. Didn't know what to expect before I heard it. It's growing on me -- HH substantially reharmonizes many of the songs and there is a dreamlike, floating quality to the arrangements, very little actual pulse, Vinnie C is quite laid-back. Wayne Shorter's playing is very tasty - especially on soprano where, like Branford Marsalis (and Coltrane), he avoids cliches and cloying sweetness (somebody tell that Gorelick guy). It's hard to cover Joni vocally, particularly her world-weary phrasing, but Luciana Souza does the best job of the guests here (and she's married to Joni's ex, our own Larry Klein - that's gotta be kinda weird). First time I've heard her and I'll need to track down more of her work, including Were You Blind.

I couldn't help imaging what this group of players could do with a selection of Dan/Fagen/Becker covers - I'd pick Aja, Dr. Wu, Deacon Blue, On The Dunes, maybe some of the simpler early material like Dirty Work or Razor Boy.

Date: Mon, July 28, 2008, 14:27:35 ET
Posted by: BillfromPgh,

Shame about Hiram Bullock. I saw him a number of times and he was always an amazing player. He could go from Metheny to Hendrix and back in the blink of an eye, often in the same song, great singer, too. He was the house guitarist in David Sandborn's great Night Music band. One memorable show I saw was with Jaco Pastorius and Kenwood Denard - now that's a power trio! He will be missed.

Date: Mon, July 28, 2008, 12:55:35 ET
Posted by: Phred,

Ah the Don Fagen Band at ol greek theatre. make sure to keep ur eyes open around the shrubs for, er, the kid charlemagnes that weren't on the A-list, and couldn't quite cover the 100 shekels or so for boletas. Doin the supremes and other pop gems too! wow. guar-an-teeed to get some soccer mommies from the 'burbs feeling fine n mellow.

Hey Don (and Donny's go-boy Walt), haven't you pimped the corpse of William Burroughs, the beats, and real jazz musicians long enough?

Date: Mon, July 28, 2008, 11:28:35 ET
Posted by: AnonTwit, on vynyl

'and good ole boys are [diggin] whisky and Ry'

Date: Mon, July 28, 2008, 08:35:03 ET
Posted by: steelydoc, near the Tower

front row seats for Las Vegas on Ticketmaster now...

Date: Mon, July 28, 2008, 00:57:56 ET
Posted by: Lutz, SF

Dean, thanks for the newspaper link.
As usual it is not an accurate description of the event.
But who takes these guys serious anyway.

Date: Mon, July 28, 2008, 00:24:10 ET
Posted by: steelydoc,

anybody heard from Craig B lately?

Date: Sun, July 27, 2008, 22:02:59 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

File this under Dan-tangential/miscellaneous:

For some reason, "The Very Thing That Makes You Rich (Makes Me Poor)" has been rattling around my brain for the past few hours, and it occurred to me that I don't think anyone has mentioned Ry Cooder in the discussion of great artists who have stayed great for a long period.

What makes it even more Dan-tangential, is while Nightfly is credited as one of the first digitally recorded albums, Ry's "Bob Til You Drop" is considered first major-label, digitally recorded album. Many Cooder aficionados consider it one of Ry's lesser works. I'm not a Ry expert, but I think it's a real fun album, and deserves a listen, or two.

Date: Sun, July 27, 2008, 22:02:55 ET
Posted by: Laurie, on the dunes, Morro Bay

Thanks Connie at the Vineyard and Wicked Librarian ... for a great pre-show get together in Berkeley. Robert and I had a great time meeting new and old friends. We hope that your newbie friends ("the virgins") enjoyed their first experience with our boys.

Berkeley rocked so hard I needed to catch my breath after it ended! The crowd really seemed to be in to it, everyone had a great time. A quick survey of the riser seats with my binoculars I counted 23 Aja t-shirts! Just a funny little observation...

Highlights for me were: Herington's guitar on Third World Man - It honest to god brought tears to my eyes. Everything about Parker's Band, one of my nostalgic favorites (from long nights listening to Pretzel Logic in my earphones as a teen). The Royal Scam - Pugh and Leonhart nailed it so well I couldn't speak. Carlock's drum solos...throughout. The man is an absolute machine! He keeps everything in perfect rhythm. His beat in New Frontier gave that song such a fresh sound.

Donald's voice took a song or two to get warmed up but once he found it, he used it to tease us. At one point he twisted something around his pipes and Carlock looked over and laughed at him. It was a genuinely exceptional moment to witness. I heard Walt's guitar better than at any of the apx. 12 shows I've seen, and I was truly glad for that. He is a real master.

Everyone in the place was on their feet for the last half hour or so of the show. Walter let us know he appreciated it when he came to the front mic and said "you're a great audience"!

By the way, that was Robert who yelled "we love you guys!" at the beginning of New Frontier. Walt blew him a kiss. Aint that sweet!

I've been scouring ebay and ticketmaster this afternoon trying to figure out a way for Robert and I to go to any of the other shows, but so far nothing is working. But the year isn't over. I remain hopeful that the sky will open and rain some fortune/good timing on us.

Date: Sun, July 27, 2008, 20:24:46 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Gus -
Glad you got to hear "Home At Last"
live finally. What took so long?! ;O)
Still the most Gaucho songs played appears
to be in LA. Man is hoops clairvoyant?
His "danfest art work" says, "Gaucho".
And that was before the tour started.
Yes it appears to be a "Gaucho" fest
this tour.
Gal Marg,
Looking forward to your report from the
Todd show. They say that the shows will
be recorded. How great is that?!
Jesus, was that take of Kid C just mind
blowing in Paso Robles. If anyone from
the crew is checking in, I would love
to know what was the deal with the live
alligator and marsupial on stage.

Date: Sun, July 27, 2008, 20:17:41 ET
Posted by: Seattle Danfest Info Update,

Seattle Danfest Info Update at...

http://dandom.com/danfests/seattle

Date: Sun, July 27, 2008, 20:14:36 ET
Posted by: Gretchen,

Uncle Bob, another birthday? Don't worry, it sure looks good on you, as always. Have a great one........

G

Date: Sun, July 27, 2008, 19:58:57 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Review of the Berkeley Show:

http://blogs.mercurynews.com/aei/2008/07/27/steely-dan-in-berkeley-726-review-and-set-list/

The first comment is better than the review.

Date: Sun, July 27, 2008, 19:13:28 ET
Posted by: Gus Winterbottom, Emailed at 4:11 am NYC Digest Time because Gus' hotel ISP won't let him post to the Blue; Thanks, Gus!

SPOILER
SPOILER
SPOILER

Greek Theatre, Berkeley, CA 07/26/08

Everyone's Gone to the Movies/The Fez/Carlock Solo/Royal Scam Intro
Royal Scam when Don, Walt, and Ladies (2, no Catherine Russell, but with Afro wigs) enter
I Got the News
Show Biz Kids
Everything You Did
Two Against Nature
Hey 19
Godwhacker
New Frontier
Glamour Profession
Gaucho, Walt vocals
Home at Last
Parker's Band (vocals by the ladies)
Black Friday ("Texas Style", per Don at the end of the song)
Josie
Aja
Love is Like an Itchin' in My Heart/Band Intros
Peg
Kid Charlemagne

ENCORES:

Third World Man
Do It Again
Outro: Last Tango In Paris

In terms of both the acoustics and overall performance, I think that this show was the equal of the Nokia show last Wednesday, with one improvement: Freddie's bass came through a lot clearer in Berkeley. Possibly this is due to the outdoor venue. Everyone, especially Don appeared to be enjoying themselves on stage tonight. Don's vocals, though not quite glitch-free, had the same strength that others have noted, and I heard Wednesday. This band is clearly setting a new standard this tour, based on what I have witnessed so far.

Highlights tonight, in my opinion, and not to imply that there were any weaknesses:

1. Home at Last, for sentimental reasons: This one has managed to elude me through 14 shows since 1993; finally heard it live for the first time.

2. Two Against Nature

SPOILER
SPOILER
SPOILER

Date: Sun, July 27, 2008, 18:27:34 ET
Posted by: Web Search, keyboard

Recent video of Clint Black interrupting a country concert to play Josie. Doesn't seem as if the crowd was into it.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=wf31wj4MY_I

Date: Sun, July 27, 2008, 17:16:41 ET
Posted by: Get It Right, the first time

Former Uncle Bob

Une autre année, un autre nombre. Joyeux anniversaire.

Beaucoup de bonheur toujours.

Date: Sun, July 27, 2008, 16:30:35 ET
Posted by: HAPPY BIRTHDAY, UNCLE BOB

Date: Sun, July 27, 2008, 16:29:09 ET
Posted by: HAPPY BIRTHDAY, UNCLE BOB

Date: Sun, July 27, 2008, 15:23:40 ET
Posted by: HouDanFan, Houston

Great post Ray...since this seems to be the Gaucho tour was curious if My Rival has ever been played live. It's a song I never cared for a lot except it has hit me the last months. One of the joys of being a SD fan.

Date: Sun, July 27, 2008, 14:50:54 ET
Posted by: Lutz, SF

Incredible show last night,
beautiful venue & weather, sold out (8000)show.
Thrilling to hear so many tunes that have not been played much.
Carlock was featured more than last year, people around us were kind of shocked. Different arrangements on some songs, I like the "new" Black Friday and 2VN better. Plus there was quite a bit of the old Humbold Green in the air - it was Berkeley after all...

Date: Sun, July 27, 2008, 14:42:12 ET
Posted by: Bodhi-Wad-sva, 7-card table of the mind

Griffin's playing was pretty tasty, as was Rouse's; er the Charlie Rouse quartet, featuring Theo-Monk.

check out some recent SD vids on ewe-tube. Carlock's overrated. OK, the kid's got riddum--probably win the pitchers of oly at a simi talent nite with his band---but Philly joe jones he ain't. (and not Erskine, Colliata (sp.), Bozzio, elvin j., mitch mitchell, etc.). Not meant to be a diss, but SD Inc now top-notch talent as they saya (at least ticket prices would suggest dat) ........Even Hodder on the old stuff quite tighter than later SD stix (tho purdie's grooves another thang)

Date: Sun, July 27, 2008, 12:54:59 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, Reggae Sunday

I should mention that Griffin's "A Blowin' Session" is a must have, in any jazz fan's collection. Coltrane adds to the magic on that particular recording.

Date: Sun, July 27, 2008, 12:49:57 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Huge loss, indeed, Janie.

RIP Johnny Griffin. One of the fastest bop players, ever.

My first exposure was from Return of the Griffin, in the late 70's. Then I found his stuff with with the Thelonious Monk quartet from the late 50's. Very nice stuff, very nice indeed.

Date: Sun, July 27, 2008, 12:19:15 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Another huge loss...

http://music.msn.com/music/article.aspx/?news=324641>1=28102

Date: Sun, July 27, 2008, 12:11:31 ET
Posted by: SteelyDanaa,

Lurker Ray:
I was up and dancing just reading your comments....Can't wait for your next installment . The Boys (and Girls) just keep getting better and better, if that is possible.

Date: Sun, July 27, 2008, 11:53:50 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana, va

Apsatively, love the idea of the SteelyLand/DanLand amusement park and the Bodhisattva retirement home !!! :-) Sign me up !!!!

Date: Sun, July 27, 2008, 11:33:07 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Cortlandt Manor, NY

Lurker Ray, your posts make my heart beat a little faster with envy and anticipation - sounds like you had a fabulous time! 20 days til Chicago, I can hardly sit still!!

Date: Sun, July 27, 2008, 10:16:43 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Ray,

You have an amazing talent for making us all feel like (and most certainly wish) we were right there with you. I would so love, since I saw them at the beginning of this year's tour, to see them again as the experience would be greatly enhanced by the layers and layers of impressions and reviews of all of you!

Date: Sun, July 27, 2008, 08:30:18 ET
Posted by: Denise, on vacation

Lurker Ray, thanks for that great post.

Date: Sun, July 27, 2008, 07:48:48 ET
Posted by: Santa Rosa Dave, 7/26 Set List

To assuage my tormented conscience for lurking, I offer you the 7/26 set list from the Greek Theater in Berkeley:

Instrumental Overture: Everyone's Gone to the Movies/The Fez
The Royal Scam
I Got The News
Show Biz Kids
Everything You Did
Two Against Nature
Hey Nineteen
Godwhacker
New Frontier
Glamour Profession
Gaucho
Home At Last
Parker's Band
Black Friday
Josie
Aja
Itching in My Heart (Band Intros)
Peg
Kid Charlemagne

Encore:
Third World Man
Do It Again

Date: Sun, July 27, 2008, 01:35:35 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Almost forgot -
During the Encore applause at Paso
Robles, a lady and a other gal
brought a live alligator and
some sort of marsupial on stage!
Not sure what the "f&ck" that was.
But it almost seemed liked there was
some magician magic boxes waiting
in the wings and there was going to be
some sort of a "magic trick" before the
encore. Surreal as hell.
But oh, what a night.

Date: Sun, July 27, 2008, 01:25:15 ET
Posted by: HMMMMM, Do we like it or hate it?

We're Number 1?

http://new.music.yahoo.com/blogs/listoftheday/84689/the-top-25-aor-bands-of-the-1970s-1980s

Date: Sun, July 27, 2008, 01:07:35 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Wow, Ray. Once again, you really done brung it. Glad to hear they tore the place up.

I'm shocked they could sound good with only three backup singers (counting Jeff). :#) Just kiddin'.

I hope there was something left in the tank for tonight's show. I have a few friends attending and really hope they don't get the short shrift. But, it doesn't really sound like there have been many of those (any of those?), this tour.

Date: Sun, July 27, 2008, 00:29:09 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Back From Paso Robles

Sad notice about Hiram Bullock. Truly great.

Steely Dan Paso Robles – California Mid-State Fair Friday Night 7/25/08

Let me first start by saying that I went into this show with very low expectations. Just because I knew we would be a gal down, it was hotter then hell at 2PM, the venue was at a State Fair and it was going to be tough to achieve the level of playing witnessed in LA on Wednesday night. Oh ye of such little faith in this modern day Colossus of Rhodes, this Saturn Rocket that is the Steely Dan 2008 touring band. I should have learned my lesson in 2006 at Soboba. When you get a hot Summer’s night in an out-of- the-way place in California and hard working folks are out on a Friday night to see their band, sometimes things are going to “happen”.
Walking into the fairgrounds about 6:20 for a 7:30 sharp show time without an opening act, and it was still hot. I hoped that maybe once “El Diablo” starting going down it would start to cool off. But it looked like the heat would prevail. Better get a beer. What’s this? A beer only costs $4 and I can get jumbo for only $7! And unlike anything I have ever seen at a fair, they had actual “bars” set up where you could actually grab a stool and even smoke a cigar if you wanted to. This was the first sign, things are starting to look up.
The next thing I notice is that cheesy carnival music isn’t blaring from the various midway PA speakers – they’re playing Steely Dan music. I heard this before and after the show. I made my way to the arena and it looked like there were two NASA Lunar Landers on stage. Donald’s Rhodes and Keith’s drum kit were completely wrapped in reflective foil to protect them from the heat. Shit. It must be hotter than hell on stage. They hate it here. They just want to get back on the buses. Would could blame them? Then I noticed that the “44” was not present. Are these now “bad signs”, foreboding omens of things to come? Maybe they were worried about leaving it up in the heat all day before the show or they wanted a quick break down for the crew because they had a show the next day in Berkeley.
And then bam. Another bad sign. Two local DJ jamokes , can you believe yet another guy named “Big Kahuna”? – come on stage and make a “pot” joke. We’re doomed. They tell us Steely Dan will be on in a few minutes and THEN the “Fair Queen” and her Court of 1 come on and introduce themselves! We didn’t even get the FULL Court. I bet Toby Keith gets the FULL Court.
And then something neat happened. They asked us all to rise as a gal came out onstage and sang the National Anthem. The National Anthem before a Steely Dan show. I dug it. The band was scheduled to start at 7:30 sharp but people were still streaming in and the show didn’t launch from the rocket pad until 7:45. The foil was removed, we got the green light from Huston - all systems were go and we had blast off. Were we about to see a band that was looking to play and get the hell off this “god-forsaken” inferno of a planet? Far from it. Here we go -

Everyone's Gone to the Movies – What’s this burning? Oh wait, it’s not the sun, because “El Diablo” is actually starting to go down now , that burning is Walt Weiskopf. He would continue to burn all night.

The Fez – This band isn’t suffering from heat stroke, the only heat is this bad-ass funky slop that Jeff Young is laying down. Jon checks in and Keith and Freddy are already playing their asses off. Weiskopf is still burning that first booster rocket.

Keith solo – For some strange reason we got essentially “two” Carlock drum solos! The longest I have heard. He stopped as normal, but didn’t kick it out right away. He went into an extended solo. What a hoot. Jon had the biggest shit-eating grin on his face. This band was obviously loose and ready to have some fun. Shouts of “Keith” ring out from the crowd.

Royal Scam Intro – Michael again like Wednesday in LA, blasts the fan fare for the coming heroes. Hey wait a minute, this crowd is also cheering for our two dignitaries.

Donald and Walter arrive – Who is this “loose” cat prancing on stage? Donald Fagen?! This is probably the loosest Donald Fagen I have ever seen. Did you have a cocktail or two before the show? Who could blame you. But as the night went on, fed by this fantastic crowd, it was apparent that Donald Fagen was having fun.

Royal Scam – Don is so f*cking loose. Playing with the word “island”. He’s come to sing. All the while Michael is making that horn “talk”. Jon lays down a guitar take that actually beats LA’s take. They may have wondered into Paso Robles, but
tonight we were going to get the real deal. The standing O’s start.

I've Got The News – And then it happened. A cool breeze started to blow as twilight started to fall. As the night went on it became a spectacular summer’s evening. Extra! Extra! Read all about it, Freddie brought the news. But Fagen has tonight’s OP ED. What a marvelous solo by Don. Fresh. Unique. And sublime. I may never walk again.

Showbiz Kids – Does Weiskopf have agents in the audience tonight? He is going into orbit. Loudest “Don’t Give A Fuck” sing-along I have heard. Smokin take.

Everything You Did – Man can Jon play with that “peddle”. Donald along with Michael tear it up. Donald starts to laugh at the end. Don’t know what struck him as funny. But then again he sure was in a great mood.

Two Against Nature – Horns were really spot on tonight along with the two girls. And Walter Becker zapped us with a really cool run. Okay, Weiskopf. We give. You are on another planet tonight.

Hey 19 – Something happened to this crowd. Like sprinklers on timers, people started “popping-up” and dancing. No security hassles. If you didn’t want to dance, that was cool. You had two huge screens to watch the action from. And Ray loves to dance. Walter – “You’ve gone on all the rides and you’ve puked. And now you are looking for Happy Ending after the fair.” Jim Pugh takes us all along when he slides on home. All of the rides had been “dark” at the start of the show but now they were all blinking in their full regalia. Who needs the “44”?!

Godwacker – Be very quiet? Not this Paso Robles crowd. It is now obvious that they have come to party. Many shout-outs to this amazing horn section. Melodica included. Don was just having way too much fun last night.

New Frontier – More “sprinklers” popping up and dancing. I’ve got a hunch about this night. Introduce me to that big blonde. Wow. Sorry I digress. This is definitely turning into a wing-ding with Jon lighting the charcoal.

Green Earrings – What a treat. No flies on me. What a killer night in Paso Robles at the Fair. Even though we were dancing we had to take notice of Jeff Young and Roger Rosenberg. Then Walter B & Jon blew us away.

Gaucho – Ladies in front of me. “Is this an older song?” “I don’t know – But I like it”. They continued to dance.

Babylon Sisters – What an exquisite intro by Don. Everybody dance now. As Don, would say, “What a night”. Plenty of Babylon Sisters shaking it. If you do not like to dance, then this would not be the show for you. Crowd goes wild.

Parkers Band – The missing gal was made up by Jon’s cranking opening.

Black Friday – For some reason, this song was the catalyst that brought nearly everyone in the arena to their feet and they did not stop dancing for the rest of the night. But then again, it was a take for the ages. Just stellar.

Josie – Just a killer opening by Donald. I have never heard “Strike at the stoke at midnight” sung with such a low growl. But then again Don was really inspired by this crowd of dancing fools. This take of Josie does not get any better. Inspired.

Aja – I don’t think I have ever seen a crowd dance to Aja like that. It’s such a slower tune. Until of course Carlock and company peel back the sardine can. What a killer take and what a crowd.

Love Is Like An Itchin' In My Heart (Band Intros) – Motown? With this crowd? Are you kidding me? Dancing continues. Walter asks a very loose Don to jam on the Melodica. Explosive take. Man were they dancing and going crazy.

Peg – Just about everybody in the place dancing. Killer? Oh yeah. But then again we were all dancing.

Kid Charlemagne – Don blows the intro – but who cares. We are all too busy dancing. Don’t think I have ever seen this many people dancing at a Steely Dan show. Gas in the car gets a huge eruption. Jon, Don and this time Jeff’s ending work take the song to stratospheric proportions. Best ending I have ever heard. Sounded like a manic New Orleans Funeral Parade. What a f&cking ovation from this crowd.

Encores

Do It Again – Donald usually never says anything at the end of the show. Except for Soboba. And then this year he thanked the crowd at Red Rocks for sticking through the rain and delay. And then last night, a very pleased Donald Fagen told the Paso Robles crowd, “Thank you, it’s really a lot of fun to play before a crowd like you . Really. Thank You. Appreciate it.” Does not get any better than that. Then Don went into this mesmerizing intro. I thought he was going to break into Dr. Wu, the intro was that trippy. Fagen’s vocals cut like a knife and Jon laid down the triage. Carlock brought on in the rescue choppers.

Last Tango – I figure because the show started late we lost a second encore tune. The coolest thing was that people started coupling-up and slow dancing to Last Tango. Maybe that day of rest in Santa Barbara or LA - where ever it was did them wonders. Who would of imagined two completely different great set lists and great shows
between the LA & Paso Robles shows. After the show we strolled down to one of the fairground bars. It was open till midnight. They had karaoke. Soon the country tunes made way for requests for Steely Dan. Definitely a night to be remembered. Thank you Paso Robles for your hospitality and thank you Steely Dan for bringing the “magic”.

That closes the first leg of the “Double-Double” tour. Anaheim & Pala
up next. Looking forward to the reports from Berkeley later tonight.

Date: Sat, July 26, 2008, 23:54:37 ET
Posted by: Randall, Greek Theater B 2 11

whohoo! show has started and the band sounds great.

Date: Sat, July 26, 2008, 22:17:03 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

At last.

Thanks, Drewslo

"warmed up to them"?

Date: Sat, July 26, 2008, 22:12:59 ET
Posted by: Drewslo, San Luis Obispo

Paso Robles setlist (not sure of order)

Medley: Everyone's Gone to the Movies/The Fez/Royal Scam
Royal Scam
I Got The News
Show Biz Kids
Everything You Did
Two Against Nature
Hey Nineteen
Godwhacker
Babylon Sisters
New Frontier
Gaucho
Parker's Band
Black Friday
Green Earrings
Aja
Josie
Band intros with Supremes song
Peg
Kid Charlemagne

Encore
Do It Again

The band was cooking. The crowd really warmed up to them.

Date: Sat, July 26, 2008, 22:02:54 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Of course, Paul. I probably should have pointed that out. Ther was a short discussion a few days ago. A poster wanted to know what melodica Don played. He thought it might be a mylodica. I linked him to a few Hohner sources, and just wanted to show him that Don has/plays/played others as well.

Thanks for pointing it out, though!

Date: Sat, July 26, 2008, 21:28:36 ET
Posted by: paul,

Dean - That pix of DF from the Metal Leg site was most probably taken before SD got back together. I would imagine that Fagen has a pretty large collection of those things.

Date: Sat, July 26, 2008, 21:00:26 ET
Posted by: Steely Fan, NJ

I always liked Bullock's solo on My Rival. I didn't realize how young he was then.

Date: Sat, July 26, 2008, 20:05:02 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

RIP Hiram.

This is a great quote:

[I played bass in my high school rock band (like a million other teenage boys). One day our guitarist, who was slightly older and looked like Eric Clapton, passed out while in the middle of the solo on “Mississippi Queen" (he said later that he was “tired"). Immediately, ten girls jumped up onto the stage, stroking, consoling, and otherwise “reviving him". At that precise moment I decided to switch to guitar.]
-Hiram Bullock

I noticed on the Metalleg page recently posted this pic of Don with a melodica:

http://metalleg.com/photos/DF2.jpg

While Don is always credited as playing Hohner, I think, this doesn't look like a Hohner. I think it may be an old Samick (I can't really read it clearly, though.)

Finally, was the Paso Robles show canceled, last night? Still no posts from an attendee of the show. Weird.

Date: Sat, July 26, 2008, 19:08:07 ET
Posted by: Lars,

Good shot of Donald Fagen and Hiram here: http://metalleg.com/pre_sd.htm Second row from the top. Last picture on the right.

Date: Sat, July 26, 2008, 18:13:22 ET
Posted by: Matt, Chattanooga, TN

Hiram Bullock also covered the title track from Pretzel Logic on his 87 album "Give It What U Got". Great player and a great guy.

Date: Sat, July 26, 2008, 17:00:50 ET
Posted by: W1P, Magic Mountain

Put the Dan amusement park in Vegas, call it the "Do It Again" Hotel and Casino and then you'll find you're back in Vegas with a handle in your hand! When tired of gambling, you can repair to the Cousin Dupree Massage Parlour and then get a pedophile pedacure at the Everyone's Gone to the Movies Salon.

Date: Sat, July 26, 2008, 17:00:46 ET
Posted by: Texas E, Texas

Hiram Bullock (played on Gaucho) - passed away:

http://www.allaboutjazz.com/php/news.php?id=21050

Date: Sat, July 26, 2008, 15:27:58 ET
Posted by: Little Wild One, I love it!

The amusement park can be the arcade next to the Bodhisattva retirement home that some of us have in mind. Some place to take the kids while visiting us! Hell, I'll still be riding roller coasters at 80!

Now we just need someone who hasn't blown their "retirement" fund on going to too many shows? Any takers?

*******************************************************

P.S. Looks like the Hard Rock right next door to Verizon is the Houston Danfest gathering spot. It's just too convenient, as I found out Thursday night while the teen-agers saw Boys Like Girls and Metro Station...oh yeah, and Good Charlotte (but I think they're kinda so old news.) More to come soon!

Date: Sat, July 26, 2008, 15:14:06 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago, but wishing I was in Berkeley

Connie in the Vineyard has a great summary for tonight's Danfest including travel events.

Check out:

http://dandom.com/danfests/bayarea/berkeley

Date: Sat, July 26, 2008, 14:04:14 ET
Posted by: The Truth,

Two years ago, there were all sorts of active pleas from the BlueBook and other fan groups requesting that SD play Dr Wu.

They took the form of countless postings, banners requesting Dr. Wu at the top of web pages not unlike the Circus Money banner above, dozens of "Do The Wu" t-shirts, and apparently signs held up by fans in the audience.

In an interview right about that time, Donald Fagen commented about one of the Wu signs and he seemed kind of annoyed by the sign. He also said he didn't want to play it.

I wouldn't rule out Dr. Wu ever being played in concerts. Do It Again was eventually played although it's been 12 years since the only Modern Dan tour when Rikki was played. But it's apparent that pushing the issue of Wu hasn't been productive. To many it seems counter-productive.

This isn't negativity but it is what has happened.

Date: Sat, July 26, 2008, 14:03:59 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Just had an interesting idea...

What if Steely Dan had an amusement park dedicated to them... Steely Land!! (Dan Land??)

What would be some of the rides:
- Kid C (A rockin' roller coaster)
- Don't Take Me Alive (loops, drops, insane!!)
- Black Friday (the intro is the climb up, and then when the song starts, so does the ride!)

Restarants??
- Pretzel Logic (snake stand)
- Home at Last (I see it as a steak house)
- Lunch with Gina (burgers, hot dogs)
- Black Cow (milkshakes, etc)

Shows/Preformences
- Aja (chinese music... cirque de sole type of thing??)
- Two Against Nature (tell da story!)
- Doctor Wu (3D show)

Shops
- "Where Did You Get Those Shoes?"
- "We Got the Steely Dan T Shirts!"
- "Everything Must Go" (Targestesque store)

Nightclubs
- The Nightfly (jazz club)
- FM (all night dance club)

Stupid?? Definitly!!
Interested?? You know you are!!

Date: Sat, July 26, 2008, 12:23:13 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Can we get an update or two from the Paso Robles crowd?

I'm trusting all went fabulously well.

Date: Sat, July 26, 2008, 10:15:38 ET
Posted by: Bodhi-Wad-sva, 7-card table of the mind

Play Lucky Henry, mutha-f-ers, or we charge you for drinks n chow

Date: Sat, July 26, 2008, 09:59:10 ET
Posted by: bassicinstinct, Nottingham UK

We have only your word for that.

Date: Sat, July 26, 2008, 09:44:54 ET
Posted by: here it comes . . ., doctor

医生

so dr wu = 医生吴

SWEET

Date: Sat, July 26, 2008, 09:37:56 ET
Posted by: anyone one know if walter was, ever in that province?

吴 [wu2] /(surname)/province of Jiangsu/

Date: Sat, July 26, 2008, 09:31:25 ET
Posted by: Wu Wow, not kidding

i put Wu in a chinese translator and it gave me

吴

man that's gonna look good on the t-shits.

that was the translation from american english. so, not sure what the symbol would look like in notttinhamm

Date: Sat, July 26, 2008, 09:23:35 ET
Posted by: more refined , instincts

at least i don't run around in the forest in green tights and a feathered cap!

WEEEEE

Date: Sat, July 26, 2008, 08:44:30 ET
Posted by: bassicinstinct, Nottingham UK

Precisely the standard I have come to expect.

You must be very proud.

Date: Sat, July 26, 2008, 08:40:30 ET
Posted by: Sounds like,

there was way way too much alcohol (and drugs?) were consumed last night and all the drunks have taken to posting.

Maybe you can start a site dedicated to Ambrosia, who, by the way, I think suck, from their name on down.

Date: Sat, July 26, 2008, 08:32:46 ET
Posted by: Hutch, rva

I believe this is a new concert photo. Don't recall seeing it on DF's site until today.

http://www.donaldfagen.com/news.php

A lot of these concert shots make great desktop backgrounds. Set your desktop background color to black, right click on the picture and set as background. Great effect.

Date: Sat, July 26, 2008, 08:23:32 ET
Posted by: Ganja Bono, west of Chicago, really far wwest

HERB!!

Dude, The more I think about it the more I'm STOKED!

Ps, Why are these chumps talking about those gay ambrosias? this is the Wu site!

WUWUWUWUWUWUWUWUWUWUWUWUWUWUWUWUWUWUWUWUWUWUWUWUWUWUWUWUWUWUWUWUWUWUWUWUWUWUWUWUWUWUWUWUWUWUWUWUWUWUWUWU!!!!

Date: Sat, July 26, 2008, 08:19:58 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

Lurker Ray:
I felt that I had been transported to the Nokia while reading your comments on the show !! Please write more !! Can't wait to read your comments on the rest of the CA shows you get to......

Date: Sat, July 26, 2008, 08:13:19 ET
Posted by: you'er the biggest , part of me

your the biggest part of me - what a joke. guy writes a ego tune about his dick and we are supposed to get all gooey too?

anyway they had some interesting toons on the first lp, and then they go tour to support big part.

so i seem em right. and they start to play the damn thing and everyone in this progressive town BOOS. they guy looks at us and says. hey we got families - we gotta pay the bills.

im not joking he said that.

hows that all for good english basic?

Date: Sat, July 26, 2008, 08:05:17 ET
Posted by: Ganja Bono, not Chicago

HERB

You are right. I can't believe that there are people here that are pissed off that me and you and MOST EVERYONE ELSE love the Wu!

Perhaps we should start our own page to get away from those naterring nebobs of negativity.

I tell you what, I'd go see the Dan, pay $85 to just hear Wu, and then go home happy.

I'm thinking of making some Wu shirts. You can yours at cost, of course.

Maybe our asian friends here could chime in and tell us what Wu means in their language. I mean, wouldn't that be cool to know. ¿ Bill P. any help?

I'm gonna contact all the cats that played on the cut to get their reactions and post here (or our new site!!! <g>)

So anyway, Herb (wink wink), don't forget it is our site too, so feel free to add your thoughts on your love of Wu at length.

I contacted the local junior college music dept. to see if they were interested in my Dr. Wu Symphonette - Themes & Motifs. I'm thinking they're gonna bite. There is a cool Beat Poet in town (he's actually homeless) to do the lyric rap in the middle of the Sym.

Dude, I have recordings of cover bands doing Wu. I'll come to your house so we can listen up!

Email me!!!!

Ganj

And just to keep in practice: Hey Dean, you suck.

Date: Sat, July 26, 2008, 04:21:55 ET
Posted by: SS, HK

You're the Biggest Part of Me is a great pop track. Don't get hung up on the words. It's a well built song, the band is tight, chords are rich and the vocal is spot-on. Impressive live.

Like this one:

http://youtube.com/watch?v=qK5y1wenkE8

Date: Sat, July 26, 2008, 01:43:46 ET
Posted by: bill's doctor, ny

aw, crap, i told them not to let it out

Date: Sat, July 26, 2008, 00:35:23 ET
Posted by: Steely Daniel Boone , 405 of the Mind

Listen to RoyalScam: after a while, one appreciates brazilia mo' than broadway; "mo' spic, and less spook" (as with The Fez....one uh the greats)....once the catskis hit the native casinos, might as well offer them some protection, fivepoints style......(even bob zimm-man casino meat now) ...........

Date: Sat, July 26, 2008, 00:35:10 ET
Posted by: Steely Daniel Boone , 405 of the Mind

Listen to RoyalScam: after a while, one appreciates brazilia mo' than broadway; "mo' spic, and less spook" (as with The Fez....one uh the greats)....once the catskis hit the native casinos, might as well offer them some protection, fivepoints style......(even bob zimm-man casino meat now) ...........

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 23:34:23 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Herb,

I’ll take this opportunity to bring the subject back to Circus Money. I just got my (Sonic 360) copy last week and after a week of listening, I can honestly say I LOVE THIS EFFING ALBUM!!! If anyone had told me that I would find Walter’s voice so absolutely intoxicating that I was almost afraid to listen to it while I was driving, I never, ever would have believed it. But it’s true!
Now I’m guessing you all will think I’m out of my mind (oh, that’s another subject) and I may be going out on a limb with this, but does anyone else hear some strains of Burt Bacharach on this album, specifically on “Downtown Canon” and “Bob is Not Your Uncle Anymore”?

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 22:57:51 ET
Posted by: Herb Morrison, Chicago

It would be cool if somebody came up with a couple bucks and started a new forum modeled after this one--called "the Steely Dan Wu Book."
On the new page, only discussion about the song Dr. Wu would be allowed...origins of the piece, meanings of the song, memories related to hearing it...why they won't play it, how to make them play it, etc.
This would be a treasure trove for fans of the song who just can't stop talking about it after all these years, and a huge relief to bluebook customers who are sick to death of this coming up week after week after week.

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 21:58:34 ET
Posted by: Gretchen, There were good times, but just as many bad

For me, Ambrosia's "Life Beyond LA" hits right at the heart, it's one of my favorite songs ever, along with "Living on My Own". Life Beyond LA expressed an experience I had, although my experience occured nearly 25 years after the song was released. It expresses the aloneness, the despearatness, that one can feel in what seems to be the coldest city in the country to this East Coast girl. It seems that the only way to escape is to lose one's life, you're trapped and alone in a vast metropolis of self indulgent beings, longing for a familiar voice, a touch, to assure you that you have not died and gone to hell. Sometimes there is no place like home.

G

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 21:11:00 ET
Posted by: yeah, those are the words ,

hey deanie

all this talk about TAN, that's what describes much of that CD, what is it, insipid and schmaltzy? You came up with it, you're THE MAN!

Ambrosia rocks compared to Almost Gothic, Janie Runaway and negative girl,

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 20:33:46 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Brutus,

To my ears, it is the musical equivalent of a Chick Flick. It might be a well-made chick flick, but it is one nonetheless. It's pap. Bland and "soothing" (does nothing to sooth the beast in The Dean, though) with insipidly schmaltzy vocals (and, as you note, lyrics). There is nothing interesting about this song, to me. No sweet time changes, no challenging or unexpected chord changes, no kick-ass solos...no chances taken, of any sort, as far as I can hear. This song sounds as though it was made to sound nice and safe, so it wouldn't offend anyone and would get maximize radio play.

The worst part, to me, is this is from a band that had shown it was capable of so much more, on their first album. I not suggesting this isn't well made, and likely to appeal to many people. I'm saying that this kind of music makes me want to puke.

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 19:38:34 ET
Posted by: Brutus Charisma,

Deanst -

What's wrong w/ "Biggest Part of Me"? Nice melody, chords, vocal harmony, strong keyboard and bass (especially) playing.

Disregard the vapid lyrics and you've got a very nice song there.

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 17:09:33 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

That Grammy Camp entry is just too fucking cute. AND, the kid knows drumming, that's for sure. Outstanding!

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 16:22:00 ET
Posted by: "GRAMMY Campers All Access at Steely Dan", (Walter apparently in the elevator)

http://grammycampblog.blogspot.com/2008/07/grammy-campers-all-access-at-steely-dan.html

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 15:59:00 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

More of a sax "accent" than a real solo, but it always good to see Bumpus, even if he has to pretend to play.

I actually kind of liked the first Ambrosia album, with its nod to Vonnegut, and all. But, like so many other bands that start with something interesting (Journey comes to mind), they quickly went downhill, soon after tasting commercial success with vapid pop ballads. I never could stand "Biggest Part of Me".

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 15:32:53 ET
Posted by: Hey, it's something to watch ,

Check out the sax player on the incredibly good live version of this song.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=0QIWtY7gzvA

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 15:19:30 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Anon,

YOU ARE A SADIST!!!!!

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 15:07:06 ET
Posted by: AnonTwit, dreamland

Considering his sardonic sense, I would love it if Fagen would announce,

"Now, we going to dip into our medical pool and play Dr. Wu."

[audience cheers in anticipation]
[beat]
[beat]
[beat]

"Nahhhhh"

[guitar strum leading into DTMA]

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 14:38:51 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, @work

I wouldn't want to pick what artist would cover what song. I think the best ones would come from the least likely pairings. However, I think U2 would be great doing Only a Fool Would Say That.

Led Zeppelin - was my first musical obsession. Unfortunately I was late to the dance and it wasn't until after Bonzo died. Presence is a great album, imo. With only 7 songs on it, a number of them do tend to sound alike upon a casual listen. It contains 2 damn fine songs in Achilles Last Stand and Tea for One, the later being one of the finest bare bones blues songs they recorded. Many would argue but I find Physical Graffiti to be the lesser album. Where there is not one throw-away on Presence, you could easily remove Down by the Seaside (their worst song ever), Boogie with Stu, Black Country Woman and Bron-Yr-Aur and have possibly their best effort. I'm very fond of their last effort, ITOD, as well. Carouselambra is one of my favorites and yet another of their blues masterpieces, I'm Gonna Crawl. I Think that if Bonham had not died, they would still be going today and perhaps more relevant than then, with they way they embraced different styles of music and took many risks on what they recorded.

KC

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 13:36:28 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Oops, hit post too soon. Continuing my last post:

The possibility (that it is personal to Don) is slightly reinforced by the followup question and answer:

"LF: Is it because that song represents for you...
DF: Ixnay on the U-way questions, Lewis. Enough already."

Here's the link:

http://www.donaldfagen.com/lexisays.php?pnum=5&tnum=53

8/24/06 entry

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 13:32:19 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

kevin, here's the quote you are probably referring to:

"I guess thay want us to play "Dr. Wu". What they don't realize is that my personal psychological mechanics insure that, the more they press it, the less likely I am to play it. The truth is, though, it's hard for me to connect with the lyric to that song anymore, and, musically speaking, there's something stunted about it, something pat and unfinished. But maybe we'll do it anyway. Who knows."

I still don't think it suggests that he isn't proud of the song, but it is closer to what you were saying. It really sounds as if he simply doesn't connect with the song in the say he used to, or would like to. As it has been suggested that the lyrics of Wu may be Don-related, it could be that no longer reflect the way he feels about, or thinks about, the situation that inspired the song.

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 12:53:03 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

kevin,

Here's the definitive take on Don's thoughts about Dr Wu, from this, very recent, article:

http://209.85.215.104/search?q=cache:S8Zkzn0bx_EJ:gothamist.com/2008/06/13/donald_fagen_steely_dan.php+donald+fagen+doctor+wu+live&hl=en&ct=clnk&cd=2&gl=us&client=firefox-a

"We tried it out in sound check a couple times last year and it sounded okay. It’s mainly that I don’t like the way it feels on stage. I think a lot of those songs have aged really well and aren’t dated at all. And if the words still seem relevant in some way or can be recast to make some kind of sense, we rearrange it – if the music seems dated. That tune feels dated to me and it’s difficult for me to sing if I feel, you know, that it’s not… There’s something about the curve of the song that doesn’t work dramatically on stage for me."

Here's the bottom line of Dr Wu live: "It’s mainly that I don’t like the way it feels on stage...There’s something about the curve of the song that doesn’t work dramatically on stage for me."

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 12:45:08 ET
Posted by: kevin,

Don was quoted recntly in one of these interviews as saying the song was unfinished and that psychologically if you keep asking him the more and more he won't do it. Maybe walt could do it, he did Gaucho after all.

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 12:39:28 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

stimpy,

I think there are already a few SD cover albums out there. At least one jazz, I think one big band (is there also a symphonic one?) and at least one rock/pop.

I'm sure someone here has the complete list.

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 12:38:20 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu - Off To Paso Robles!

Thanks for the shout-outs all.
GalMarg -
I am so envious of that Todd
Rundgren show in Bearsville!!!!
Sounds like a "barn burner".
Figure of speech of course ;O)
That's like seeing him play were
he ACTUALLY recorded all of that
great early 70's stuff.
FULL report please. Have a safe
trip.

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 12:35:16 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Hoops,

Nice links to the reviews in the latest Digest. I particularly liked Ben Weiner's:

http://www.ocregister.com/articles/steely-dan-nokia-2103549-theatre-donald

While I don't agree with some of what he says about the 2006 concert (they certainly didn't phone in the show I saw), the guy does a hell of a job, overall. He his honest, reconsiders his previous evaluations, shares his biases, etc. It's clear he "gets" SD and is very familiar with their work. You really can't ask for more than that, from a reviewer, IMO. The pics were top-notch, too.

Hector, you logic really doesn't hold water. Remember almost all of 2vN was played live, at one time or another. There are so many great older tunes that SD doesn't play (regularly, or ever) in concert. That doesn't mean they are "lesser". Don seems to have some strickt criterea about what he thinks works best, live. Some of the greatest Dan tunes (Razor Boy, Gold Teeth, as examples) will likely be played live by SD.

And, kevin, Don has never said " he is not proud of Dr.Wu" to my knowledge. If you know otherwise, please share. He is on record as saying he doesn't think it works well as a LIVE song, not that he doesn't like the song. Big difference.

Which is why Joey's echolia of "Why doesn't Walt sing Wu live" is so meaningless. Walt doesn't sing Wu live because the band doesn't play Wu live. Pretty simple, Joey.

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 12:03:33 ET
Posted by: Stimpy, still here in Cali

These would be interesting: (random)

Do it again: Eagles
Reeling in the Years : Donnie and Marie (they DID cover it!)
Bhodisattva: Tom Jones or Dave Mathews
Rikki: Madonna
Any Major Dude: Kieth Urban
Dr Wu: Wu Tang Clan/Outkast
Peg: Pet Shop Boys
Josie: Prince
Black friday Coldplay or U2
FM: Everybody (We are the World)

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 11:57:42 ET
Posted by: No, more covers

Please, we don't need another Me Myself & Irene.

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 11:55:23 ET
Posted by: kevin,

DOn might not be playing songs from 2VN and Katy Lied because they are not proud of it. he said he is not proud of Dr.Wu, one of the best songs ever, said it was unfinished or something like that. Like, i mean would you expect him to play the rest of a CD if he is not even proud enough to playthe best song on it?

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 11:54:32 ET
Posted by: Stimpy, Another question for the die-hard fans here

Imagine a covers album of SD greatest hits, done by other musicians.

Who would you have performing, and what songs would they do?

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 11:41:05 ET
Posted by: Dan Belcher, Louisville, KY

Hector E, it doesn't matter how good or bad your new material is. If you're a band from the 70s touring today, 80% of the fans just want to hear your biggest hits from the 70s. Every time I go to a Steely Dan concert, the people next to me complain that Rikki doesn't get played, even if they liked the new material. It's still not their classic singalong stuff they want to hear. That's just how it goes. That's why we have gotten Peg and Josie played at virtually every Steely Dan show since '93.

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 11:38:11 ET
Posted by: HouDanFan, Houston

JR...good to hear that you like Petty...

In regard to ur second thought, sometimes I think I'm so biased about SD that I don't give other artists a chance, be it this generation of musicicans, or past generations making new stuff. And a lot of that has to do with the fact that I listen to SD about 90% of the time. So occasionally, I force myself to buy new material that I think I might like, listen to it a few times and go right back to SD. And that's ok...I'm a SD junkie, I admit it and don't care how much I get made fun of by my friends.

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 11:34:29 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Introspector,

I'm an old man, so I think I know a Meatloaf reference, when I see it. I always hated that freakin' album. You couldn't go to a party in the mid-late 70's without that thing blasting 20 times during the night.

But, back to the discussion. I like a LOT of stuff other than Steely Dan, although I think that there is very little (popular music) that compares to the quality of what SD produces. It's true, I don't listen to a lot of "Rock" music, though.

Look, I like a nice simple red (and white) table wine, on occasion (hell, on most occasions), but I don't confuse them with the wines from the great producers of France, Italy and California.

OK, I just typed and scrapped a long discussion of music as wine (and the artists as the producers of the wine). The analogy was good, I think, but the metaphors need work. Let's just say, some wine is meant to be consumed immediately, doesn't age well, and lacks the complexity of the world class stuff. Some producers only release product during a great year, when the grapes are perfect (or near-perfect). Those wines tend to be more complex and far more interesting...at least to a wine aficionado.

The vast majority of pop/rock groups produce table wine. The quality can range from sub-Gallo to very nice stuff. Steely Dan is a world class producer (think "first growth" Bordeaux) of complex wine, that gets better as it breaths and reveals more as it ages. You aren't likely to get to the true majesty of its character by taking a swill out of the bottle while eating Cheetos.

Anyway, back to the real world. I think you have done a good job of explaining how you experience music, the music you like, and what you think of 2vN. I posted earlier (and on many occasions) that the newer Dan probably doesn't appeal to those who listen to it through a rock music prism. I think that it is pretty clear, that you like popular rock music, and that's what you bring to your experience. Nothing wrong with that, it is your opinion, and it works for you.

But, I will say this: My mother likes Paisano and thinks it is good wine. That's fine it's what she likes. While I can drink a glass or two with pasta, I don't confuse it with good wine. And, I don't go to my mom if I'm looking for a an opinion on a bottle of good Amarone.

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 11:33:04 ET
Posted by: Hector E.,

If Two Against Nature is so great, why are they playing mostly Royal Scam, Gaucho and Pretzel Logic songs and just the song Two Against Nature and no others? On the last 3 years tours they have played more songs from Everyting Must Go, right?

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 11:28:37 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Work

Lurker Ray, that was an exquisite review!

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 11:18:05 ET
Posted by: Casual Fan, Orlando

Chris and Dan, good points. I know I'd never be such a goober as to bring albums to a show. I've worn one of their t-shirts only once, in fact. So I guess it makes some sense to tease him a bit.

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 11:04:52 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Casual Fan, what's wrong with Fagen making fun of a guy for bringing his Steely Dan records to a Steely Dan show?

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 11:04:44 ET
Posted by: Dan Belcher, Louisville, KY

Casual Fan, he was just having a little fun, nothing really mean, just teasing. Notice the way he and the crowd both laughed after it. (Not quite as good as his response to a fan calling for "Free Bird!!" at Westbury in '06, but still funny)

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 11:04:28 ET
Posted by: mjoho, In Hauppauge, chillin'

As time goes on 2VN and EMG will hold it’s own to the “classic Dan”.

I pre-ordered 2VN from Amazon, I couldn’t wait to listen. Cousin Dupree reminded me of a very risqué Hey 19. When I heard Janie Runaway it bought memories of jet setting girl I knew from the east end of Long Island. What was great about West of Hollywood was that haunting sax solo.

I dig EMG as well. Blues Beach is a great tune to listen to in the car with the windows open on a breezy summer’s day. Lunch with Gina is forever. The Things I Miss the Most brings to mind a guy lamenting days gone by.

I hope that we will get another album with this band that Don and Walter has put together.

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 10:49:23 ET
Posted by: Casual Fan, Orlando

Folks, I'm a big fan of the Dan. Saw them for fourth time in Clearwater a few months ago. I also routinely visit youtube for clips of them in concert and sometimes link them here.

I saw this one, and debated how I felt about it. This is high quality, from the 2006 Charlotte show. And frankly it bothers me a little bit. Is it just me or is DF sort of mocking this fan and in a fairly glib way? Watch 0:14 to 0:25.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SNyXv9oJhq4

Debated putting this on here and sharing my thouhghts on it. Not like I don't still love the music. But to be honest I did find it a little disheartening. Maybe I'm seeing things, but that little roll of the eyes at the end of that 11 seconds ...

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 10:43:07 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Much to respond to, two or three posts worth, most likely. I apologize in advance for posting too much. Where do I start:

slowtrain, I like your style. You should know that I liked Zep quite a bit, back in the day (and I have never been a big fan of too many British rock bands...just never been my thing). To me the first, second and fourth (fucking great) albums were Zeps's best (from what I can remember). I wasn't the biggest fan of Houses of the Holy when it came out...but, I have to admit, looking at the track list now, it's a fine album.

I never really got into Physical Graffiti. You say "it's Zep's Exile on Main Street". I respond, "I don't like Exile on Mani Street, at all". So, at least you know where I am coming from. But, indeed, PG is considered by most Zep fans and critics to be a great album. Zep fans and critics have not been as kind to Presence and In Through the Out Door. That's why I questioned your inclusion of them in that list.

But, I should be honest here, I never gave the last two albums the time-of-day, so my opinion doesn't really carry much weight in this discussion, when it comes to Zep (or many rock bands of the era). I think the truth is that I tired of Zep (not that they became tiresome or lame) and/or my tastes had changed and I was into a lot of different stuff, when the later albums were released. While I think I did try to like PG, I know I didn't put the proper effort into the last two releases. (Given your endorsement, I will try to check In Through the Out Door out again...when I feel receptive. Probably won't be soon, though.)

Still, even by my conservative estimate, Zep released 4-6 great albums. Considering very few bands have released more than 2-3 great albums, that's pretty impressive. And. since Zep hasn't released that many albums in their career, their batting average is very high.

Regarding the lack of Katy Lied songs, this tour, I disagree that there is any dark motive involved. They have played songs from KL in the past, so I don't see that. That's the stuff of us creepy web posters, not The Boys themselves, IMO.

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 10:40:13 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

HouDanFan,

Oh no, not at all! I should have clarified that -- I was referring to SueDave's post (see below) which started a pretty interesting thread about artists who have been around a long time and either remain favorites or, sell out / get stale, etc. Needless to say, I was pretty disappointed when Petty sold out the Garden this year and I wasn't able to get tickets. Steve Winwood was the opening act and I would have been interested in seeing him as well.

"Anyway, the new material argument can be um, argued, but going with it, lets ask the rabid fans (like us for SD) what they think of the "new generation" of work by their favorite artists. I can only speak for Steely Dan, I love their new work. The newer material is still Steely Dan, still creative, fresh, complex and in some cases easy at the same time, and scratches that itch like no other. Though I do miss the incredible guitar solos of years past, there are incredible highlights, like Green Book, Lunch with Gina, 2VN title track, Gaslighting Abbie (didn't like it when I first heard it), Pixeleen, Almost Gothic, WASAM, Godwhacker"

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 10:37:57 ET
Posted by: Joey,

So why DOESN'T Walter try singing ' Dr. Wu ' ?!

Developing .................................

J. Fly ! ™

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 10:35:51 ET
Posted by: HouDanFan, Houston

I wasn't all that thrilled about TVN when it came out. The day I bought the cd was the same day I saw them live in 2000. That was my first SD concert and I was so hooked again I went out and bought all the 70's cd's and listened to those for the next 6 months sparringly listening to TVN. So TVN was a slow process for me but after about 10 listens it hooked me entirely. That cd has SD's signature all over it IMO. And even though I love that cd, I find myself listening to EMG more.

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 10:26:35 ET
Posted by: HouDanFan, Houston

JR...hope ur not insuating Petty is washed up. I actually liked "The Last DJ" which I think came out in 2003, but it didn't get much play. He puts on a great show. Very entertaining. Seen him thrice and have never been disappointed.

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 09:50:01 ET
Posted by: Bobbo, digging the prose around here...

Hey Ray,

Godamighty, brother, nice review! I can not get over "the way it is" when the Dan plays in the West, man. Wish I could experience it more often, y'know?

Sincerely, you should sell that piece to Rolling Stone, or Crawdaddy, or another of the "still good" music papers around. Your inflection, perspective, and overall grasp of the time, place, and topic were very well in place and on fire, man...Hell. Wish I could do that! Selah...

Okay,
Bobbo

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 09:48:04 ET
Posted by: Dan Belcher, Louisville, KY

Introspector, I guess it all depends on taste. Cousin Dupree is the only "bad" song on 2VN to me. And even then it's OK, just kinda goofy. (Fun twisted lyrics, but the music itself and the arrangement aren't working for me) But aside from the songs on the album you did like, Almost Gothic and Negative Girl are two of my all-time favorite Steely Dan songs. But then again, I also think Radiohead and Eminem are just *awful* and the fact that you mention them as Grammy-worthy shows me we have very different tastes in music apparently...

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 09:36:01 ET
Posted by: Introspector,

Dean
I can usually tell if something is good right away, and for 2VN it wasn't happenin and still hasn't, so I was pretty close to the truth on my first listen. Some complex songs do take time to appreciate and take several listens. The only 3 songs on 2VN that are any good are Jack, WOH which is too long, it's like a Phish or Dead song, it might be good live where they could do solos with it. And the title track.

You can't have an album like 2VN, with only 3 decent songs measure up to and beat out in a unrigged Grammy situation epic, bazillion selling albums like I listed, and Radiohead and Eminem each of which might have only one or two bad cuts of filler. Even if they came out in 1999 or 2001, they were from the 2000 era which is what the competition was at the time. That was the point.

I think you might consider listening to, appreciating and conceding that there is great stuff besides the Dan. If not, it might be warping your musical perspective. And realizing that there was and is still good stuff out there, a couple people mentioned the new Paul Weller from the old, new wave band Style Council. If you are going to pick a Dan record to go up against some of these epic albums in a debate you need to stop pushing for 2VN and push Royal Scam or EMG or some of the other albums in the otherwise strong Steely lineup.

Here is one for you about 2VN, taken from an epic record and let's see if YOU or anyone else can tell where I derived it from:

I spun you, I sung you, but there ain't no way I'm ever gonna love you. Now don't be sad, but 6 out of 9 are bad.....

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 09:28:20 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

I have to add that, after seeing Two Against Nature performed live, I developed a totally new appreciation of that song.

BTW, back to the conversation a few days ago, did anyone mention Tom Petty?

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 09:27:30 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

AnonTwit, no sarcasm here. Radiohead and Steely Dan are two of my favorite bands.

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 08:21:24 ET
Posted by: AnonTwit, Lurkerville

Chris: Kid A? Are you f*kin' kiddin me? who the hell is that piece of tripe? take your meds. or then your sarcasm(?) get hit me wrong.

Just to briefly put my $.02 in on the 2vN discussion, I must cough and wheeze at those who think this record is 'less than'. I suppose you could view the Dan as a vintage wine - as in you tend to value the older stuff better, and I certainly wouldn't put it on the scale on an Aja or Scam. However, it's a freakin' memorable record and in my top 3 fer sher.

From the strains of the guitar of Gaslighting, I do remember taking the toke from my chiba just when this kicked in, and think fondly of this tune as in "Danishly twisted".

WASAM is Fagen singing the blues, man, and what's wrong with that?

2vN - the fact that this is in 6/8 is the initial surprise for me, but the horn lines that the Michael Leonhart wrote/arranged are spectacular and fitting. Also, the tune is built around a tri-tone harmonically. So there!

Janie, Jack, Negative, and Almost Gothic - all memorable and hookish in their own Dan-ish way. This is classic modern Dan. Naysayers go away!

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 04:05:38 ET
Posted by: cj, babs

Slowtrain I agree 100% with you on led zep. My two favorite zep albums are graffiti and presence. Dean what are you talking about fool.

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 03:17:26 ET
Posted by: slowtrain, Nebraska

Okay guys and girls. I've drunk enough wine to get the courage to post here again. First off, to "The Dean". Look, from my very limited exposure here, you are a true lover of Steely Dan and a well respected poster. But, dude, for you to say that the MIGHTY ZEP had thrown the towel in at their last three albums in sure heresy. If I figure correctly, this would include Physical Graffiti (perhaps their "Exile on Main Street"), that one with the big black penis symbol on the cover (hmmmm....."Presence" was the name. ok, yes, that one sucked), and "In thru the Out Door" (which is full of Synths - but is the real lost Zep classic that it would seem that only a real dan-head could appreciate - a country song!!!!)

My other question is what is the theory behind the absence of "Kay Lied" songs? Is don just sick of them or is their some bigger/darker motive (as I would expect from them). P.s. still having great flashbacks from Red Rocks.

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 02:21:28 ET
Posted by: W1P, Nokiea

While it may have been a "roof blower," it wasn't right (unlike every other part the rest of the evening).

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 00:49:13 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Oh, forgot to thank Lurker Ray for the great review. You really are a big Catherine Russel fan, aren't you?

Well done!

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 00:47:14 ET
Posted by: especially king of the world, as far as I know,

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 00:46:19 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Intro,

Thanks for the extra info, it helps in evaluating your opinion (which, of course, you are entitled to). But, at least one album in your list (and the one I can see as a possible contender), Supernatural, was from the previous year.

http://archives.cnn.com/2000/SHOWBIZ/Music/01/04/grammy.noms.01/

The others...no thanks to any of them, but, hey, that's just me. (Sugar Ray...wrong year? Creed? Limp fucking Biskit? Smash Mouth...also a year earlier? Really? I don't mean to denigrate...I'm just baffled, to tell you the truth.)

OK, after a quick look, of the albums you listed, these would not have qualified for the 2000 Grammy:

Supernatural
Californication
Astro Lounge
14:59
Chocolate Starfish (at least I think that would have been in the following year)
Play

I still can't understand why, if you really liked Gaucho (and Nightfly) you didn't give 2vN a better audition, and wrote it off so quickly. New material from consistently great artists, that have produced things that made you so happy in the past, deserves a better shot, I think. Did you treat/approach Gaucho or Nightfly the same way you did 2vN?

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 00:10:14 ET
Posted by: Steely Fan, NJ

I loved Kamakiriad and TvN when they came out, and therefore will always love them. But I don't quite get the same feeling of rediscovering them as I do with some other albums after not hearing them in a while. Aja, Scam and Countdown are the best in this regard, IMO.

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 00:05:23 ET
Posted by: Hey 36, ABQ

Thank you Lurker Ray! I felt like I was right there with you!!! Too much is never enough, I want more Steely Dan!!!

Date: Fri, July 25, 2008, 00:04:55 ET
Posted by: Introspector, hammered & in wet swim trunks

RE 2VN I would say it is definitley not the worst album in absolute terms, just among the SD and solos. The Grammy I think was a career Grammy for the Dan, which they deserve and should have gotten for the great records they made such as Aja, Scam or Gaucho. For solos, Nightfly could have gotten it. As to what should have beat out 2VN, it should not have been nominated in the first place. The qulaity of mainstream music has been pretty bad for about the last 20 years. There has been and there is good stuff out there that does not get attention. In the mainstream, in 2000 some ggod ones have already been mentioned that could or should have beaten 2VN. I would add The Battle of LA by Rage Against TM, Santana Supernatural, Stankonia, Astro Lounge, Sugar Ray 14:59, Creed, Californication, Limp Biskit Chocolate Starfish and Play by Moby.

This stuff is all a matter of opinion, obviously. And it seems that quite a few original fans still think 2VN is good. Also some were first turned on to the Dan by 2VN itself, having known little or nothing about them before (I'mpersonally shocked!).

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 23:58:47 ET
Posted by: gentleman loser, NZ

Thanks for the review Lurker Ray. That's it. I'm saving up for the 2010 run of LA shows. Not a typo, it'll take me that long.

My wife got us front row seats for Stevie Wonder in October - which I guess is still very cool. But then Lurker has to expound in such detail on me. Love the hammering of the 3 vs 2 girls point. The most current spin of factual opinion so far.

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 22:43:21 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

angel -
Thanks for the nice pic of the “44” during “New Frontier” from last night. $49 seats and you got champagne & chocolate. I’d call that a bargain. And who says LA always has to be stuffy. You should check out the Nokia when Wolfgang Puck has the restaurant and bar tent set up outside. Not sure why it was not there last night? Little tip – Always park by the Nokia. $7 parking and quick access to the various Trans Skyways. I’m pretty sure that was the most songs from, Gaucho ever.
Here’s what I got from last night’s amazing show from the 10th row, slightly left.
Everyone's Gone to the Movies/The Fez/Keith solo crowd goes nuts
Royal Scam Intro - Michael’s opening horn take took the top of my head off.
Donald and Walter arrive and go into The Royal Scam – What an ovation. Herington let’s us know right off the bat for that he came to play and will not take any prisoners.
I've Got The News - With three girls and Jeff this song was taken to an entire new level. Michael who? Those four were singing their hearts out and all brought their A game. Walter checks in and let’s us know that he’s come to scratch with Jon all night. Gus is right, Don’s keys were more-upfront. But I really feel that is because this group has finally become a “band”. A band that is clearly emerging as a juggernaut and a force to be reckoned with. Last night they showed up in their “Hometown” as Walter said later, to kick-ass and take names.
Showbiz Kids – One of the funkiest takes I have heard. Again the three gals & Jeff are the key. Don & Jeff laid down some cosmic slop. “Steely Dan T-Shirts” – crowd goes wild.
Everything You Did – Before starting Don says, we are going to play some tunes from our magnificent career. Herington let’s Hank Easton know that he was just playing in a Cover Band. Shit Don is bringing it tonight vocally. Holding notes and playing with things with such amazing confidence. Horns drip and it’s all held together by Freddie & Keith.
Two Against Nature - Did I just walk into the Village Vanguard circa 1966? That opening horn salvo just cracked and then later on they lit a fire. Girls & Don – Wow.
Hey 19 – One of the loudest “Aretha Franklin” sing-a-longs from the crowd I have ever heard. Sure brings back the “old days”. Chills. Wait this isn’t the same stuff from Walter’s guitar, egged on by the crowd he laid it down before the break – as he said, “these crusty old farts still can play”. He kept asking the gals, “What’s in bottle?” “What’s the bottle baby?” Jim Pugh and Gals made the ending one of the best I have ever heard and I have heard Hey 19 way too many times.
Godwacker – Nostalgia act? There was an exorcism going on on-stage at
The Nokia last night. Those “demons” were sent packing and told to “take a leap” out a forth story window. Jesus Christ, Pugh put down that bone. You are killing me tonight. Herington put the “What?” in Wah-Wah peddle use. God Whacker could have closed the show last night. It was that good.
Glamour Profession – angel is right. Donald nailed the shit out of it. And since it’s another great song with LA references. It just added to the “wow” factor. Again Jon Herington receives a major ovation and numerous shout outs from the crowd.
New Frontier – Boy do I wish we had these three amazing gals on the Fagen solo tour. I hope Cat is touring with the group for the month of August. Jon Herington yet again taking his playing to an entire new level.
Gaucho – Walter brought the swagger last night. Finally bringing some venom when he sings, “Nasty Schoolboy”. Again any show from this tour with just the two gals is going to be lower in quality. Plain & simple. Is this show Jon Herington’s coming out party? The man is possessed tonight.
Babylon Sisters – I thought that since we go Glam P that we would not be treated to this great “LA” tune. Donald’s intro was magic. It was 1980 all over again and a take worthy of the history books. Two gals Vs Three gals – “Shake It”? No contest. Crowd goes wild. All that was missing was Bill Ware’s vibes.
Parker's Band Again – Two Vs Three. NO contest.
Third World Man – Didn’t think I would hear this tonight. Especially
after Babylon & Glam P. Jon was running a “clinic” all night and
Keith let’s us know that so is he.
Josie – Another great intro by Donald. I have never heard an audience
clapping in unison on the downbeat like I heard last night. Red Rocks outnumbered us by almost 3,000 but this audience was explosive. Reminded me of the clap-along during “Reeling” at Poplar Creek in 93. Sadly missing from the AIA CD. Walter was “buggin”.
Aja – “Here’s another song we wrote here in LA”, Donald said before starting. I felt like that guy in “Jumper” and I had teleported back to 1977 in Los Angeles. Then Carlock brought me back to 2008 and it was good to be back home. Shit, what a great set list we got last night.
Love Is Like An Itchin' In My Heart – Yet again, Two Vs Three, Are you kidding me? Walter introduced Donald as also, “Performing on the Honer Melodica & the Fender Rhodes piano – and stern critic of the contemporary scene”.
Peg – Tight. Jon & Donald’s Rhodes – sublime. More sing-along fun from this truly fired up audience. I know that Don for some reason was not happy with the Wiltern crowd in 2006. Last night, we were all redeemed. What a truly great crowd.
Kid Charlemagne – Don & Jon yet again. A take for the ages. Not sue what W1P was talking about. Roof-blower.
Encores
Don't Take Me Alive – Razor sharp. Incendiary. Walter called us the “Hometown crowd”. Obviously the entire band felt the “love” in the room last night.
FM – I’ve heard this song too many times live but last night was special. What the f$ck was the “effect” was Jon using last night at the beginning? It was "dirty" as all get-out. Oh by the way, that Becker fella then went gun slinging all the way off-stage and then the band closed with an amazing “hungry” outro jam. No static at all. “Last Tango” RIP.

Steely Dan in downtown LA. Something special. Off to Paso Robles
tomorrow. 2nd show in first leg of the “Double-Double” tour. Only two girls for sure. But I had a blast last time. And I’m a sucker for a good ol’ County Fair. And $65 third row center seats.

Kudos again to the sound and visuals crew. Fire up the “44” earlier!
And add more. It’s so great that when it’s dormant it’s being wasted
IMHO.

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 22:18:53 ET
Posted by: DimSkip, Eternal Path

A couple loosely (barely?---well, perhaps not at all) Walt-gential items (if I may coin the term as opposed to Dan- and Don-gential)...

At the risk of starting up an inappropriate political thread it isn't everyday that there's something Yup'ik in the news:

Nick v. Bethel - Voting in Yup'ik
http://languagelog.ldc.upenn.edu/nll/?p=396

In the "Our Lawn" vein, perhaps proving that Walt was ahead of his time (even if by accident):

Saying Goodbye to the American Lawn?
http://www.livescience.com/blogs/2008/07/21/saying-goodbye-to-the-american-lawn/

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 22:10:54 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Intro is certainly entitled to his opinion, even if it differs from many of the opinions here. Isn't that encouraged here? He also basically ranks it as his least favorite of all the combined and solo work, not as the worst album in the history of albums. And, regardless of his opinion, some great posts came out of it.

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 22:00:59 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Lutz,

Intro shared his initial reaction (and subsequent feelings) earlier (scroll down, or do a search)...so that wasn't the entirety of his evaluation. Unfortunately, according to his earlier post, he had poor expectations and gave the album short shrift (fast forwarding through songs on his first listen) and made a hasty negative evaluation. At least, that's what I got from reading his story. It doesn't sound as if he has really given the album a real chance to change his mind, either...but, that's just my interpretation from what he chose to post.

And, Raven, you asked "Isn't Dali folk art, kinda?"

No. At least not in any way that I think of folk art. Dali was a trained/schooled artist, and would likely have been great at almost any style he choose. He was certainly extremely commercial in the promotion of his work, though.

But, if you don't like that analogy, you can pick your own artist/musician/etc to make the point.

I kinda liked the Faberge egg analogy I used earlier...but, that's me.

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 21:36:44 ET
Posted by: Lutz, SF

Introspector:
2vN a poor album, "even lower" than others?
Wow you really made us wait here weighing in with this.
I am crushed and have to rethink my whole approach listening to music. Please let us know your contribution to music - as you are obviuosly speaking with surpreme confidence.
Hope your huge party will be fun, if there a more intropsectors the vibe can only go through the roof!

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 21:35:01 ET
Posted by: Raven, laptop treetop

Dean: Isn't Dali folk art, kinda? Ravin' I'm not sorry. ;>

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 21:08:06 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Obviously in my last post I juxtaposed elements of the analogy. To be clear, I was saying that comparing what Steely Dan does to what Eminem does is like comparing Dali to folk art. It is comparing something of incredible sophistication, demonstrating artistic and technical proficiency, and something that is a unique style created by the artists in question to a very simple (but, perhaps very nice) work.

Oh, yes, I am a cultural snob.

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 20:58:06 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

g-loser,

I think there were many reasons 2vN won the Grammy, and "vindication" might have played a role. I thought I gave a decent (and very brief) summary a day or two ago (do a search, if you are interested) about the various factors that may have helped this particular Dan album finally get that award.

Janie, I agree...whodda thunk it? I honestly don't think The Dan has officially released a bad song. I can probably count on one hand the number of official Dan tunes that I don't think are absolutely brilliant. By "official" I mean included on a legit studio Steely Dan album.

Chris, I respect your opinion...and at least you have presented your alternative, and why you think it was the better choice. Most have simply denigrated 2vN compared to other SD albums...which has no relevance to the discussion of what was the best album of 2000. To my tastes, Don and Walt flush stuff that is better than anything Radiohead has ever released...but, that's me. I actually like Eminem (to a degree) and think the MM album was OK. But, comparing what Mathers does to what The Dan does is like comparing Dali to folk art.

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 20:42:56 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Two Against Nature is a great album, and I still love it ... but Kid A should have won that year. Kid A's impact on popular music was and remains huge, and for one of the best modern rock bands to do a complete 180 like that and actually be successful is a really huge deal and should have been acknowledged.

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 20:33:28 ET
Posted by: gentleman loser, NZ

TvN: vindication for previous work?

"The Academy" are geniuses (genuii?).

Best Pop Duo or Group with Vocal? I can almost set my iPhone to stun, and this is still a category.

Cool thing about it is that the dandom could share the joke with WB/DF.

Be too difficult to compare TvN with M&M. Why would you bother?

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 20:32:05 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

I have to be right, right??? I don't think he could have meant it any other way...

Anyway, as far as I'm concerned, there's not a bad DF song in existence. This time I'm guessing that you'll probably agree!!

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 20:19:38 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Janie,

Perhaps. I don't get that from the post, but you certainly might be right.

I listened to Kamakiriad today, for the first time in a while. While not one of my top Dan-related records, it is damn fine album. There isn't one bad song on the album, IMO.

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 20:00:27 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Dean,

I'm guessing he means they screwed up by NOT giving them a Grammy sooner in their career.

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 19:07:46 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Intro,

I think that last post misses the point (maybe it's because you were in a hurry). The Academy only screwed up if there was a better album in 2000 than 2vN...they should have no interest in how the album compares to other SD albums from other years. What album released in 2000 did you find superior to 2vN?

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 19:00:21 ET
Posted by: Introspector,

Janie Runaway
RE: 2VN. Eight years later I still feel it is a poor record compared with the other 11 Steely Dan and solo studio records. Maybe lower even than AIA. Probably the worst overall and no comparison to any of the first 7 core releases, even if it did win a Grammy. Not the first time the Academy screwed up.

Got to go to a huge party now, running late. More to follow.

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 18:56:46 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

Gus,

Thanks for the Nokia info. Sounds like a nice place. Speaking of obstructed views, there looked to be a few obstructed seats at the CMAC Performing Arts Center in the Finger Lakes.

g-loser, one thing about Walter's guitar playing...he sounds like Steely Dan. Even on C$, on a few songs that aren't very Dannish, when Walter plays...BANG! the Steely Dan sound...at least to me. While they leave most of the "well known" solos to Jon, Walter is constantly "soloing". My friend, the doctor/guitarist who I saw the Dan with this time, said that he didn't think he heard Walter play ANY chords all night. I noticed a few (very few), though.

I have always really liked the way Walter and Jon play. This time, though, they both sounded better, IMO. Maybe it partly due to my seats, but Walter was loud all night and you could hear every note he played, all night. And, I think his playing has only gotten better over the years...makes sense, no? Jon is usually mixed too low for my taste, in concert, even during his solos. He was much louder this time, though. I actually think they should punch him even more, during his solos...but, that's me.

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 18:22:41 ET
Posted by: gentleman loser, NZ

Just to spite myself I had a quick listen. EMG's quiet blues licks are hard to the right in the mix.

And anyway the bottom line is WB/DF have Herrington, not Hank playing for them.

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 18:12:20 ET
Posted by: gentleman loser, NZ

It sounds like WB’s surprising a few with his new found ‘confidence’ in his solos. Whatever – he’s always had his distinctive voice. The peculiar notes he chooses to bend and deliberate off-phrasings have their own instantly recognisable piquant flavour.

Out of all of the guns they had at their disposal, it says a lot that the recorded solos for Home At Last, I Got The News and Josie are his. Even his blues counterpunches with the bass line (to the left in the mix) through TVN and EMG are tasty as hell.

Herrington, with chops/moves/scales galore in his bag of tricks, still rightly defers to WB - who by his own admission credited his Honorary Doctorate by sticking with the blues scale. Other gunslingers would be too musically immature to give it up so easily.

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 17:08:21 ET
Posted by: CharlieFreak, Crestline

Mjoho...

Welcome. It is always great to have another Dan Fan on the board. Don't mind these other guys...they are too wrapped up their obsession(s).

-P

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 16:55:00 ET
Posted by: W1P, Mas Crow

"Monkey See" -- There's no doubt that reading Mike's take caused me to approach Herrington with far more of an open mind. However, keep in mind that before the show I agreed with the guy in the concession line that Hank Easton was better than Herrington. So if I changed by opinion solely because of what Mike wrote, I did so subconsciously. It would be an interesting experiment to transport me back to last night without having accessed Mike's blog. I believe that I would have had the same change of heart but, obviously, can't prove it.

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 16:38:46 ET
Posted by: Dan Belcher, Louisville, KY

brickers, the making of the entire Aja album is discussed on the "Classic Albums" DVD series. http://www.amazon.com/Classic-Albums-Steely-Dan-Aja/dp/6305772649/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1216931879&sr=8-2

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 16:09:46 ET
Posted by: brickers, NYC

Hi - Just checking if anybody knows where there are anymore of the "The Making of..." videos...I have only found the making of PEG, but my friend says that there are a handful of others... any help would be greatly appreciated - Thanks!!

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 14:58:37 ET
Posted by: Monkey see, in your soul

W1P - How many times have you seen SD with Herington? At least 4 or 5 right? And now you're just realizing this? I find it funny that your idol Mike Keneally said Herington was the shit after seeing SD in Boston a few weeks ago. And now all of a sudden (by pure coincidence)you're saying the same thing. I wonder if Keneally had never said anything if you still would have this same opinion?

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 14:12:40 ET
Posted by: W1P, Crow Eaten

Fan Club -- coincidentially, before the show in the concession line we overheard someone talking about the Steely Damned. We interjected that we were familiar with them and a few minutes later the guy expressed the opinion that Hank was better than "the guy with Steely Dan." As this was before the show, I agreed with him. I would not have had it been after the show. I'm still not sure about JH's Kid Charlemange solos but everything else was beyond amazing.

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 13:47:26 ET
Posted by: The Jon Herington Fan club,

W1P - Hank who?

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 13:40:56 ET
Posted by: Gus Winterbottom, Steamin' Up for Berkeley and Saratoga

Angel,

Thanks for an excellent summary of last night; I could not say it any better. Also, thanks for including the setlist; it looks as though the one I posted last night was correct. We also had a family of four sitting in our row, but a few people down from us. Two boys, I think, ages maybe 9 and 11. You were right, no chocolate, etc. salespeople in the Orchestra section; at least I didn't see any.

GM,

I really enjoyed your stories of vinyl acquisition. It is interesting how a question about one topic (First Listen to Two Against Nature) can have unintended, but positive spinoffs. That is this board at its best (Hoops, take a bow).

Dean,

The Nokia opened late last year; this was our first visit. The layout is mainly one very large and deep Orchestra/Loge area on one level, with relatively small (only a few rows deep?) Mezzanine and Balcony levels quite a distance from the stage. Possibly this design was selected to improve the appearence for live video events. I did not get around to the sides of the floor, but from the center of the Orchestra section there did not seem to be obstructed views from the side seats. The Universal/Gibson amphitheatre has this problem (Also the Chevrolet Theatre in Wallingford).

Flanking the stage are the two largest and highest resolution displays I have ever seen. No more than you would expect at a state-of-the-art venue, but impressive nonetheless. To accommodate these monitors the luxury boxes are a fair distance away from the stage itself, farther than I would normally expect. Seating was very comfortable, theatre style, well padded and spacious.

Acoustically I had no venue-related complaints, but it did seem that Don's keyboard was a little high in the mix. This was much more noticeable at Phoenix, but there we were house right vs. slightly house left at Nokia. The Phoenix experience may have left us overly sensitive for last night's show.

GW

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 13:11:11 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Auguatine Beach

hz,

I have never heard of that, ever. Looks interesting. I will have to find a source for mushrooms, it seems. Thanks

W1P, way to step up and take your lumps.

mjoho, welcome to the monkey house.

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 12:45:11 ET
Posted by: KIDS HEAD, OH YEAH.

Hey Kidheads,

Gotta start planning the Danfest for Showbiz Kids at BB Kings on September 3.

I suggest
http://www.mangiaebevirestaurant.com/media/websitemangia.html

What a CRAZi place! Good food too.

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 12:44:37 ET
Posted by: W1P, Nokia

Dear Mr. Herrington: I apologize for every negative comment I've ever made about your playing. Given that it is obvious that I have no idea what I'm talking about, I'm sure you didn't take the comments personally. Oh, and by the way, THANK YOU and the BAND for last night! I even liked the Show Biz Kids arrangement.

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 12:43:06 ET
Posted by: mjoho, @ Work in Hauppauge, NY

I mostly lurk here in the BlueBook. Today, I felt compelled to write. My first exposure to Steely Dan was hearing Rikki and Do it Again on the radio when I was a kid. My mom liked the groove on both tunes. I have had the pleasure to see Steely Dan live twice. As most of you already know there is nothing quite like a Steely Dan concert! I saw them in 2000 and again in 2007. Both times was a blast and I was beaming for days after. I have their entire catalog and all three of Don’s works. I do not have any of Walter’s material as of yet. I just wanted to say hello and that I enjoy reading your entries.

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 11:55:54 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Cortlandt Manor, NY

Thank you Gus! Actually, I do have all the albums on vinyl, and some stories to go along with how I got all those albums! Aw, what the heck...but let me preface this by saying that my parents never owned a Steely Dan album. Not once, not never.

In 2001 my best friend showed up at my house with a stack of records - "My mom thought you would like to borrow these" - and right on top was Aja. Until then all I heard was greatest hits albums, and 2vN (which I wasn't heavily into at the time), so this was a treat. I didn't know if I would be really into their albums or would just prefer the comfort of a GH package, but Aja blew my mind. I listened to that album nonstop and my best friend's mom let me keep the record (along with the others because she tossed her turntable out awhile ago). Bless her heart, I wanted more Steely Dan albums as a result of hearing that one.

I ended up collecting everything else on cd, but wanted to add to my record collection. NYC is the perfect place to go record hunting. One afternoon, after school, my friend and I were walking to her apartment down St. Marks Place and passed a guy selling records on the sidewalk. I, never one to walk past any record collection, looked thru his crates and asked if he had any Steely Dan. He whips out Countown, Scam, and Katy Lied and tossed them in front of me. "All three for 20 bucks" he told me, but I was broke as hell and heartbroken I couldn't buy them. My friend told me to wait, ran to the ATM, got 20 bucks, and bought the records under the condition I pay her back someday. I was forever grateful.

An former mall about 20 minutes from me was turned into an indoor flea market that had an outdoor flea market on the weekends during the summer. My friend and I wanted had been meaning to check it out for a while, but never got a chance. One afternoon we finally made it up there and a guy outside was selling records. At first glance they all looked like crap (Pablo Cruz? Air Supply? Loggins and...Oates! And it's free!), but then I found some gems I'd been aching to get my hands on. "A dollar each, if you buy more than one I'll make you a good deal!" A good deal?! I went home with six records for four bucks: Born to Run, Parallel Lines, Silk Degrees, Let's Dance, Station to Station, and Can't Buy a Thrill. That guy and I made each other's day.

In 2005 I was in York, Maine with another friend of mine, auditioning for a theater company over a winter break. We went to Bullmoose Records to in Portsmouth, NH and I was about to buy the Steely Dan/Marion McPortland cd, when I decided to wander over to the record section and see if they had the other SD records missing from my collection. Well, not only did they have Gaucho, Pretzel Logic, Gold, and the first Greatest Hits, but they had Nightfly and The Early Years, which blew my mind! I had only seen a picture of The Early Years in a book and never thought I would see it in person, much less own a copy! So I put back the $11 Marion McPortland cd and bought about $80 worth of vinyl. What a treasure. And later that summer I got the Marion McPortland cd.

Of course, most of those records do not bear the ABC label (my Aja does, but I'm not sure about the rest of them). Most of them carry the MCA label, so they're not all original originals, but who cares? There's just something about a record. But I won't let that stop you from putting me in your will :)

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 11:51:35 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Angel,

Nice review, thanks. Champagne and chocolates, huh? Sounds like The Dean's kind of concert.

Ben, take the meds, dude...seriously, take the meds.

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 11:50:02 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Bassic,

Check out Krishna Das on amazon.com.

Who knew? Who says you can't learn something new every day...

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 11:41:45 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Nice review Angel, thanks for sharing it.

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 11:41:38 ET
Posted by: Ben Reich,

Who was/is disappointed that WB didn't contrive/include any mysterious maliciousness on either C$'s booklet and/or CD proper?

I wrote about this a few years ago and some posters couldn't conceive Uncle Waltness contriving such a situation )perhaps due to the macabre overtones of the depiction).

But, ladies and Germans: Think of how brilliant WB was in contriving this.

1) He knows that Dan Fans are obsessed with who writes what and if there is/has been any animosity/jealously'rivalry/contempt between "THE 2".

2) Capitalizing on this fact, he perhaps takes his cue from THE PAUL IS DEAD hoax Beatle (John Lennon) gag (because similarly people/obsessed fans wondered exactly the same thing about them: Who wrote what and was there animosity/jealousy between John and Paul). However, Walter being Walter he contrived something even more sinister: THAT HE (WALTER) WHACKED DONALD.

3) Please look at the following cues for some laughs/contemplation:

a) Why would there be a baseball bat smashing the windshield of a car?(Forget that the car looks very pedestrian and not like a Kamakiri - this is to sidetrack you. It would have been too obvious.) Furthermore we never do see the outside of the Kamakiri on DF's CD.

b) Why would Walter take the time/energy/effort to PURPOSELY provide a definition of the word whack? ESPECIALLY STATING: "TO DELIVER A WHACK, AMBUSH OR ATTEMPT TO WIPE OUT A PERSON (DF)".

c) Check out DF in the fold out reeling from the blow. AGAIN WHY WOULD WALTER USE UP ALMOST THE ENTIRE OUTSIDE OF THE FOLD-OUT TO DEPICT THIS?

Jim -

You're right - Walter is a clever Son of a Gun.

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 11:36:10 ET
Posted by: angel, Nokia Los Angeles

Leaving for NY, so the review is short, but you can find it here.

http://trustyangelgirl.blogspot.com/2008/07/steely-dan-at-nokia-theater-think-fast.html

Walter OWNS Gaucho... OMG!!!!!!!!!!

Wore my Steely Dan 2000 subway tee shirt and it got lots of nice comments. :-)

What a NIGHT!

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 11:34:02 ET
Posted by: bassicinstinct, Nottingham UK

"and its a little better than krishna das - all one"

Not only do I not "have" it, I haven't the vaguest idea what you're talking about.LOL

If that makes me a "pretend" fan, then I'm guilty as charged.

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 10:39:14 ET
Posted by: Hutch, in a NYC cab

"Smugness is NOT a good quality"!

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 10:27:57 ET
Posted by: DanFan55, Arizona

Hey Dean, Thanks for the video links. Amazing bass work and a great tune!

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 10:16:36 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Dealer,

Traffic and Spirit are two excellent additions! I can't believe they were missed by all of us.

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 10:14:39 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Introspector,

Thanks for posting what seems to be a very honest account of your experience with 2vN. I have to say, for a lifelong fan of The Dan, I'm confused about a few things:

As bassicinstinct pointed out, Kama was not a Steely Dan album, but a DF solo effort. The last Dan before 2vN was Gaucho. Did you dislike that one, too? If we're going to count solo releases, what did you think of Nightfly?

You fast-forwarded through songs on your first listen? I simply can't understand that lack of effort/commitment from a fan wanting to like an album from one of their favorite bands. I'm not suggesting that the way I go about discovering the magic of new music is the right way, and yours is wrong (there is no right and wrong here).

But, it does sound like you went into the experience with low expectations and a negative attitude, ready to dismiss the new stuff as garbage (because of your experience with other bands). While it sounds like you have come around, a little, it also sounds as though you are still no fan of 2vN.

Fair enough. But if you want to have another disc of music that you really enjoy, from one of your favorite bands, I'd suggest giving it a fresh start (as best you can). When you have time, and your mood is right and you feel receptive, listen to the album several times in a row, on a decent stereo (maybe once, on good headphones). Then, sit down with the lyrics, and listen to it again while reading the lyrics. Then, perhaps, do that again.

Hey, it may or may not work, for you. You may not really enough of a shit about it, to put in that kind of effort. But, then again, you might discover that it becomes a disc that you can really enjoy for the rest of your life.

Just my 2 cents.

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 10:01:13 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

For me, Gaucho is quintessential Dan and I thought I would cringe when I saw Walter taking the reigns but he does an amazing job with it. Now I expect to hear him when I listen to it and I’ll confess a slight wave of disappointment comes over me when I don’t hear his voice...

In addition, though it wasn’t always, Gaucho is probably my favorite album.

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 09:54:55 ET
Posted by: dealer, where the evening sun goes down

traffic rules - would love to hear tapes of their jams in the country. clapton jammed with them after blind faith and hoped they'd ask him to join - wow.

would have killed to see traffic with spirit spooky tooth and lemon pipers at the fillmore!!!!
as donald would say - what a night (walter - big traffic fan)

spirit rules

DOP

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 09:45:29 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Introspector,

You mention that your feelings have changed since your first "introduction" to 2vN. I'd be interested in hearing how you feel about it now.

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 09:43:40 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Gus,

Thanks for the LA report. Sounds like they kicked some serious ass, last night. It is interesting (at least to me) to note that more and more Dan fans are singing the praises of Gaucho live...even with Walter on vocals. Outstanding!

Looking forward to more comments from Ray, and others. Also, tell us a little about the new venue, if you will.

Thanks

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 08:33:01 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Lawson is obviously a very talented drummer, but I can't stand him with Steely Dan, either. Carlock likes to incorporate the best things about the original beats and add in some little things here and there. His take on Royal Scam, for instance, is so much better than Lawson's.

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 07:00:52 ET
Posted by: bassicinstinct, Nottingham UK

Kamakiriad was not a "Dan effort".

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 06:41:52 ET
Posted by: Introspector,

Interesting comments from "classic" Dan fans about what they experienced when they first heard 2VN. I did not want to bias the comments, so I held off my story about when I first heard 2VN, which should continue, I'm sure there are more 2VN stories out there.

I can remember pretty vividly where I was the day I first spun 2VN. It was summer of 2000 and my then girlfriend who knew I was into the Dan had picked up the CD in on discount along with some others. I was vaguely aware that the Dan had released a CD, but I didn't really care and if I was going to get it, I was going to wait until it was deeply discounted to maybe $3.99 and end up in the cut-corner bin like many of the old vinyl albums of once good artists comeback albums. You can't really cut the corner of a CD jewel box today, I suppose. I was not going to pay top dollar for 2VN, because I had seen so many bands try to come back after a long hiatus and produce shit material. So I was going to wait and see.

We were on a long drive up to the Gaspe' Peninsula on a touring vacation. There are no decent radio stations, so it ws a good time to listen to the 20 CDs we took along. The last Dan effort at the time was Kamakiriad, which was good, but even that was not as explosively good as say Pretzel Logic or Royal Scam.

After hearing about 8 or 9 CD's my girl unwrapped and popped in 2VN. After hearing about 30 sec of Gaslighting, fast forward to What a Shame, I said chuckling to my girl, its' getting bad already, What a Shame about the Dan, Washed Up!!! It got worse with Janie and Almost Gothic, and I told her I appreciated the thought of the "gift", but she should have used the money to the new Santana CD at the time, or something else.

Then Jack of Speed came on and I told her, THIS is the Dan I once knew, gimme more of this. Maybe they saved the best for last? That euphoria lasted until about 20 seconds each into Cousin Dupree, and Negative Girl. West of Hollywood came on, not too bad, but I got distractedas the song dragged on and on and we started talking about which other artist's CD to put in, which was Toad and the Wet Sprocket, and when I heard the cut "Good Intention", I was back in the groove.

My feelings have changed a bit about 2VN since then. But that (no bullshit involved!) was how I first experienced 2VN.

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 04:31:01 ET
Posted by: Gus Winterbottom, Fading Fast

Where do I start? Don's "strongest in years" voice that others have noted was in full force tonight; I thought he sounded fine in Phoenix on Sunday but tonight was clearly better, at least from where we sat, about 75 feet from the edge of the stage, directly in front of Walt. The overall sound was better here as well, again possibly due to our location (at Pheonix we were about 25 feet from the stage, facing the ladies).

Walt announced guitar tech Skip Gildersleeve's (sp?) 52nd birthday was July 23 and called him out for a bow during the band intros.

My own take on highlights tonight:

1. Aja; they absolutely nailed that one. I would say it compares favorably with best previous performance I witnessed, which was 2003 at the Universal (the first of the two shows; I don't recall the exact date)
2. Gaucho.
3. Royal Scam.

Before I descend into writing complete gibberish, a couple of comments to Girl Margaret, based on your recent posts:

1. If you don't qualify for a discussion on this board, no one does.
2. Great comments on the "Best Show Ever" discussion.
3. Am I to infer that you do not have any Steely Dan on vinyl? I may have to put you in my will.

GW

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 04:09:27 ET
Posted by: CharlieFreak, Crestline

I just spent the last three hours touring YouTube videos of the Dan.

What is it about this "non-band?" What makes their music near perfection?

I listened to many covers of Dan songs while touring the videos. It wasn't until I saw others covering Dan songs that I realized just how special Don and Walt are. Their song writing is timeless. Songs like "Dirty Work." I saw several versions of this song. Some good, some not so good. But what came out was the pure emotion expressed by those who would take the time to post a video of their interpretation. Every effort was a testimony to the purity of this song.

Then I saw people doing guitar riffs to some of the most complex Dan songs written. I was amazed and frankly, blown away by the amateur talent out there that would take the time and the effort to try and perfect such complex work.

My love for the Dan covers some thirty odd years. I never cease to be amazed at their work and those that have that unique understanding of this once in a lifetime duo.

Aja must go down as one of the best albums ever recorded. Having said that, there was something about the "raw" nature of The Royal Scam that is unmatched by any of their other offerings. The guitar driven album has a certain anger to it...a certain cynicism that marks most of the Dan's work. But it was before the long break and the "overly done" Gaucho that remains this...this apex of work...that achieved a another level. A level that I believe was not fully understood. For me , it was an attempt to repeat Aja...but making it better. It seems rarely mentioned, but must be considered the dark horse of Steely Dan.

And as if this were not enough, you cannot ignore the lyrics...complex, duel meanings, social commentary, forever shrouded. The existential angst and acerbic humor that bites when you least expect it...and is lost to the shallow ear.

-CF

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 03:32:50 ET
Posted by: Gus Winterbottom, Torrance, CA

Just back from Nokia; here is the setlist, with caveat as to total reliability, as it was too dark to see well. I am about 99% certain that this is correct, but verification by others would be appreciated.

Everyone's Gone to the Movies/The Fez/Keith solo/Royal Scam Intro
Royal Scam when Walt and Don enter
I Got the News
Show Biz Kids
Everything You Did
Two Against Nature (ladies with lead vocals on last verse)
Hey 19
Godwhacker
Glamour Profession
New Frontier
Gaucho, Walt vocals
Babylon Sisters
Parker's Band (vocals by the ladies)
Third World Man
Josie
Aja
Love is Like an Itchin' in My Heart/Band Intros
Peg
Kid Charlemagne

Encores:
Don't Take Me Alive
FM
(no other outro)

More Later,

GW

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 03:26:11 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu - Just Back From Nokia

Man what a show. Loose,
fiery and spectacular.
2 hours and nearly 15 minutes
of pure heat. We got
the classic 3 girl line-up
just like I guessed!
No wigs, no get-ups,
just pure smoke. Shit,
I thought they were going
to do the entire "Gaucho"
album! We got Glam Pro,
Third World, Hey 19, Gaucho,
and Babylon Sisters.
More later, I'm beat and my
In-N-Out Double Doubles
are getting cold.
More tomorrow.

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 03:19:28 ET
Posted by: Brain surgeon ,

This just in - Dude, that was "just in" 33 years ago. Do you think this revelation of yours is new to anyone but you?

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 02:23:06 ET
Posted by: This just in, here

Woods says he is Wu.

www.ecweekend.com/arts/story.asp?id=47209

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 02:14:39 ET
Posted by: A-List, here

Add to the list of the still fresh and inventive: Gino Vannelli. Coming out with a new album, DutchBeat, in the fall. Jazzing up his old hits in concerts. Voice still smooth and powerful. Didn't sell out. And incidently, at 56, a stellar specimen of male pulchritude.

www.ginov.com/articles/02222008_LVM.shtml

Date: Thurs, July 24, 2008, 01:17:00 ET
Posted by: dianeDianeDIANE, seattle

thanks sue! i was just going to say something about circus money & saw your post. had a hilarious day with greetings where i least expected them. fill out a form & they knows ever thang about you, dang it.

anyway, i'm working on a review of walter's album. it took me four listens just to get to the fifth, where i fell in love with it. i'm so impressed, i felt called to write a review. when i finish it, i'll post it on my steely diane blog & tease it here.

it'll be a few days from now...

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 23:59:56 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Adding one to the list of artist who are still vibrant and fresh after many years of excellence:

Lyle Lovett
Emmylou Harris

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 23:43:38 ET
Posted by: gentleman loser, NZ

The way that DF described Bernard Purdie's signs that he put up in the studio about himself in the Aja video - "you done hired the hitmaker" - DF explained that SD needed that kind of arrogance/attitude to tie over to what ended up on the finished product. How many of us would kill to say "I played with Steely Dan"?

I think that Ricky Lawson is a mother, even if he has played for Phil Collins - (Steve Gadd with Clapton... Simon Phillips with post-Porcaro Toto. In fact, the drummers - Dennis Chambers, Hodder, Gordon, Keltner, Marotta, Blaine etc. With the four limbs they have, all of these guys obviously lay it down much better than the majority of us, or else we'd be sitting in their thrones.

Now I've only seen and heard Carlock once in the flesh, but the youtube links lend a helping hand. You can clearly see and hear how much energy he expends AND gives to the rest of the band, and ultimately to us. You can't deny the attitude in his performance. I particularly like how he has no time for posing, as seen in the way his hair goes all Chris Farley, and how he counts everyone off at the top of his lungs.

And sheesh, these are just the drummers... the guitarists/bass players/backing vocalists/horn section have their own asterisks.

I think that WB and DF always had that attitude. Anyone who was fortunate enough to be hand-picked by them (besides maybe David Palmer) had the moves to back up that same arrogance and make their own mark. For example, Denny Dias' staunch refusal to bend or play any vibrato, or Purdie's own hilarious description of the Purdie shuffle.

It's more than just knowing your theory/chops. I'd say you'd need a hefty amount of ego and audacity (course, natural talent doesn't hurt either) to plug in and tune up with these guys.

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 21:53:02 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

...

And here's another Rob Wasserman vid, from right around the time I first hear him play:

http://youtube.com/watch?v=x05z27blg80

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 21:49:13 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

DanFan55,

You may have already seen this video. But, if not, I figured as a bass player, you might find it interesting (even if maybe not your cup-o-tea). This is one of my very favorite bassists...watch the whole thing, it's a really nice tune, I think:

http://youtube.com/watch?v=ryxmftgV-OI

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 21:41:25 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

DanF and Dan B,

I'll split the middle with you guys. I LOVE that DVD (with the exception of the bizarre camera angles) and consider it the best recorded live Steely, that I have heard.

I like Ricky Lawson, but I agree he's no Carlock. With that said, I enjoy what RL plays, and don't hold what he doesn't do against him. OTOH, I slightly prefer Barney to Washington...but I love Freddie, and don't consider him a downgrade. Just slightly different styles. Barney's energy is better, IMO and Freddie is as steady as a rock.

As many have pointed out (myself included), the current band may be the tightest and best sounding unit, as a whole. I think they could surpass the 2vN DVD band, given the same recording conditions. I would love to hear that. Until then, though, the 2vN DVD is my preferred live Dan.

As always (well, usually, anyway), all this is just IMO.

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 21:31:41 ET
Posted by: DanFan55, Arizona

Dan Belcher, I respect your opinion. This is what makes America great; we are free to disagree. From a bass player's perspective, Ricky Lawson would be a great drummer to play with. I thought he and Tom Barney meshed very nicely.

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 21:18:19 ET
Posted by: Dan Belcher, Louisville, KY

Yeah, I'm gonna have to just disagree with you DanFan55. The Live DVD from 2000 is just almost unwatchable for me because I dislike Ricky Lawson's style that much. His drumming is just SO cold, dull, and lifeless. Rock solid timing, but zero feel. And I REALLY REALLY REALLY hate the way he opens his hi-hat at the end of every measure in almost every song. So repetitive and annoying!! (And it always bugged me that he played the obvious doubling with the bass on FM instead of syncopating the bass drum with the bass guitar like Jeff Porcaro did originally and Keith Carlock now does...)

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 21:03:23 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

KZ,

"Any truth to the rumour I may have tried to start (?) awhile ago regarding a Beacon return this tour is over. The Beacon Theater has closed till next spring due to renovation work. Oh well.

Maybe a return to Roseland???????

Thanks for the info on Krantz and Carlton.

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 20:54:45 ET
Posted by: DanFan55, Arizona

Some really great, thought provoking posts here lately. Re: Introspector's post on TvN. To be honest I was not initially thrilled by TvN until I heard some of the tunes performed on the TvN Live DVD recorded at the Sony Studio in New York in 2000. I was blown away by how much more 'life' the tunes had played live. As a matter of fact most all of the songs on the TvN Live DVD trump the studio versions, in my opinion (I know, blasphemy). Ricky Lawson and Tom Barney nail down such a solid, incredible groove. I really like Keith Carlock and Freddy Washington, and they are undoubtedly 'monster' musicians, but Ricky Lawson and Tom Barney are my favorite Dan Bass/Drum combo. Having seen Dan live for the first time in Phoenix recently, I have to say Jon Herington has really improved or 'settled in' to the Dan groove since the TvN Live DVD performance. I ripped the TvN DVD audio to CD, and now it is one of my favorite Dan 'CDs'. What do others here think of the TvN Live DVD as compared to previous live or record performances?

Good to see some Dan fan musicians posting here. I play bass in an 11 piece band. We do 6 Dan tunes: Cousin Dupree, Josie (in D), FM, Jack of Speed, Peg, and Pretzel Logic. We are working on Babylon Sisters, and My Old School. I Love Dan's music anyway, but being a musician I believe allows me an added dimension of appreciation for DF/WB's musical genius. Their chord construction and progressions are are incredible, at least in this musician's opinion, not to mention the lyrics. Let's hear from the other Dan fan musicians on this site. I know you're out there.

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 20:32:11 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

GM,

Thanks for that story. It's clear that we have totally different musical tastes, yet come together on The Dan...such is its power! :#)

One quick thing: Cousin Dupree isn't really about a guy in love with his cousin. It's about a guy who, after many years apart, notices that his cousin is a very hot number, and he wants to jump her bones. He doesn't care that they are cousins, because he is a sleaze. For some, that is love, I guess. But that's a different story. :#)

Just teasin', GM.

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 20:20:31 ET
Posted by: kzkzkz, New Yawk

Any truth to the rumour I may have tried to start (?) awhile ago regarding a Beacon return this tour is over. The Beacon Theater has closed till next spring due to renovation work. Oh well. As we await word on the Cali shows I remind us easties-
Wayne Krantz at Sullivan Hall-August 7 (same eve as 1st Return to Forever NYC show)
Larry Carlton at The Blue Note - August 19-24 (8 & 10:30pm sets each nite) Both clubs are in the Village basically around the corner from each other. The ad for Krantz lists him as "former Steely Dan guitarist".

As mentioned earlier, great vids of Red Rocks 2008 songs on youtube;
Aja sounds great-also smart that the poster shot the screens showing the band playing. The movie within the movie.

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 19:11:23 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Cortlandt Manor, NY

God I love a good music discussion. Here's my two cents:

Off the top of my head there aren't many artists who's catalogue has kept me interested for decades. There are some artists like Elton John who's earlier (70's, early 80's) stuff I like but can't really get down with the newer stuff. That doesn't make it bad, it just doesn't ring my chimes. Some artists have disappointed me (Still Waters by the Beegees broke my heart it was so awful), but some will probably always stand the test of time for me: Springsteen (he's a god in my house), David Bowie, Madonna, Todd Rundgren, Boz Scaggs, and of course, Steely Dan.

Speaking of Todd Rundgren, I'll be checking him out at the Bearsville Theater on Monday. You wanna talk a great venue? How about a recording studio transformed into an intimate performance space? Hot damn!

And I'd love to jump in on this 2vN discussion, although I don't know how well I qualify. I knew very very little of Steely Dan when 2vN came out, I didn't even know they had a new album out until I saw them in concert the summer of 2000. That first concert opened me up, but I still didn't get my hands on a copy of 2vN until Mom put it in my Easter basket in 2001. Upon first listen, I wasn't really into it, but understand that it was a period in my life when very few of my favorite artists were putting out new work that was pleasing to my ears (again, Beegees, Still Waters). The only other SD cd I had at the time was Decade and I was madly in love with that and wore the damn thing out playing it over and over and...well, you get the idea. 2vN didn't completely ring my chimes at first, but I did love Cousin Dupree for two reasons - one, it kicked ass at the Grammys, beating out all these popular artists like Britney fuck Spears and it made me so pleased, and two, it's about a guy in love with his cousin. It spoke to me. But that's a different story.

I didn't give 2vN it's fair listen because I was still wary of "older" artists making new albums (Still Waters has scarred me for life). Honestly, I didn't really give it it's due until last year, and to me, it still feels like a new album to me. It's like I just bought a brand new cd and it hasn't completely settled in my soul yet. It's fresh and exciting to hear it now. I wasn't part of the hype surrounding it at all back in it's heyday, so now that things have calmed down significantly, I can sit back and really listen with no expectation. Back then it didn't really hit my expectations, it was certainly not what I was expecting to hear. But once I was able to get more into SD and get my mitts on everything they've ever put out, I've been able to truly appreciate 2vN for the fabulous album it is.

Janie, come find me, girl, we'll totes hang.

Bob, fresh and fun. That's all I'll say.

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 18:47:20 ET
Posted by: mr parker, socal

Who's got the list of songs performed during the Think Fast '08 tour and how many times each of them have been performed? eh?

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 18:44:02 ET
Posted by: angel,

Lurker Ray: I'll be there tonight with bells on...and my Steely Dan Tee shirt! :-)

This is my first Concert at Nokia. Can't wait!

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 18:11:18 ET
Posted by: Lonnie THE Kingpin, Here

Aja ~

I think you are talking SHANGHAI CONFIDENTIAL and not Shanghai Breakdown.

Lonnie

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 18:10:49 ET
Posted by: Lonnie THE Kingpin, Here

Aja ~

I think you are talking SHANGHAI CONFIDENTIAL

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 18:03:00 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu - Getting Ready to Head Downtown!

Janie -
I really dig Paul Weller.
The guy has done just so
much great work.
I'm a sucker for "My Ever
Changing Moods". Both
the solo Piano (slower)
version and the smokin
Full band 12" version.

Daylight turns to moonlight - and I'm at my best
Praising the way it all works - gazing upon the rest
The cool before the warm
The calm after the storm
I wish to stay forever - letting this be my food
But I'm caught up in a whirlwind and my ever changing moods

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 17:56:24 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Of course, there's always Todd Rundgren...

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 17:53:24 ET
Posted by: Coda was EXCELLENT,

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 17:51:53 ET
Posted by: Empty Ring, at the Style Council

If you like Steely Dan, check out the new Paul Weller CD.

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 17:49:10 ET
Posted by: Aja, in the sky

Really -

Were You Blind That Day - That one is avaialble. In fact, Luciana Souza covered this on here New Bossa Nova CD.

Standing by the Seawall - an instrumental version of this one is out there but might be a little tougher to come across.

Shanghai Breakdown - Haven't tracked that one down yet.

You can also throw in Canadian Star (covered by Dr. Strut) as it was supposedly written for Aja but didn;t make the cut.

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 17:48:15 ET
Posted by: Steely Fan, NJ

Hemorrhager,

Sweet Home Alabama.

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 17:42:46 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Yardbirds, before reunion.

Hendrix Experience (unintentional retirement).

Roy Buchanan (same thing).

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 17:40:53 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

OK, Mighty Zep...Led Zeppelin...I'm a moron.

Sorry, can't agree. They were pretty done 3 albums before they called it quits, IMO.

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 17:36:10 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

Slowtrain,

I never heard (or heard of) The Mighty Zep...but now you have peaked my interest.

I think the Beatles were slightly stale (but not terrible, by any means) by the time they called it quits.

The other bands, I never liked enough to consider. I have never found Morrissey interesting, in any way...but, that's me.

Let's see:

Buffalo Springfield
Old and in the Way
Dixie Dregs (before the loose reformation...still good, though)
Sea Level
Return to Forever? Not sure
Cat Stevens. Allah be praised.

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 17:35:20 ET
Posted by: HouDanFan, Houston

Was shuffling my ipod and came across Harry Chapin singing Taxi live. I think this was recorded shortly before his death. Sure sounds like Michael McDonald singing background.

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 17:33:06 ET
Posted by: Brain Hemorrhager,

Tonight's Hemorrhager deals with some song material outside the realm of the Dan (a rare occurrence), with that of a Dangential character, the recently deceased Mr. Warren Zevon. The mention of him today on the Blue triggered something in my cerebral cortex. Anyhow, Zevon had a major hit circa 1978 entitled "Werewolves of London". Though Zevon had a significant body of excellent work many people would not have heard of him if not for that tune. Many consider that tune to be a true sonic original, catchy, but not much around like it before or since.

Well, I have to tell you that the main piano/guitar riff backing the verse of "Werewolves" is a virtual direct lift from another hugely popular, possibly signature tune from another group four years earlier, of another genre, which makes difficult to connect the two tunes. Name that tune.

Difficulty level is about an 8. If your musical tastes are diverse and are cognizant of music besides the Dan, it could be as low as 4 or 5.

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 17:23:06 ET
Posted by: Slowtrain, Gering NE

Is this a good question? Name some bands that quit before they got artistically stale. I'll start:

The Mighty Zep
The Beatles
Husker Du
Big Star
The Smiths

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 17:14:05 ET
Posted by: W1P, Downtown

See all you Angelenos tonight @ Nokia

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 17:10:31 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

Bill, I will have to check out "About Time" on your recommendation.

It better not suck.

:#)

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 17:08:46 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

Winwood really is an interesting case. I considered him the biggest disappointment of my musical "heroes" (I really don't think of them as heroic in any sense, though). I thought that he had the greatest potential of any musician alive. Traffic is one of my all-time favorite bands and Blind Faith was incredible.

After a "decent" debut (Arc of a Diver...I never LOVED it), it was all downhill, and in the worst possible way. Steve was dolling out pap of the worst sort, and publicly proclaiming it the best stuff he had ever done. Rubbish!

Now, he seems to have wised-up...or simply sold-out in reverse, as nobody wants to hear his mindless solo crap, but many want to hear old, classic Traffic, and such. So, the jury is out for me, on Steve. I hear he sounds great in concert, and is back to playing the good stuff. If he releases new material that captures that same magic, I will do a major mea culpa, and get right back on his bandwagon. If he has already done so, I need to check it out.

Loved Warren Zevon. Richard Thompson keeps it interesting, IMO. David Grisman's output is very eclectic, but always top notch, IMO.

Clapton is an interesting one, IMO. I never prayed at his alter, but he was at the helm of many groups/projects I hold in high esteem: Cream, Blind Faith, Derek and the Dominoes, etc. There are many guitarists whose work I prefer, though. All in all, as long as he stays away from stuff like "You look wonderful tonight" and the acoustic version of Layla, I can tolerate him...and sometimes actually enjoy him.

Bill, like The Dan, Van does what he does. But, also like SD, he makes it his own. He recently released a country album, but it is pure Van. He has done straight blues, very jazzy stuff, folkish tunes, etc. He is really quite eclectic. And, yes Van is a bit of a wild card, in concert. But, it's nothing like it used to be. Van rarely disappoints, anymore. I think the days of falling down drunk and walking off the stage, are in the past. I've seen him about 5 times in the past 10 years or so, and he was great every time.

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 16:40:26 ET
Posted by: Bill, again,

Matt, I hear ya.

Clapton has had a hit-or-miss later career in my opinion. His best work has been when he went back to his blues roots, Unplugged, From The Cradle and Me and Mr. Johnson. His worst was when the production went overboard, especially anything Phil Collins had a hand in. Oddly, this includes his collaboration with BB King which sounds like they both phoned it in over heavily overdubbed tracks - a big disappointment. His duo CD with JJ Cale was OK, a little uneven. Live he's also been hot and cold. I heard some recordings of his recent shows with Steve Winwood and they were excellent!

There's another veteran player for your consideration, Steve Winwood. Just got his new one and it's OK, not stellar like the last one "About Time". I liked the Traffic reunion CD (Capaldi on drums, Winwood on everything else) but some of his 80s-90s stuff was pure beer commercial fodder. He's been a victim of trendy overproduction on occasion and has admitted as much in interviews.

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 16:30:46 ET
Posted by: Matt, chattanooga, TN

Totally agree about Warren Zevon, one of top 10 musicians, who's "comeback" album Life'll Kill Ya is one of my all-time favorites. I think that one actually surpasses most of his material from the 70s and 80s, and along with TVN and the Flaming Lips Soft Bulletin made the mid 1999 to mid 2000 music season incredible.

Robbie Robertson's music since Storyville has been influenced heavily by native american and dance music, and while I like it, I would like to see him revisit the sound of those first two solo efforts. I hear he and Eric Clapton are busy recording an album together of new material. Personally, Clapton doesn't and hasn't ever really done it for me, with the exception of a few scattered songs, but if he and Robbie are collaborating on something, I'll check it out. Like you said, Robbie's voice is even more limited than Walter's, but he tends to use it well, from stuff like Somewhere Down the Crazy River to Fallen Angel or Soapbox Preacher. For a guy that sang two songs with the group he is mainly known for, he's done alright.

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 16:22:27 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

Boz Scaggs?

Eric Clapton?

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 16:20:36 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Someone who I like a lot, and who has been around a long time, is Paul Weller. Any thoughts on him?

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 16:16:41 ET
Posted by: Bill from Pgh,

Van the man is an interesting case. He has put out few if any flops, but doesn't break any new ground, either. He doesn't really need to, he owns that style and has earned the right to mine it for what it's worth, but a critic might say he keeps rehashing his musical history. I disagree and like his newer stuff and his voice, while lower and gruffer, remains one of the most expressive in the biz.

He also has devoted quite a number of songs to his lingering resentment of and distrust of the "big time operators on the record company scene" who screwed him early in his career.

He's one of the few legends I've never seen live. You take your chances when you see him, I understand, he can be soulful and energetic or grouchy and reclusive, depending on his moods. Always has a tight, talented band with him, too, doesn't overdo the hits and when he plays them he mixes up the arrangements nicely.

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 16:09:30 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Heading Toward the Manatee Bar

Great discussion here.

I agree, totally with The Band takes, so far. They are also one of my all time faves. Also, mostly agree with the Little Feat (another fave of mine) take, but I don't think their newer stuff ranks with the best of the Lowell-era material. Still, a very talented and fun band.

Santana held his own for many, many years. He would drift, but then come back to blow you away with great new stuff. Lately, though, he seems to have taken the $$ and accepted being a "rock star", I fear. I hope I'm wrong, but I think we lost Carlos to the lure of filthy lucre.

I have mentioned Van Morrison, who has wandered all over the map...but, always to his own muse (money be damned) and with very high standards. While an argument can be made that the quality, or listenability, of his stuff waned a little from his creative peak, recent years (post 2000) may be considered his great resurgence . Not since Astral Weeks, Moondance, Veedon Fleece, has Van strung so many terrific albums together.

I will certainly think of others, who should be discussed.

BTW, operating without a net, right now: strange keyboard and no spell check. Take it for what it's worth.

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 16:05:22 ET
Posted by: bill,

Janie, RLJ qualifies. She never jumped the shark. Plus she worked with both Donald (Pirates) and Walter (Flying Cowboys)

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 15:52:16 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Rickie Lee Jones?

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 15:48:29 ET
Posted by: Bill from Pgh,

Oops. 1999 should be 1979.

Also, I forgot a certain old folkie from Hibbing Minnesota. That "Love and Theft" album wasn't too shabby.

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 15:46:21 ET
Posted by: BillfromPgh,

Matt - good thread. I am also a big fan of The Band and believe that they never recaptured their glory days post-Robbie due to lack of new material of equivalent quality. (Don't even touch the long running feud between Robbie and Levon over who really wrote the classic material).

A good Walter analogy would be Robbie Robertson's solo stuff. Like Walter, he was known as a writer and instrumentalist, rarely a singer, and not in the same league vocally as his band's featured singers. I love his first and second CDs, in part because they don't sound like The Band, they sound like Robbie Robertson. He is even more limited vocally than Walter but works his limitations to his benefit - a spooky, raspy whisper less over-the-top than Tom Waits but with a similar character. His first album was dominated by big name guests - Peter Gabriel, Bono, etc., but they didn't overpower him in my opinion. His second was a concept album about a naive rube's adventures in New Orleans and worked very well. I wish he'd put out more material. I am not as fond of the last couple of his but they still show continued musical growth.

I am also a big fan of Little Feat. Many casual listeners don't even know they are still around, and/or assume they have done nothing of value since the death of original frontman Lowell George in 1999. Bullshit. They have continued to pump out excellent new CDs featuring the writing of Bill Payne, Paul Barrere and Fred Tackett (Payne and Barrere had largely taken over the band before George's death) and tour on a regular basis. One SD parallel is that they still fill the bulk of their live set lists with 70s material but sprinkle in the newer stuff, and they never recreate studio versions. Barrere and Payne did a short stint with Phil Lesh which inspired them to stretch out on their own material more than they used to. Like SD, they are "musicians' musicians" and their members' sideman credits are impressive (Dylan, Clapton, Robert Plant, Bonnie Raitt, Warren Zevon, The Meters, Robert Palmer, etc.)

What other veteran acts have kept the quality standards high?

Neil Young comes to mind. He drifted away from his strengths for a few years (and got sued for it) then rediscovered what he does best. His music is simple so it's not hard to consider it retreads of his classics, though.

I mentioned Paul Simon the other day. He's a classic case of vital second and third acts in a long career.

Elvis Costello cranks out good new material at a frentic pace. Like Young, he did some odd experimenting and has come back to his trademark sound, but doesn't repeat himself.

Dan-fan Joe Jackson has been at it a long time and continues to write decent material.

SD guest Bonnie Raitt doesn't write that much of her own material but generally picks high quality tunes. Some of her stuff is a little too pop for me but much of it remains very good.

John Hiatt is one of the few songwriters who has aged very gracefully and can write intelligently about real world interpersonal relationships beyond the typical lost love/teen lust rock prototype.

I listen to Canadian songwriter Bruce Cockburn a lot and he has been around since the late 60s and continues to turn out very good work.

The late Warren Zevon deserves an honorable mention here. I like his entire catalog, and his farewell album The Wind rates right up there with his best work.

Who'd I miss?

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 13:59:07 ET
Posted by: Matt, Chattanooga, TN

Quoth Suedave:

Anyway, the new material argument can be um, argued, but going with it, lets ask the rabid fans (like us for SD) what they think of the "new generation" of work by their favorite artists.

End quote.

I have to say that none of my favorite musicians are making near the same level of fantastic music as SD. For the most part, most musicians sound derivative of themselves after a certain amoutn of time, and it seems like they are deliberately trying to make music that sound like the stuff they used to do, rather than growing in an artistic way. The great thing about TVN was/is the fact that it sounds like Steely Dan, rather than sounding like Do It Again or like Hey 19. They just did what they had always done.

Other bands haven't been as capable of keeping themselves fresh and relevant over time, but it's really hard for me to judge the recent outputs of musicians I only vaguely care about. I have the new Eagles album, and listened to it once, and haven't revisited it. I can, however, speak to this issue regarding "The Band". After their original output stopped (1976), they reformed in the 80s (minus Robbie Robertson) and despite the fact that they are/were incredible musicians, they just never really recaptured what it was that made them great. I would argue that the problem was a lack of original material in the absence of Robertson, but regardless of that, Jericho, High on the Hog, and Jubilation are only fair albums, but not exceptional or great. The only standouts on these albums were songs recorded by the late Richard Manuel, who would have been outstanding singing the phonebook. Levon Helm's most recent album "Dirt Farmer" (much like Circus Money) is really good more because of the ways it departs from expectation than the ways in which it adheres to them. Levon isn't a great songwriter like Robbie Robertson, so rather than try to play other people's songs as if he were in The Band still, he went a different route and the result is an album of mostly traditional songs that garnered a Grammy for Best Traditional Folk Album. Critical success came to Helm when he was true to himself rather than true to his fan's expectations and his own musical precedents. Walter fits this mold well. Sure there are touches of SD in Circus Money, and you can definately see his contributions more clearly, but the best parts are the parts that aren't what you expected...the reggae touches, dub basslines, Walter's voice, etc.

Anyway, I think that mostly a musician, much like an author or film maker, is going to have a harder time of being successful in the long run, and those that have any amount of continued success must then have found a way to stay relevant or have reinvented themselves. Steely Dan has remained relevant, and so have not had to reinvent themselves in the way that artists like Madonna have done.

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 13:57:12 ET
Posted by: Really ?,

'Other songs recorded during Aja sessions

Standing by the seawall

Several parts of it were included in the instrumental part of the title track. Michael Omartian didn'understand why this song was rejected from the Aja album, it was one of his personal favourites. As far as I know, the song has never appeared on a bootleg.

Shanghai breakdown

Never appeared on a bootleg, as far as I know.

Were you blind that day?

Never appeared on a bootleg, as far as I know. With re-written lyrics, it appeared on the Gaucho album as "Third world man".

Gaucho

Written during the sessions, but left off the final recording.'

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 13:33:04 ET
Posted by: Another one, bites the dust

Did you notice that 99% of the people that come on here and post negative remarks about Steely Dan are frustrated musicians that can't get out of there 9-5 jobs (stimpy)? I have.

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 13:08:43 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

Received my Sonic 360 C$ today. WELL WORTH the cost of having to buy C$ twice to get "Dark Horse Dub" !!!
Most excellent, Walter !!!

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 12:32:45 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

FATK,

TOO FUNNY!!!!!!!

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 12:17:45 ET
Posted by: Feed All The Kangaroos, Mama's Pouch

"Slowtrain, listen to "Blue Train" three times in it's entirety and you will be absolved. Find peace in your weariness my son."

Christ , that is Postin' on loan from God right there.

Oh wait a minute it IS from God.

Nevermind

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 12:14:30 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Here ya go, John:

http://www.geocities.com/sd_archive/aja.htm

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 12:07:24 ET
Posted by: john, nyc

is there anywhere on the internet to read the original liner notes to the aja album.

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 12:06:21 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Houston,

I'm with you. As I said in the post about the show I saw, nothing had prepared me for how good that opening medley sounded. Simply outfuckingstanding!

And, dismissing Blue Train because it is not A Love Supreme is simply idiotic, IMO. Enjoy it for what it is, which is one fantastic album. It was one of JC's first "true" solo album, the compositions are great and Coltrane's playing is simply outstanding.

Consider this from Allmusic.com:

http://allmusic.com/cg/amg.dll?p=amg&sql=10:fzfpxqtgldte

excerpt:
[Without reservation, Blue Train can easily be considered in and among the most important and influential entries not only of John Coltrane's career, but of the entire genre of jazz music as well.]

A Love Supreme, Giant Steps, Blue Train, My Favorite Things, Live! at the Village Vanguard, and others, are all great albums. If you feel an absolute need to take a shot at one of John's albums (althought I don't know why you would want to) start with something like "Om".

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 11:47:32 ET
Posted by: HouDanFan, Houston

After digesting the Albq show the other night I'd have to say the medeley and Royal Scam were just f___ awesome. What a way to start a concert. As good as in 2000 with Boston Rag. Also Gaucho and Aja. Hell I might just head to the west coast.

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 11:35:48 ET
Posted by: joeNC, second that emotion on giant steps. also

here's a box set worth having. trane, jones, AND dolphy.

http://www.amazon.com/Complete-1961-Village-Vanguard-Recordings/dp/B000003NA3/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1216827218&sr=8-1

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 11:25:54 ET
Posted by: BillfromPgh,

Giant Steps! Naima is one of the most haunting melodies ever composed. Entire album is classic.

Anybody else notice that Starbucks is plugging a Best of Coltrane compliation these days?

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 11:18:02 ET
Posted by: Coltrane, Philadelphia

A Love Supreme & @ Birdland are where its at. Blue Train doesn't even make my Coltrane Top 10.

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 11:12:42 ET
Posted by: BillfromPGh,

First reaction to TvN:

Well, I'm a fanatic and have seen nearly every tour since 93 and collect a lot of (cough, cough) well, you know. I also heard the short clips before the release and found them rather hard to figure. I was familiar with the first version of Jack of Speed as well as the two other new tunes introduced in 1996 that were not released, so I had some idea what to expect.

I heard "What a Shame" on the radio and before the vocal came in I thought it sounded familiar, then it hit me it was SD. You couldn't peel the smile off my face. Heard the new Jack of Speed the next day on the radio and liked it immediately, grabbed the CD the day it was released. Loved everything right away except Almost Gothic (too slick) and Dupree (too lightweight), eventually both of them grew on me as well. Favorites were Gaslighting Abbie, Negative Girl, West of Hollywood, What A Shame. I thought the album was a logical progression from Gaucho and Kama and their live shows. A little surprised that Walter did all the guitar solos but I thought they gave the album a consistent feel and were reminiscent of his work on Aja and Gaucho, a notch better than Kama. No question to me that Steely Dan was back as a recording entity.

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 11:10:32 ET
Posted by: suedave, happy birthday dianeDianeDIANE

It was amusing to peruse that list of acts who ought to hang it up, not that I agree with it in its entirety. I found it interesting that The Who was on the list - I reluctantly saw them in 2002 and have to say that it was the most invigorating show I'd ever been to. The Who played mostly well known songs. I became a fan that night and even bought the officially released show (they made them available sometime later and sold them for charity). But go figure, the show on CD sounded about as dull as Alive in America by comparison. Nothing like being there!

For the record, I'd describe my first SD concert as the most thrilling and it still brings tears to my eyes when I think or type about it.

Anyway, the new material argument can be um, argued, but going with it, lets ask the rabid fans (like us for SD) what they think of the "new generation" of work by their favorite artists. I can only speak for Steely Dan, I love their new work. The newer material is still Steely Dan, still creative, fresh, complex and in some cases easy at the same time, and scratches that itch like no other. Though I do miss the incredible guitar solos of years past, there are incredible highlights, like Green Book, Lunch with Gina, 2VN title track, Gaslighting Abbie (didn't like it when I first heard it), Pixeleen, Almost Gothic, WASAM, Godwhacker.

Dean I agree with your comment about disposable short term work for most pop/rock...which by comparison does set SD music apart - considering how it continues to appeal to a wide audience after all this time. It's not much work to listen to - unless you want to have some fun with it and then it isn't work, is it?

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 10:03:01 ET
Posted by: stimpy, Bill, I have played around with Royal Scam

A few times but haven't looked at it in a while.
There are no good tabs out there, so I should sit down and transcribe it if I get the chance.

I do remember the chorus is built from the same ascending "mu major" chords (see Howard Wrights discussion in the link below--he is the "dean" of Stely Dan transcribers) 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 5th that are used in "don't take me alive" and parts of "josie."

http://jmdl.com/howard/steelydan/mu-major_3.html

The rest is easy to pick out

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 09:51:00 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Gus and Chris,

Beautiful posts. Chris, it was nice to get a younger listener's perspective. Gus, love your addition to mantra, and of course you are right. At some level, you get out what you put in. This ain't Maroon 5. Which leads me to add this comment:

Almost by definition, most pop and rock is disposable/short shelf life and not a lot of effort from the audience is required, expected or all that useful, to be honest. It comes packaged ready to be enjoyed. Of course, some great pop and rock does have more substance, but it is a very small percentage.

Many fans who became Steely Dan fans in the 70's did so because they liked the hits. It was amazing that this complex and intelligent music ever became a staple of pop radio, but there are reasons this was possible. Here are just a few:

1. Don and Walt were inspired by, and used elements of, pop music. The songs that used the elements of more recent pop music, were more likely to be the hits.

2. Radio was much different then. There were formats for "Album Rock" that were perfect for The Dan. Someone hearing, and liking one of the hits on the top 40 station could also hear deeper album cuts on an interesting FM station. So, even the songs less likely to be hits got exposure and were able to work their magic on those less likely to buy albums for the deeper cuts.

3. There were many bands mixing elements of rock and jazz (fusion), a lot of popular blues based bands...in other words, SD sounded more like the music of the time than it does today, and was able to appeal even to listeners who didn't care to do the "work". I guess that is similar to #1. Sorry.

Keep in mind, there is a difference in those fans who did the work, and those that didn't. I'm not saying one is better or one is lesser, but I am inclined to believe that the ones who put the time in, find the newer works sit well beside the classic albums of the 70's.

I have more on this topic...but that will have to do, for now.

God,

Repeated listenings to Blue Train, may absolve one of sin (who am I to argue with God?), but I can tell you it doesn't cure the disease (or relieve the symptoms) slowtrain described. I know because I have done what you prescribe on many occasions. No change.

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 09:48:44 ET
Posted by: stimpy, well said Dean,

but all I hear when I listen to SD (and that is WHY IS LISTEN) is an exploration of the "that kind of garbage."

I am not over analysing ANYTHING about SD; I am simply listening to what they say and taking it at face value.

Listen to ANY radio interview of the Boys and ALL YOU HEAR is wry bantering with the audience. They can BARELY conceal their contempt for questions from slavish fans.

The only questions they seem to like (and I am analysing here) are the ones that are as cynical as they try to be.

Anyway, I think the thread has been exhausted.

Yes, I meant that Andrew Rodgers. His tab on SD is AMAZING WORK.
As an aside, I would suggest to EVERY SD FAN on this board that they take up an instrument TODAY and spend the rest of your life learning to play these songs. There is a degree of appreciation you get to that cannot be understood until you try. Talent is a plus, but not required. If you love music, DO IT.

Jon H actually teaches guitar to beginners (see website)

Hell, you never know, you might get to sit in with some of the boys.
Forget hearing it, imagine PLAYING DR WU with SD.

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 08:48:06 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

I'm 20. Like a lot of people my age into Steely Dan, it was my parents -- specifically, my dad -- turned me onto them. I actually don't remember the first time I listened to them, but I do remember my dad bringing home Kamakiriad probably a year or two after it came out and telling me that he liked the album, but couldn't figure out what the songs were about.

When we first got the internet in our house sometime around 99, my first thought was to check out Steelydan.com, and found three 30 second sound clips from their new album! I told my dad who said something like "yeah they've been talking about a new album since the 80s, I'll believe it when I see it." I was beyond excited, though. I still remember the songs and the moments that they edited down to the clips.

When I finally heard Two Against Nature, I was knocked out of my seat. I couldn't believe how funky Gaslighting Abbie was. I also remember loving the piano line in the title track, the vibes solo in Negative Girl (and that song in general), and of course Chris Potter's monster solo at the end of the album. But really, I loved the whole thing.

I realize that it may have something to do that I was 12 when I first heard it, and that it was part of my life, whereas the 70s albums had just always existed. At the same time, if I'm in the right mood, Almost Gothic can still give me goosebumps.

I still equate TvN with Steely Dan's best output in the 70s. I loved it 8 years ago, and I love it now.

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 06:12:57 ET
Posted by: Bob, Go west young man

With all the comments about this year's shows......has anyone talked to our boys and/or members of the band? It would be interesting to hear how they feel this year's tour is going.

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 05:04:49 ET
Posted by: Lonnie THE Kingpin, Back Home

By the way -- Mr. Herington was posessed tonight. He was amazing all night. His soloing on Third World Man, New Frontier, Kid C, etc. was out of this world. Jon has come a long way from 2000. As Paula Abdul would say, John has "made those solos his own." Damn he is good! The whole band is good. Great. Wonderful.

Walter came out for the encore and said to the crowd: "hey motherfuckers" -- a bit crass but funny. He kicks ass on Gaucho.

Ready for sleep -- got the beddie-by goin' on if ya know what Lonnie means. Kundulini NOW!

Lonnie

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 04:57:37 ET
Posted by: Lonnie THE Kingpin, Home from Tucson

Hello one and all ~

Just a note before I go to sleep after The Dan burned Tucson to the ground. There was an ominous black sky and thunderstorm brewing during the soundcheck but it went away before showtime and it was nice and cool for the show. Phoenix two nights before was awesome and so was this show. It was the same set list that Gus posted except with two welcome changes (for this fan, at least).

Babylon sisters was replaced with Home at Last

Third World Man (huge live fave of mine) was inserted before AJA

Don't Take Me Alive was dropped as an encore and there was only one encore tune, FM. No outro of Last Tango.

This show was funny because the ladies' Choir sported identical outfits with huge afro wigs. Very funny. These were huge, messed up 'fros Angela Davis style. Big change from how they looked indoors at the gorgeous Dodge Theatre in PHX on Sunday night.

That's all kids . . . see y'all in Lake Tahoe!!!

Lonnie

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 04:26:28 ET
Posted by: Gus Winterbottom, West of Nokia (well, southwest actually)

Introspector,

My own background is, I am age 55, and first bought Katy Lied in late 1975 in response to a recommendation in the LA Times by Robert Hilburn. I think it made his top 10, or something, list for the year. I had probably heard nothing from it at the time; my only exposure to Steely Dan was Reelin' and Rikki on the radio, and Reelin' on an ABC show called "In Concert" sometime in 1973. From there I acquired Royal Scam when it came out and concurrently backfilled to CBAT.

Thinking back to when I first played Two Against Nature, the songs that stood out at the time were Jack of Speed and Cousin Dupree. The title track did not impress me then. I have since come to consider that track among their best work, but only in about the last 18 months. In fact, when I was fortunate enough to hear the title tracks from Two Against Nature and Everything Must Go back to back at Mohegan last year, I really felt that if they had packed up the gear at that point (after 5 songs, if memory serves) I would have gotten my moneysworth for the evening.

Perhaps this is an example of the Dean's recent comment that "Dan albums reveal themselves over time". To that essential axiom I would add, "with the appropriate effort applied". So it is equally arguable that I just did not expend the intellectual effort necessary to fully appreciate some of the tracks on Two Against Nature, and still have not done so to this day. So consider the source, but remember, you asked.

Looking back at all of this from today, it seems to me (someone with no musical training) that Two Against Nature is less musically accessible than their work up to Gaucho, but lyrically is much more interesting and challenging. You did not ask, but I think that this pattern continues with Everything Must Go. So the work of this decade may be just as rich, but not evident after a single spin.

GW

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 02:26:26 ET
Posted by: God, Listening to C$

Slowtrain, listen to "Blue Train" three times in it's entirety and you will be absolved. Find peace in your weariness my son. Shit.
Sorry. I have misplaced my glasses. What is the word from Tucson?

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 01:48:10 ET
Posted by: slowtrain, nebrasksa

God!!! I hate being a Steely Dan fan. Please take this hardship away from me. They are the meeting of heaven and hell that Blake bullshitted about. Please, God, relieve me from my obsessiveness. I have forgotten how the songs go, but I am constantly aware of my own reactions to them. What the fuck, God? Why did you put Steely Dan on this earth to torment me? Please show me how to be cooler and hipper and smarter than that fucking jock who gets all the girls and she should really like me because I really care and know about life, and oh, fuck, here's a Steely Dan song that feels like me. What is this conundrum to be relegated to the closeness of the group, only to be tossed aside byt the casual "i've been there" aside. Oh, the curse of loving the dan.

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 01:16:04 ET
Posted by: Lutz, SF

2vN: first reaction was a loud scream when Walter's bass and then the guitar kicked it off. Still feels that way to this day.

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 01:15:39 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Nighty Nite

Janie,

IMO, every Dan album should win the Grammy for best album of the year. This is particularly true of those albums since they became well-known and respected...say Katy Lied, on.

But, the boys don't play the games that is necessary to get the kind of buzz that is needed to win that award. In the past (pre-reformation) hey never promoted themselves, did few interviews (and those they did were totally bizarre), etc. The only thing they did was make music...and let's face it, that ain't enough to get the kind of attention necessary to win a Grammy.

2vN certainly was the best album of 2000 (and nothing else was close), but so what? Every Dan album is the best album of the year it was released. The difference is, due to it being the 1st album in 20-years, there was a LOT of press (compared to any other SD album) surrounding the release. The boys did interviews, and had matured so they could sound legit, while still making fun of the interviewer, the industry, etc. Add to that the attention with the Rock and Roll HOF publicity. Walt and Don still weren't pimping the way Grammy winners typically do...but, circumstances were such that a great album was actually noticed by the Academy. Many voters probably also realized how fucking great this band had always been...and they were now just realizing it.

Go figure!

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 01:12:32 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Joshua -- enjoy! I know you will!

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 01:08:29 ET
Posted by: Joshua, Orange County

Thanks friends! I plan on seeing the opening act just trying to plan accordingly. Can't wait till tomorrow.

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 00:51:30 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Dean,

I wish I could remember my initial reactions to the early stuff; just know that I had it all in my collection and always loved it.

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 00:48:00 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Sleepless in St Augustine Beach

Joshua,

Janie has the time right.

But, do yourself a favor and get there before 8, and see the opening act. They might even go on 5 minutes early (they did the show I saw). Why give up 35 minutes of great music and worry about "timing" the Dan start? Just, IMO, of course.

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 00:43:14 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Joshua,

If there's an opening act, around 8:45 / 9:00.

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 00:40:58 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Introspector,

I'll have to think more about this but since I can't sleep I'll just say this for now: I was, and still am amazed that, out of all their brilliant albums, 2vN was the one that won the Grammy. More later...

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 00:31:30 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

I'll bite, Introspector.

I'm 51. I bought Can't Buy a Thrill when I saw it in a store. I may or may not have already heard Dirty Work or Do It Again, but it was probably less than a month after the album's release when I bought it, and mostly I liked the cover.

I loved the album, that's for sure, but it would be awhile before I started figuring out exactly what "Steely Dan" really was (not the dildo, the vibe).

I bought Countdown the day it released, and was fairly off balance when I first heard it. One thing for sure, I never thought it sucked, in fact I knew it was good. It took me a little while to realize it was fucking great.

That would be a normal pattern for me with most Dan albums. Some I loved right away, but I never hated one and never thought one was bad. I probably liked Gaucho most on first hearing, and now it's one of my least favorite...but, I still think it is a great album and heads and shoulders above what 99% of what is released. In other words, the worst Dan album is still a great album, IMO. The bar is just that high.

So...to your question. Unlike any other Dan album (at least as far as I can remember) I heard some of each 2vN of the tunes many times, before the release. This was due to the soundclips on the Dan site. I found those clips confusing. It was clearly Steely Dan, but I couldn't really tell much more. Gaslighting Abbie, in particular, sounded completely bizarre.

Once I bought the album (on release day, as I had every album except for CBAT), it was much like my reaction with Countdown, EXCEPT, now I knew what Steely Dan was, and had many years (and albums) of experience in listening to it. So my first thoughts, after listening to the entire album, a time or two, were:

1. This is Steely Dan. There was no mistake that this was, indeed, a Steely Dan album. That, in and of itself, speaks volumes. It's like finding an unknown Fabergé egg and verifying that it is a genuine Fabergé. It may take awhile to decide where it ranks with the existing known Fabergé eggs...but still, you know it's really something.

2. I missed the blazing Larry Carlton guitar solos, and the jazzy brilliance of Denny Dias.

3. I LOVED the horns (particularly Potter's solos) and more straightforward jazz approach of West of Hollywood, and the New Orleans/Cajun/voodoo genius of 2vN.

So, basically, while I wasn't sure where I would end up ranking this new, exciting addition to the collection, I knew that it belonged in the collection.

As I mentioned (and have noted, here, many times before), Dan albums reveal themselves over time. As I listened to it over the following weeks and months (and years), as it changed and grew, I really started to understand that the complexity of the song writing was remarkable...perhaps even more so than on any other SD album. The hidden treasures opened up to me. I no longer even thought of the guitar solos I thought I missed on first listen. I began to really love and appreciate the album for what it WAS, and not even think about what it wasn't.

My rankings of SD albums change regularly, and depend on many things, I guess (as I am hyper-analytical and haven't been able to figure it out, so far). I never rank 2vN as my favorite Dan album, but neither do I ever put it at the bottom. And remember, my least favorite Dan album is one of my favorite albums. I'm sure those who own Fabergé eggs feel the same way about those.

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 00:25:30 ET
Posted by: Jammin Joe, Hollywood, CA

Oh I forgot to say- Less than 24 Hrs to go till the Nokia Live show here in LA! Can't wait!

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 00:23:56 ET
Posted by: Jammin Joe, Hollywood,CA

I am almost 40. I have been a Dan Fan for 20 years or so. In 2000, after seeing them about 15 times since 1992, as well as the original NY Rock and Soul revue at the beacon in 91, I was glad to hear Two versus Nature. I love Gaslighting Abby, and my favorite track is What a Shame about me. The smooth jazz station in NY, CD1019 used to play what a Shame in their rotation.

My Overall impression of Two Versus Nature was great. Is it a "masterpiece" like "Aja" or "Gaucho"? No. But it was a great CD nonetheless. I was impressed with the musicianship - it was apparent that they still and will always use the cream of the crop players.

Date: Wed, July 23, 2008, 00:21:26 ET
Posted by: Joshua, Orange County

What time has Steely Dan been going on at 8pm shows. I am going to both LA and OC shows. I wish they were outside venues but the sound should be pretty tight inside. Is there a Dan Fest scheduled for tomorrow night?

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 23:56:27 ET
Posted by: Introspector,

Since Stimpy put it all out there, here is a question for the "classic" Steely Dan fan. You might have to be over 40 to answer honestly. You are disqualified if 2VN was your first exposure to Steely Dan.

What was your reaction when you first spun 2VN even if it was like WTF have they done here? Answer honestly. If you truly thought it was F-ing great, say so. Even if your answer is WTF, you are no less a fan and you might even feel liberated and we might get beyond the usual "I love Everything Steely Dan has Put Out" B.S. Essays are encouraged. So as to not bias the responses, I will give mine within 24 hours. Rest assured that other's responses will not bias mine! An important clue is that I am Over 40 years of age....and 2VN was not by a long shot my introduction to Steely Dan...

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 23:39:32 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Holy shit.

As funny as that joke of a post was, you actually screwed it up the first time, and had to re-post it. That is fucking hilarious.

Bad taste and stupid. Quite a combo!

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 23:35:01 ET
Posted by: Unlike The Dan, Ten Notable Acts, Still Around,

That Did Not Tarnish:

Yes
Moody Blues
Eric Clapton
Devo
R.E.M.
Peter Gabriel
John Mellencamp
Dave Bowie
Carlos Santana
Earth Wind and Fire

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 23:25:28 ET
Posted by: Unlike The Dan, Ten Notable Acts, Still Around, ,

Yes
Moody Blues
Eric Clapton
Devo
R.E.M.
Peter Gabriel
John Mellencamp
Dave Bowie
Carlos Santana
Earth Wind and Fire

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 22:47:37 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Steelydoc -

Done.

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 22:03:40 ET
Posted by: Provincial Reuben, Tall County, AR

Rain Plays Red Rocks; Thousands Blown Away
Denver(AHP): The Danus Lupidae Pack declared the Red Rocks ExtravaDanza the best yet. Apologies to Fiddler's Green '96 & '03.
I didn't recognize what the ladies sang at the end of 2vN as the 'normal' last verse and was going to ask if anyone knew what they were saying. Has that been typical of this tour?
I don't know if it was obvious on the Youtube, but at the end of 2vN a stagehand came to DF @ dsc. I don't guess KC noticed as he counted off, and they began Hey 19 with DF in earnest discussion and not missing a lick.
I thought it interesting that WB hung out on the stage as they "...back(ed) this thing up." He twice apologized for the delay. I wonder if a delay of 4 hours had been announced, would a thousand out of, I don't know, were there 8K of us there? would even 10% of the crowd left?
The Tall County is very humid. It was great to be in a place where your clothing was dry before you can complain about getting wet. My wife hates it when I say it's a dry humidity, but at last...
Sorry about that Danfest thing, but the people who lived in the house we occupied returned in an untimely manner. Next time, we'll all just hide the powder with Teddy Roosevelt.
Can't resist: Stimpy (sophomoric hijinx aside): Turn up the neighbors; the Eagles are listening.

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 21:50:44 ET
Posted by: Fife, Florida,eh

Anyone up for a chat?

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 20:51:36 ET
Posted by: steelydoc, near the Tower

Lurker Ray, are you around? Can you email me? I have a question for you....

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 17:56:43 ET
Posted by: Bill,

Joey, thanks for the props, but in the future please do not associate me with phrases popularized by a certain obese dopefiend radio windbag, even by accident. I'm sure you meant no harm.

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 17:52:50 ET
Posted by: BillfromPgh,

I figured that when they have the married guy/record exec played by Rudd waxing on about how a class act like Steely Dan couldn't succeed today and the lovable young stoner lunkhead played by Seth Rogan dismissing them, illustrating his pedestrian tastes. Funny scene anyway. Also funny (to me) is that the married guy has to pretend he's going to work seeing bands in clubs [tough job, man] when he's really sneaking out for a night of fantasy baseball.

>Bill,

Apatow and Rudd are Steely Dan fans

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 17:52:16 ET
Posted by: Joey,

" They're musicians, it's what they do, and many of them can still fill large venues. If you don't like it, go to someone else's shows and buy someone else's CDs. Not to say that many veteran acts can't come close to the quality of their classic material. The Stones' output since the mid-70s has been uneven but had some high points, same with Townshend, many others. Some is decent, some is crap, some artists are more consistent than others. I'm not an Elton fan but I've heard good things about his recent work as well. "

Amen .

Christ , that is Postin' on loan from God right there --- Indeed , that is " Miracle on Ice Postin' " . Nice .

I remain ....... forever ..... your Joey

J. Fly

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 17:11:55 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

Hoops,

Van played most of Astral Weeks, and this is the first I am hearing of it? Shame on you (and me, actually)! Had I been there, I might have died on the spot. Van is the only "modern" artist who I think belongs on/near that lofty spot where I place The Dan.

stimply, I think these comments reveal so much:

"I think that there is a side to W and D that reflects their love of jazz and jazz culture, much of which is all about being a little contempuous of non musicians and those that don't appreciate HARD jazz music.

It also goes to the idea of "hip" and the whole drug culture thing; especially heroin.

You almost can't be cool and popular (read "monetize the artist value" at the same time.

Being sucessful BY DEFINITION means selling out.

I don't mean to imply they have sold out, but I think THEY THINK this is how it works."

I seriously doubt that Walt and Don spend any time, at all, thinking about this kind of garbage. Sometimes attempting to over (and mis) analyze an artist's intentions gets in the way of the enjoyment of the genius of the work, itself.

Bill, you said "Rock music was never supposed to age gracefully", and I can't agree more. Perhaps that's why I have never been a big Rock music fan. I find that most of the poorer reviews of The Dan (albums and concerts) seem to view their music through the rock prism.

Bill, you also said, "I love C$ and Morph but I believe you get more than the sum of the parts when Donald and Walter write together" and again, I agree 100%. Separately, Don and Walt are among the very best artists of their time. Together, they are among the best music-makers of ALL time.

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 16:40:26 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, @work

I'm on stimpy's side here, in so much as that he has expressed his 'opinion', some of which will rub most here the wrong way, but he's done it tastefully, with some thought behind it and hasn't personally attacked anyone here or the Boys. To top it all off, it's created a nice little thread, for today at least.

Personally I like EMG, not as much as I like TvN, which I don't like as much as the 70's output. TvN is bit more 'epic', like Aja & Gaucho, but I really like the 'feel' of EMG with the live tracking. Last Mall and Blues Beach are great tunes, they are not Royal Scam or Deacon Blues, but they are nice tight little songs. I really like Lunch With Gina and Pixeleen is close behind.

I think there might be something behind the idea that the 'Dan Brand' is, now, mainly a vehicle for them to be able to do the solo stuff but I don't think we can eliminate the option of another Dan recording at this point. Regardless of the name on the album or the marquee, if D or W are involved we know we are in for a damn good thing.

Thanks for posting stimpy.
My apologies if my assumption that you are a 'he' is not the case.

KC

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 16:24:47 ET
Posted by: Ha-ha, w

Bill,

Apatow and Rudd are Steely Dan fans.

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 16:09:34 ET
Posted by: BillfromPgh,

Janie, I agree. We may not agree with Stimpy's opinion, but don't shoot the messenger. He likes D & W's solo work which is sadly ignored by the general public. He raises legitimate issues which are open to debate, as long as it remains civil. He's not one of those guys who just sez Steely Dan sucks to get a cheap laugh (see, for instance, the movie Knocked Up). He's even a musician, and I for one would like to pick his brain about some chords that have stumped me if he in fact has learned the catalog on guitar with the right voicings (is Andrew Rogers your source? http://www.azchords.com/s/steelydan-tabs-5585.html Do you know Royal Scam?)

Bill

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 15:55:10 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Stimpy said that post was risky but I think some good discussion has come out of it, no? Aren't differing opinions one of the things that make The Blue interesting.

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 15:20:12 ET
Posted by: Loyal Fan,

stimpy - The bottom line is people that post here don't feel like you do. If EMG sucks and you don't like the direction the band is going in, leaveand post your BS on some other group.

Not everything must go, just you.

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 15:12:32 ET
Posted by: BillfromPgh,

C'mon Stimpy, can't you see the satire in the title track of EMG? Yes it works on many levels, including the superficial level of "we're cashing in on our reputation and just suckered you into buying some inferior product" but that's part of the joke. I agree with your position that they're jazz snobs at heart, and that is probably what was meant by the line about getting a few good licks in - the unwashed masses just want to hear those familiar choruses - but I do not think the last two SD projects lack in any way in creativity in the writing. They have evolved away from the studio perfectionism of Gaucho, so maybe the playing is a little looser and more interactive.

I don't for a minute think Donald and Walter have the same contempt for their audiences as, say, Roger Waters did when he conceived of The Wall. If so, they disguise it well, both onstage and in interviews. (Yes, I saw Walter's recent "money laundering" joke.) I believe they enjoy playing their classic material with a crack band of pros and modern technology in ways that were not possible in the 70s, and they still enjoy writing and recording together and separately. I don't think either one is hurting for money or just touring for a quick buck. It can't be cheap to tour with a band this size.

I love C$ and Morph but I believe you get more than the sum of the parts when Donald and Walter write together. You get more introspection from the solo work, maybe more linear story lines, (Security Joan, What I Do, Downtown Canon) but I like the more abstract, elliptical efforts where you can almost imagine them bouncing ideas off each other (TVN, West of Hollywood, Almost Gothic, Godwhacker, Green Book, Pixeleen). C$ and Morph help you identify whose musical ideas are whose as well - Donald's lush, slick complexity vs. Walter's deep grove, angular melodies and blues influence.

I've heard plenty of sellouts but neither EMG nor TvN qualify.

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 14:50:50 ET
Posted by: BillfromPgh,

On a regular basis a variety of self-appointed pundits advise older artists to hang it up. My reaction is if you don't think the Stones, Who, etc. are any good any more, don't go see them or buy their records. I think the underlying message is that the fans who still appreciate these veteran acts are gullible fools, blind hero-worshipers, or both. So what?

I recently heard a legendary Stones bootleg from 1969, "Live'r Than You'll Ever Be," from what was supposed to be their peak period. Sorry, it was a sloppy mess, and I like the Stones. When I saw them and their multimedia extravaganza a coulple years ago they sounded better than they ever did in their heyday. Some support from a horn section, new bassist, backup singers, Chuck Leavell on keys, etc. didn't hurt but the boys did their legacy proud without doing an Eagles style note-for-note recreation. Yeah, the'yre old. They're also in better shape than most of us in the audience, despite years of legendary debauchery, and Charlie Watts had just recovered from throat cancer.

They're musicians, it's what they do, and many of them can still fill large venues. If you don't like it, go to someone else's shows and buy someone else's CDs. Not to say that many veteran acts can't come close to the quality of their classic material. The Stones' output since the mid-70s has been uneven but had some high points, same with Townshend, many others. Some is decent, some is crap, some artists are more consistent than others. I'm not an Elton fan but I've heard good things about his recent work as well.

I'd rather hear a band (like SD) trying to reinvent old material and continue to try out new material than one that just recreates their classics. What I heard from the recent Police reunion shows (via, ahem, fan recordings) was impressive in that these three guys could approximate their studio recordings, but I didn't run out to buy tickets and it still has the scent of money-grubbing to me.

Rock music was never supposed to age gracefully. Blues, jazz and R&B players often continue into their later years without sacrificing their dignity. Mick & Keith idolized Muddy Waters and his generation. They have every right to keep performing and recording, and those who disagree can ignore them or mock them as they see fit. As Ron Wood said on his excellent solo album Gimme Some Neck, "We all get old."

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 14:25:49 ET
Posted by: angel,

For me, the measure of a song is how I feel years after it has come out. If I can play a song to death and still feel happy that I am hearing that song again...that's music that is worth something.

2VN:
Almost Gothic
Jack of Speed
2VN
West of Hollywood (I love the Chris Potter sax at the end)

EMG:

Lunch With Gina
Green Book
Pixeleen
Things I Miss The Most
Godwacker

To Compare: Here are my favorite Steely Albums from the 70's.

Katy Lied:

Green Earrings
Dr. Wu
Rose Darling
YGT II
Any World

Royal Scam:

Don't Take Me Alive (can I put that down twice?) :-)
Caves of Altamira
Kid Charlemagne

Not looking much different to me. YMMV.

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 14:24:49 ET
Posted by: stimpy, I will try to answer you, Bill, but I may just

dig an even bigger hole when all is said and done and I wouldn't post here if I didn't love the Dan and respect the opinions of all those here.

I think that there is a side to W and D that reflects their love of jazz and jazz culture, much of which is all about being a little contempuous of non musicians and those that don't appreciate HARD jazz music.

It also goes to the idea of "hip" and the whole drug culture thing; especially heroin.

You almost can't be cool and popular (read "monetize the artist value" at the same time.

Being sucessful BY DEFINITION means selling out.

I don't mean to imply they have sold out, but I think THEY THINK this is how it works.

That is why the solo efforts get the real creativity, even when both of them work on the record.

The "Dan Brand" is tarnished here and becomes nostalgia act by default in a sense, making the Boys reluctant to use it as vehicle for what they think and care about now.

that is what I mean by "contived" and thin--especially on EMG.

Shit, just look at the title.

Listen to the last verse of what may be the last studio recording ever by the band:

"Can it be the sorry sun is rising
Guess it's time for us to book it
Talk about the famous road not taken
In the end we never took it
And if somewhere on the way
We got a few good licks in
No one's ever gonna know
'Cause we're goin' out of business
Everything must go"

Exactly.

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 14:05:10 ET
Posted by: stimpy, maybe so Duh, But ask yourself why they

choose to take the stage evry nght to strains of "Royal Scam."

An artists relationship with the audience is often a complicated thing.

Remember Roger Waters and "The Wall."

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 13:59:48 ET
Posted by: Duh,

"EMG was a waste of time IMO. DFs voice is thin and the songs seeem contrived to me."

You're a freaking an idiot!

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 13:59:00 ET
Posted by: hoops, passing through on the quick

My question for all interested in the MSN article about the "Top Ten Who Should Hang Up Making Records" or something like that: who is this writer such that they are worthy of our time? If Donald or Walter says it, or even some one else we respect, I think I'll consider it. On the other hand, is this one of these english majors who needs a job so they make up stories and offer opinions as if they are G-d? Granted, I wasn't 100% nuts about the lyrics on Joni's last one but who is this person that we should pay attention? People I respect say that the last three Elton John albums are probably the closest to his early- to mid-70s best. I agree--after 30 years, his recordings improved dramatically when he stopped trying to write hit singles.

Recently, I attended a Van Morrison concert. A top ten newspaper had a review of the show. The writer complained that he didn't play "Brown Eyed Girl" or "Moondance". Yet, the writer was totally clueless that he pretty much played most all of "Astral Weeks" for the first time in 40 years. "Astral Weeks" is, for lack of a classification, a jazz-folk album that is relatively unknown but considered a critical masterpiece, studied in many music schools. This writer had no idea what it was. Ignored it entirely. I think you get the gist of what I am trying to say with this example, even if you aren't an VM fan.

And that's my two piasters.

Jim

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 13:27:58 ET
Posted by: stimpy, still the bunker, Fife my stale comment

refers (primarily) to the last 2 ALBUMS they put out, not their ability to play the old favorites night after night with the BEST studio talent money can buy.

2vN was a long time coming, and does have some decent things on it (as I said). It just seems like going through the motions to satisfy the contract with the label.

The real creativity (certainly on DFs part and now increasingly with W too) has gone into solo efforts, where I agree the stuff is fantastic.

Not SD, but fantastic non-the-less.

EMG was a waste of time IMO. DFs voice is thin and the songs seeem contrived to me.

All I can have is an opinion, and if "being obsessed by the past" means that I compare new songs to Dr. Wu and Aja then I am guilty as charged.

As for seeing a lot of shows, again I imagine the new arrangments are intersting enough and the setlist is all old stuff anyway, so I am sure I would dig it.

But it doesn't change the fact that they haven't done a good album since gaucho, in my (head up may ass I guess) opinion.

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 12:41:01 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Thanks for the complete list Dean. I agree it doesn’t really matter, except that so many people (myself included) read the stuff on msn. I am sorry however, to see Joni on this list. She is right there up there (at the top of my list) along side S.D. as my absolute favorites since the beginning of time (i.e. the beginning of their careers and the beginning of my appreciation of great music)!

BTW, I think Stimpy just wanted to shake things up???

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 12:34:09 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Clarification:

I guess the MSN list wasn't in any particular order. Sorry if my translation of said list suggests otherwise.

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 12:32:00 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Newerker,

I have to admit, I don't think I understand most of what you are getting at in you post. Maybe I will have to read it again.

I did understand this, though: '"MSN" in the link means what follows is guaranteed horsecrap, and...There is no "they"'

I thought the same thing, when I saw that link. Surprisingly, with the exception of Joni Mitchell, I completely agree. In fact, many of these acts should have hung it up the moment they started.

And, Janie, here's the list:

10. Def Leppard (see also, Whitesnake)
9. Carly Simon
8. Elton John
7 The Rolling Stones
6 Bryan Adams
5. Joni Mitchell
4. Ray Davies
3. The Who
2. The Black Crowes
1. Madonna

Everyone is entitled to their opinion (no matter how ill informed it is). But, I don't think stimpy's post is worth rebutting, if he really believes exactly what he wrote.

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 12:31:46 ET
Posted by: stimpy, the bunker

You don't have get nasty, Nwk.

I agree with you that an artist is entitled to monetize the value of his/her work.

I am saying EXACTLY THAT. That is different (my point) from meaningful new work.

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 12:29:50 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Girl Margaret,

You are definitely the concert queen!! I hadn't really wanted to see Billy Joel because I have a love / hate (mostly hate) relationship with his music but I heard the shows were fantastic and now I'm sorry I didn't go. I should hang out with you!

My next show is Sonny Rollins in Central Park and I'm psyched to see him because, as you know, he was a big influence on our boy Don.

www.avatarstudios.net/aboutus/SonnyAndDonald.html

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 12:01:41 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Workin'

Just catching up on the Blue, so many interesting discussions going on at once, makes a girl's head spin a bit!

Firstly, thanks to everyone who's posting setlists and concert adventures. It's such a thrill to keep up with it and live vicariously through the posters here - especially those of you first time posters/concert goers who really seem to be loving it! I'm too tired to feel withdrawal, personally, but it'll kick in...right before I head out to see them again next month!

Commish, I was really intrigued by what you mentioned (I know, it was like a million posts ago, but whatever) about favorite shows, which one's better, blah blah blah, I thought it was brilliant. I've heard all the arguments, I've been to a few of what have been considered "The best concert ever" (Roseland 2003 both nights, Soboba) and I would say that none of that matters. People are going to argue this until we're all dead, but for me it's all about what makes the concert special to me. Good venue? Nice weather? Meeting new people? Taking my brother for the first time? Having my mom take me for the first time? Running into random bandmembers before or after? Meeting the crew? A really good strawberry dacquiri? Hearing songs I never thought I'd hear before I die? Howard Levy? Phoebe Snow? Martha Wainwright? Everyone has their own favorite for a reason, and it says a lot about the person to know more about what their favorite performance was and why. Personally, I wouldn't mind hearing some more of those stories!

Janie, my sister and brother were at the free Bon Jovi concert at Central Park, too. Bon Jovi is to my sister what Steely Dan is to me, so she goes to see them as often as possible, although she hasn't traveled as extensively as I have (she once convinced my mother to plan a family vacation to Hershey Park so she could go to the concert - that was impressive!). I've been to several BJ concerts (I went last Tuesday!) and always thought they put on a great show, although sometimes it sounds like the same show with a bit of variation (I've heard this somewhere before...). But I've always had a good time at their concerts.

And finally, speaking of The Eagles, my mom, brother, sister, and I saw Billy Joel at Shea Stadium on Wednesday and he had several special guests that evening: Tony Bennett (my mom and I lost our minds), John Mayer (my brother, sister and I lost our minds), John Mellencamp (we all lost our minds), and Don Henley. Having been raised on Eagles and Henley's solo work I'll always have a special place in my heart for him. Never had a chance to see Eagles in concert yet, but I wouldn't turn that down. My entire family lost their minds when Henley came onstage and sang "Boys of Summer" with Billy. What a great fucking show!

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 11:49:00 ET
Posted by: Newerker, back dock with flip flops

Dear Web Searcher, aka Stimpy, aka most all inconsistent poster names, and hated unemployed troll:

What about that list you worked so hard to disover and share?

You say, "Pertaining to the discussion . . . here's a list . . . they are calling on to. . . ."

1) There's no discussion here except amoung yourselves.
2) "MSN" in the link means what follows is guaranteed horsecrap, and
3) There is no "they" -- "they are calling . . . "

I have four questions:

Question 1:

Newark: Why don't you respond to some of the more intelligent, thoughtful postings?

Answer: I want to be noticed and share my opinions, but I don't have time to think about things and do valuable research.

Question 2:

Newark: Why, when you hate the Dan, do you persist in smegging up the place?

Answer: That's a loaded question. I don't hate the Dan, I love the Dan. I'll do anything, diddle in public, give bj's to anyone, anything to get noticed and get my opinions out there. You could say that I can safely stalk Steely Dan from this vantage point.

Question 3:

Newark: Do you swallow?

Answer: Oh yes, one of my favorite personas is "Gobbledeegoo."

Question 4:

Newark: Meet me in the Greenroom tonight?

Answer: No, because I am not allowed to use the computer when my kids come home and take over. But I bet I can rid of my rusty load in public this afternoown.

Gimmestrength, --Nwk (making phone calls)

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 11:40:27 ET
Posted by: BillfromPgh,

The ususal suspects: Stones, Who, Elton John
Others not so usual: Madonna, Joni Mitchell, Ray Davies

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 11:19:32 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

"Pertaining to the discussion about nostalgia acts, here's a list of 10 artists they are calling on to hang it up"

Anyone noteworthy? I can't access that link at work (it's blocked)

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 11:06:04 ET
Posted by: Fife, Florida,eh

Stimpy,
I was just curious on why you would call the band stale when you've only seen them live twice??? 2VN is my favorite Dan album these days not one tune on it that I don't love and it was a love at first listen way back in 2000. Though EMG is not one of my favorites I don't doubt that eventually I will listen and love it as much as the rest of the catalogue. That being said it has some really great songs on it, Godwhacker, Pixeleen, and EMG. I would respect your imput more if you had seen them at least as many times as I have, which is 12, really low for this board and not counting the Fagen Shows. Every show there has been something new and I think the band makes an effort to change up the arrangements so it doesn't become stale. Go and see them a few more times and enjoy for goodness sake.

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 11:03:57 ET
Posted by: Web Search, Surfin'

Pertaining to the discussion about nostalgia acts, here's a list of 10 artists they are calling on to hang it up.

http://music.msn.com/music/photos/enough-already/?GT1=28102

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 10:42:15 ET
Posted by: BillfromPgh,

>> Do It Again...countrified by Waylon Jennings and Richie Havens ???

Dunno if I need to hear that for shock value or not. Reminds me of this recent article on cross-genre cover versions: http://www.slate.com/id/2195531/

Richie Havens, on the other hand, is a class act folike with a great baritone voice, but I can't imagine it being applied to Do It Again.

Stimpy, you're entitled to your own opinion, but I'm baffled why you respect the solo work but not EMG and 2VN. I can (almost) understand it if it were the other way around, at least with DF's last two efforts, or if you were joining the "Walter Can't Sing" gang, but I think there were only three arguable toss-offs in the last two SD efforts (all promoted as singles, perversely): Dupree, Last Mall and Blues Beach, not quite up to SD standards but miles beyond most other contemporary releases.

I also agree that few veteran acts can sucessfully walk the tightrope between satisfying the casual fans with the hits without becoming an oldies jukebox. Neil Young pulls it off but still hauls out a lot of hits these days, in the past he'd do entire shows of unreleased material. Paul Simon reinvented himself with his world-beat stuff and successfully mixed it in with his classics, not sure if he can still pull it off since it's been a while since he had a real hit - his last effort got some airplay and was a sonic departure. David Byrne genre-hops a lot too and maintains an audience, not as large as the others mentioned above.

To some degree a catalog full of hits is an albatross [and the premise of Paul Simon's film "One Trick Pony"] and cult acts with smaller but loyal fan bases have a lot more freedom. Richard Thompson comes to mind, great writer and performer, long career, can play what he wants. I read some interviews with Tom Petty's reactivated 70s band Mudcrutch and Petty and his Heartbreaker bandmates were relieved to be able to play a whole show without the warhorse hits. But, as the Kinks said, sometimes you gotta give the people what they want.

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 10:36:17 ET
Posted by: Nwk, chicken house

Hey stimpy: You sound a broken record, like so many I know suffering arrested development. You need to become a patron of the arts and quit obsessing over the past. tightass. You know nothing of modern media theory -- artists need to be compensated for their work (think napster) or its creation and its quality may very well cease (P. Levinson). Finally, we have cracked the code on Fagen's "the whole thing . . . creepy." You're it -- that creep thing which Fagen was referring to. We can all breathe a sigh of relief. --Nwk
I don't need to push this thing along; your kind self-destruct without any outside help. It's just a matter of time. Gads, the contamination!

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 10:13:05 ET
Posted by: stimpy, look on the brite side, Joey

They are nice cars (I saw Walter on Maui last winter driving a silver 911).

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 10:11:24 ET
Posted by: Joey,

" I just think the boys are going through the motions to put gas in the cars. "

You make Joey very sad.

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 10:08:17 ET
Posted by: Stimpy, You guys are pretty rabid fans, so this is probably a risky post

and unlikely to be very welcome,; but here goes anyway..

The Boys haven't made a good album since Gaucho.

2vN had a couple of decent tunes, but everything on the last one was crap.

I say that as a pretty rabid fan myself. I have spent 10 years learning the catalog on guitar with the RIGHT voicings (thanks Andrew); I have seen 2 Dan shows, own 2 copies of "rotoscope down," saw the Soul Review twice, and (drum roll) I even was lucky enough to catch the 11TOW show at Slims (it was flat out AMAZING).

I just think the boys are going through the motions to put gas in the cars.

The solo work is a different story, especially where W is concerned.

But the Band is stale at this point, and great backing musicians can only do so much.

Nothing wrong with that mind you; they made enough GREAT MUSIC in the Royal Scam era to last most bands 10 lifetimes.

Even great wine has shelf-life.

What is a mistake is to let them think they are getting away with being ANYTHING except a so called "nostalga act," (see Eagles discussion below).

It cheapens the experience and makes any important new work much less likely.

Flame away, but I mean it from the heart and with great respect.

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 09:30:59 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Higher,

Call me what you what but who gets to spend her birthday in Spain? Maybe me!

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 09:29:18 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

SteelyDana,

Thanks for posting that link of the Red Rocks review -- the photos, especially of D & W, are just great.

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 08:22:13 ET
Posted by: Ravin', laptop flipflop

Chad: Yea, that supreme vid. about "Yacht Rock" episode #10 may have been around for two years, but it has only had 4,387 views to date, which it deserves more hits. Sharing sharing the link was well timed by ScottyA -- I would rather revisit the video than revisit a discussion about the Eagles. To be cont. . . more reading below. Let's see . . . :> Raven

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 07:33:31 ET
Posted by: higher, standards

janie you slut.

i wouldn't see jovi if they paid me.

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 07:01:54 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

Hey....19 new photos of Walter on Sonic360 homepage. Link is on RadioDupree homepage........

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 06:57:13 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

Nice review and photos from Red Rock show.....

blogs.denverpost.com/reverb/2008/07/21/steely-dan-red-rocks-amphitheatre/

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 06:56:16 ET
Posted by: bassicinstinct, Nottingham UK

Scotty A:

Thanks for that link.

Old news it may very well be, but I had neither seen or heard of it's existence before. LOL

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 06:28:29 ET
Posted by: Klaus and the Rooster, London

We don't have any SD gigs to enjoy or look forward to here in Europe, so will have to content ourselves with "Circus Money" for now. I received my copy of the International release four days ago, and there's so much detail to enjoy in the first five tracks that I haven't seen a need to venture further yet. IMHO "Downtown Canon" and "Paging Audrey" are absolutely classic, 24 carat gold Steely Dan. Indeed, the former may be one of the very best 'relationship' songs either of them have ever written. The groove is sensational, reminding me very much of the West Coast sound of "Bad Sneakers". The idea of having the girl background singers take the solo was also inspired. As for "Paging Audrey", what can I say? This is a truly great SD song, with a brilliant lyric and amazing arrangement. Very redolent of the more cutting edge material on 2VN. More importantly, perhaps, it doesn't really sound like anything else either of them have done. Unlike some SD fans, I've never been in any doubt about the significance of Walter's contribution, but it should be pretty clear by now that the ambience of sleazy decadence that is the hallmark of the best SD music / lyrics seems to derive more from Walter than Donald. Of course, "Morph the Cat" is a brilliant album, but it's great to see Walter's contribution revealed to the full.

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 02:22:21 ET
Posted by: Babe, The house that I built

I was on MLB.com (Major League Baseball) tonight and came across this headline on the sites front page:

"Hey 19: Steely Tigers roll to rout over Royals"

"Miguel Cabrera had five hits as Detroit shellacked Kansas City, 19-4, on Monday night."

Maybe Miguel Cabrera is smoking some of that "fine Columbian!"

Date: Tues, July 22, 2008, 01:00:37 ET
Posted by: Chad,

ScottyA - That vid is old news around these parts.

Date: Mon, July 21, 2008, 23:22:48 ET
Posted by: ScottyA, C-Bus

I think this about sums it up

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

Date: Mon, July 21, 2008, 23:00:56 ET
Posted by: Professor SteveV, Ajia

Re- 'Do It Again and Jazzman'........'Jazzman was a wonderful hit single from Carole King and was composed by her and David Palmer, onetime Steely Dan lead singer....the sax part is played by Tom Scott....
'Do It Again' was a surprise Gold single and soon became an AMerican standard.....by April of '73 the great Brazilean keyboardist Eumir Deodato was even using it to open his shows....later covered by Herbie Mann and even countrified by Waylon Jennings and Richie Havens....even later disco-fied by Europop trash act Clubhouse.....

Date: Mon, July 21, 2008, 22:48:11 ET
Posted by: MikeA, Seattle

Hey Thanks Jim. Really appreciated the detailed response and new link. Hopefully, I will see you and many others in the coming weeks.

By the way, purveyers of Spam should go to prison and be fed nothing but Spam, BF, Lunch, and Dinner until they repent.

MikeA

Date: Mon, July 21, 2008, 22:45:25 ET
Posted by: Lutz, SF

When it comes to the Eagles I go with the Dude.

Date: Mon, July 21, 2008, 22:27:40 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

The Steely Dan "Think Fast" Tour 2008
I'm not one to follow astrology
but ever since this tour has
crossed the Mississippi, the tour
has been living up to the
"Think Fast" title. I hope
they are not trying to cover ALL
four elements! So far
WATER - Has stopped the show at Red Rocks
FIRE - Has stopped the show in Phoenix
I hope EARTH & AIR are not next! ;O)
Not trying to get all "Art Bell",
but it sure is weird. Really
looking forward to the show in
LA Wednesday. Even though many
of us work in LA, we too work hard
and long hours. And we really
cherish a night off with Steely Dan.

Date: Mon, July 21, 2008, 22:05:40 ET
Posted by: gentleman loser, NZ

They're probably all past the stage of engaging in such weary banter and giving a crap, but I would suppose that Henley/Frey/Walsh et al are observing Becker/Fagen from a distance. And they're slightly seething underneath at the amount of respect (dandom aside, too) that SD is/has been getting. Then again a lot of Eagles fans are probably also Dan fans.

That's not to say that they don't get any respect. But my kids think the songs of SD are - for wanting a better word - cool. They don't say the same about the other. Both units have the love (read, ticket sales, revenue). That's a given. California will tumble into the sea before TvN and EMG are heaped in the bargain bin though.

I also wonder if Becker/Fagen are scrolling the reviews of their contemporaries and sighing in contempt - "They done miss out on a damn good thing - lucky we bothered using those altered chords."

Yes, I think this can be traced right back to the dreaded Mu chord.

Date: Mon, July 21, 2008, 19:05:05 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Here's another:

http://www.104thehawk.com/article.asp?id=672502

(August 9 - Hohner melodica signed by Donald Fagen)

Date: Mon, July 21, 2008, 18:55:46 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Certainly not definitive but here:

http://www.pollstar.com/news/viewphoto.pl?PhotoID=STEELY&Mode=Thumb

"Donald Fagen shows off his Hohner melodica July 31, 2006, as Steely Dan play Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Colorado."

Date: Mon, July 21, 2008, 18:49:46 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Another Major Dude,

I believe Don plays (at least played) a Hohner. I don't know the model, though.

Date: Mon, July 21, 2008, 18:41:57 ET
Posted by: Ben Reich,

Bodacious Cowgirl -

What do you mean by "Walter's voice and styling were perfect, adding to the song's laconic world-weary edge"?

Date: Mon, July 21, 2008, 18:35:17 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Bodacious Cowgirl,

I agree with your assessment of the arrangements, on this tour. IMO, they are the one of the real strengths of this tour. I think every song was tweaked, in one way or another, and it really made this tour "special", to me. Of course every Steely Dan show is special, but you get my drift, I think.

Perhaps "Think Fast" is a nod to these rearrangements. It took me a few extra bars of intro, on many of the tunes, before I could recognize what song was being played.

BTW, I have to say The Blue is a MUCH better place to visit with all the Steely Babes hanging around. We needed the influx of estrogen.

Date: Mon, July 21, 2008, 18:07:56 ET
Posted by: Bodacious Cowgirl, Spangled leather emporium

DanFan55, glad you made it to a show. This was my sixth Steely Dan concert and my first one indoors. Each show has been great, but I think this one was truly the best I've seen. I was in the balcony and the sound was phenomenal. There was an effervescence about the performance. The new intro arrangements to some of the tunes and the setlist additions add to that. Donald's voice was strong and clear and he seemed to really be enjoying himself.

I was thrilled to finally hear Gaucho and New Frontier live. Gaucho was so beautifully rendered. It just seemed to float. Walter's voice and styling were perfect, adding to the song's laconic world-weary edge.

It's hard to single out performers because they *all* shine, work so hard, but make it look effortless. Yes, Carlock is a monster!Herington just seems to own so many of the tunes, and it seemed fitting that the stage lighting cast a giant shadow of him on one side of the hall.

In my section the attendees went wild over the hits and seemed a little stunned by the selections from their latter albums. I apsatively love Two Against Nature live. So much going on in that song. It's like a sonic theme park ride, a swirling eddy of sound, syncopation and characters. And Donald did a much better job of remembering the lyrics than I did!

Speaking of hits, I was amused to read in the Friday edition of the Arizona Republic calendar section a blurb on the concert that contained this jewel: "Steely Dan made it big in the '70s with hits such as Do It Again and Jazzman."

I hope they do the Dodge Theater again. I'd much rather be there than Cricket Pavilion.

Date: Mon, July 21, 2008, 17:57:26 ET
Posted by: Another Major Dude, Norway

Does anyone know what kind of melodica Fagen is using? It's similar to a melodica called Mylodica, but doesn't seem quite like it...

Date: Mon, July 21, 2008, 16:47:44 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

Very funny review of the Eagles show, Daddy G.
Makes me want to rush right out and see them....NOT

Date: Mon, July 21, 2008, 16:36:00 ET
Posted by: DanFan55, Arizona

Hi, I'm a long time lurker/reader, first time poster. I wanted to post an opinion of the Phoenix, AZ SD show in the Dodge Theater. My seat was 15 rows from the stage in the center (great seat). Although I'm a lifelong fan of SD, this was my first SD concert. The Dodge Theater is a great intimate venue with good acoustics. From my seat I found the sound system's bottom end muddy. I had a hard time distinguishing the kick drum and Freddy Washington's bass in the mix. That being said, I got up and stood by the mixing position and the bottom end cleared up, so the problem was a matter of where you happened to be in the room. Keith Carlock is a monster, as is John Herrington. All in all a GREAT show. I'm 53 years old and feel extremely lucky to have witnessed a SD live show.

Date: Mon, July 21, 2008, 15:27:03 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Fortunately, Angel, they didn't play those songs on Saturday. They played all their hits, as far as I could tell. I recognized about 60% of the songs (I'm not really a fan) but it was definitely a great R&R show.

Date: Mon, July 21, 2008, 15:16:22 ET
Posted by: angel,

Speaking of Bon Jovi...

Watched their performance on Soundstage a week ago and it was all Country tunes. Checked out their new CD and I find out that it's a tribute to Nashville. Oh well...

Date: Mon, July 21, 2008, 15:05:39 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

And, while we're on the subject of confession, I DID go see Bon Jovi in Central Park last week but it WAS free...

Date: Mon, July 21, 2008, 14:56:14 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

I'm not a huge fan of The Eagles, so this isn't meant to be defensive of their concert...but:

If a band plays all of their older material, they are dismissed as being a nostalgia act and/or having created nothing of worth in X-many years, etc. If a band plays newer material, they are chastised for inflicting it on an audience who is there to hear the hits. It's a lose-lose situation. Seemingly the only bands that don't get caught in this are those who are so recent that all their material is new, or those that have only old hits, with no new material to worry about.

I think the bulk of this reviewer's complaint, though, is that the new material isn't up to par. I have yet to hear it, so I can't weigh-in on that. But, I have heard, from quite a few people, that the new stuff is pretty good.

BTW, I LOVED the Walmart cheap-shot.

Date: Mon, July 21, 2008, 14:36:36 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., Oh yeah...

Forgot to point out this bit as well re fan enthusiasm/participation. I guess it could also cover the issue of alcoholic beverage consumption and when to say "when"... :-)

On "Life's Been Good to Me So Far", Walsh donned his helmet-cam, projecting footage of the audience onto the screen. One brazen middle-aged woman in the front row, apparently convinced she was at a Motley Crue concert, flashed him.

Date: Mon, July 21, 2008, 14:27:35 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., #1 with a bullet

"œ" were supposed to be black-dot bullets. Oh well.

Date: Mon, July 21, 2008, 14:25:43 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., NJ

OK, since the Eagles were just brought up I went back and found this review of their show last week in Philly. (I did not attend.)

Review: The Eagles at Wachovia Center, By David Hiltbrand (Inquirer staff writer)
http://www.philly.com/philly/news/breaking/25459629.html

When I read it at the time it reminded me of a few different debates that occasionally flare up here re SD:

œ Classic stuff vs. new
œ One set vs. two
œ Note-for-note recording replication vs. new arrangements/jams
œ Group vs. solo stuff

If you're interested in reading the full review, though, you'd better hurry because it was published 7/15 and Inquirer stuff is generally available free online for only one week, so it will likely be inaccessible very soon.

Hiltbrand does mention "The real live wire, as usual, was Joe Walsh...." so maybe that officially qualifies it as Dangential? Or was he just stabbing the Eagles with his Steely knife? :-)
_________________________

EXCERPTS:

The Eagles brought their Long Road Out of Eden tour to the Wachovia Center Monday night.

The experience was like being invited over to a couple's house to enjoy a beloved old movie that you never get tired of watching. But first your hosts insist that you sit through home movies of their recent cruise ship vacation.

Before the venerable pop group got to its greatest hits - the expectation of which had packed the building to the rafters - the boys insisted on playing extended selections from their turgid 2007 double album, Long Road Out of Eden.

In fact, they inflicted this punishing strategy on the audience twice. The 3-hour show was broken into two halves and each portion began with numerous songs from their Walt-Mart special, the band's first collection of new material in 28 years.

At least Glenn Frey was polite enough to "beg (the crowd's) indulgence" as the band continued to wade through claptrap like "How Long" and "Busy Being Fabulous".

. . . .

In all fairness, the songs from Long Road Out of Eden sounded better live than they do on disc. But that's not a terribly high bar to vault. Even with the added verve and focus the Eagles brought to their newer tunes on stage, "Waiting in the Weeds" still seemed interminable. And the album's title track was interminable, an epic and tedious opportunity for Don Henley to exercise his social conscience.

The bulk of the show was given over to the group's imperishable favorites, beginning with "Hotel California" complete with the requisite call-and-response guitar duet between Joe Walsh and hired gun Steuart Smith.

The Eagles have long been a jukebox act. They're not interested in reinventing their recordings onstage. They replicate them.

Which was just dandy with the notably seasoned and ruly crowd at the Wachovia, many of whom seemed to be contemporaries of the 60ish singers on stage.

I saw my orthopedist going into the arena. He's an expert in joint replacement. I'm not sure if he was there for the show or if he was making a house call.

The Eagles' catalogue is uniquely suited to note-for-note recreations with its clean, romantic melodies, its tongue-in-groove harmonies and tasteful, restrained musicianship. As Frey sang on "Lyin' Eyes": "My oh my, you sure know how to arrange things." The band's philosophy seems to be: why try to improve on perfection?

. . . .

Curiously though, the liveliest parts of the night didn't involve Eagles' songs. They emerged from a couple of the band member's solo careers.

. . . .

It was a gratifying and generous show, even if it contained all the precision and spontaneity of a Swiss watch. But then, the Eagles are nonpareil at giving the people what they wanted.

Date: Mon, July 21, 2008, 14:20:56 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Turn up the Eagles the neighbors are listening...

Date: Mon, July 21, 2008, 13:35:05 ET
Posted by: bobbo, in the confessional

Well,

Walt's new one is finally setting in, and it's a dagger man! Some nice stuff going on in the subtext there, it's just occurred to me...And hey--Walt can sing, huh? Digging it very much in this third week or so...(secretly scheming on where to get this "Dark Horse Dub" track I've heard about from the I/V. Hmm...)

And, go ahead and blast me here and now, me lovelies, for I've just acquired tix for the Eagles on September 14 in Dallas. (Gasp!)

All's well otherwise here on the Edge of the Desert, for now. Really digging the setlists and subsequent GREAT words about and from the shows here, for sure...thanks for makin' it come alive again, right? And, whatevah...selah.

Okay,
Bobbo

Date: Mon, July 21, 2008, 12:18:36 ET
Posted by: Hey 36, ABQ

Thanks for your comments SteelyDana! :)

And Lonnie, you are so right on! The lucious Steey Dan women were fabulous!!! On Babylon Sisters they really did shake it and the crowd loved them for it! Oh, to be a backup singer with Steely Dan . . .

I forgot to mention that during Hey 19 Walter talked about Albuquerque being in the desert and finding an oasis and he asked the SD women what drink they would have at this oasis and they sang, "The Cuervo Gold."

GREAT SHOW! I can't wait to see them again! Sorry if I'm being redundant but I'm still drunk on Steely Dan!

Date: Mon, July 21, 2008, 11:20:28 ET
Posted by: Lonnie THE Kingpin, DODGE THEATRE PHX

Hello one and all ~

Well . . . the Dan def'nitly set Phoenix on fire on Sunday night and it ain't risin' from the ashes this time. The band was hot. And, as Gus pointed out before me here on the Blue, they were so hot that fire alarms started going off. Top that! In fact, DF noted during the show that "Joey's set was so hot he started a fire."

The acoustics in the state of the art Dodge Theatre are fantastic and the Dan loves playing the Dodge. This being my first show of 08, I was duly impressed with Everything You Did, New Frontier (nice changes on that from the DF Band version in 06) and WB on Gaucho is awesome. I loved how he delivers that song -- especially the "nasty schoolboy" part! Glamour Profession was tasty and the luscious Steely Dan women sounded fabulous all night long. Kick ass version of Love is Like An Itchin in My Heart and on Parker's Band. Mr. Herington as always was in fine form and Carlock is just a BEAST.

Cannot wait for Tucson on Tuesday and then seeing the Dan on the shores of Lake Tahoe!!! Stop in and say hi if you will be at one of those gigs with me.

I was able to enjoy the company of Mr. Pete Fogel and Shari before the show at a local bar and then we had more beverages together at the venue. Pete is a good man and it was a treat to see him.

Love the set list!!! Fantastic.

Lonnie THE Kingpin

Date: Mon, July 21, 2008, 11:15:12 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana, va

Hey 36, in Albuquerque:

Just wanted to thank you for putting into words my exact sentiments upon finally getting to see my first Steely Dan concert , after years of loving all their songs.....
I too would love to run off and join the Steely Dan groupie-circus, and my husband thinks I'm crazy too :-)

Date: Mon, July 21, 2008, 09:38:22 ET
Posted by: George, Paris

I can't remember who it was, but thanks to whoever posted the favorable comments about the Glengarry Glen Ross soundtrack a while back. I picked it up used this weekend and it is, indeed, delightful.

Date: Mon, July 21, 2008, 09:28:19 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Thanks for the update from Phoenix, Gus!

Date: Mon, July 21, 2008, 09:11:17 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

MikeA:

The NEW Danfest Mail lists for Seattle and all other upcoming Danfests are now working, along with the listings/registry/directory. If you do a reload on this page, you should see a slightly different Danfest graphic at the top. The link is simply http://dandom.com/danfests

A few still have the pages out.

I wasn't sure what SueDave and company wanted on the Seattle Danfest page so I just quoted SueDave's last email to the list.

Basically, Each Danfest's web page summarizes Danfest details (including suggested travel arrangements and hints) while the email list allows for discussion, last minute alerts ("it's raining so we moved the Danfest here") and post-show contact. Info for subscribing is on each Danfest's page.

A new feature is that mail list members can see an archive of all messages sent to the mail list.

For Seattle there are about 30 people signed up to attend the Danfest; for St Louis, there are maybe 15.

We'll see how this goes. I was thinking earlier this year that maybe this wasn't worthwhile any longer, but then I've heard from folks that they missed having a consistent way from show to show to find out what's happening at the Danfests.

On top of that, the whole system had to be rebuilt. We've had well over 50 (maybe 60 or more) Danfest lists since 2000; the problem was the old system was getting banged on with spam. Subscribers were protected from this and almost never saw that, but on the administrative end of things, hundreds of spam attacks were being blocked each day and that caused some major back end annoyances. The new list system solves that. The tedious part was recreating the dozens of lists that had been built upon over the past eight years. The thousands of Danfan addresses are all there but the lists had to be converted. That's done for maybe 50% of the lists including for all remaining shows on the tour.

So hopefully the lists will be useful and be used; we'll see how usage goes for the remaining shows.

Jim

Date: Mon, July 21, 2008, 01:07:29 ET
Posted by: suedave, sunny and warm

Yes there will be a little wingding inside the winery both nights so that the people with GA seats can setup - up to date info will be sent to the Seattle Danfest link or email me. Looking forward to meeting ya.

Date: Mon, July 21, 2008, 01:05:30 ET
Posted by: Gus Winterbottom, Phoeni x

Everyone's Gone to the Movies/The Fez/Kieth solo/Royal Scam Intro
Royal Scam when Walt and Don enter
I Got the News
Show Biz Kids
Everything You Did
Two Against Nature (ladies with lead vocals on last verse, as in 2007 shows I saw)
Hey 19
Godwhacker
Babylon Sisters
Glamour Profession
Gaucho, Walt vocals
Peg
New Frontier
Parker's Band (vocals by the ladies)
Aja
"Love is Like an Itchin' in My Heart", based on previous posts/Band Intros
Josie
Kid Charlemagne

Encores:
Don't Take Me Alive
FM
(no other outro tonight)

Some interesting events tonight: About 15 minutes into Joey Defrancesco's set the fire alarm went off. Some people started exiting, and one of the stagehands went up to Joey and stopped the show. There was about an 11 minute delay upon which it was announced that it was a false alarm. At that point Joey and band returned to complete their set, which ended at about 8:15, having started at about 7:25. When Steely Dan came back for their encore, Walt said, "What a great fucking crowd(or audience?)... except for the guy who set off the fire alarm- he can go fuck himself."

Very tight band tonight, IMHO; nice solo work by Walt on I Got the News, Two Against Nature, Godwhacker, and Josie.

Date: Mon, July 21, 2008, 00:53:30 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, @home

Best show? As has been mentioned, it's really pretty personal, involving all the factors before, during and after the show. Milwaukee 2000 was my favorite until Memphis 2003. In Milwaukee, before he went into Monkey, Walter asked "Is there anyone out there from the Trifecta?" which was what some of us rabid fans called the 3 day route from Milwaukee to Chicago to Detroit. After that show we spent 3 glorious hours on the riverfront at John Hawks Pub reliving the night with 60-70 fellow Dan fans. The second night, Chicago, leaving the Clark Street Ale house at 3 am, I almost bumped into (literally) Jimmy Page. In Detroit, we lost track of Matt "Darvocet" Sharp almost before the show and 'found' him afterwards when he stated he was damn near front row the whole show. That is one weekend that I'll not soon be forgetting. Memphis, however, was magic. General admission seating for $45. Got in line at 3pm and hung out with some very cool people, who I'm still in touch with, none of which were from Memphis, including someone else from Milwaukee. Raced to the front row, mere feet from the stage, dead center. Perfect weather, great show, got to hear Lunch With Gina, Walter wearing some funky eyewear during the intros and I made googly eyes at Cindy all night, and I swear she was giving me the eyes back. After the show back at the hotel, who do I bump into but Earthbound (or Krazy Keith as he has recently been called) staying at the same hotel. That's karma in action. With 18 shows under my belt now it's difficult to say which one was better than any other because they are all special for some little or big reasons.

KC

Date: Sun, July 20, 2008, 23:35:44 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Back at ya, JR.

Date: Sun, July 20, 2008, 23:23:34 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Dean, you may not be a legend but you certainly do your part to keep the Blue interesting...

Date: Sun, July 20, 2008, 22:57:25 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

I'm not sure you can judge the audience of a show by the few that post on The Blue. Assuming the audience at Soboba was from LA, because the few that posted here, are from there, is probably a mistake. I bet those few that posted have a good idea of the general makeup of the audience, though.

gentleman loser, it's great to hear your enthusiasm...but, me, a legend? Hoops is a legend, Pete Fogel is a legend. I'm just a guy who likes The Dan.

Date: Sun, July 20, 2008, 22:15:34 ET
Posted by: Hey 36, ABQ

Thanks for the welcome Dean and gentleman loser!!! It feels great to share my first Dan concert with fellow Dan fans. I've loved Steely Dan for years and I always had a crush on Donald Fagen as a teenager. Kids my age always thought I was weird for liking Don and Dan!

I told my husband that I wanted to follow the boys to Phoenix after seeing this show!!! He laughed. I was serious. I've been drunk on Steely Dan all day!!! What a show! They sounded great! To hear my albums come to life live was quite the experience. The lyrics, the music!!! The band is so talented and it was awesome hearing great musicians do their thing!

Date: Sun, July 20, 2008, 21:10:59 ET
Posted by: two sorts of Blue,

Lurker, for the record

The Soboba crowd were hardly working, Blue Collar types
The people who write about Soboba on this board are from LA, working hardly Blue Booker types

Date: Sun, July 20, 2008, 20:51:58 ET
Posted by: gentleman loser, NZ

Janie, Dean – thanks for not stomping on me first up. It’s not your fault that you’re all there – where SD live and happen to tour more than occasionally. And I’m here – where they don’t. If the positions were reversed I’m sure I’d be arguing the same points in the same vein because I’d be going to as many shows as time and resources would allow.

I don’t play the underling card to draw sympathy. My thinking is that as a new guy in the bluebook it would be both foolish and rude to sneer at the ying and yang of Soboba vs Roseland. To me those places can only be Google entries. So yes, coming across as a subordinate lepton because it fits with the general tone of the characters in the lyrics is intentional. The main rationale for my initial speel however, was to say as nicely as I could – I’m jealous. If I came straight out and said you guys should stop your whining and be happy with what you get, then by rights I’d deserve a good bitch slap for having such newbie gall.

Meanwhile, I’m still happy for those that get to the shows. Hey 36 and everyone else who has already, thanks for sharing the set lists and the good side effects that come from it. Thanks for the welcome Dean. You’re a legend.

Thought I’d share this. No one I know in my daily life would have a clue or give a flying eff of what I was on about.

Last night I dreamed that I was a guest on Letterman – for what, no idea… Anyway, the Paul Shaffer Orchestra (with Will Lee on bass) play the rumbling horns outro of Sign In Stranger for my entrance music. I woke up right as I was about to reply to him “Thanks for having me, great to be here...”

The gist of the whole thing, right down to the name of the song, finally led me down the grisly path from voyeur to participant in the book of blue.

Date: Sun, July 20, 2008, 19:52:57 ET
Posted by: Rare song, in NM

The New Mexico show in 2000 was the only time they performed Almost Gothic.

Date: Sun, July 20, 2008, 19:51:15 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Damn it! I also meant to congratulate Hey 36 on his/her first Dan concert experience. I remember how freakin thrilled I was after my first time.

Welcome to the club.

Date: Sun, July 20, 2008, 19:49:31 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

gentleman loser,

Welcome aboard. Glad to hear you got to see the boys at least once. For years, I thought I would never get to see them. Now I am lucky they seem to be touring every year, or two. With any luck, they will be around along enough to visit NZ again.

BTW, love the NZ Sauvignon Blanc!

Date: Sun, July 20, 2008, 19:12:34 ET
Posted by: Hey 36, ABQ

I FINALLY attended my first Steely Dan concert and it was EXCELLENT!!! Don sounded great and Walter did too. I was in the third row and loved every minute of the show! Hope to see them again!

Albuquerque, New Mexico - July 19th
Sandia Resort & Casino

No Opening Band. Started at 8:00 p.m.

1. Everyone's Gone To The Movies (Instrumental)
2. The Fez (Instrumental)
3. The Royal Scam (Walter Becker & Donald Fagen arrive on stage)
4. I Got The News
5. Show Biz Kids
6. Everything You Did
7. Two Against Nature
8. Hey 19
9. Godwhacker
10. Babylon Sisters
11. Glamour Profession
12. Gaucho (Walter Becker Vocals)
13. Home At Last
14. New Frontier
15. Parker's Band (Background Vocalists Only)
16. Aja
17. Love Is Like An Itching In My Heart
18. Peg
19. Don't Take Me Alive
20. Kid Charlemagne (Encore)
21. Jazz Outro

Date: Sun, July 20, 2008, 18:52:47 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Hmmmm, I guess we are, in a way, spoiled Americans. Thanks for putting it all in perspective...

Date: Sun, July 20, 2008, 18:28:32 ET
Posted by: gentleman loser, Porirua, NZ

Newbie here, but a reader all the same. Being a bluebook perv has its privileges. Eventually however, the faceless observer can't resist the urge to get involved, even if they live Down At The Bottom. By the way, C$ should do very well here – the loping reggae riddims lend well to the indigenous Maori and our Pacific Island cousins’ ways of moving/grooving. Stereotypes be damned.

I've only seen SD once. Auckland, NZ - their 2nd to last show of the Heavy Rollers tour. Probably never see them again, but going on recent history you never know.

So, subjectively of course - that concert was the greatest musical experience of my life. No one and nothing was going to stop me and those I went with from enjoying ourselves. Not the geniuses yelling Rikki and Reeling after every song. Not the loss of Ready Freddie in the mix in places. Not the ‘Aja plus safe predictables’ set list. Nothing was going to take the buzz away. Call it sycophantic, whatever.

Factors adding to the enjoyment: good company, good food, good timing. The whole day was set apart as more than just a group of musicians playing some songs. And the concert itself... words fail. I drove 8 hours straight home after the concert in a quiet, dumb-downed, happy daze.

While it is singular and may pale in comparison to the usual suspects in here, it (the instantly grin-inducing memory of seeing them live) is mine and no one can take it away from me. I will always be grateful to Steely Dan – in all its glorious forms and versions – for letting me in on the joke.

The miniscule scale of perspective I’m coming from might draw scorn from others in here. No worries. One request if about to let rip. Use tact, poise and reason. (Is that a single request - "to use", or three?)

Date: Sun, July 20, 2008, 18:06:34 ET
Posted by: HouDanFan, Houston

Made a last minute decision to go to the Albq show last night. I got excellent tickets on Tickemaster yesterday about 15 rows back center stage. The venue looked full except for the one area we were sitting so go figure. There was no opening act. They started right at 8. There was nothing new on the setlist. Encore was Kid C only. I didn't think I would like Walter doing Gaucho but he did great.

The sound was exceptional. Donald's voice was great. This is my 7th show and I would rank it #2. The crowd went nuts after Aja and aside from Donald, Keith got the loudest ovation during intros. Only two girls. Horns were great. Ironically, Herrington didn't do it for me on this night except for Dont Take Me Alive, which he nailed. Found it ironic that Don didn't introduce Walt. Looking forward to Houston.

Date: Sun, July 20, 2008, 16:35:54 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Any news from New Mexico?
Didn't New Mexico get a
tune only played once in 2003?
What was it? I'm having a
brain fart. Thanks for the help.
I've had the privilege of
listening to TWO different
boots of the Red Rocks show
last night and this afternoon.
Both recorded at totally different
places in the venue. Donald
fears for his life and wants to
stop the show and people boo?
What is with that?! I enjoyed
the show, but what is lacking is
the level of "fire" and "looseness"
in the performances displayed at
Roseland and Soboba. It is tough
to get the train rolling again
with an abrupt halt like that.
Not to mention I'm sure it is
very hard to get loose and free
when you got guys hovering over
you with an umbrella. Great crowd,
nearly 10,000 and a spectacular venue,
but I think this reviewer really got
it right when he posted -

"Overall I’d give the show an 8 out of 10. The sound was great but several of the performances were just okay"

Personally,
from what I have heard from two
sources now, not counting the visuals
on YouTube, I think the performances
at Bethel were more inspired.
Also for the record, the majority of
the people at Soboba were not from LA.
They were mostly hard working blue-collar
folks. Finally able to afford and see
Steely Dan at a moderate price closer
to home and away from LA.

Date: Sun, July 20, 2008, 13:33:34 ET
Posted by: Connie, In the vineyard

NorCal vs SoCal

Being a transplant from Boston to NorCal for over 40 years, I think it stems from the California Water Wars. Watch the movie Chinatown for some history. It especially 'heats' up during drought years (like we're in now).

August 26th DanFest before the Greek - 5:00PM at Beckett's Irish Pub. More details coming through Bay Area Danfest mail.

Date: Sun, July 20, 2008, 12:19:18 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

WHOOPS!! Sorry guys, don't know why that posted THREE times!

Date: Sun, July 20, 2008, 12:18:26 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

And, not to beat a dead horse, but what made Roseland great, in my opinion, is that, in a venue like that, you get to STAND the entire time and no assigned seating means you can often get must closer to the stage than at other venues, which is invaluable. But, remember, Michael & Carolyn were not there because Michael was off getting married.

Date: Sun, July 20, 2008, 12:18:23 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

And, not to beat a dead horse, but what made Roseland great, in my opinion, is that, in a venue like that, you get to STAND the entire time and no assigned seating means you can often get must closer to the stage than at other venues, which is invaluable. But, remember, Michael & Carolyn were not there because Michael was off getting married.

Date: Sun, July 20, 2008, 12:18:17 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

And, not to beat a dead horse, but what made Roseland great, in my opinion, is that, in a venue like that, you get to STAND the entire time and no assigned seating means you can often get must closer to the stage than at other venues, which is invaluable. But, remember, Michael & Carolyn were not there because Michael was off getting married.

Date: Sun, July 20, 2008, 12:15:41 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Sometimes your "neighbors" (the people sitting next to you) can add or detract from the experience as well. Seems like I'm always stuck next to the folks who want to hear Rikki and walk away diappointed. However, one of my recent shows was greatly enhanced by the guy sitting next to me who proclaimed Fagen to be the coolest guy on earth!

On another note, just got my copy of the Sonic 360 Circus Money CD yesterday -- whoo hoo!!

Date: Sun, July 20, 2008, 11:44:00 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

slowtrain,

Most vids audio sync work fine, on my computer (while using piclens). Sometimes an individual video is off, but I find that it is also off if I watch it on it's home site.

Post a link to a vid you are having trouble with (Dan-related or tangential, of course!) and I will check it out on my end.

Regarding this "Best concert" discussion, I tend to agree with slowtrain, The Commish and Royal Fan, etc. I hesitate to post much about it, as the last time I tried to "discuss" it, I was labeled many nasty things for simply not understanding that "concert A" or "B" was obviously their best, ever.

A concert experience is subjective. As slowtrain said, "It's the ride to the venue, the company you keep, the sites and sounds of the people, the air, the rain(!), the memories you bring of Steely dan songs from your past (all absolutely personal)." I would add, the venue (comfort, sightlines, sound), performance of the band (tightness/looseness sweat spot!), set list, total time played, etc.

I have (due to the factors above) had better times at some lesser (by my objective measures) concerts . I try like hell to separate my experience from my evaluation of the concert, itself. Of course, that is impossible, so I attempt to report as many different elements of the experience, as possible.

With all that said, I am willing to accept, given all of the various reports, that Roseland and Soboba were something special. But, I'd also suspect that, depending on your criteria, other lesser discussed shows at venues in the sticks, were also "special".

But, it's a no-win situation, as far as the discussion goes, as far as I can tell.

Date: Sun, July 20, 2008, 09:03:40 ET
Posted by: Web Search, surfin'

Jeff Porcaro instructional video. At around the 2:45 mark, he explains how he came up with the patterns for FM.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=WfG8Ibih7kw

Date: Sun, July 20, 2008, 06:33:14 ET
Posted by: See you, jimmy, the highlands

Slowtrain - my old Scottish mother was fond of saying : " Everyone's queer save thee and me - and even thee's a little queer . . ."

People who 'get' the Dan may huddle to form a clique, but sadly that don't make the individual members less likely to be card-carrying unrelatable OCD weirdos.
Goddam, it might just increase the likelihood . . . .

Date: Sun, July 20, 2008, 03:49:26 ET
Posted by: slowtrain, nebraska

To "the dean":
Thanks for your tip about piclens. I downloaded it but the audio does not match up with the video. Does it for you?

Date: Sun, July 20, 2008, 03:18:42 ET
Posted by: slowtrain, nebraska

Thank you commish. You have gotten to the heart of what I've been thinking and feeling as I read (as a newbie!) the comments on this site. I guess I have been confused by the re-occuring theme of "what is/was the best show". I just don't understand the type of thinking. It seems to be the type of consciousness that goes into making lists and pitting this against that and stuff that borders on dogma. Rock vs. Mod. Heavy metal vs. punk. LA vs. NY. Classical vs. rock. Big budget movies vs. indie. It's all so bloody old. The duality of thinking. I like both/and, NOT either/or. The third way. My experience at Red Rocks was my experience. It has little to do with the set list, or Donald's voice, or any scientific way of objectifying the event. It's the ride to the venue, the company you keep, the sites and sounds of the people, the air, the rain(!), the memories you bring of Steely dan songs from your past (all absolutely personal). Really, who cares whether Walter thinks this or that show was the best. These are just generous souls to be up there on the stage doing what 99% of us will ever have the courage to do. Putting themselves on the line. That,in itself, is nothing short of a miracle.

"I want the principles of a timeless muse
I want to eradicate my negative views
And get rid of those people who are always on a down.

It's easy enough to tell what is wrong
but that's not what I want to hear all night long
Some people are like human tuinals." - Lou Reed

Thanks for the show Donald and Walter! Red Rocks was where I was.

Date: Sun, July 20, 2008, 01:56:55 ET
Posted by: MikeA, Seattle

OK-I am coming from Seattle to Saratoga. My Bay area buddy and I will attend the Dan show on August 24. Any Danfest happening then? Danfest link does not work. So....
Thanks,
MikeA

ps. I will also be at the July 31 Seattle area show and the August 18th St. Louis shows. Anything happening then????

Date: Sun, July 20, 2008, 01:31:55 ET
Posted by: nf11215, brooklyn

Thanks Denise, those are great! Thanks for the kind words and help. all the best to you

Nelson

Date: Sun, July 20, 2008, 00:26:21 ET
Posted by: Kirk, NorCal

Dear All: Please don't take my NorCal/SoCal comments too seriously. The north/south "rivalry" is sort of in the same league as Big Foot and UFOs--we pretend it's real, but deep down we know it's not. It's like a family joke that just keeps getting retold, generation after generation. I also think it has something to do with Hetch Hetchy . . . but that's another story.

I've spent many pleasant days south of Santa Barbara, and think San Diego is one of the best places in the world. True, I'm not a Dodgers fan, but that's to be expected from a Giants fan. And to be honest, I'd have been happy if the Raiders had stayed in LA--who needs Al Davis?

As far opening my mind: what's left of my mind is pretty open. I've got Donald and Walter to help with that project.

Date: Sat, July 19, 2008, 23:51:26 ET
Posted by: Royal Fan ,

Commish....exactly. Thank you.

Date: Sat, July 19, 2008, 23:11:12 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

jamminjoe,

As I tried to explain to Ray (not sure I succeeded), if you live in LA, you probably don't encounter the SoCal/NorCal thing much. The "tension" seems to exist mostly in the mind of those in the Bay Area, as far as I can tell.

But, as for NorCal being more laid back than SoCal, I'd say it's just the opposite. (It might depend on how you define "laid back", though.)

Date: Sat, July 19, 2008, 22:57:06 ET
Posted by: The Commish,

Royal Fan, hilarious post. It speaks volumes.

A reasonable, educated person can debate both sides of an issue. Most of the ills that the world has suffered and will continue to suffer until Armageddon is the result of virtually no one being capable of or at least making the effort to do so. If you are not with us, you are against us, if you are not for something, jeez, you must be against it!

In the grand scheme, it doesn't matter if you have been to 2 shows or 200 shows, you can't go to 'em all, although some might die or go to the poor house trying. Two or 3 shows per tour is enough for me. Some, who are rich, are unemployed, have lots of time on their hands or are totally obsessed with Steely Dan go to dozens and dozens. I don't agree with it, but everybody is into something and there are far more unhealthy, dangerous or costly things to be obsessed with than globetrotting to Steely Dan concerts, to see what is essentially the same thing with little or no variation during any given tour. I can see this other side, and I won't condemn it, it is just not for me. But I could debate both sides, the other side could be rationalised such as meeting people, maybe old friends in other cities, in which case the show is what brings you together, and you can't put a price on that!

But it would be interesting to hear how and why fans of a musical group might spend most if not all, or more than their disposable income, miss days of work, jeopardize their jobs, if they have one to attend dozens of shows on the same tour?

What we do know, and since none of us has, or could have been to every Steely Dan show are the accounts of and the presumably truthful, corroborated details of happenings at the many shows. Roseland and Soboba are clearly the most talked about and legendary shows by accounts of the writers on this site. A major reason for this could be that NY and LA are the #1 and #2 metro areas in the US and a correspondingly large sample of writers on this site come from these areas. But there are a fair number that go to shows on either coast that are in the best position to compare and contrast.

There are now a lot of strong accounts coming out of the Red Rocks show, a city with one tenth of the population of NY or LA, and probably one tenth of the writers on this site. Whether or not you are a Soboba fan or a Roseland fan, a reasonable educated person will keep an open mind that someday some show is going to come along that, by all accounts is going to exceed either of those shows. Babe Ruth was for a long time the all time HR leader, then came Aaron, Bonds and probably the next will be A-Rod.

So, it is not that far out or impossible for Red Rocks to surpass both Soboba and Roseland in terms of the Greatest Steely Dan Show Ever, whatever that means BTW. Is it the best audience? Venue? Weather? Concessions? Setlist? Permissive security? Chicks storming and dancing on the stage? A mosh pit? Band performance? Improvisation?

If we could upload an Excel Spreadsheet to this space, I mean we could do like a Consumer Reports comparison matrix by categories and determine which was the Greatest Steely Dan Show of all. Or could we?

Date: Sat, July 19, 2008, 22:45:37 ET
Posted by: jamminjoe, Hollywood,CA

I am a "transplant" to Southern CA from the New jersey area ( just like Fagen). I never understood the whole No Cal/So Cal thing myself. I have heard that the people from No Cal don't have the great weather we do here. I have also heard that the pace is a little more laid back up there. 4 days to go till the LA Nokia live show- Can't wait!

Date: Sat, July 19, 2008, 21:02:22 ET
Posted by: Royal Fan,

The best Steely Dan show EVER was at Memphis in May 2007. I know, because I was there!

Date: Sat, July 19, 2008, 20:21:12 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

I live in Mailbu but I work
in LA Dean. Yeah, I've
heard it all. But I love
to spend time in San Fran.
Great city. I always have
a blast. But I also have
a blast in San Diego.

Date: Sat, July 19, 2008, 20:18:03 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Date: Sat, July 19, 2008, 20:11:58 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

I think I can help here, Ray. Like you, I was transplanted to CA, and didn't understand the NorCal/SoCal "rivalry" (that's not really the word for it, but it'll do, for now). Unlike you, though, I lived in both NorCal (SF) and SoCal (the LA area). I've also had many discussions with natives from both regions. Here's what I have concluded:

People in the Bay Area (in general, of course, not everyone) look down on the SoCal culture (or lack thereof), hate the Dodgers, were pissed when the Raiders moved to LA, etc. They are mostly responsible for this NorCal/SoCal divide.

I also found that people in LA didn't think much about SF, at all. When they did, it was mostly positive.

So, if you live in Malibu, you probably won't experience this rivalry, as it is really mostly a NorCal thing.

Date: Sat, July 19, 2008, 19:41:27 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu - Listening To An Incredible Billy Paul Show From Detroit This Past July 5th -WOW!

Kirk,
Please allow me to tell you
a little story. When I was
19 I moved from Michigan to
Chicago. I met all of these
Cubs fans & Sox fans who hated
each other. They would never
step in the other's ball park.
I never got it. I loved both
teams, I could see a ballgame
any day of the week in the
summer in Chicago. If the
Cubbys were out of town, I
could hop on the L and see
a Sox game. In 1998 I moved
out here. And I just don't
get the the similar rivalry
between SoCal & NorCal?! I
live in this great state and
though I live where I do, I
LOVE our entire state. I
spend time in NorCal whenever
I get the chance. But I also
find great places in SoCal.
Have you ever spent the evening
on the beach in Malibu? Or
spent a weekend in San Diego?
My point is, there is a "ballgame"
somewhere every night in our
great state. I envite you
to open your mind. Excuse me
now, Billy Paul is about to do
"Mrs. Jones" out here on the
veranda.

Date: Sat, July 19, 2008, 19:04:54 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Loyal Fan.

Not sure what it is I posted that makes you think I am either mean, or dissing Roseland. I don't think I have been/done either.

Date: Sat, July 19, 2008, 18:39:51 ET
Posted by: Jive Miguel, Bogata (Bethesda, MD)

Just posted on You Tube 3 hours ago, FM Red Rocks:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rebb7yIZijI

Donald's voice (ever so slightly hoarse?) is sure-footed, assertive and powerful.

Corny Bumpus was beautiful, soulful and irreplaceable, yet major props to Roger Rosenberg, who stakes out his place as a perfect fit for the Think Fast Orchestra.

Walter continues to hone his growing, considerable skills, and his riff on FM evokes David Gilmour's solo on "Brick in the Wall", with his very own signature sound.

I love the fact that Tom Petty and Winwood and Clapton are back on the road performing brilliantly. SD continues to distinguish themselves with their freshness and 2008 relevance.

Date: Sat, July 19, 2008, 18:12:16 ET
Posted by: Loyal Fan,

Mean Dean - You can talk all the crap you want (as usual). But you weren't at the Roseland show on that Saturday. It was the very best! Sorry to disappoint you.

Date: Sat, July 19, 2008, 18:11:18 ET
Posted by: Reminder, in case you see this...

July 9, 2008

The Albuquerque Danfest is set!!!

Saturday July 19,2008..Sandia Resort and Casino!!!

Please join us at the POOLSIDE BAR..at 4pm as we begin what will be an incredible evening in the Land Of Enchantment with the Dan!!!

If the the weather is bad at 4..then we will meet in the casino bar..BA-SHIE..across from the indoor stage...come 5pm-7:30pm..we move the party UPSTAIRS to the awesome BIEN SHUR outdoor bar with a view of the Sandias the city..and the Steely amphitheater!!!

Afer party immediately following back in BA-SHIE...many of entertainers who play Sandia have been spotted in here after their shows..you never know who will show up..!!!

We will see you there.!!!

Mr.Sticks
Formally of Steely Fan Band!!

Date: Sat, July 19, 2008, 18:03:49 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Thanks, Kirk. I just wanted to know about the smaller towns, fairs, etc.

Already a done deal with Bay Area, L.A., San Diego, the Gold Rush; Sacramento also has a list of a couple of dozen but will remain dormant for now until some event requires its reactivation. Based on the past eight years, especially 2000 and 2003, this is what works. North and south California is too big. Remember that there are established lists with dozens already on them--the Bay Area is list is about 12 years old. It's about a little more than shows on a given tour -- it's about maintaing the relationships that are already established and but not covering so much that people drop because of noise of other shows out of the area. I can tell from the signups that there is a group of fans who hop all over the state attending the bumblefuck shows and they are not specific to north or south.

Thanks again. The topic is pretty much closed now and the lists are done for this tour.

Jim

Date: Sat, July 19, 2008, 17:44:38 ET
Posted by: Kirk , NorCal

Hoops, I'd suggest you consider the following California breakdown: NorCal, SoCal (skip CenCal). I think NorCal folks like me will attend concerts/Danfests just about anywhere from Paso Robles north. I live in the Sacramento area and plan to attend the Berkeley, Saratoga, Tahoe and Murphy's concerts. Kind of thinking of the Santa Rosa concerts, too. And if time and $$ weren't an issue, I'd even consider the Paso Robles concerts.

My point is, DanFans are willing to drive several hours to attend a Steely Dan concert that takes place in the upper (and better) half of the state. Due to a genetic aversion to SoCal (common to folks who grew up in the Bay Area), I'm prevented from attending any function that takes place south of Santa Barbara. Sorry.

Date: Sat, July 19, 2008, 17:22:29 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

As implied before, none will be wine country, too tedious.

Thanks for those offering assistance.

Jim

Date: Sat, July 19, 2008, 17:16:47 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

I get what you are after here, I think. But, Wine Country doesn't work as a designator, IMO, as there are various wine countries throughout CA that are very far from each other. The best known "Wine County" is north of the Bay Area. Santa Rosa is smack dab in the middle of Wine Country.

I think your solution works fine. Just know that Santa Rosa is about 100 miles from Saratoga, and they will probably draw the bulk of their audience from different parts of the greater Bay Area. But, Bay Area should suffice as a designator for the Danfests, I think.

Date: Sat, July 19, 2008, 17:13:42 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

hoops -
Pala is for sure wine country.
It's near Temecula wich is wine
country. That is were I booked
my room. LA or San D? I don't
know. It's kinda like Soboba,
I've only heard people refer to
the area as "Pala". Stateline
is not wine country. Consider
that Danfest "Lake Tahoe". Think
of picturesque beauty and Michael
having Fredo whacked while fishing.
Deano - Of course Walter would
never shill for ANYBODY. That
Barry D comment made me laugh.
Thanks. All I'm saying is, we
all have said things in the
"interest" of our friends and
business associates.

Date: Sat, July 19, 2008, 17:04:21 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Thanks for the responses.

I'm trying to determine which shows Danfans will associate most with which cities, keeping the number of lists to a minimum. Example: Saratoga seems to be close enough to the Bay Area that it doesn't need its own independent list; Paso Robles is too far from both the Bay Area and L.A. to be associated with either really, yet it is too small to sustain a long-term list. Past history (2003 for example) shows it gains traction when lumped with other "Gold Rush" towns that have Danfests like State Line...so that's what it will be under.

Clearly, I'm looking for Danfans in the wine country region in California, not people who go to vineyards across the USA (WA, NY State, etc.) Pala seems equidistant from San Diego and L.A. but I'll put it in SanDiego@dandom so that activity can be started on the San Diego list. I hope that's a good move.

Thanks to those offering assistance.

Jim

Date: Sat, July 19, 2008, 17:01:19 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Heading Toward the Manatee Bar

For those who use Firefox, you should try the Piclens plug in, if you haven't already:

http://www.piclens.com/

It makes looking at pictures on Flicker, Google Image (and many other sites) and watching youtube videos so much better, IMO. It's a really sweet (and free) little tool.

Date: Sat, July 19, 2008, 16:54:53 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Oh, one more thing, Hoops:

I think most attendees from most concerts are local...so the answer to your Bay Area question is, "Yes". I'm thinking you mean "more local than many other concerts". I have no idea, really. But the Santa Rosa affair sounds like a serious "Event" and one that some might combine with a trip to Wine Country, if there are seats to be had.

The Saratoga gig probably will attract most of the audience from the San Jose area, the Peninsula and, perhaps the Montery/Carmel area. Mountain Winery is a really nice venue. Anyone who has a chance, should check it out.

Date: Sat, July 19, 2008, 16:52:45 ET
Posted by: Mad Dog 20-20,

I say that the Finger Lakes, Bethel, et. al. should also be counted as Wine Country.

Date: Sat, July 19, 2008, 16:51:44 ET
Posted by: Denise, Hinktown

Nelson,

Did you see these on Flikr?

http://www.flickr.com/photos/23395176@N04/2657947502/

and

http://www.flickr.com/photos/23395176@N04/2657949428/in/set-72157606101109421/

Enjoyed your performance in NY.

Date: Sat, July 19, 2008, 16:47:21 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Ray,

Walter's comment may well have been "political, but the one I'm referring to was made long before that deal was announced (or probably even contemplated, I'm guessing). And, while I agree it may have been political, I seriously doubt that Walter shills for Irving...I don't see that as his style, at all. (And I can't see Walter tolerating Barry Diller for even 5 minutes.) In a way, I take all these kinds of comments as "political".

Hoops, this is my bias showing for sure, but Wine Country (capital W and C) consists of Sonoma and Napa (throw in Mendicino, if you wish). Certainly Pasa Robles is a wine-making region, and I would go as far as calling Pasa Robles, Santa Barbara, Lodi and the like, "wine country". How's that for a snotty answer?

Date: Sat, July 19, 2008, 16:04:07 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Here's a test of your knowledge of California and Nevada Culture and Geography...something I sorely lack.

* Would a show in Pala be more identified by Danfans as being associated with LA or San Diego? Is it considered Wine Country?

* Is Paso Robles considered Wine Country?

* State Line, Nevada is near Lake Tahoe and a little farther from Reno. Could it be lumped in with Wine Country for Danfest purposes?

* Agree or Disagree: Attendees of Santa Rosa and Saratoga will mainly come from the Bay Area.

I'm thinking of just lumping Pala, Paso Robles, and State Line in for a Danfest list simply called, "The Bumblefuck Danfest". Of course, I'll have to use the email address BumbleF@dandom... because people's spam filters will trap "bumblefuck@..."

Thoughts? Comments? Jokes?

Jim

Date: Sat, July 19, 2008, 15:39:16 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Also,
Deano -

"I believe Walter is on the record as saying he'd like to play every show at the Beacon...so what does that tell you?"

I'm pretty sure that statement
is strictly "political" -

http://www.variety.com/article/VR1117987328.html?categoryId=16&cs=1

Date: Sat, July 19, 2008, 15:19:31 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Nice to see someone from the road
crew checking in! Yes the back
drop is a work of art. I've been
calling it the "44". Because
from a distance to me it looks
like the number "44" displayed
on an old PONG or Mattel Intellivision
game! ;O)
Have a great show in New Mexico
tonight!
Lonnie -
I also loved that 2003 band & CB.
I'll never forget those two back
to back nights at Universal.
Two completely different shows-
Lunch With Gina, Everything Must Go,
West of Hollywood and Dean Parks.
Smokin.
Dave,
That's weird. I was given a
boot of the Bethel show and
the sound is so amazing in the
venue it could almost pass as
a soundboard recording. And
all of the performances are
killer. There wasn't a clunker
in the bunch.
Here is a link with some great
shots of the "Umbrella robots".
Is that Walter's chubby cousin? -

http://www.flickr.com/photos/wackomaco/sets/72157606238144891/detail/

Date: Sat, July 19, 2008, 14:40:46 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

China,

Are you suggesting you (or Maclaren) designed the background? If so, Bravo!

I have to say, based on still shots, and poor quality Youtube vids, I was confused. It isn't very impressive until you see it LIVE. It really did a fantastic job of adapting to all of the different designs for the various tunes.

The only misstep, IMO was the New Frontier graphic. I found it distracting and monotonous (sorry). Other than that, though, I was extremely impressed.

Date: Sat, July 19, 2008, 14:34:19 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

I believe Walter is on the record as saying he'd like to play every show at the Beacon...so what does that tell you?

I'll try to dig up the quote later tonight.

Date: Sat, July 19, 2008, 14:25:03 ET
Posted by: reprobate , Why

Why
Must every time I turn my ship around
Some bastard come and knock my skyline down

http://search.barnesandnoble.com/Selfish-Gene/Richard-Dawkins/e/9780199291151/?itm=1

Date: Sat, July 19, 2008, 14:19:08 ET
Posted by: .Grand Daddy, Purple x Hindu Kush

The Saturday night (best SD concert ever) 2003 show at Roseland is to be known from now on as the "Hindu Kush show".

Date: Sat, July 19, 2008, 14:11:24 ET
Posted by: near random univeree, roseland front stage

WB QUOTE of roseland 2003 show
Never uttered anywhere else to my impeccable knowledge
' You know I've been to lots of steely dan shows and this has to be the best"

say good night now

Date: Sat, July 19, 2008, 13:53:13 ET
Posted by: Sparkle of your China, New Mexico

<<Also, kudos to whoever designed the backdrop and the projection on the same. Inspired and wonderous.>>

Well thank you for noticing slowtrain...

Date: Sat, July 19, 2008, 10:40:33 ET
Posted by: nf11215, brooklyn

Hi all, just wanted to reach out and ask for some help with something. Anyone aware of official pics published to the web from the Bethel, Canandaigua or Cincinnati shows last week that include the horn section? Would love to see them if it's possible. all the best to everyone

Nelson

Date: Sat, July 19, 2008, 03:11:24 ET
Posted by: Lonnie THE Kingpin, Lexington Ave.

Hello one and all:

I was at Roseland 2003 (both nights) and was at the hotbox called Soboba. Great shows all -- now doubt! But, there is not substitute for the vibe in NYC and the incredible energy that existed at Roseland in September 2003. Two nights and no seats -- everyone on their feet the entire time. The ghost of Ellington hanging in the room as DF noted at the Friday night show. He pointed to another stage area where he said Ellington used to play. Nothing even close to the atmosphere and history at Soboba. The only cover recorded by the Dan was Ellington's "East St. Louis Toodle-oo" -- that should seal my point. In addition, for my money, the 2003 band was the best EVER. I love this current line-up but having Carlock in there with THREE lovely members of the ladies' choir, Tom Barney and with Ted Baker on piano and keyboards was pretty awesome. Of course, Cornelius Bumpus cannot be replaced and he is and always will be the most soulful sax player the Dan has ever and will ever have. By the way, I was at the final SD show of 2003 (on the mainland) and DF called it the "Royal Hawaiian Steely Dan Orchestra" as they were then headed off to Hawaii for the final two (but non-full production) shows of the 2003 tour. That show at Concord was effectively the final show of that tour and it was SMOKIN HOT. They honored Cornelius Bumpus that night with the Bunsen Prize and the band all wore Cornelius Bumpus t-shirts for the rest of the first set. DF looked great in the CB tee-shirt. THAT show was incredible. The Concord Pavilion is a great outdoor venue. The band laid it all on the line that night. The set list was expanded by one tune and they played their asses off. For those who missed it -- y'all missed an ass-kicking show. But for the environment of the Roseland Ballroom, this show was every bit as good or better than Roseland. It was better than Soboba for many reasons. I feel blessed I was at all of those shows. Any SD show is to be treasured as there is no band out there like the Steely Dan Orchestra. Enjoy them while they are out there - because when they are done performing live there will be a huge void in the musical world.

Lonnie (of '65)

Date: Sat, July 19, 2008, 03:11:15 ET
Posted by: slowtrain, Nebraska

Oh . .. . yeah. forgot about Showbiz Kids before the rain hit.

Date: Sat, July 19, 2008, 03:08:49 ET
Posted by: slowtrain, Nebraska

Oh, yeah, also. If you've never been to Red Rocks Colorado...please...get thee up the canyon before ye die. Truly a wonder on this silly plant. The sounds not too shabby either. Also, kudos to whoever designed the backdrop and the projection on the same. Inspired and wonderous.

Date: Sat, July 19, 2008, 03:02:40 ET
Posted by: slowtrain, Nebraska

Well . . . I don't know about soboba or soboda or whatever. Sounds like a stupid made-up George Lucas name for a planet . . . but I was at the Red Rocks show last night. I'm probably way out of my league, a mere neophyte on these boards, but Donald/Walter, et al. kicked some fine booty last night. The rain . . . whatever . . . temporary. I did feel real sorry for the older gent trying to keep Walter and that other dude guitar-stylist dry. I was impressed by their professionalism at keeping the show going. I wish I could give an accurate set list. From what I remember: in no particular order . . .

Royal Scam
Hey 19
Babylon Sisters
Gaucho
Everything you did
Charlie's band
New Frontier
God Whacker
Two V. Nature
Aja
Home at last
Peg
Josie
Kid Charlemagne
Pretzel Logic
FM

Donald seemed to be channeling Ray Charles. The band was sweet and tight. Would have liked to heared more from "Katy Lied", but there you go.

Date: Sat, July 19, 2008, 01:10:00 ET
Posted by: Dave,

Lurker Ray -The Woodstock show was good. Nothing special and the sound was pretty lousy from where I was sitting. And I had good seats.

Date: Fri, July 18, 2008, 23:26:46 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu - Friday, Finally!

super -
I couldn't agree more. I would
much rather read a review from
a "True" fan rather than the often
newspaper hack who still wonders
why they didn't play "Rikki"!
Casual Fan -
Thank you for the links. I was
able to watch just about the
entire Red Rock show this evening.
Those umbrellas were a hoot. It
looked like the robots from "WALL-E"
were hovering over Donald. I thought
there was a roof over that stage? Is
that the first time there has been
a "rain delay" at a Steely Dan
show? What a wild way to get
an intermission!
Of course Red Rocks is a beautiful
place. But venues like that can
never achieve the main thing that
sets Roseland and Soboba apart.
And that is "intimacy". Red Rocks
is HUGE. How many people can
they cram into that place? Almost
10,000? Of course Soboba is "ugly"
and Roseland smells like stale beer.
But we didn't go to those shows
for nature's beauty. We went there
for the music. At Roseland we could
rest our elbows on the stage inches
away from the players. At Sobaba we
could dance upfront the entire show.
At Red Rocks even the front row is far
removed from stage. Just look at the
YouTube clips. The poor guy is so
far away, the stage looks likes a postage
stamp and he has to rely on the huge
screens to zoom in on to get close ups.
No one had to "zoom" in anything at Soboba
or Roseland. Not to mention they played
two and a half hours in these "intimate"
venues. We also got to hear and watch
"Dr. Wu" at Soboba.
Last night at Red Rocks sounds like it
was another great show in a line of
great shows with this years great eclectic
set list. Reminds me of what happened
in Toronto in 2003. Only those folks
never got the band returning to stage.
They had to go home.
With honest comments from "True Fans" like,

"The first few songs after the rain delay seemed a bit uncomfortable, if not phoned in" &

"Overall I’d give the show an 8 out of 10. The sound was great but several of the performances were just okay"

I would hardly put it in the in the
league of Soboba and Roseland. From the
reports, many have said that the Bethel show
in that great new smaller theater with the
great sound and the three gals is the current
"high water" mark so far for this years tour
followed by the two nights in Montreal.

Date: Fri, July 18, 2008, 23:24:30 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

RIP, Jo:

http://youtube.com/watch?v=QvYIiFcPfv4

Date: Fri, July 18, 2008, 23:13:25 ET
Posted by: tangential , near random universe

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jo_Stafford

Date: Fri, July 18, 2008, 23:12:49 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Also, Hoops, every time I have seen him live, Larry has played a medley of his most famous Steely Dan solos. It always gets the biggest reaction from the crowd.

Date: Fri, July 18, 2008, 23:11:50 ET
Posted by: Kahuna, here

Looks like the green room has had a makeover...

Date: Fri, July 18, 2008, 23:07:07 ET
Posted by: hoops,

Thanks for the nice mini synopsis on Larry Carlton.

In addition to his cover of "Josie", remember as part of Fourplay he has covered "Snowbound".

Date: Fri, July 18, 2008, 23:00:31 ET
Posted by: hoops,

Errrr....

You sound an awful lot like the guy who was arguing about Soboba and then it turns out you weren't even at the Roseland.

Those who were at both and more (like dozens of other shows) definitely kick Soboba up there but not tied for two or close.

Walter said at some east coast shows that they were the best fucking audience, etc. etc.

Put a real name and email if you are going to start debate like that. I could be wrong but I think my hunch is right.

Jim

Date: Fri, July 18, 2008, 22:52:13 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

dan,

Larry Carlton was, and still is, one of the finest guitarists alive. I've had the pleasure of seeing Larry play live on many occasions. He has never failed to astound me with his dexterity and musicality. He can play fast AND melodic at the same time and is adept at wild electric solos as well as soft acoustic ballads.

Larry was (maybe still is) making a lot of money from his acoustic "soft jazz" albums...some more interesting than others, IMO. But, I will always prefer his electric side. The self-titled Larry Carlton is just a great album, IMO.

As you may, or may not, know, Larry has had a couple of major changes in his life over the years. He became a "born again" Christian, I think. Maybe not officially...but at one or two of his concerts, he spoke about God (without being too terribly preachy), and some of his songs reflected a more spiritual attitude. He was also a victim of a gunshot, that left his vocal chords shattered. He has since, recovered.

Anyway, Larry has a very successful solo career, is an in-demand studio player and I doubt he would have any interest in being one of The Dan's "supporting players". I also doubt the band could afford his services over the course of a tour. I'm also not entirely sure how well he would blend (as a personality) with the band on a daily basis....but, I am simply speculating here.

Still, I would love to see LC get the chance to sit in, on a stop or two, of a tour, should he be available.

Date: Fri, July 18, 2008, 22:33:57 ET
Posted by: errr, no,

Soboba CANNOT drop any lower than #2.
This is because it has been established that Soboba and Roseland were tied, the former being the best "road" show, and the latter being the best "home" (NY) show for Steely Dan.

With that Pretzel encore and some of the other factors considered, particularly Walter acknowledging the audience, coming out and actually DECLARING Denver to be the best fucking audience, which is undoubtedly a much stronger declaration than Donald's Soboba! Soboba! Soboba!, Denver certainly could have moved into sole possession of first place.

Thoughts??

Date: Fri, July 18, 2008, 21:44:53 ET
Posted by: Ben Reich,

Dan -

A lot NOT alot. Sorry...

Date: Fri, July 18, 2008, 21:28:55 ET
Posted by: dan, ontario

I watched some of Larry Carlton's live shows on you tube. This guy can still play, It would be great to see him back with the band. I like alot of his blues he did as a solo artist.

Date: Fri, July 18, 2008, 19:19:06 ET
Posted by: super swell guaranteed media reviews (tm),

Wow, who said their words mean more than the average fan’s? Should we just copy/paste those reviews rather than linking them? Who cares? There are lame reviews posted here all the time. Why should someone elevate a review from the Chicago Trib? Most journalists are biased in their own musical tastes anyway. In the case of Westword, they’re an actual newspaper with real live journalists too. Should we wait for the Denver Post review just to make sure we have the certified a-ok review? Maybe we should label reviews as “official almighty media reviews” and “fans like you and me reviews” so we can differentiate between those we should elevate and those we should not.

Rock on Bob!

Date: Fri, July 18, 2008, 18:47:48 ET
Posted by: Bob, here

Regarding the Denver review and the Chicago review noted by Jive Miguel: these reviews are by fans just like us, writing reviews just like us. The only difference is that they post to their own personal guestbook/blog. Suddenly, their words are supposed to mean so much more. Those two reviews could be written by anyone here. Scratch that, especially in the case of that Chicago show, we can do better. Just because they have a private blog doesn't mean they should have their opinions elevated here or anywhere else.

Date: Fri, July 18, 2008, 18:17:31 ET
Posted by: Review of Denver Show,

http://blogs.westword.com/backbeat/2008/07/live_review_steely_dan_at_red.php

Date: Fri, July 18, 2008, 18:08:18 ET
Posted by: angel,

Matt: I am so with you there. Pretzel Logic just does it for me. It was a great song to end the Plush taping with, too. :-)

Date: Fri, July 18, 2008, 16:55:56 ET
Posted by: Matt, chattanooga, TN

I don't understand why Pretzel Logic isn't included on every setlist. Great live song.

Date: Fri, July 18, 2008, 16:12:12 ET
Posted by: ColoradoEd, Denver

Here is the Pretzel Logic clip:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ca9aYhDdt7o

Date: Fri, July 18, 2008, 16:03:54 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

Pretzel Logic encore?

You must be joking, son.

Sounds like another great show.

Date: Fri, July 18, 2008, 16:02:45 ET
Posted by: Rain, Schmrain,

Just to add to everyone’s comments on that soon-to-be-mythical Red Rocks extravaganza last night –

The rain was not a big deal. The weather changes so quickly out here it’s usually just a matter of waiting it out and we did. It was cloudy at showtime, began sprinkling somewhere around that funky azz Showbiz Kids/Everything You Did, started raining in earnest during Hey 19, then light rain on and off for the rest of the show except for the last few numbers and the encore which were dry and seasonalish. When I looked back into the nosebleeds it looked like it was snowing sideways up there for a while. Down in row 25 the rain was not that bad b/c we were more shielded from the wind and the crowd warmth offset some of the precip.

I think we witnessed the longest Hey 19 of all time last night, clocking in at 28mins. The band stopped mid-note during the second chorus and the audience booed a little but nobody out there was holding an electric guitar either. The stage is covered and there was no lightening so we were a little disappointed, especially after watching the Allman Brothers jam through a hefty downpour last summer without complaining. After the delay the band came out an ripped through Hey 19 with lots more gusto even though they insisted on performing under those cute little green and white umbrellas. When the song was over Walt said “You guys are the GREATEST FUCKING AUDIENCE...!” We WERE a great audience, who cares about a little rain! Eventually their umbrellas disappeared.

Walt nailed all his solos, his technique is still solid and that “becker sound” is still so potent. He definitely won’t win a Grammy for his vocal on Gaucho but it was interesting. There was a lot of ‘smoke’ drifting towards the stage and at one point he introduced a “Strange song for a very Strange city”. Don’t know how there couldn’t have been some secondary bakeage up there.

It was cool to see Don sporting his circa-1977 look with the hair and all the grimacing. His morph-era persona had to go. We enjoyed watching his grayed locks twist in the wind. Also nice to see him perform front and center facing the crowd so fearlessly. We knew he be da man right away.

There were a couple of really funky jams in there, terrific performances by the horns, and Carlock is fucking God - he got the fiercest standing-o of the night. Red Rocks must be easier to dial in because it was loud and crisp. Godwhacker killed! And what was up with the “44” backdrop they projected onto? 44 years together? An abstract rendition if the 2VN cover? Anyone? The projections were sweeet, especially on the rocks themselves.

The setlist was mostly autopilot, I don’t remember Black Friday so I know they made a couple of substitutions in there but the order is hazy. I’d love to see it posted.

And yes, we got PRETZEL LOGIC for the encore, followed by Kid C. Floored!

Overall I’d give the show an 8 out of 10. The sound was great but several of the performances were just okay. Donald was strong. Crowd participation was wild. Extra points for the overall geek factor, especially WB.

Next tour a little heavier on Countdown/Pretzel/Katy?

Date: Fri, July 18, 2008, 16:00:50 ET
Posted by: ColoradoEd, Denver

...no one mentions the Pretzel Logic encore?!?!

Date: Fri, July 18, 2008, 14:52:15 ET
Posted by: BillfromPgh,

Correction: Fall of '92 (first heard in summer of '93)

Date: Fri, July 18, 2008, 14:31:39 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Cortlandt Manor, NY

Casual Fan, thanks for the posts! What a sight! I feel a little bad for the guy holding an two umbrellas, one over Herington and one over Walter, hope his arms didn't get too tired!

Date: Fri, July 18, 2008, 14:05:49 ET
Posted by: BillfromPgh,

Thought of at least one more: the first draft demo of Cringemaker, which includes several omitted couplets, my favorite being something like:

You told your friends about our wedding night
Now they all call me "Mr. Barry White"

He shoulda left that one in!

Date: Fri, July 18, 2008, 13:49:48 ET
Posted by: BillfromPgh,

Hutch, I like the way you illustrated hypothetical first drafts vs. final lyrics. In fact those of us obsessive collectors can perform that exercise using real first drafts in a few cases:

Jack of Speed 1996 vs. final -- Same story, a few details tweaked.
Brooklyn demo vs. final -- verse omitted.
I Got The News outtake v. final - very different song, some lyrics retained, most replaced.
Were You Blind That Day vs. Third World Man -- entirely different set of lyrics.
Janie Runaway - I know there was an interview where Walter was going through a bunch of discarded lines and phrases that he kept on his laptop during the writing process, but I can't put my finger on it.
Greenmailing Bastard -- uh, well, all we know is that was the original title and concept for Godwhacker.

Can anyone think of any more?

***
On another note, I was listening to C$ yesterday and thinking about how some of the characters Walter and Larry cast as narrators differ from the SD (and 11TOW) patterns. You have your wistful losers, double-crossed lovers, aging lechers, self-destructive types, con artists, etc, but the new theme that appears in several songs is one of mean-spirited, arrogant misogyny (Selfish Gene, Somebody's Saturday Night, God's Eye View - all the same guy?) Yes, this jerk narrator is the butt of the jokes, we're not supposed to like him or sympathize with the crude zingers he aims at the women in his life, but it finally hit me where we've seen him before: Fall of '93, a co-write with Donald! And that guy was a complicated joke all by himself, a failed yuppie blaming all his financial troubles on Bush Sr. (oops, sorry about the politics) while dumping his beloved dog at the pound, driving away in his Beemer, and ultimately dissing his ex as a probable hooker.

Date: Fri, July 18, 2008, 13:42:49 ET
Posted by: Casual Fan, Orlando

Addendum to that post...

The guy captured DF stopping the band and then picking up again after the equipment was moved.

First ...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jV8wmtxyNRM

And then ...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HL1RV7jpivc

You can even see the umbrella guys!

Date: Fri, July 18, 2008, 13:37:40 ET
Posted by: Casual Fan, Orlando

Youtube has some decent videos today of the Red Rocks show. Pretty high caliber considering it looks like amateur digital camera work.

Here's New Frontier: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3jeQkL6_WEM

Here's Peg: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oQy_BgMMyKY

Looks like the guy has posted a half dozen or so songs from the show.

Date: Fri, July 18, 2008, 13:29:20 ET
Posted by: Huge Fan, Denver / Albuquerque,

I was at Soboba but not Roseland. The show last night had the same crowd energy as Sobaba but you can't compare the venues. Sobaba is one of the worst venues in the country, and Red Rocks is possibly the best. And we got an intermission last night lol.

Sorry Lurker Ray, but it looks like Soboba is falling to number 3 behind Roseland 2003 and Red Rocks 2008 on the all tine best post 1974 Steely Dan concerts list.

Date: Fri, July 18, 2008, 13:19:36 ET
Posted by: Randy Kane, Morrison

Best EVER. Na. But fuck did they soldier on!

[The first few songs after the rain delay seemed a bit uncomfortable, if not "phoned in"]

http://blogs.westword.com/backbeat/2008/07/live_review_steely_dan_at_red.php

Enjoy the rest of the tour all!

Date: Fri, July 18, 2008, 13:08:45 ET
Posted by: Um, yeah, Red Rocks ROCKS!!!

Why? Because Donald BROUGHT IT!!

And I was at Soboba. I was at Roseland. This show was better than all of them!!!!

Date: Fri, July 18, 2008, 13:06:25 ET
Posted by: Um, What?????,

>>DF sounded a little horse,<<
>>This may be the best show I have ever seen<<
How can it tbe best show if Donald's voice was not up to par and
it was pissing rain???? Those who were at Soboba can assure you that Donald's voice was spot on like a dagger, he tuned it up the entire month of his solo tour.

Date: Fri, July 18, 2008, 12:54:57 ET
Posted by: Red Rocks, Rules

"DF stopped the show because, as he said, he did not want to get electrocuted"

And for good reason. Over the years, he's proven himself to be a good conductor.

Date: Fri, July 18, 2008, 12:41:52 ET
Posted by: What a Night!!!, Red Rocks ROCKS!!!

Yes, DF stopped the show because, as he said, he did not want to get electrocuted. After what seemed like 15-20 minutes, the Rhodes was moved back and the concert resumed. For the rest of the show, crew members were holding up umbrellas over DF and WB, very funny yet surreal evening. The sound was incredible, the best I've heard at Red Rocks or pretty much anywhere else, and the vibe was electric. The band was very into it, especially after the delay. The only negative was that DF sounded a little horse, he performed well, but I hope he's not coming down with something. I agree with the previous poster that this may be the best show I have ever seen, and I've seen a few.

Lookout Roseland!!!!!!

Date: Fri, July 18, 2008, 12:30:50 ET
Posted by: Mer., Boston

Hoops- I hope you're feeling better soon... your touring schedule must be tough on your health, for sure. Maybe you need your own group of roadies? Sign me up!! I'll get the the palletes (sp.?!) of Kleenex. Seriously- thanks for this fan venue.

IMHO- the "Think Fast" theme may be a sarcastic reference to aging...the "use it or lose it" concept of how to live your life, no matter what age you are. As people have mentioned, DF's apparently thriving vocals may be proof of this, or I would speculate that he is really finding a new comfort level with performing live, and working the crowd energy. To me, Becker has always seemed to have more ease with this, even in interviews, but I think Donald has also found a new comfortable niche with this too.
Just my 2 cents.

Date: Fri, July 18, 2008, 12:16:59 ET
Posted by: Hutch, rva

Jive M. - How about:

We found the loft on Greene Street
And swept that bad boy out.

I really love the lyrics on C$. Everything flows and fits together so well. The rhymes are perfect and certainly the situations and scenes are vivid and compelling.
Although I've been playing guitar in bands for forty some years, writing has never been something that comes easy to me. So at this late stage in my "career" I'm deciding to get more serious with it.
Lately I've tried to really focus in on the writing techniques that Walter and Larry are using.

You can take a phrase that might sound contrite if used as is, and then change just one word and the whole image is changed.
For example it's easy to imagine something like this:

1st draft
"You hung the picture of ole Dizzy on the wall.

2nd draft:
"You hung the picture of young Dizzy on the wall.

Makes a big difference doesn't it?

1st draft
"There's an ocean full of memories rolling right up to the door"

2nd draft
"There's an ocean full of midnight rolling right up to the door"

1st draft
"That the dopey Irish Setter dog Regan was (or is) his name"

2nd draft
"That the dopey Irish Setter dog Regan's still his name"

Big difference.

Date: Fri, July 18, 2008, 11:48:33 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Glad to see we're back on track! Thanks Hoops, for intervening and setting us straight!

Date: Fri, July 18, 2008, 11:23:59 ET
Posted by: George, in Paris

Kid C -
I have a friend who has been disappointed with FM as the closer the last two shows in Dallas. His theory is that a slow, smooth closer "takes the crowd out of it" at the end of the show, whereas something with a little more zip leave the crowd on more of a high note at the end of the concert. So Kid C as the closer has that going for it (to paraphrase a line from Caddyshack).

Date: Fri, July 18, 2008, 11:18:52 ET
Posted by: EL, Charro

Could we use paragraphs when writing?

Date: Fri, July 18, 2008, 10:39:34 ET
Posted by: Still Sparkin', Munchen

I took your advice Ray...and went out of my way to pick up the international C$. Lucky I had a free day in Germany, because it just hit the shops here today and there was but one copy. Won't hear Dark Horse Dub for a few days. Cultural note: I just saw a shop called Sückwell.

Hey Jive, while I was shopping I also picked up a Grant Green from 1964, called Talkin' About with Larry Young and Elvin Jones.

The shows sound great - don't think I'll get to any though. Here's hoping there are souvenirs about.

Date: Fri, July 18, 2008, 10:18:01 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Clean,

Nice review.
Sound is an interesting thing, and, as Hoops noted (perhaps sarcastically) in his note to the blog-reviewer of the Chicago Theater show, seating can make a huge difference in a show. Most can hear one thing, but a few, because of their location, can hear something totally different. Great (sound) venues, of course, have fewer of these anomalies.

I normally like the first few rows of the balcony, but had a terrible sound experience from those seats, at the Paramount Theater in Oakland for DFB. Others told me they thought the sound was quite good, at that show. OTOH, I'm no fan of the sound at most outdoor pavilions, but last week, the sound at the CMAC in the Finger Lakes was simply outstanding.

I wish I could have seen Howard, Levy, though.

Date: Fri, July 18, 2008, 09:23:20 ET
Posted by: Chiprdr, Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio

Think Fast, perhaps it was named that because nobody knew if the band would be touring this summer, then all of a sudden BOOM there it is think fast! I know I sure did. the first day tickets went on sale there I was buying mine. Just a thought

Peace,

Chip

Date: Fri, July 18, 2008, 08:56:42 ET
Posted by: Newerkes, crabgrass alley

Hoops: Bravo! Let the weekend begin! And Hoops, get well soon. Send lecture notes. Anyone crack the code on why it's called "Think Fast" tour? nwk

Date: Fri, July 18, 2008, 03:18:38 ET
Posted by: Godwhacker, struck tonight!

Lurker Ray - I just witnessed a show tonight in Denver that surpassed Soboba. That's all I have to say.

Date: Fri, July 18, 2008, 01:10:16 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu - Rain? What's That?

So where are the reports from
rain-soaked Red Rocks. Was it
really a "wash-out"?
Keep heading west gents. I
can assure you there will be
no chance of rain in SoCal.
hoops -
We are in the middle of tour
with one of the best set lists
in a few years and people choose
to spew hate and politics.
But I'm with you. Teach people
a lesson. Treat them like children.
Maybe they will get the message.
I hope you feel better. I'm sure
that Chicago humidity isn't helping.
I seems like Pete & Shari are heading
West this year, are you?
I owe you a drink or 10.
Pete, are you coming West?
What shows?

Date: Fri, July 18, 2008, 00:23:20 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, @home

oops, it's late and I'm tired. The "in spite of hearing it at almost every show..." was in reference to My Old School.

KC

Date: Fri, July 18, 2008, 00:18:36 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, @home

I was in the second row balcony, almost dead center. I have to agree with that reviewer in that I don't think the sound was what it should have been, albeit not as bad as he stated. Since the addition of 'Ready' Freddy, I think the bass has been much brighter and cleaner in the mix. I saw 2 DFB shows and 5 SD shows in '06-'07 and was amazed at how the bass was really well defined in the mix. In that blurb from Chuck Rainey's website he stated something to the effect that he was glad he wasn't asked to do any of the tours because the bass was buried in the mix and really couldn't be heard. I agree totally with that, up to the DFB shows. Tuesday night in Chicago was a flash back to that muddled mix. I would also agree that it was just a little too loud, which didn't help the mix. I captured some audio from the show and it is not nearly as clear as the audio from the DFB show there in '06. Pleasantly, however, Donald's rhodes was much more present and could be distinctly heard throughout. Everything, except the bass was actually really clear. Herrington continues to amaze me with how he adds his signature to the songs while preserving the original atmosphere. Walter is a f*&%ing awesome player, he took way more solo's than I can recall in the past and really sounds great. There was a bit of jamming at the end of Godwhacker and he was all over it. Home at Last was brilliant as well. These last few years he has improved (in my opinion) exponentially, and really appears to be more confident. I'm sure some will take offence at this but I wasn't that hot on Gaucho. To me that is one of the songs that just shouldn't be sung by any one but Don. It's epic, like Aja, Dr Wu, Caves, etc. and I think it loses a little something with Walter singing. It was good, glad to finally hear it live, but I just don't think it was great. What WAS great was TvN. I was lucky enough to hear it live for the first time ever in Memphis last year and it was pretty shaky. They have really nailed it now and it sounds great. The horns were spot on as well, with Pugh back in the lineup. That baritone sax really adds some depth and Micheal is just a damn great player. Walt, I have to say, really impressed me. His solo's on Godwhacker and Aja were forceful and tight. Glamour was great to hear with this band, light years ahead of the '96 version, which is the last time I'd heard it played. I was a little disapointed with Parkers Band, which was a real highlight in '03. I know its fast and short, but it seemed almost faster and shorter Tuesday. Talk about a great vehicle for the horns to really shine and for the whole band to just play the hell out of a song but it wasn't as stunning as '03. Howard Levy walking on for the encores was great. He really added to the dimension of Black Friday, which, by the way, was played bluesier and funkier than I have ever heard. That song has not been one of my favorites, but it was beautifully executed that night. I'm also not on board with Kid C as the closer. Levy was barely audible in the mix and it just didn't seem to have the same kick as when they would play it as the last or second last song of the regular set. In spite of having heard it almost every show previous to this, I really missed it. It really gets the house going, especially as an encore.

Well, that was way more than I had planned on writing.....
we now return you to your regularly scheduled programming...

KC

Date: Thurs, July 17, 2008, 23:47:25 ET
Posted by: Jive Miguel, Bogata (Bethesda, MD)

By the way Jim, you are right, I should not have assumed that the reviewer spoke for anyone other than himself. Chicago Theatre has a great reputation for acoustics. My bad.

Date: Thurs, July 17, 2008, 23:11:56 ET
Posted by: Jive Miguel, Bogata (Bethesda, MD)

Thank you Jim/Hoops,

I'm just waiting to read the first reviewer who expresses disappointment that they didn't play "Stuck in the Middle with You".

If you should have the opportunity to get your hands on a paper copy (not on the website) of this week's Aquarian Weekly (New Jersey) you'll see the review that my cousin and I wrote for the 6/13/08 opener at the Beacon. I posted it a week or 2 ago, and I'll post it again if you'd like to read it.

My cousin is 57 and has dedicated his life and career to the music industry, so he sees concerts on a regular basis. He's always kept SD in his "rotation" and has always appreciated the "studio" version of the band on an intellectual, if not an emotional level, and yet, he was truly blown away at what he witnessed on that stage.

My favorite moment was when the band came out and immediately moved into Movies, followed by Fez, followed by the grand entrance of Walt and Don to complete Scam. Mike turned to me with a big smile, and very slowly said "HOLY SHIT!". And the fun had just begun.

It was an epic evening.

Date: Thurs, July 17, 2008, 23:11:44 ET
Posted by: This just in, Red Rocks

It's raining at Red Rocks and DF stopped the show in the middle of Hey 19 so the equipment could be rearranged such that the musicians and the instruments wouldn't get rained on.

Or so that's what I am hearing.

Where's Dinky Dawson to save their life?

Date: Thurs, July 17, 2008, 22:55:14 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Jive;

Thanks for the link: I think this guy is way off. I think it's kinda off base to post that the Chicago Theatre has issues based on one guy who's credentials are unknown to us. Or maybe I missed what makes his cedentials better than any of us here. Please explain, Jive, in case I missed.

Here's how I responded, although it remains to be seen if my response will be added.

=======

Hello.

I’ve been to something like 70 Steely Dan shows; a friend of mine has been to over 200 shows in the past 15 plus years.

We thought the show Tuesday night at the Chicago Theatre was one of the best sounding shows ever. The venue was great, hardcore fans plan to fly in to Steely Dan at the Chicago Theatre again in the future.

Perhaps your location (and its acoustics) was anomaly unique to your seats.

Jim McKay

Date: Thurs, July 17, 2008, 22:49:11 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Well, I tried again tonight.

I have 5 shots of the Chicago Theatre Marquee with Steely Dan. The theatre is in my repertoire of buildings I've been known to lecture on. And then there's the time I went to a zoning hearing in relation to the Chicago Theatre and the party I was contesting actually submitted a photo of marquee with the Donald Fagen Band listed on it!

But to be honest, I've sick a lot lately and preoccupied. From late Tuesday afternoon until last night I didn't look at the Blue. When I came on last night, I had a hard time figuring all the posts that were about this political stuff and who was slamming who. I had just wanted to post about the show, edit the marquee photos.

I came back tonight, allowing two hours, more of the same and had 7 hate emails about how I let slime post and all and what an asshole I am. Some of you have my cell phone, you could call, instead you send emails. I don't think you understand, my arms and shoulders are chronically sore from typing and all, so if you call that would allow me to write about the show instead of being on trial for, depending on who you are, a Republican George Bush and Tony Snow lover or someone who is evil for letting a dead man be kicked. Really, just call.

Maybe tomorrow. Sorry.

Jim

P.S. Please take the politics and nastiness elsewhere. Don't even discuss who started it.

P.S.S. Also, a few weeks ago, we had a cool down period where I took the Blue down, please email me privately if we should do that again.

Date: Thurs, July 17, 2008, 22:43:15 ET
Posted by: Jive Miguel, Bogata (Bethesda, MD)

Hey, here's an uninspired and uninspiring review:

http://jdwaggoner.wordpress.com/2008/07/16/steely-dan-at-the-chicago-theater-71508/

Seems like the Chicago Theatre has "issues". Certainly not the case at the Beacon.

Anyone ever see them in Irvine? Finest outdoor venue acoustics I've had the pleasure of.

Date: Thurs, July 17, 2008, 22:35:15 ET
Posted by: Jive Miguel, Bogata (Bethesda, MD)

I've mentioned how thrilled I am to hear DF in such good voice these days, but need to give props to WB, who, as mentioned previously, has really worked to hone his guitar skills with each passing tour. More "moves", more skill, better timing, finer command of his instrument. What a pleasure to watch and listen to.

I don't remember where or when, but I distinctly recall an interview with Walter in which he credits Grant Green as one of his strongest influences. If you haven't listened to Green, I highly recommend the great, late Lee Morgan's 1964 Search For The New Land, with Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorter, Billy Higgins, Reggie Workman, and Grant Green. Amazing music with a cast of young legends in the making.

Another Grant Green classic is Green Street, beatiful solo stuff with just guitar, bass and drums. No idea if it's a stretch, but are the lyrics to Black Cow perhaps Walter's tribute?:

Down to Greene Street
There you go
Lookin so outrageous
And they tell you so
You should know
How all the pros play the game
You change your name

Hey, you never know, given their propensity to play tribute to some of their fave artists, including the Rikki reference to Horace Silver's Song For My Father and Parker's Band. Undoubtedly, there are others I cannot think of right now.

By the way, I always found it curious that the Citizen box set powers that be actively chose to omit the brief, muffled vibes opening to Rikki, beginning the song instead with the Silver-esque piano progression. It's a little 10 second gem on the order of the 10 second piano outro to Throw Back The Little Ones. Kinda puzzling.

So where can I find a detailed review of the Chicago gig?

Jive

Date: Thurs, July 17, 2008, 20:46:36 ET
Posted by: I'm not entirely , sure

Dave gets the connection...

Date: Thurs, July 17, 2008, 20:29:31 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

I didn't take Dave's initial post as a attack...it was a SD lyric, and I think he meant it w/o malice. It's called a joke...humor...that sort of thing.

Now, his latest post is clearly a personal attack.

Date: Thurs, July 17, 2008, 19:13:10 ET
Posted by: angel,

Dave: She wasn't the only one offended for the new parents. I was too, but decided not to post a response, at the time.

It's in bad taste and let's just move on.

Date: Thurs, July 17, 2008, 18:54:42 ET
Posted by: Dave,

Gina - You're kidding right? Why are you taking my question as a personal attack on you? My question had all to do with a Steely Dan lyric (I didn't write it, you pals Donald and Walter did) about a baby that was just born to a Steely Dan back up singer.

You're a strange bird Gina. Either that, or you're smoking too much of that stupid shit that you people have over there in Holland or Belgium or wherever the f&^k you're from!

Date: Thurs, July 17, 2008, 17:26:21 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, @work

I have a couple pic's of the marquee, shoot me an email if you'd like a copy.

popcorn - they played 3 of the songs you listed, although The Fez was just an instrumental. I think we would all love to hear some of the songs you list, but as mentioned it is highly unlikely. They have really mixed up the songs more on this tour than any in the past so if we are lucky (i'm going again in august too) we'll get 2 maybe 3 different songs.

Home at Last was great Tuesday, Walter continues to hone his guitar craft. I have to say that Home is probably my favorite tune and I was glad to get that over Babylon.

KC

Date: Thurs, July 17, 2008, 17:09:41 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Seriously, nothing is going to be gained by this political "discussion" on a message board about a band. This is stupid.

Date: Thurs, July 17, 2008, 17:06:25 ET
Posted by: Provential Reuben, Tall Country CO

Casual Fan: I promise you they'll take your money. 18-20 girls. Employee entrance is a revolving door. But on Saturday night you'll only find a-one-a; and a-two-a;...

Denver Dan: Sorry about that, Chief. It'll ever happen again. Berthoud did not work out. I'm not from around these parts, so we'll have to rely on a local with better isp and faster fingers to, maybe, clue us in. Otherwise, we'll catch you over to the Red Rocks after 4:30.

Date: Thurs, July 17, 2008, 16:58:12 ET
Posted by: SteelyDanaa,

Enough with all the political chatter. What we really want to hear/read is Hoops' comments/review of the Chicago show on tuesday night !!!!

Date: Thurs, July 17, 2008, 15:59:43 ET
Posted by: the dream, fiddler's green

popcornlips - Not a shot in hell. You may get one or two switch outs, but that will be all.

Still, this tour sounds so sweet that a second show in your town is a blessing ...

Date: Thurs, July 17, 2008, 15:20:03 ET
Posted by: popcornlips, chicago

Just went to the chicago show. loved it. danced the whole time in the aisles (with green DV8's jersey on - whats up crew). does anyone think there's a possibility in trying to get the guys to play a greater variety of songs (maybe shorter jams?)? i think that we're all ready to hear nothing but deep cuts like these. do you think that the band could possibly prepare to play this stuff for the next chicago show (i have tix)? or do you think that they set list will be almost duplicated? i'm a big dreamer

Can't Buy a Thrill

* Fire in the Hole
* Brooklyn
* Change of the Guard
* Kings
* Midnite Cruiser
* Only a Fool would say that

Countdown to Ectasy

* My Old School
* King of the World
* Your Gold Teeth
* Razor Boy

Pretzel Logic

* Any Major Dude Will Tell You
* Parkers Band
* Through with Buzz
* Pretzel Logic
* With a Gun
* Monkey in Your Soul

Katy Lied

* Everyone's Gone to the Movies
* Bad Sneakers

Royal Scam

* Caves of Altamira
* Don't Take Me Alive
* Sign in Stranger
* The Fez
* Haitian Divorce

Aja

* I Got the News

Gaucho

* Time Out of Mind

The Nightfly

* Green Flower Street

Date: Thurs, July 17, 2008, 14:12:02 ET
Posted by: Dash LaRue, Who-ville

Bill -
Walter is playing an acoustic guitar in that classic picture
with Donald playing sax. I think it was taken in the canyon around
Universal in LA. Maybe it's just me, but Walter is looking just like
the mayor of Who-ville these days! Love it.
hoops -
Do you have a picture of the famous Chicago Theatre marquee from the other night that you could share by chance? Boy that Tribune critic
loved everything about the show, except Walter singing Gaucho.

Date: Thurs, July 17, 2008, 13:43:16 ET
Posted by: Denver Dan, Denver, CO

Provential Reuben - Please stop trying to be so clever and just spell out where and when the Danfest is going to be tonight.

Thanks

Date: Thurs, July 17, 2008, 13:42:28 ET
Posted by: Gina/Mizar5, Feed Them Some Hungry Reggae, They'll Snob You Twice Mountain

as if the Blue's soul is turning pitchblack and evil...
full moon on the rise in July must be the only excuse :-)

Howard Levy, of course, Chicago's his hometown.

re: Dave, about baby Vaughn? Your response kind of indicates you're either negative towards me, or negative to begin with and just needed an excuse to post such a lame post. It's very courteous of both Carolyn and Wayne to want to share their happiness with others and agreed to share it especially with Steely Dan fans who might appreciate this kind of news and would want to wish the parents well. They don't have to. But they did. There's nothing wrong with wanting to share GOOD news, is there? Or show a picture that is both endearing and funny because this little boy comes from a musical family and he seems to be playing bass already... They're open, positive and communicative people who are interested in the world and what it has to offer, it shows in their music, their work and in wanting to share this picture of baby Vaughn. It's a positive thing.

And since when are Mizar5 and the Blue the whole world eh? Since when is it absurd to share this kind of news whilst announcements like these, births-marriages-deaths have been printed on paper, in newspapers for as long as we know? And most certainly reaching a far wider audience than this news has now :-)

I think it's a pity that this forum/message board which is meant to offer space about Steely Dan, the music and anything related to it is also used to, yes, to do what exactly...?

======

Was in the car today and turned on the radio whilst driving. Had to stop at a roundabout and then Donald started to sing, the tune had started with a guitar solo that did make me faintly think it was somewhat Steely Dannish, but i didn't pay that much attention. I was minding the traffic on the road instead :-)
Until Donald started to sing.

"Give her some funked up music, she treats you nice
Feed her some hungry reggae, shell love you twice"

And then the car stopped. The engine just fell silent, followed by Donald singing "no static at all".

Well, that was kind of funny. But it was the 'reggae' reference, of course, that connected the dots to WB's new album. About as round as it can get, Danwise. I just started the car and left the Dan-experience at the roundabout.

Date: Thurs, July 17, 2008, 13:42:02 ET
Posted by: BillfromPgh,

Thanks for that link to the Telegraph WB interview. I'm pretty sure that's the first photo I've ever seen of Walter with an acoustic guitar, with a capo, yet!

I'd also love to hear more tunes from Denny. I recall he sat in at the end of the '93 tour and traded fours with Walter, Donald (on keytar) and Drew Zingg on the set-closing Kama medley. I thought I had read somewhere that he was working on a solo instrumental project. He had a style that I've never heard anyone mimic - clean, inventive, melodic, horn-like and totally devoid of musical cliches. Later live SD guitarists with jazz chops can play the bop lines but it never sounds like Denny.

Date: Thurs, July 17, 2008, 12:39:04 ET
Posted by: Casual Fan, My mind has turned to apple sauce

Hey Reuben, this hardware store with over 30 girls working there under the age of, say, 23 ....

They hiring? What if I pay them?

Date: Thurs, July 17, 2008, 12:08:11 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

"That Grand Dan Sound"....

This is an old (2004) article from All About Jazz but well-worth reading again.

allaboutjazz.com/php/article.php?id=15074

Date: Thurs, July 17, 2008, 11:35:31 ET
Posted by: Provential Reuben, Tall Country CO

About that Denver Danfest... we figured Berthoud would be about as unhandy as any place, so we'll probably call in the haberdashers and Jive Miguel about 1:30 local. We'll most likely admit "Somebody's Saturday Night" Friday am after the show and Jacque.

I know a hardware store employing c.60 people, half of which are < coll. grad age & mostly girls. The most frequent Sat nite mgr is a dear old 86 yearold curmudgeon who turns all blaring tv's in the store to Lawrence Welk to much hue and cry from the hired help. So there are some kids who can sound like Yosh or Stan Schmenge.
Some of us have a function in the world where we visit (or post) and after we leave, everyone feels a lot better about him or herself.

Date: Thurs, July 17, 2008, 10:28:49 ET
Posted by: Nwk, back yard

Live around Nashville or South? Pre-sale tix for Levon FANS see code -- reunion9. Great seats if you are interested. I tried a few seat selections and all were excellent! If you are interested to see Levon, here's a reasonable offer. LAST DAY of PRESALE TODAY 5 p.m. Good luck! --nwk

To wit via email:

Greetings friends of Americana,

Levon Helm is bringing his heralded Ramble on the Road to the Americana Music Festival and Conference opening night, Wednesday September 17th at 7PM. TICKETS FOR FRIENDS OF AMERICANA ARE AVAILABLE NOW!

This unique and special event is our first separate ticketed event in the history of the Americana Music Festival and Conference and while tickets go on sale to the general public this coming Friday, July 18th, Levon has granted his fan club and friends of the Americana Music Association the opportunity to purchase tickets in advance.

You may purchase your tickerts NOW by visiting this website that has been set up for us

http://www.ticketmaster.com/event/1B0040EBD3D23F08?artistid=769337&majorcatid=10001&minorcatid=1

and entering the pre sale code, reunion9 in the appropriate box.

This presale offering will end on Thursday July 17th at 5PM. Tickets are available for $65 and $45. This concert event will be filmed in High Definition for posterity; a possible documentary / television program about the great Levon Helm.

Date: Thurs, July 17, 2008, 10:21:38 ET
Posted by: Newark, garden

Girl Marg.

Here is the AMA contest --everything paid. This time the contest link is working. Levon playing et al. Good luck -- deadline soon.

http://americanamusic.org/go/?E_Mg

Thx for reviews, danfreakers nwk

Date: Thurs, July 17, 2008, 09:30:07 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu , Snowbound

Politics? DanFans? Sorry, I'm driving around in a stolen mid-size luxury car talkin' to my peeps. No time now.

Date: Thurs, July 17, 2008, 09:22:35 ET
Posted by: FatMike,

(Looking in mirror) "Some truly sick people out there I guess."

Hey, wait a minute...

Date: Thurs, July 17, 2008, 08:11:20 ET
Posted by: Denise, Hinktown cubicle

Just wondering...has anyone bought or heard the new Becker Sadowsky guitar. Curious to hear about it.

Date: Thurs, July 17, 2008, 08:06:50 ET
Posted by: HeyMike, here

Thanks for the personal attacks. Sorry for the defensive posture Hoops, vile comments like these are difficult to ignore sometimes. Some truly sick people out there I guess.

Date: Thurs, July 17, 2008, 00:46:11 ET
Posted by: eric, buffalo grove, IL

The Chicago show was fantastic! Good to see Hoops, Joe, Emmett and the gang from Milwaukee. The venue sounded great and the band shined here. I ran into Pete and Sherry after the show and they said that was the best Aja they had ever seen them do. I have to agree, it was unreal! Wish I could make Red Rocks.

P.s. That sounded like a Borat impersonation to me as well.

Date: Wed, July 16, 2008, 22:52:40 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Jim,

Thanks for the blow-by-blow last night (via GM). If you are serious about not posting your review/thoughts/etc, and doing an email instead, please include me in the email list.

Date: Wed, July 16, 2008, 22:51:18 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NYc

Hoops, I for one, really want to hear about last night's show...

Date: Wed, July 16, 2008, 22:37:41 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

I have about 10-15 minutes to post tonight about last night's show and instead I have to reserach these crap posts about Tony Snow and how I should be moderating, and all that crap. That's what you want instead, fine,

Nothing's been removed in weeks, Dr. Wu. You email me privately if you think something's not showing. Dr. Wu,

You know, the Tony Snow mention with Baxter was very germaine, the subsequent political discussion not.

This board is about the great time I had at the show last night, not your selfish political agendas.

All I ask is people to ignore people who are off topic and nasty until I have time to deal with them. And I don't want to hear shit about so-and-so emailed me nasty shit about my opinion. You kinda people need a different board, OK?

Jim

Date: Wed, July 16, 2008, 22:24:37 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

According to everyone's favorite source, Wikipedia, Dias has recorded as recently as 2004:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Denny_Dias

And, someone else like's Denny's work, as well. This blog rates The Dan's 10-best guitar records. Dias makes three of his top ten.:

http://viscountlacarte.blogspot.com/2007_08_01_archive.html

I would love to see Denny play on a future Dan album.

Date: Wed, July 16, 2008, 22:15:24 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Dr Wu,

I see that all of my comments are still there. I think you can see that I was attacked for simply recounting, briefly, what was discussed here. Or, perhaps HeyMike attacked me for thinking that Lawrence Welk and Borat have similar accents.

:#)

Date: Wed, July 16, 2008, 22:11:26 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Dan,

Last I heard, Denny was a computer programmer on the west coast, I think. In the discussion of the great Dan guitarists, he is, without question, the most underrated, IMO. The guy played many of the great jazz-oriented guitar solos for SD. The solo in Gold Teeth II is one of my all time faves.

Dr. Wu, don't worry about my missing post. I think my review post is still there. I simply replied to a post by HeyMike, who wasn't sure what, exactly, the past discussion was, about the two parties in question. I simply recounted the gist of the past discussion (I really wasn't just spewing my opinion). That lead to HeyMike attacking me, and then others joined in (confirming my account of what was said, in the past).

It's better if that shit is left off The Blue, though, if posters have such thin skins, and rigid opinions.

Date: Wed, July 16, 2008, 22:04:21 ET
Posted by: siditious,

Dear blue book,

I'm sorry to have provoked the low information knuckle draggers on this fine site. It sounds like I"m not the first, but I won't make a habit of it. I guess it's a testament to the dan that their music appeals across the intellectual spectrum. And that includes you Hey (trisomy 19) Mike.

Date: Wed, July 16, 2008, 21:54:35 ET
Posted by: dan, ontario

What ever happened to Denny Diaz

Date: Wed, July 16, 2008, 21:28:00 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Walter's really been opening up a lot lately, don't you think? His interviews have been fascinating.

Date: Wed, July 16, 2008, 20:25:34 ET
Posted by: HeyMike, .

siditious,I find you insulting and despicable.
Take your trash here: www.huffingtonpost.com and here: www.dailykos.com

Your opinions have no place on this site and are not shared by anyone except the most extreme hate filled moonbats in this country. I dont give a flying fuck what you do for a living or what your people did.

Date: Wed, July 16, 2008, 20:04:56 ET
Posted by: seymore butts, seymore_butts@mail.com

seymore_butts@mail.com

Date: Wed, July 16, 2008, 20:02:43 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Hutch/Clean

Nice links. Thanks

Date: Wed, July 16, 2008, 19:34:13 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, @work

Review of last night:

http://www.chicagotribune.com/features/lifestyle/chi-dan-ovn-0717jul17,0,3313805.story

Personally, Aja was brilliant, Black Friday was Del-funka-licious, Gaucho was ok and the crowd was very into it after Hey 19. I'll ramble on about it more later.

KC

Date: Wed, July 16, 2008, 19:29:21 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, @work

Looks like this is new:

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/arts/main.jhtml?xml=/arts/2008/07/17/bmbecker117.xml

Date: Wed, July 16, 2008, 19:25:30 ET
Posted by: Hutch, rva

Found this looking through some of the old Metal Leg stuff:

http://www.granatino.com/sdresource/24juke.htm

Interesting reading. The Mingus part is kind of funny but sad.
Fascinating look into DF's mind.

Date: Wed, July 16, 2008, 16:13:54 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

Excellent account of the show, The Dean...thanks.

Date: Wed, July 16, 2008, 15:31:22 ET
Posted by: s , p

oops - looks like i haven't mastered the internets yet.

just say NO to q.

Pat

Date: Wed, July 16, 2008, 14:30:52 ET
Posted by: Mr O, Chicago

Aja was fan-fucking-tastic last night!

Date: Wed, July 16, 2008, 14:19:07 ET
Posted by: HeyMike, Where Senator Barry hasn't done shit

Ahhh the caring compassionate left and it's all too familiar tone.

Date: Wed, July 16, 2008, 13:49:58 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Fagen is much too funny to be impersonating Borat.

Date: Wed, July 16, 2008, 12:16:48 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Heading Toward the Manatee Bar

HeyMike,

http://zapatopi.net/afdb/

Date: Wed, July 16, 2008, 12:09:41 ET
Posted by: Heymike,

Hey Dean, how does that tinfoil hat stay on while you're typing?

Date: Wed, July 16, 2008, 12:05:38 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Hey Mike,

I believe some on The Blue gave Skunk shit for playing with Snow,

And, Philly, I believe Loyal Fan is saying he has heard the Welk voice, but this one time Fagen did Borat. You see, he can tell because he has seen the band more times than they have actually played!

Of course, since Borat sounds almost exactly like Welk, the only really ways to know for sure which one it was is: Loyal Fan IS Fagen, Fagen said as much to Loyal Fan, or Don was wearing one of these when he said it:

http://www.herecomestheboss.com/images/news/lg_a-borat2.jpg

Either way, who really cares?

Date: Wed, July 16, 2008, 11:57:49 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

I HOPE there aren't too many Fox News viewers here but, I do recall once reading something about the bumper stickers at one of the Jones Beach concerts...

Date: Wed, July 16, 2008, 11:52:28 ET
Posted by: HeyMike, <--

Yes Laurie, but you have to be careful. Tony was actually lambasted on here once for playing with Skunk or vice-versa I forget.

Date: Wed, July 16, 2008, 11:48:33 ET
Posted by: West of Philly ,

Loyal Fan.

He's done the Lawrence Welk schtick before.

Pre-Borat.

Listen and Learn:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y06qLqxvVvA

Date: Wed, July 16, 2008, 11:46:17 ET
Posted by: Laurie, By the Sea

Are there no Fox News viewers on this board? I'm surprised to see no mention of the Bill O'Reilly interview with our good friend Skunk Baxter on the topic of HIS good friend Tony Snow. Bill intro'd him as a former member of the bands Steely Dan and the Doobies. The show aired Monday night. Here's O'Reilly's wrap up taken from billoreilly.com:

Personal Story Segment
Tony Snow and music

>In addition to being a writer, reporter and anchor, the late Tony >Snow was an accomplished rock musician. The Factor reported that >Tony "played a number of instruments, including guitar, saxophone >and flute." Jeff "Skunk" Baxter, who played in the bands Steely Dan >and The Doobie Brothers, recalled his jams with Tony Snow. "Tony >and I played together and I found a whole new side of him. He was a >really good player, he had a lot of depth and he could reach deep >down into his soul. Hopefully he's now up there playing with Jimi >Hendrix and Jackie Wilson and Marvin Gaye. They now have a great >flute player." The Factor added that music was among Snow's many >passions. "Tony Snow was the most relaxed I've ever seen him in >those venues. You can look at his face and see that he just loved >it."

Date: Wed, July 16, 2008, 11:38:15 ET
Posted by: HeyMike, west of the Chicago theatre

Good to see everyone last night and a really terrific show. I thought the intro was the best ever. Scam and Aja were highlights for me. I have never seen Don have so much fun as he did with Parkers Band. He loves Godwacker too it seems, I for one wouldn't mind if they replaced it.

Still groggy form the cuervo gold and cervezas.

Date: Wed, July 16, 2008, 11:30:26 ET
Posted by: Loyal Fan,

Dean - I have seen this band live more on one tour than you have on all the tours combined. It was a "Borat" impersonation. I've heard the "Welk" one a million times. So that means that I know what I'm talking about. I've got the power!

Date: Wed, July 16, 2008, 10:59:03 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Janie,

I'm certain that jailbait, like you, is far too young to remember the King of Champagne Music. Alas, I am old enough for it to be etched into my memory.

And, Loyal Fan, if you can distinguish between Borat and Mr. Welk based on two or three words, more power to you,.

Date: Wed, July 16, 2008, 10:37:12 ET
Posted by: Loyal Fan,

Dean - I know what you mean about the "Lawrence Welk" thing but last night he switched over to Borat. I know, because I was there!

Date: Wed, July 16, 2008, 09:23:54 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Welcome back Dean, and thanks for the review.

Lawrence Welk -- WE'RE NOT OLD ENOUGH TO REMEMBER LAWRENCE WELK, ARE WE!!!!!!!

Date: Wed, July 16, 2008, 07:11:21 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

V,

Donald also said, "very nice, ladies" (or was it "very nice, girls"?) in Canandaigua. But, I don't think it was a Borat impression. It was, likely, a Lawrence Welk impersonation.

Date: Wed, July 16, 2008, 02:54:05 ET
Posted by: V (aka Little Tame One), Still on Cloud 9

The Chicago show was AMAZING. Everyone on stage seemed to be having a great time. Walt, Jon, and Keith were tearing it UP throughout. And I don't know that I've ever loved Black Friday as much as I did during that encore!

It was great meeting some of you after the show for discussion/baseball -- sorry I had to skedaddle so soon!

Ahhhh, it's almost 2AM -- my thoughts aren't coherent enough right now to do this show justice! Simply put, it was well worth the trip from Minnesota, well worth the money I spent on my incredibly close ticket, and it made it awfully tempting for me to come back next month!

PS: Was it just me or did Donald do a Borat impression after Parker's Band? I swear he told the girls "Very niiiice" in a Borat voice.

Date: Wed, July 16, 2008, 01:36:52 ET
Posted by: i dance, the tango

last tango is a fucking great song. what is the best version ?

stonyfield farms creme caramel frozen yo.

Date: Wed, July 16, 2008, 00:20:22 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Thanks for the set list GalMarg
& hoops! Wow, Howard Levy on
BF to close the evening. I
don't think BF has ever closed
a SD show. What was that like?
Cat Russell is in Oregon tomorrow
night hoops. I don’t think we will
see her again until the LA show
hopefully. But as I said before,
she does not have any shows
scheduled for the entire month of
August! Glad to hear you had a
great show Deano. BUT -
Gaucho - "I don't think it would have sounded any better with Donald."
Are you crazy or are you high?! ;O)
Do you really think Don couldn't
do it better?
Speaking of Donald Vs Walter singing,
haven't seen much chatter yet
about this -

"He will be taking a few turns on the microphone during the Phoenix show, however."

"I'll be singing a couple songs," Becker said. "There are songs that Donald didn't sing or doesn't want to sing. But they are great songs."

http://www.azcentral.com/ent/music/articles/2008/07/09/20080709steelydan.html

This is the part I found
REALLY EXCITING!-

"Don't expect to hear anything from Circus Money during this summer's tour. Becker is adamant that Steely Dan won't be performing any of his solo material.

"The trouble is that touring in the large venues we're playing, it's hard for people to experience completely new material in a satisfying way," he said. "It helps for audiences to know the songs before the show - especially with the added tension of wondering will they play my favorite Steely Dan song. I'd like to get a band and play this stuff live though, maybe just play some shows around New York or LA."

WOW. Get that band together Wally!
Later this fine evening or early tomorrow,
the Steely Dan equipment trucks will be
rolling across the mighty Mississippi
for the first time in nearly two years.
That in itself is cause for celebration.

Mark Twain! Safe Water!

Date: Tues, July 15, 2008, 23:22:25 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Steely Dan 08 Concert high...

Thanks for understanding Girl. ;)

Dean... time might be it. In Buffalo's closest outdoor venue Darien Lake PAC, if you go over the time limit it is a fine of 25,000 per minute. (Petty went over a half hour once... lost about half of his profit from that show) So, yeah... I think it was about 11:00 when the show was over, probably right.

Oh yeah, and I'm not complaining... I am still high from that show. In fact, on the way, I text my friend who couldnt go to the show (he's a big fan and has never seen them) and I was not gentle:

"Oh my fucking god!! Un-fucking-believeable!! The best. EVER!!"

I probably could have been easier on him... he was not amusued.

---------------------------

Cuervo Gold!!! Hey It Will Come Back to You!!!

AMAZING!! Hey It Will Come Back to You is just mind-blowingly funny!!

Date: Tues, July 15, 2008, 23:18:51 ET
Posted by: hoops, Texting the set list to Girl Margaret

Howard Levy on Black Friday (Girl Margaret: WHAT?!)

Kid C

Date: Tues, July 15, 2008, 23:06:47 ET
Posted by: hoops, Texting the setlist to Girl Margaret

FM

Date: Tues, July 15, 2008, 23:02:29 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Cortlandt Manor, NY

Dr. Wu, glad I could amuse you. And don't worry, even my family has spelled my name wrong.

Date: Tues, July 15, 2008, 23:01:52 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Here ya go, Wu

http://changeinplans2008.blogspot.com/2008/07/for-donald.html

Not sure why we only got one encore. I'm thinking it may have been the time factor. The Dan played for nearly 2 hours. Dunno, for sure, though.

I think it's clear that, while we didn't get the best show of the tour, we got a damn good show.

Date: Tues, July 15, 2008, 23:01:04 ET
Posted by: hoops, Texting the setlist to Girl Margaret

Love is Like an Itchin' in My Heart (Supremes)
Band Intros
Peg

Date: Tues, July 15, 2008, 22:54:56 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, On a Steely Dan 08 Concert high...

"Mme Erzulie, great link. I think the person who wrote that blog was the guy sitting in front of me in Canandaigua."

Dean... where is this link? I looked and couldnt find it. Maybe I just missed it...

So... any reason you think we only got one encore?

Date: Tues, July 15, 2008, 22:51:19 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, On a Steely Dan 08 Concert high...

Sorry Girl, I spelled your name wrong...

Date: Tues, July 15, 2008, 22:47:56 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, On a Steely Dan 08 Concert high...

Now Hoops is texting the setlist to Margret.

No other fan base has this kind of thing...

GOD!! I love this fucking place!!!!

Date: Tues, July 15, 2008, 22:47:49 ET
Posted by: hoops, Texting the setlist to Girl Margaret

Josie
Aja

Date: Tues, July 15, 2008, 22:38:28 ET
Posted by: hoops, Texting the setlist to Girl Margaret

Glam Prof
Parkers Band

Date: Tues, July 15, 2008, 22:25:09 ET
Posted by: hoops, Texting the setlist to Girl Margaret

New Frontier
Gaucho

Date: Tues, July 15, 2008, 22:13:25 ET
Posted by: hoops, Texting the setlist to Girl Margaret

Home at Last

Date: Tues, July 15, 2008, 22:05:03 ET
Posted by: hoops, Texting the setlist to Girl Margaret

Hey 19
Godwhacker

Date: Tues, July 15, 2008, 21:54:14 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

THE DEAN...welcome back.

No guitarist w/ SY in Atl.

Date: Tues, July 15, 2008, 21:51:50 ET
Posted by: hoops, Texting the setlist to Girl Margaret

2vN

Date: Tues, July 15, 2008, 21:48:06 ET
Posted by: hoops, Texting the setlist to Girl Margaret

Everything You Did

Date: Tues, July 15, 2008, 21:42:32 ET
Posted by: hoops, Texting the setlist to Girl Margaret

Sho biz kids

Date: Tues, July 15, 2008, 21:40:23 ET
Posted by: Provincial Reuben, Tall County AR

Any pre-show gathering for this Red Rocks gig? We're having some linking problems with Danfest page(s.)
In the last 15 yrs I've been fortunate to catch B&F couples of times. A constant thread has been 'Hey 19.' I've found that surprisingly enough, the vocalist has been consistantly late when he rejoins the song from what I like to call 'the travelogue' break. The girls are always coming in on top of him before he can finish asking, "What's the name of that tequila, girls?" Okay, so he nailed it that time I caught the 1st show of the tour. But anyway, has the new vocalist improved(?) the timing here? Was this really a noticeable phenomenon?

Date: Tues, July 15, 2008, 21:40:23 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Cortlandt Manor, NY

Hoops says no Catherine Russell and no afro wigs

Date: Tues, July 15, 2008, 21:35:23 ET
Posted by: hoops, Texting the setlist to Girl Margaret

I Got The News

Date: Tues, July 15, 2008, 21:32:01 ET
Posted by: hoops, Texting the setlist to Girl Margaret

WB in front of Freddie again

Date: Tues, July 15, 2008, 21:30:37 ET
Posted by: hoops, texting the setlist to Girl Margaret

Everyone's Gone to the Movies/The Fez/Royal Scam

Date: Tues, July 15, 2008, 20:47:38 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Back in St. Augustine Beach

Wu, glad to hear you liked it. I thought the sound was awesome.

Yes, there was some standing after every song, but I tried to mention when it was at least half of the audience. I may have missed a few songs, and I definitely forgot about the standing O when the Boys entered the stage. Thanks for covering!

Mme Erzulie, great link. I think the person who wrote that blog was the guy sitting in front of me in Canandaigua. :#)

I LOVED his/her list of songs:

"eg, My Old School, Hey 19, Cuervo Gold, FM, Aja, Hey It Will Come Back to You"

Priceless!

Date: Tues, July 15, 2008, 20:39:26 ET
Posted by: the bullgoose, sweet home bonalbo australia

Ahoy, Mer.

Yes, it's true. I do secretly write for Steely Dan: it's just that they don't know about it.
I have a long-term projects:
2. A tribute song called I Just Don Get It. Somewhere in the chorus it will go,

Why was that number too special to lose
and wasn't Bad Sneakers just about shoes?
I just Don get it
but I love that song

The phrase 'walter surprise!' will appear somewhere.

3. A version of Delilah in the style of the Dan. Wait. It's a sound idea. Delilah is such a cinematic, loser song. The line ' I saw the flickering shadows of love on her blind' is already Dan; there's already a key change...

Don't start me on religion/superstition/crystal healing and other such crying disgraces; I'll only start to twitchin'. I stopped to let some pilgims pass yesterday, but it was only the soothing groove of Countermoon on the CD player that held my foot off the accelerator.
My son asked me why I smiled and waved.

The overture medley of recent renown sounds like a damn good thang. Wish I could hear it.

Date: Tues, July 15, 2008, 20:33:00 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, On a Steely Dan 08 Concert high...

I remember a lot of Standing Os.

Everyone stood when Becker and Fagen walked on stage...

Everyone stood when Becker introduced Fagen and stood for the rest of the song...

Maybe it was just me, but I saw scattered Os throught almost every song. (I know I gave one after every song)

Date: Tues, July 15, 2008, 20:26:37 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, On a Steely Dan 08 Concert high...

Dean... yeah, I was there, greatest Dan show for me!!

Why do you think we only got one encore??

Date: Tues, July 15, 2008, 20:00:11 ET
Posted by: D, H

Thanks Dean, glad you had a great time. I really enjoyed the set list this year as well. Cheers.

Date: Tues, July 15, 2008, 19:54:11 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

Sorry about this very belated account of the show at the CMAC Center beautiful Canadaigua, NY. After the concert we headed immediately to a little town in Canada on the shores of Lake Erie. I have had no internet access, until now. The notes I took in the dark are hard to read, but I will do my best.

The weather was near-perfect, considering earlier in the day I was worried that we might be getting a thunderstorm in the evening.

I must admit, at first I was a little disappointed with the CMAC venue. Not that it was bad, mind you. But, several people had told me really great things about it, and I arrived to discover, what looked like a rather typical outdoor amphitheater concert hall. There seemed to be little to distinguish it, IMO. A little more on this later.

Anyway, that little "disappointment" did little to dull my high spirits. My physician and I entered CMAC with a lovely little glow on...not too blasted, but properly tinged. Just as we were getting to our seats, Sam Yahel was introduced (about 5 minutes before 8pm) and the fun started.

First things first, the Sam Yahel Trio was missing the guitar player. It was really the Sam Yahel Duo with Michael and Walt W sitting in. Was the guitar player at the other shows? (I don't remember anyone mentioning it, either way.) Anyway, Yahel was very good, but quite different than last year (without the horns, but with the guitar). The addition of the horns gave the band more energy, IMO, but also took some of the focus off Sam. The drummer was top-notch...I haven't seen a drummer ride the cymbols that well, in a while. Also, I should note that Michael Leonhart really shines in that small jazz setting. His performance with the opener foretold even bigger things later in the evening.

STEELY DAN

Intro Medley. (EGTTM and The Fez) All the great reviews from this tour did not prepare me for how wonderful the opening medley sounds. The arrangements of Everyone's Gone to the Movies and The Fez were simply out of this world. The sound was perfect from the start. (I could always use more volume, though.) The mix, throughout the show, was as good as I have heard in any concert. I should note that my seats were not as close as I originally was told, but they turned out to be an excellent location for sight-lines and sound. (Great solo by Keith)

Royal Scam. The Leonhart trumpet solo at the start of The Royal Scam, was as good as I have heard him play. I should just say now, that the trumpet isn't my favorite instrument. Michael L converted me last night, though. He seemed to have a higher profile this year, and his playing was up to the job, to be sure. Donald seemed to be in excellent voice. He actually sang some notes even higher than in the original recording, I believe. (Great solo by Jon and outro by Keith) Also note, Walt was to Don's right (as it appeared from the audience) instead of next to Jon. He would move around a little, during the concert.

I Got the News. Terrific version with great vocal arrangements. Very jazzy Becker solo.

Show Biz Kids. Outstanding intro. Another terrific arrangement. Walter wailing in the background. This is as good a time as any to note that virtually every song had some twist, in arrangement or vocals, whatever.

Everything You Did. Great reggae touch. Jon's guitar better than on the recording (Rick Derringer?).

Two Against Nature. This sure is a great live song. As great at KC is, it could use two drummers, though...or someone playing congas, or something. (Can't read my notes here)

Sitting in front of us, was a guy who proclaimed to be in the live music biz (ran some festivals, or something) and bragged that he was a BIG Steely Dan fan. During every song above, he turned around and asked me "What's the name of this song?"

Hey 19. Probably the best I have ever seen this done, live. It was a little different. Walter was strong on this one, as was Rosenberg. Abbreviated version of "the story", which was fine.

I tapped the guy in front of me on the shoulder and said "That was Hey 19". I crack me up.

Godwhacker. Don struggles a little with the high notes, here...but soldiers on. Otherwise the band sounds great. Walt W kills on a solo and Keith goes nuts.

Babylon Sisters. Shake it, indeed. Fucking brilliant. Standing O (about half the crowd).

New Frontier. Even better (well, certainly bigger) than with the Donald Fagen band. Herrington killed! The background display was a tad distracting here, as it had a man and a woman (with briefcases) marching, throughout the song.

Gaucho. Walter sings, so what's the verdict? Outstanding. He handles the verses very well, and the girls help out on the ends, and with the chorus. I don't think it would have sounded any better with Donald.

Black Friday. Jeff Young plays a nice organ while Walt and Jon go nuts.

Parker's Band. Absolute perfection, IMO. The only think I missed was "Through with Buzz" following this up.

Josie. Great intro by Donald, Walter was hot. One of the only sound issues was here, though. I thought I heard an odd crackling sound toward the end of the song.

Aja. Better than ever. KC was awesome and Walt was outstanding, as he was all night.

Love is Like an Itchin' In My Heart. Intros, and all that. We find out that Jim Pugh's fill-in on trombone is a guy named Nelson, I think. He did a fine job, in reserve.

Peg. Standing O (from most).

FM. Outstanding. Standing O (from all, I think).

ENCORE

Kid Charlemagne. Another small sound issue. Don's mic (or voice) went in and out, a little. Jon cranked, Keith went bonkers. For the record, there still seems to be gas in the car.

Last Tango

Overall impressions. Again, the venue was nothing special, except the sound was really fantastic right from the start (with the noted small issues). The band has never sounded better, IMO. I have had better experiences, as I was in the front, or second row. But, I can't say the band sounded better in past years.

The rearrangements all worked VERY well. There was nothing "boring" about this show, that's for sure.

The band seemed more guitar oriented (and less horn driven) this year. Walt's guitar was LOUD. We heard every note he played all night, even in the background. Jon was turned up louder than usual (although he still could be louder on solos, IMO) and did the best solos I have ever heard him do. He simply SMOKED all night.

While the horns weren't as prominent as usual, Michael L was fantastic all night. This was the best I have heard him, I believe. He was a real treat.

Unfortunately, I was unable to get a Steely Dan T-Shirt, this year, as they hid the merchandise table. It must have been WAY over to the other side from where we parked and sat. I walked to the concession side to get a beer and pee, but still didn't see the merchandise and was not about to miss any of the music. Too bad this place has everything so far to one side.

Overall, it was another terrific Dan show. I have yet to see a bad one.

Date: Tues, July 15, 2008, 17:33:00 ET
Posted by: ScottyA, C-Bus

I always wanted to see Phish cover AJA for Halloween with the Giant Country Horns

Date: Tues, July 15, 2008, 17:01:44 ET
Posted by: hoops, on the way to the danfest

The correct spelling of the name of tonight's pre-show Danfest is "Barro" It's at 73 E Lake St.

Some were confused because I was spelling it "Barrio" Sorry if that threw you.

It's the same place we had the March 2006 Danfest at before the DFB show.

The Chicago Theatre is on State Street but it also has an entrance at about 11 E Lake St.

So you can tell it's pretty close.

Jim

Date: Tues, July 15, 2008, 16:51:53 ET
Posted by: Humongous Fan,

DaddyG - Very well said. They keep getting better and better!

Date: Tues, July 15, 2008, 16:20:17 ET
Posted by: DaddyG, Cincinnati

Wanted to echo an earlier post regarding SD's relevance as live performers-and not merely as a 'nostalgia act'. While I'm no spring chicken (over 30)-I was never into The Dan in their heydey. My parents liked them-so I had some exposure, but I personally did not really get into them until I saw them live 2 summers ago (with Michael M.)

I went into the show expecting a little smugness and detachment from the crowd that jazz musicians sometimes exhibit. What I experienced was anything but. Their energy and showmanship was fantastic-they were extremely engaging. The crowd was also great-in that an entire row of people behind us 'made' us stand up and dance for the entire show. I've always been a Deadhead/Phishead-so I appreciate the live concert experience, and that show blew me away. I also realize that I cannot rightly be a fan of Trey Anastasio (formerly of Phish), without giving due respect to Becker's brand of ripping jazz-infused guitar work-the influence is apparent.

Since then, I've seen SD two more times, and both have been amazing as well. The other night in Cincy, 60-70% of the songs they did where ones I'd not seen in my other 2 shows. This fact speaks to the point that they really make a point of creating a memorable, unique show. If they keep up these standards-they will bestow themselves on an ever-increasing audience.

Date: Tues, July 15, 2008, 15:48:20 ET
Posted by: Matt, Chattanooga, TN

http://www.shacknews.com/onearticle.x/53595

Bodhisattva is confirmed on Rock Band II.

Date: Tues, July 15, 2008, 14:48:20 ET
Posted by: angel,

Isn't Dark Horse Dub just fabulous? So much going on in such a simple sounding song. I love it.

--

Carolyn and Wayne: Vaughn is just too precious.
Enjoy the ups and downs of raising a child. It is truly a life altering journey that is full of so much love.

Date: Tues, July 15, 2008, 13:59:38 ET
Posted by: rob, the netherlands/netherworld

Hey, it is my cd player now: international C$ (or better: C-euro). I love the trombone playing by Jim Pugh and the sax and clarinet by Roger Rosenberg on "Dark Horse Dub" (the extra track). No Steely Dan shows in Europe this year (?), but we got the extra track first ;-)

Date: Tues, July 15, 2008, 13:50:04 ET
Posted by: Jack, Chicago

I have a few spare tix at face value for tonight's show for any true fans out there. You may call me at (773)405-3655 up till show time.

Date: Tues, July 15, 2008, 12:57:28 ET
Posted by: El Sup, Louisville, KY

Great show in Cincy. Good time hanging out with the 20-30 fans at Lebo's.

I loved Walter's Hey 19 comment:

"You know what they say about Tequila shots - one's not enough and seventeen's too many."

No luck on the international C$ yesterday. Hopefully it will show up today.

El Sup

Date: Tues, July 15, 2008, 12:25:18 ET
Posted by: Dave,

Gina - What happens when little Vaughn changes and grows? Will everybody know?

Date: Tues, July 15, 2008, 11:54:33 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

Hoops, et al:

Hope all you Chicago DanFans have an incredible wing-ding tonight !!
Sure wish I could be there !!

Date: Tues, July 15, 2008, 09:59:51 ET
Posted by: Chiprdr, Cuyahoga Falls

I remember the Columbus show, It was a downpour! At the Cincy show at the end I went up to the stage. At the front of Donald's Fender Rhodes was a painting. It was a picture of some muscians sitting around a circle. Someone said it might be Charlie Mingus, anyone know?

Peace,

Chip

Date: Tues, July 15, 2008, 09:13:40 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Dave,

They're the opening acts and play for 30-45 minutes.

Date: Tues, July 15, 2008, 09:02:12 ET
Posted by: Web Search, my IP address

Walter is the "less edgy member of Steely Dan"?. This guy obviously knows D & W's solo catalog well.

http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/music/reviews/album-walter-becker-circus-money-sonic-360-866240.html

Date: Tues, July 15, 2008, 02:24:21 ET
Posted by: Chi-town Dan Fan, Chicago

Here's an email I received from the Chicago Theatre re tonight's show:

PRESHOW DETAILS

Steely Dan
The Chicago Theatre • Tuesday, July 15

Thank you for purchasing tickets to Steely Dan at The Chicago Theatre! We have included information about the show, nearby restaurants and directions for your convenience. Enjoy the show!

Doors to the Theatre open at 6:30PM, and Joey DeFrancesco will start the show at approximately 7:30PM*. After a short intermission, Steely Dan will take the stage. As always, we suggest that you arrive early and travel lightly.
*All talent and show times are subject to change.

So psyched - I can't wait!

Date: Tues, July 15, 2008, 00:31:22 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

****SPOILER ALERT****
If you would like to see
the new pic of Wally, it
can be seen here:
http://pergunnareriksson.se/wbcdjmfr.htm

I think it's great that
I got my copy on the original
release day, the same day
that our friends in "Andersonville
East" got their copy!

Are you two coming stateside for
a show this year?

Date: Tues, July 15, 2008, 00:03:45 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Um, that would be "bass".
Sorry for the clerical.

Date: Mon, July 14, 2008, 23:46:46 ET
Posted by: Luker Ray, Malibu - Still On The Veranda

For those of you kicking
yourselves because you never
tracked down a proper copy
of the Japanese version of
11TOW with "Medical Science",
DO NOT MAKE THE SAME MISTAKE TWICE!
DHD IS A MUST HAVE. The lowly
iTunes MP3 is not even close
to the true sonic magic. Turns
out Walt just plays just base on
the track. It's Jon & Dean
Parks on the "Guitar Mayhem"!
Carlock, Ted and it's Pugh
and yet again the under-rated
Rosenberg on the "Flute Mayhem".
Still wondering if "The Happy Song"
will ever see the light of day.
And it's new mommy Carolyn carrying
the vocals on DHD. Unless of course
there has been another misprint ;O)

Have a blast in my hometown tomorrow
night all. Wish I could join you.
The majestic Chicago Theatre is
everything the Beacon wishes it was.
Just remember while you are watching
the magic tomorrow night, this is the
place where the original Rat Pack
played for the last time together.

Chalk Miller was alone
He was alone he was alone he was alone

Jimmy Fish was a man
Another man another man another man

Nothing short of a miracle
Run like a bastard
Dark horse run

Chalk Miller throws down
He throws down he throws down he throws down

Date: Mon, July 14, 2008, 23:35:13 ET
Posted by: Raven, laptop treetop

Public Health creep: God you're a social bore. ravin'

Date: Mon, July 14, 2008, 23:30:50 ET
Posted by: dave, L.A.

Are the 'special guests' listed on the tour dates opening acts or part of the S.D. show ?

Date: Mon, July 14, 2008, 23:12:02 ET
Posted by: Provincial Health Department, Donalds Voice

Could it be because Donald was smoking again in recent years, and may have quit again? That would be worth half an octave at least, and a whole lot of control and power across the board...

Date: Mon, July 14, 2008, 23:10:28 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Holy F*CK! Went to the
mailbox and my 360 copy
of C$ is HERE!!!!
The new insert is amazing!
Contains the story of
of Our Cast of Characters
and "Dark Horse Dub"! The
flip side is simply the
greatest shot of Wally EVER.
I guess he's telling us,
"Yes, the plumbing still works".
More in a bit, the veranda
awaits.

Date: Mon, July 14, 2008, 23:07:19 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

I totally agree that Donald's voice is better than it's been in a long, long time. Go figure!

Date: Mon, July 14, 2008, 22:05:17 ET
Posted by: Jive Miguel, Bogata (Bethesda, MD)

Agreed, Dan. For all the magnificent musicianship, tight, complex arrangements and lush sound, for me, as Fagen's pipe go, so goes Steely Dan. He's found his second wind, and I believe that the Think Fast Orchestra absolutely feeds off Donald's energy. I've seen them in '94, 2K, '03, '06, and 6/13/08 at the Beacon, and as great as SD is, this iteration of SD swings like none of its predecessors.

I've also noticed that SD is attracting a whole new, young generation of admirers, because their music is fresh, intelligent, and highly RELEVANT on today's scene. Just do a google search for both the professional reviews and the young bloggers who express both surprise and pleasure of how tight and soulful the sound is. Many seem very pleasantly surprised, as though they were expecting some over-the-hill geezers awkwardly grinding through their "greatest pop hits".

Date: Mon, July 14, 2008, 21:36:54 ET
Posted by: Dan Belcher, Louisville, KY

I agree. I said in another post that Donald's voice is the best it's been in 15 years. His range is much, much better than in the past few tours, but also the tone of his voice is much fuller, smoother, and richer. He sounded *amazing* on The Royal Scam last night!

Date: Mon, July 14, 2008, 20:57:42 ET
Posted by: Jive Miguel, Bogata

Hoops,

Yes, Gaucho does evoke the bario, although I admittedly have never seen a guy in elevator shoes and spangled leather poncho in the bario.

I was cruising around Live 365 internet radio, and ran across Radio Dandom. Are you our host? Mighty fine song selections!

Is it just me, or has anyone else observed that DF's voice is stronger than it has been in many years? The contrast between Don's pipes on the 2vN tour in 2K and "Plush" DVD, and what I heard at the Beacon and have seen/heard on YouTube clips is striking. Case in point, Don did not attempt the high note on Black Friday "I'll collect everything I'm owed" in 2K, but attacks it with ease on this tour.

Thoughts?

Date: Mon, July 14, 2008, 18:38:40 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Doesn't the Barrio evoke images of "Gaucho"?

Date: Mon, July 14, 2008, 18:35:55 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Hi Gang

Here's the final game plan for our casual Danfest tomorrow night. We'll plan something else for Saturday, August 16 when more people can make it.

Let's all start converging on the Barrio after work (after 5 pm is fine).

The Chicago Theatre is at Lake Street and State Street, facing State.

The Barrio is a 3 minute walk east of the Chicago Theatre on Lake Street, just across Wabash, before you get to Michigan Ave.

If for some reason there a problem with The Barrio, we will meet at Old Timers which is a couple of doors down from the Barrio on Lake Street.

The Barrio is Mexican restaurant with a bar as well.

Old Timers is a Chicago-style, authentic bar (read not a theme restaurant).

======

After the show, let's meet on State Street between the State Lake Street L station and the Chicago Theatre Marquee. (It's a distance of about 100 feet so we won't have a hard time finding ech other). From there we can decide where to have a post-show discussion. Maybe a hotel lobby a block away.

======

Especially if you are out of town and if you need a phone contact for travel, etc please email me back and I will give you my cell number. I can advise on transport from the airports, etc.

I will check email again tonight around 10:30 pm local time and again in the morning continuously.

Looking forward to it.

Jim
hoopsATdandomDOTcom

Date: Mon, July 14, 2008, 18:17:30 ET
Posted by: Pretzelogc,

It was Donald on Godwacker, but the way. haha

Date: Mon, July 14, 2008, 16:48:39 ET
Posted by: Pretzelogc,

Yes, my senior moment: meant Gaucho. Thanks! Walter was awesome on Godwhacker! ...as expected!

Date: Mon, July 14, 2008, 16:41:34 ET
Posted by: David P, SoFla

Bodhisattva on Rock Band 2:

http://kotaku.com/5025004/breaking-official-rock-band-2-tracklist-revealed

Date: Mon, July 14, 2008, 16:28:53 ET
Posted by: Dan Belcher, Louisville, KY

Walter sang on Gaucho, not Glamour Profession. And some people like Walt's voice, some hate it. I personally like it and thought he did a great job. Well, except for getting the lyrics wrong in the second prechorus.

Lead guitar mixing sounded fine to me -- Herington was plenty loud enough. The only mixing problems I heard really were the bass seemed a bit too loud in the first song or so and Donald's mic was switched off for a couple seconds at the beginning of Hey 19.

Date: Mon, July 14, 2008, 16:10:49 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

Pretzlogc:
Walter sang Glamour Profession last night????? Don't remember seeing that mentioned for any other shows so far. Wow......

Date: Mon, July 14, 2008, 16:05:00 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

What a beautiful baby boy for Carolyn and Wayne !!! Someone should send them a tiny Steely Dan t-shirt.
Welcome to the world of Steely Dan, Vaughn :-)

Date: Mon, July 14, 2008, 15:56:32 ET
Posted by: Pretzelogc,

After prime rib at Lebo's and no sign of a Steely Dan T shirt, we pass the paddle-boaters at Coney Island thinking that would make a grand vantage point for hearing the concert without being bothered by *unworthy* concert attendees. The tempting thought fleets in the excitement of spying the new venue. Eight years ago, we saw the Dan at Riverbend, just hours after becoming engaged, so we were waxing wistful...

The first time I saw the boys was in Columbus, on the lawn, in a downpour that made it difficult to sit on the hill without being washed away. Truly. The lightning was enough to call off the show, however, the showbiz kids played on, and we all were well-fed Cornelius and others and made it out alive. After a divorce later that year, it was amusing to see my ex-husband and I as the only two people pictured on the front of the "It's Alive!" album. Though no thunder and crackles from lightning could be heard on the perfected CD, the cover photo served as a great reminder of the fear of that night...

No fear last night in Cindy as the weather was perfect, and not a bug to be seen. We joined the stream of geezers strolling toward the new venue. I can't get over how old we all are considering we're so fine, so young. I had been nearly nineteen and knew Aretha Franklin when the boys recorded that song, but for now, the crowd is time out of mind.

Right on time, the music began. It put a thrill in the pre-game show to hear a few measures of "King of the World" played by the worst opening act I've ever had to sit through. Actually, I couldn't sit through it all; it was that annoying to those of us who are not talented enough to appreciate their genre. Three songs in twenty-five minutes of repeated flying fingers was much like watching five-year-old ballerinas dance with all their hearts the same twirls over and over. It is only endearing to their beloved.

Finally with twelve precision performers on stage, THE BEST SET AND LIGHTING OF ANY PERFORMANCE BY ANYONE EVER, cleanest venue, and a great setlist; it was an awesome night, indeed! Praise God through Jesus we did not have to suffer "Cousin Dupree"! May God's grace and mercy continue to bless you all in shows to come!

The sound was troublesome with Donald's mike late coming in, lead guitar low notes also unheard, major adjustments to the lead guitar to begin ever song left me so grateful this was not my first time. Just as well they did not play "Don't Take Me Alive" as there was no way the sound would have been there for Carlton's creation. It would have been just as devastating had they played "King of the World" as the sound difficulties would have erased the incredible guitar that envelopes that composition. I guess that was the comfort of not hearing my favorites, "Dr Wu", "Reelin' in the Years", "Do It Again", "Deacon Blues", "Bad Sneakers" and "Teahouse on the Tracks".

Some of the horn arrangements were as painful as the opening act. However, *Lost Wages* paid out the biggest of all the show with its new dealer. Good to see Walter directing intricate arrangements at times, but did not enjoy his voice on "Glamour Profession". Did he sound like David Bowie to anyone else? It was a clownish surprise to hear it.

The Supremes' costumes enhanced the set lighting tremendously, with the fro hair, psychedelic wallpaper with "Kid C" for encore; it was far-out man! I was so ready for a "Brain Tap Shuffle" sung by Walter with the gals choreographical invention of the dance settling the issue for me. Same goes for "Mock Turtle Song" Will you won't you will you won't you won't you let me join the dance?

I also long for Becker and Fagan to "take the top down" for a low ride medley of "You Go Where I Go", "Stone Piano", and "Sign in Stranger" with Phoebe Snow joining in on "Take it Out on Me". Yeah, I'm just a Hoosier gal dreaming...call me a *born again Zombie*.

The Charlie Parker tribute was just bringing a tear to my eyes when the *unworthy* tugged at my capris and sluggishly asked, "What song is that?" She turned to pass the info to the others in her party. Then she asks, "Did they ever record this?" Again, she delivers the info with the next question of "what album?" How late are the paddle boats available?

Date: Mon, July 14, 2008, 14:25:20 ET
Posted by: W1P, Boston

Mike Keneally blogs about his tour as Dethklok. More than a dozen paragraphs in he discusses the recent Dan show in Boston. He heaps praise on Herrington establishing forever what you all already knew -- when it comes to music, I have no idea what I'm talking about:

http://blog.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendID=9071693&blogID=414529773&Mytoken=A46BB860-8A4A-40BD-AF731E4D6E38EAF5139690126

Date: Mon, July 14, 2008, 13:37:06 ET
Posted by: Manners Police, keyboard

And Wayne...

Date: Mon, July 14, 2008, 13:34:38 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, On a Steely Dan 08 Concert high...

AWWWWW!!!!!!!! HOW CUTE!!!

Congratulations Carolyn!!!!!

Date: Mon, July 14, 2008, 12:13:19 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, @work

I am hoping that they switch up the encore tomorrow and play Pretzel Logic, which I have not seen them play yet, out of 17 shows.

I am going to be getting in to Chitown late but hope to bump into some of you fine folks there.

KC

Date: Mon, July 14, 2008, 11:49:02 ET
Posted by: Gina/Mizar5, Sun Mountain

http://www.writingaffairs.com/mizar5net/

Mizar5 is back online and our first post is to celebrate some good news. Carolyn Leonhart-Escoffery and her husband Wayne Escoffery are the proud parents of Vaughn Jalen Escoffery who, barely 7 days old, is already working out some licks on electric bass...

(click link above for pictire of baby Vaughn, used with permission of the parents)

congratulations, Carolyn and Wayne :-)

Date: Mon, July 14, 2008, 11:43:53 ET
Posted by: gh, north side

Anybody meeting before the Chicago show please let me know.

Date: Mon, July 14, 2008, 09:39:01 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, On a Steely Dan 08 Concert high...

Poopy.... why did they drop Glam Prof. for the Canadagua show?? I love that song!! Oh well, still the best Dan show ever!!

Date: Mon, July 14, 2008, 07:33:52 ET
Posted by: Mer., Boston

"mumbling monk in a party hat" (Bullgoose)--- OMG-what a great way to start off work on a Monday!!! Bullgoose- you crack me up.. I think this actually sounds like good character fodder for the next SD album.
Maybe the Bullgoose secretly writes for SD......

Date: Mon, July 14, 2008, 01:03:56 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Told you Herington was cool...

Date: Mon, July 14, 2008, 00:54:27 ET
Posted by: Dan Belcher, Louisville, KY

Just walked in the door from the Cincinnati show. I think to sum it up best, I will quote from the lady who sat behind me: "FUCKING AWESOME!!"

This was my 5th Steely Dan concert, and *by far* the best I've seen. (And probably better than any bootleg I've heard either from other shows!) The band was absolutely on fire tonight. Fagen's voice sounded the best it's been in 15 years. Throw in an excellent setlist and a pretty nice venue with good acoustics and you have one hell of a show. I kinda had the same feeling on the drive home that I used to have after a night of passionate lovemaking with my ex-girlfriend. Not exactly, but close...

I got to the Danfest at Lebo's kinda late, but it was nice catching up with Mike (El Supremo), Tom (Soulmonkey) and others.

Date: Mon, July 14, 2008, 00:02:35 ET
Posted by: the bullgoose, sweet home bonalbo australia

Ahoy, all you statesiders enjoying the tour. Spare a thought for the aussie fans.
You got the Dan: this week we got the friggin' pope. That's correct. Pope Down Under 08 tour. Sydney has blocked traffic in all directions for a mumbling monk in a party hat, 250000 'pilgrims' and a phalanx of sin bosuns and zealots jacked up on altar wine and taxpayer funding. Circus money for the early medieval show. That's an ocean full of midnight right there. Send the Godwhacker pronto.

Greetings to the seldom-spotted Doc Kelly.

Date: Mon, July 14, 2008, 00:01:28 ET
Posted by: Chiprdr, Cincinnati

One of the best shows I've ever been to Set list

opening, instrumental everyones gone to the movies/the fez/TheRoyal Scam, enter the Boys always dramatic a standing ovation
I got the news
Show Biz Kids
Everything You did
2vn
Hey nineteen
Godwhacker
Babylon Sister
New Frontier
Gaucho
Glamour Profession
Parkers Band
Aja
Supremes cover
Peg

Encore
FM
Kid Charlemange

Outstanding mix of songs especially Show Bis funked up jazz version.

I got to the venue early. Up walks John Herrington. He says we are gonna play a great show for you tonight. I must say a very friendly man I felt like I was talking to my neighbor. He introduced Nelson Tombone player, Fill in for Jim Pugh?

Michael Leonhart and Walt Weiskopp Played with the Organ trio in the opening. Only 2 singers. Cindy and Ms Agee who is quite beautiful. The crowd was really into it. 2 hours of playing without an intermission!

Peace,

Chip

PS to my new friends from Kentucky see you at the next show

Date: Sun, July 13, 2008, 23:51:03 ET
Posted by: Woodman, Bytown

Those that know me, here and elsewhere, understand how much I appreciate your feedback on my comments of SD’s recent shows. Subsequently, it is comforting to accept further apropos on the elegancy of my prose. Mrs. Stanton’s Grade 3 English wasn’t a total waste of 5 years.

Humbly, the effort I undertook to express what I perceived as magical, presented here, and then read the reaction was personally, rewarding. At the very minimum, it was an affirmation of my perspective on the shows. It’s nice to know that if you are, as expected; slipping into insanity - you are not alone.

My recent post was my attempt to state that free speech, ESPECIALLY here in the blue, can only be accepted with the respect it deserves, if we respect the ethical boundaries free speech has earned. At this point, I apologize for I cannot get anymore mature then that.

Dr. Wu is, with all due respect, a masterpiece amongst masterpieces Walter and Donald have recorded. I am neither with the knowledge nor do I understand why they do not play it live. Yet what I can say is, if we are continuously discussing this to the point that all that is left on the meat is bone – we have resorted to the most primal aspect of ANY subject, resulting in a contradiction of the original objective. And their ain’t no respect there.

To segregate Wu (no, not you Wu – the SONG Wu) as a masterpiece not played, only desecrates the others that have yet to grace us in a concert hall. I can understand opinions and disappointments. Agree? Nah – not so much. But understand (the 20-something disc jockey of aforementioned Chez 106 was disappointed of the show the lads did at the Bluesfest. Apparently he was dying to hear Reeling In the Years and Rikki. Because of their absence he described it as a lousy show. After his tirade the station played an Ozzy song.) Wu is not the pinnacle of songs, because quite simply, we have to admit, we are the spoiled child in this here relationship. Should the clouds part, and the Almighty one (who mysteriously resembles the actual Monty Python caricature in the Holy Grail) bless those that are a fortunate to witness it live, bathe in its elegance – immediately afterwards will only want another masterpiece not yet played.

What Wu is all about - I don't care - as in I don't care what Hey Jude is about - it's a freakin masterpiece!

We just don’t have to be so bitchy about it because after all, this isn’t such a bad feeling to have. After Wu - what's next?

In my world the blue is NEVER bad.

Date: Sun, July 13, 2008, 23:40:00 ET
Posted by: Peg, Cincinnati

Oh wowsers as they used to say. It was one beyond-awesome show tonight in Cincinnati at the new National City Pavilion.
I saw them in 01 (Riverbend Cincinnati) and met with the local Dan fans prior to that show. Then saw them in 03 (Columbus, OH because I won the ticket from ya all on this site) and this was even so much better. Better song arrangements, snappier and more into-it musicians...and the crowd was way more into it than at the shows in those bigger venues. "What a night!" Fagen said, and that summed it up.
I wish I could remember the order of all the songs, but they did the usual medley opening, and the ones that have been listed on other spoiler lists. But they also did Glamour Profession -- yeah.
Unlike what I've read in other places on other sites, I didn't think Walter doing Gaucho was in the least bit bad. He did a great job. And he was on fire, guitar-playing-wise.
Well it's been about five years since I posted here so I doubt anybody but Hoopsie might remember me. But I'll close by saying howdee to those who do. (Hoopsie, would you believe since I last posting here I've had a Latin band, spent 3 years in an indie rock band, and finally now I'm in a jazz band. Finally. And we're doing songs I wrote!)
Throw out the hardware,
Peg

Date: Sun, July 13, 2008, 20:35:13 ET
Posted by: A Singapore Sling, on me, (no flaming arrows),

Woodman

I think you have been a good writer, you wrote some excellent shit about the recent Canadian shows.

Now, what do YOU intellectually surmise about the meaning of Dr. Wu? Anything to add to the insightful, profound thread of analysis which seems to have stalled?

The Blue may not be AAAAALL good, but it ain't all baaaadd either....

Date: Sun, July 13, 2008, 19:59:48 ET
Posted by: Ann, Borneo

My clit is wholly jammed. Maybe a rwisted dan song about it?

Peace to all!

Ann

Date: Sun, July 13, 2008, 16:52:22 ET
Posted by: Chiprdr, Cuyahoga Falls

Here I am sitting in my room, hours away from the show was going to ride but the weatherchanel said 80% chance of rain in cincy brought my car its 82 and sunshine. Will post set list a soon as I can but I know there are a ton of Dan fans here. Looking forward to seeing everyone tonight anxious to see what kind of crowd is here in Cincy, they are always rocking in C-town

Regards,

Chip

Date: Sun, July 13, 2008, 16:38:56 ET
Posted by: Achmed , 72 Virgin Lane

SILENCE!!! I KILL You!!

Date: Sun, July 13, 2008, 15:59:52 ET
Posted by: Woodman, ....next on Dr.Phil - the Bluebook

Happy Birthday G-M and Geoff.

I consider myself a "sleeper" bluebook post-er. I regularly visit this site to read what is going on with the band, and with the "regulars" who post here. With the exception of my recent posts from this tour, I am quite content in playing the role of bystander.

Before the blue, the only occasion where I could hold an intelligent conversation about the band and their music was with friends and peers who shared a love of SD. I did develop a sense of commraderie towards my fellow SD fans that, to the outsider appeared rather snobbish. This attitude was extremely aggitating because any isolation wasn't aimed at the non-SD fans, and often would be misinterpretted as such, conclusively there was no malicious intent. The intellectual conversations were that, only because the conversations were about intellectual music. This experience, was replicated here and I appreciated my membership in this little oasis of ours.

The one SD oasis I have desired to escape to, has become polluted with graffitti that betrays the very nature of what I thought an SD fan is - intellectual conversation about intellectual music.

Lately, the comments of some have been quite troubling in their maliciousness. So Dr. Wu is not everyone's favourite song, or is not missed on their setlists. The opportunity to exercise one's free speech here, in an attempt to hurt, displays the lack of maturity of the individual. Regarding Rajah - like most - I only know this individual from the blue, and probably would not even know if I bumped into him on the street (maybe the sunglasses and trenchcoat might give it away eh Raj?). However, I do know that I view his posts with a sense of commraderie that is generally reserved for respected friends. Due to this, I am disgusted with some that feel their opportunity for free speech is a ticket to express whatever ignorant opinion/statement that pops into their nut. Furthermore, these compulsions have convinced these individuals that the rest of us actually regard these posts as entertaining or enlightening. This display proves the level of ignorance that has seeped beyond ethical boundaries. 2VN or EMG? Everyone has an opinion - no need to hurl hurtful jabs on the basis that someone doesn't agree.

I realize there will be a temptation to strike back at me for what I am about to say; so be it. Let the slings and arrows commence.

Date: Sun, July 13, 2008, 14:05:21 ET
Posted by: Woodman, Ottawa

Date: Sun, July 13, 2008, 13:18:54 ET
Posted by: Soul Monkey , Louisville, Ky

We're about to hit the road for the show tonight in Cincinnati. We'll see you assclowns at Lebo's. Be safe.

Date: Sun, July 13, 2008, 12:29:10 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Honestly, it took me some time to love and appreciate 2vN whereas I loved EMG right away. Of course they are both amazing! Just thought I'd add my 2 cents here.

Date: Sun, July 13, 2008, 12:08:18 ET
Posted by: Larry,

Newark - For me EMG always has/does surpasses TvN.

Date: Sun, July 13, 2008, 11:27:21 ET
Posted by: Newark, on the tracks

Dear It's Me:

Why not jack yourself off with a Garfield puppet or find something new to do while you are biding your time?

Nwk

Too bad you missed EMG album. Sometimes for me EMG surpasses TvN.

Date: Sun, July 13, 2008, 03:10:50 ET
Posted by: It's me, hey

I would prefer Dr Wu to anything on EMG, but Donald has the final say. He's running the show, pretty much.

I'm just biding my time until there's word on a new SD album (or solo Donald).

Date: Sun, July 13, 2008, 01:08:21 ET
Posted by: so, the . . . .

so the masochist says to the sadist -- HIT ME, HIT ME, HIT ME !

and the sadists says . . . . . . . . . . . . . No.

hahahahahahhahahahahahahahahahahahahhahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahhahahahahahahahaha!!!!!!!!!!!

Date: Sat, July 12, 2008, 22:06:31 ET
Posted by: C Squared, Cinci bound

See my fellow fans at the Cincinnati show tomorrow night.
I'm really excited about the set list this year.

I'm lovin C$!

My ranking today:

Downtown Canon
God's Eye View
Selfish Gene
Three Picture Deal
Do You RTN
Bob
PA...

Here's how I contrast the relationships described in Don's solo work versus Walter's:

Donald's romances are doomed
Walter's romances are damned

WB's still got his sardonic edge. I'm so glad!

CC

Date: Sat, July 12, 2008, 21:23:02 ET
Posted by: Gretchen, on the deck

Happy Birthday to both Girl Margaret and Geoff.....hope it has been fabulous and delicious!

G

Date: Sat, July 12, 2008, 21:09:59 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, On a Steely Dan 08 Concert high...

Happy birthday Girl Margaret, hope it's been great so far!!

Where is the Dean?? I want to know what he thought of the show last night. I thought it was simply the best I have ever seen for a Dan show...
The only downside was that we only got one encore...anyone know why? I think Fagen's voice was getting a little strained at the end, but he stil sounded great.

The Constellation PAC is very nice. One of the nicest venues I have ever been to.

I still cannot believe that Steely Dan is acutally using lights and graphics and special effects. Amazing!!! A great spectical!

Keith is probably the best drummer alive today...just jaw dropping. No one else can do Aja like he does.

Girl... were you at the show last night?? (Thanks for the show info BTW)

I got lucky with parking. We parked in this one woman's driveway for 5 bucks and then just rolled off onto the road. No traffic at all.

Great night! I'm going to try to see them again really soon.

Date: Sat, July 12, 2008, 19:40:55 ET
Posted by: prez logic, Woogo/Room 620

Ditto on the Happy Birthday wishes to Geoff and Girl Margaret...

Date: Sat, July 12, 2008, 19:24:35 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Cortlandt Manor, NY

Geoff - Happy birthday to you, too, my friend! I left you a voicemail somewhere today. I've had fond memories of Dallas '06 on my mind all day :)

Date: Sat, July 12, 2008, 19:14:05 ET
Posted by: Geoff, Wiggy Pad

Margaret - HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

LWO - oh yes that "You walked in..." line, one the finest ever

Date: Sat, July 12, 2008, 16:35:15 ET
Posted by: They said you, must be joking son

set the record - You really need to get out more.

Date: Sat, July 12, 2008, 16:28:15 ET
Posted by: Lonnie THE Kingpin, Lexington Ave.

Angel ~~

My thoughts exactly on Katy Lied and The Royal Scam. You are right on point. Great comments all around!!!

Lonnie

Date: Sat, July 12, 2008, 15:59:49 ET
Posted by: suedave, circus money train

Happy Birthday Geoff & Margaret!!!

I hope you get more than you need and more than you deserve

Angel I fully agree with your comments about the bosendorfer - it is luscious and sets the sound apart on Katy Lied from all the rest of the albums, and is probably the reason why Katy Lied always ranks in the top three SD albums for me.

Date: Sat, July 12, 2008, 15:10:21 ET
Posted by: set the record, straight

showbiz kids are better than steely dan and steely damned combined!

sorry bout the slight to jon. if you say he's cool - he's cool.

fasting (no, hotshot. not fisting) is the real deal:

http://www.menshealth.com/bestfoods/food_features/The_Worlds_Most_Effective_Diet2.php

Date: Sat, July 12, 2008, 14:34:39 ET
Posted by: angel, Sorry, angel, I get hungry, like a child

One last time to try to get across why I love Dr. Wu and why Katy Lied is probably my second favorite album after The Royal Scam. It's the bosendorfer piano playing so prominently on the tracks. It brings a beauty and atmosphere that you don't have on the others. Whereas The Royal Scam is obviously a guitar album, this one is more piano.
Add to the Dr. Wu track the way Donald sang the vocals and it stands out for me. I have been known to play it over and over and over and I have, in all that time, never tired of it. Great track.

Donald doesn't want to play it, that's just fine with me. I've moved on.

Date: Sat, July 12, 2008, 14:27:44 ET
Posted by: Waiting on the Dub,

Just checking to see if anyone who ordered the sonic360 version of C$ got it early or has a shipment confirmation E-mail. I was hoping to see it in the mailbox today. Hopefully it will be there Monday.

Date: Sat, July 12, 2008, 14:25:26 ET
Posted by: without a dime, Rochester

Since I have not seen it posted yet this is my best recollection of last night:
7/11/08. CMAC, Canandaigua, NY
EG2TM/FEZ/SCAM
The Royal Scam
I got the News
Shobiz Kids
Everything You Did
2vN
Hey 19
Godwacker
Babylon Sisters
New Frontier
Gaucho
Parker's Band
Josie
Black Friday
Aja
Love is like an itchin in my heart
Peg
FM
Encore: Kid C

Date: Sat, July 12, 2008, 13:40:16 ET
Posted by: Jammin Joe, Hollywood, CA

Lars- I was not pointing directly to you about "Wu". I was making a comment more in the general sense- I respect your opinion on the song.

But after reading some of these comments on this board - and all the talk of wishing they would play it- you would get the impression that "wu" was the "holy grail". I feel it is a good song- one of their best- I feel that is a matter of opinion.

I am more of a fan of the "later stuff"- Scam-Aja-Gaucho. My tastes are more like Josie, Glamour profession, Time out of Mind, Black Cow, Royal Scam, etc.

When it comes down to it- there are not really any "bad" Dan songs- some are just "better" than others.

Date: Sat, July 12, 2008, 13:27:14 ET
Posted by: Pretzelogc,

I have been out of Hoop's loop for a few years...
Where is the danfest in Cincy Sunday night?

Date: Sat, July 12, 2008, 13:23:39 ET
Posted by: Lars,

Jammin Joe - I never said that I was WAS obsessed with Dr. Wu. But to say it's not one of their greatest songs is just wrong.

Date: Sat, July 12, 2008, 12:59:02 ET
Posted by: Jammin Joe, Hollywood,CA

At least I am not the only one here who is NOT obsessed with Dr. Wu. I passed the old ABC building at 8255 Beverly Blvd. last night- the one where Katy Lied was recorded. No sign that almost 35 years ago there was great music being recorded there.

I was thinking about the Katy Lied record as I drove down Beverly. Rose darling was standing out in my head, as well as Black Friday. I have seen Black Friday many times live, and would love to see Rose Darling played live- too bad we did not get that when Mike McD was touring with them.

Katy lied represented the "new" phase in their history. The first record recorded after the decision to stop touring, and the infamous experiment with the "magnaplaner" speakers. I think the whole thing was quite a learning experience for them.

At this point even though I have a few songs I would like them to play- I respect their decisions to play what they like. I would not be surprised to hear someone yell "freebird" at this point!

Date: Sat, July 12, 2008, 09:32:18 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Happy Birthday Girl Margaret! So, how many shows have you been to so far? Can't think of a better birthday present!

Date: Sat, July 12, 2008, 09:28:45 ET
Posted by: D, H

Happy birthday Margaret & Geoff!

Date: Sat, July 12, 2008, 09:24:46 ET
Posted by: Fife, Florida,eh

I met Jon Herrington a couple of times now. A really sweet and humble guy just as Janie mentioned, I didn't get an ounce of attitude but a lot of gratitude and the boy can sure play the guitar!

Date: Sat, July 12, 2008, 09:21:54 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Mme Erzulie,

Just proves that I'm not the only woman who was completely and totally heartbroken when Donald got married!!

Date: Sat, July 12, 2008, 09:18:23 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

u missed,

Jon Herington is the nicest, most humble guy. Sorry, but no NYC 'tude from him just lots and lots of talent.

Date: Sat, July 12, 2008, 08:41:10 ET
Posted by: Mme Erzulie, Hey, It will come back to you???

http://changeinplans2008.blogspot.com/2008/07/for-donald.html

Some things don't make sense.

Date: Sat, July 12, 2008, 07:48:37 ET
Posted by: SteelyDanaa,

WAKE UP, DEAN ( not at the Manatee Bar last night, we hope)....
We're all waiting for your set list and comments from last night's show !!!!! Hope it was awesome......

Date: Sat, July 12, 2008, 02:59:33 ET
Posted by: dianeDianeDIANE, seattle

thank you fife, girl margaret & denise. any counsel
on sizes? what sized woman would wear a small sized
t-shirt, i mean.

Date: Sat, July 12, 2008, 01:24:00 ET
Posted by: u misssed, out

you little pretty ones missed out on a damn good thing tonight.

showbiz kids kicked arse in CT. just sorry i had to leave early as im actually meeting a janie across sate lines - early.

i'll take the 300d - its nice inside!

who sat in an played exquisite solos? donald's own homie - gary blue.

THEY NAILED WU.

they play cousin great - and i hate that song.

AND, are you ready for this: i prefer their guitar player to mr. harington - mr devito. same great command, better sound, fat licks and no nyc 'tude.

make plans to dig em sept 3 at bb kings in nyc!!!!

Date: Sat, July 12, 2008, 01:23:31 ET
Posted by: Dr.No, over THERE

Anyone dwelling on this Dr. Wu please call Dr. Phil.
It is getting obsessive, which is why Fagen doesn't visit fansites.
I like Wu, but it's so 70's.
would take any EMG live instead.

Date: Sat, July 12, 2008, 01:22:52 ET
Posted by: Big Fan, on tequila, two tequila, theee tequila, floor

Happy Birthday Margaret - good to see you tonight. I think this link answers all of our questions. He spells it Blu. No wonder he looked so familiar to me. Hope you had a safe ride home.

http://www.bockandblu.com/wedding-music/bios.htm

Date: Sat, July 12, 2008, 01:12:59 ET
Posted by: anne, New Jersey

Hey! Paul maybe thinks that, I don't. Seriously, Girl Margaret did awesome but she missed the end, thats what I was wondering about. For me it's all about getting the playlist. Thanks.

Date: Sat, July 12, 2008, 00:41:04 ET
Posted by: anne, New Jersey

Hey! Paul maybe thinks that, I don't. Seriously, Girl Margaret did awesome but she missed the end, thats what I was wondering about. For me it's all about getting the playlist. Thanks.

Date: Sat, July 12, 2008, 00:23:40 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Anne, Pauly - GM's setlist is most likely complete. You may need to scroll down further (if you can handle it!) to Hoops' relaying of GM's text messages from last night. Its pretty rude to complain about people not doing an absolutely free service to your liking.

I've never been a huge fan of Dr. Wu, either. I do really like the lyrics. "She is lovely yes she's sly" is a great line, even if it is about heroin. But, in all honesty, there are probably 20 Steely Dan songs I'd rather listen to, maybe even more.

It would be great to hear live, but then again we got to hear Everything You Did and Gaucho -- better songs, in my opinion -- so it's getting a lot harder for me to complain.

Date: Sat, July 12, 2008, 00:14:11 ET
Posted by: Mr. Language,

"Deep seeded.." duhhhhh!

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 23:45:22 ET
Posted by: CJB, VYR, CA

Sorry Anne, can't help you there other than to say GM's looks pretty complete to me based on all the others posted up here so far this year. But if some extra numbers were tossed in (BF? GE? PL?) that'd be a pleasant & welcome surprise. GM?

I'll be fifth-row center at Woodinville WA for both nights later this month, and will post up complete sets to the Blue.

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 23:40:35 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Any news from the Finger Lakes?

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 23:37:20 ET
Posted by: anne, New Jersey

Hey CJB, SOn I was looking for the set list too/ I am fairly sure the setlist from Girl Margaret was not complete. I was there and I think she misses some things at the end, so I still need it.

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 23:32:24 ET
Posted by: Pauly Walnuts, New Jersey

Didn't think it was such a hard question. Hope to see you on tour.

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 23:27:40 ET
Posted by: Jive Miguel, Bogata

Question for anyone in the know:

Any place to get "Tour Merch" other than at the shows?

RSVP

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 23:22:50 ET
Posted by: CJB, YVR, CA

"Information wants to be free."

Our own Girl Margaret texted the WHOLE FRICKIN' SETLIST last night.

So, no need for "trade."

Just let your fingers (or scroll wheel) do the walkin'...

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 23:14:05 ET
Posted by: Pauly Walnuts, New Jersey

Dear CJB, what do you have in mind for a trade?

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 23:03:46 ET
Posted by: CJB, YVR,CA

Pauly:

This isn't KFC, "service while you wait," etc.

You want the Set List, I want a pony.

Log off and get some air son!

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 22:59:57 ET
Posted by: Pauly Walnuts, New Jersey

You are all insane, Need to go to another website just to get a set list.

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 22:53:17 ET
Posted by: Special Ed,

She is lovely yes she's sly
And you're an ordinary guy
Has she finally got to you
Are you with me?
Can you hear me?

Real or imagined, Dr. Wu is in trouble. The narrator at the very least perceives it. And, it is highly distressing to the narrator that his drug mentor, the guy who turned him on to the Katy, the Maste so to speak, that Katy has got a hold of Dr. Wu, perhaps fatally or very nearly so hence the wailing sax accompaniment and Fagen's anguished singing.

And the grim realization by the narrator if this happened to The Master, Dr. Wu, the narrator himself is on his way toward the same demise.

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 22:45:12 ET
Posted by: Pauly Walnuts, New Jersey

Dear Lee From Tampa, you need serious help as well.

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 22:35:32 ET
Posted by: Pauly Walnuts, New Jersey

Dear Little Wild One, I can't help you with your obvious deep seeded problems. I really would like the setlist from Bethel Woods on 7/10.

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 22:35:16 ET
Posted by: Pauly Walnuts, New Jersey

Dear Little Wild One, I can't help you with your obvious deep seeded problems. I really would like the setlist from Bethel Woods on 7/10.

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 22:22:39 ET
Posted by: Lee from Tampa, Tampa, of course!

I've been doing some thinking, and I think Ed has a good point. I believe I wrongly interpreted, and underestimated the importance of, the line "has she finally got to you?", and that line offers a real clue to a little broader understanding of the story.

Obviously, the narrator hopes and expects that Wu will have drugs with him ("I've been waiting for the taste you said you'd bring to me"). When Wu gets there to bring him the drugs, the narrator seems to see Wu in a state that would suggest that he was in the midst of an extremely adverse drug event. The line "has she finally got to you?" (she being "Katy", in this instance the drug, not the person), leads me to this conclusion.

To me, the only question is whether or not the vision is real. Again, there is a lot of evidence to suggest that it is NOT a real vision, one key piece being the state of mind of the narrator. HE's not even sure that what he sees is real - neither should we. Maybe the vision IS real, but I have not been able to ferret out any clues leading in that direction.

Ed, in the end, I think you are right about this.

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 22:21:38 ET
Posted by: Little Wild One, Re: Dr. Wu

I'm sure most of you are right. What's clear to me is that this song is about addiction or at the very least, obsessive compulsive behavior. And most of the time, there is no rational explanation for either condition.

The part of Dr. Wu that grabs me and never lets go is the phrase "You walked in and my life began again," coupled with the plaintive, yet sizzling Phil Woods solo.

I thought of this tonight while talking with the teen-ager about getting her driver's license in a few days. How many of those moments does one human really have? The moments when you tingle, when you know that no matter how long you live, you will NEVER forget that moment.

I know that I can probably count them on 10 fingers and some of them are surprisingly simple. And more than a few of them have occurred during the last 5 years. For that I thank so many of you here.

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 22:07:45 ET
Posted by: anne, new jersey

Does anyone have the set list from 7/10 Bethel woods Steely Dan Show? Thanks

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 22:07:35 ET
Posted by: Hutch,

This Dr. Wu thread was started about a week ago when someone brought up the song and mentioned how emotionally wrenching the lyrics were as delivered by DF. I responded with my vision of it and then we were off to the races.
It's not that it's the greatest song compared to others, although it certainly is a catchy little tune, it's just that it's never been played live and Fagen has indicated that it might never be played. Thus the attention it gets.

There are a lot of tunes that haven't been played live since the early '70s shows. I would love to hear Brooklyn live but I doubt that it would fit in with the flow of the shows they're doing now. And maybe DF is being honest when he said Wu just didn't feel right in the set. They've both stated that for the most part their songs are not personal stories. But no doubt they saw a lot go down around them in those days and it's likely that a lot of it became great Steely Dan music.

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 21:31:04 ET
Posted by: CJB, YVR, CA

I'm not a casual fan by any stretch, but I don't think that "Wu" is SD's musical or lyrical apex. I mean, not compared to "Glamour Profession," "Here at the Western World," or "Boston Rag."

Cue the wise-ass sock puppetry, cries of "Not a True Dan Fan," & etc.

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 20:57:03 ET
Posted by: Lars,

Jammin Joe - Anybody that knows the Steely Dan catalog inside and out and loves this band would totally disagree with you. I know that I do.

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 20:11:46 ET
Posted by: Jammin Joe, Hollywood, CA

I don't understand this fascination/obsession with "Dr. Wu". It is not their best song, not the worst either. But people here seem to be obsessed with Dr Wu. Steely Dan does play a lot of great music, and they have a good library of work to choose from.

This Dr. Wu fascination seems kind of strange to me.

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 20:03:51 ET
Posted by: Lee from Tampa, Tampa, of course!

Ed, maybe Dr. Wu is in this song IS "in some sort of trouble, spazzing out or dead". The lyrics don't militate against your theory, but I can't find any real clues backing it up, either. It would be a heck of a scene, though, with a strung out desperate narrator coming to his door to find Dr. Wu convulsing on his door step!

Maybe that's what in fact was in the minds of the creators of the song, and as I said, there's nothing to negate the possibility. However, if you look at the entire song, there's much to suggest that the narrator is somewhere in the realm of "trouble, spazzing out or dead". I think the narrator is in a pretty rough state and is simply not sure if Wu is actually there in front of him or not.

But I definitely COULD be wrong, of course.

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 19:36:52 ET
Posted by: Special Ed,

Let's put a negative spin on this question of the ending of Dr. Wu:

Looking at the lyrics You're an ordinary guy and Has she finally got to you?, and the plaintive singing, frenzied music of the ending,

What position would you take to argue that Dr. Wu HIMSELF was not in some sort of trouble, spazzing out or dead?

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 18:04:05 ET
Posted by: Lee from Tampa, Tampa, of course!

Matt, below is my earlier assessment surrounding the desperate tone at the end of Dr. Wu:

"Are you with me Doctor Wu
Are you really just a shadow
Of the man that I once knew
She is lovely yes she's sly
And you're an ordinary guy
Has she finally got to you
Can you hear me Doctor (note in the song that at this point the instrumental playing and the voice of the narrator become ever more furious in execution, thereby showing A.how desperate the narrator is to get the drugs; and B.how delirious he is due to being strung out, so much so that he cannot even believe his own eyes)"

Yeah....that sounds like a good representation of a desperate, strung out guy at the end of his rope.

As for Tampa being described in Janie Runaway as "desperate and dark", I remember reading quotes from Fagen and Becker about a horrible summer spent in Tampa in the early 70's. I think, but I'm not sure, that they were in town for an extended date with Jay and the Americans. Since the release of 2VN, in my mind, the possibility existed that because of the horrible summer, they therefore hated Tampa, and were more than willing to pluck that locale out of their collective memories to be used as the object of the aforementioned negative description.

Working against that theory are the many positive connections between the Tampa Bay area and Steely Dan. They've been to the Tampa area on all but their first tour, I think had the largest crowd ever for a concert they headlined (29,000 at Tropicana Field, home of the Rays, formerly called the Thunderdome), and played two full-house concerts last year at Ruth Eckerd. The Tampa area has been good to Steely Dan, for sure. Additionally, I once read that his wife's son lives in Tampa.

Who knows, really? The inclusion of Tampa in the song could be due to a multitude of possibilities. Unless the principals are asked, we'll never know.

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 15:32:04 ET
Posted by: some "Artiste" you must be...,

Going through "palettes" of Kleenex®, eh?

Well, do those sheets come in many colors and are they placed on a circular flat board and you pick them up with a sticky paintbrush and apply them to a canvas? If so, cool. New artform.

But it also might be handy to know that large numbers of small boxes are stacked on, shrink wrapped or banded together on what is known as a "pallet".

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 15:24:26 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

although I like Casual Fan's interpretation much better.

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 15:23:55 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

I always thought the "desperate and dark" line was the lecherous narrator talking down to the teenage runaway, agreeing that her terrible situation in Tampa -- which probably involved something like her parents bumping her curfew back to 11 after she stayed out all night and didn't call one too many times -- was indeed awful and not a case of a teenager being over-dramatic about her parents trying to put up a few boundaries. Sometimes I feel like I need a shower after listening to that song.

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 15:06:26 ET
Posted by: Casual Fan, Orlando

Hey AnonTwit,

In response to your question about Tampa being "desperate and dark" in Janie Runaway, I offer the following theories:

1. (Simplest). It rhymed with Gramercy Park and had the right number of syllables to fit the line.

2. (Somewhat Simple). In the summer months, like now, the thunder boomers wander in from the Gulf and the skyline mighty ominous.

3. (Not at all Simple). The character is addicted to heroin. Not being able to locate Dr. Wu, she takes a bus to Tampa in hopes that he has taken up cigars and that she can find him there, along with the things she misses the most. But, when she gets there, the Manatee Bar is close and out on Blues Beach she sits behind a wall of darkened sand, which, coincidentally, is in the shape of the shade where I used to stand. They threw in "desperate" because if they just said dark it would be too easy to figure out.

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 15:05:26 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

and, of course, Thank You, Hoops....for making it all possible.
Hope you are finally recovering from the wretched summer bugs.

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 15:04:46 ET
Posted by: Nancy, Woodstock, eh, I mean Bethel

Wow, Bethel was off the charts! It started out good, but when the three girls "gotta shake it" on Babylon Sisters, it got much, much better! The band took it up another level and never backed down. The renditions of Aja, and FM were the best I've heard out of 15+ shows over the years and my third this tour. What a great show!

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 15:03:31 ET
Posted by: Matt, chattanooga, TN

In the ongoing Wu discussion, I was listening th Steve Hoffman mix of Katy Lied earlier today (got the nice shure in ears at work) and at the very end of Doctor W, the last two times Fagen sings "Can you hear me.." he is joined, either by his own vocals being doubled or by someone else, and whoever it is is sounding desperate indeed. Pretty much yelling/screaming "Can you hear me..." there at the end. Dunno what that adds to the discussion, but I had never really paid that much attention before.

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 15:02:58 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

Girl Margaret......
Loved your minute-by-minute commentary !! Was "almost" as good as being there in person. thanks for all your posts.

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 15:00:46 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana, wishing

Just listened to The Second Arrangement and I Got The Bear, on youtube.....WOW !!!!! Had never heard them before. Wish they had made it onto one (or more) of their cd's.......

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 14:55:32 ET
Posted by: Denise, starting the weekend early

Thanks GM for the news...SteelyDoc, everyone l-u-v-s those plates

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 14:31:05 ET
Posted by: fool me once - shame on me, fool me twice - screw you

who the hell would want to hear from q - whatever he says is gonna be a lie anyway.

desperate and dark - indeed.

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 14:26:16 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Work

Dr. Wu, Sam goes on at 8, SD goes on about 8:45.

Have fun tonight!

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 14:25:03 ET
Posted by: ET, Madison Park

Speaking of "desperate and dark" and Tampa, has anybody heard from "q" lately?

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 14:24:34 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Steely Dan day!!!

How long does Sam Yahel Trio usually play for??

What time does Steely Dan usually come on stage??

If the show starts at 8:00, does Steely Dan start at about 9:00??

Thanks.

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 14:07:00 ET
Posted by: AnonTwit, thinking

speaking of Tampa, Fife, any conjecture as to why Tampa is "desperate and dark" as sung in Janie Runaway? I have my own theories. Love to hear yours or anyones.

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 13:54:18 ET
Posted by: Fife, Florida,eh

GM know that you've stirred up the Dan Addiction what the hell am I going to do? I understand about the pang in the heart thing, happens to me quite a lot when listening to Steely tunes. Man I wish I could have been there.
Hot, muggy and kind of hellish here in Tampa.
Fife

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 13:18:53 ET
Posted by: Boston Rag, at work

Margaret - If I was ever in a band, I would want you to be our #1 groupie!

MikeA - LOL! If we ever meet at a Danfest we can trade Nazi nun stories!

Thanks everybody for the condolences for Kevin Curran. I went to a benefit for him about 3 months ago. There were about 400 friends and relatives there. I only got to speak to him for a couple of minutes as he was not doing well at all. He had trouble communicating and recognizing close friends. When I mentioned Steely Dan in my conversation, his eyes lit up.

Mark in Boston

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 11:55:25 ET
Posted by: AnonTwit, in the corner

Jeezus, what monstrous colour from GirlMargaret, and it sounds like a pilgrimmage is in order, as the band was hotso.
I am sure that it's just going to get better, I am certain.

For all the insightful shadings that many have provided regarding Wu, I like Stimpy's macro approach.

But gosh, I guess I gotta get out more, at least for another show.

That setlist sounded dreamy.

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 11:17:02 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Back at work

I'm sure it's a treat and all to take your children to a concert, expose them to some of the music you like, see if it rubs off on them. Well, I don't have children, I have two cats and a brother and sister. The cats hate travel, my sister isn't into Steely Dan, and my brother will go anywhere as long as someone else is footin' the bill. Plus he's 20, so young and still so mold-able. And he dug Carlock at 55 Bar, so we made the trip up to Bethel.

By the by, his nickname - The Nightmare - came from playing high school tennis. Someone gave it to him and it stuck. Kinda like Boz Scaggs. When he performs he's introduced as The Nightmare, at work his card scans "The Nightmare," you get the idea.

The drive, not bad. The Danfest consisted of us drinking in the parking lot on the trunk of my car, listening to C$, trying to identify who was having a "party" around us, watching people play frisbee. Every car seemed to have a tailgate party going, and every car was blasting Steely Dan, except for the car in front of us which was blasting a reggae mix - which seemed to blend in well with my car blasting Circus Money.

Now I have to say, Bethel's a trip. I've driven up past that area a million times on the way to my Gramma's house, but I've never been to Bethel proper (including several topless bars down the street from the venue). On the drive in there was a stand selling all these tie-dye t-shirts and hot dogs. The area was huge, the walk to the seats from the parking lot was a bit of a trek, but the weather was nice and the area was lovely.

The show didn't sell out, there were masses of people buying tickets on our way in. We went to will call to pick up our tickets and found out we could upgrade. We went from about 16 rows back on the side to nine rows back closer to center. Very accomadating, but the process took a little longer than expected and people actually applauded when I got my tickets. But there were several empty seats around us, so we were able to move about comfortably.

The venue was a lot smaller than I imagined, so I don't think there could have been a bad seat in the house. Even the view from the lawn didn't seem too far away. Nightmare and I head in, both of us excited (me especially) just in time as the lights went down and the band took the stage minutes after we got in. I know it's only been two weeks since I last saw these guys, but my excitement had built to a fever pitch that it felt like the first show of the tour all over again. The sound was amazing, the whole show seemed off the hook, and how exciting was it to see Catherine Russell join the girls again! And those afro wigs! What a sight, I loved them!

Over the course of the evening I tried to maintain my sheer enthusiasm for this band while keeping an eye out for The Nightmare to see his reactions. There were several moments when I noticed his mouth was just gaping open and his eyes completely lit up, like during Royal Scam and Aja. Carlock's Aja solo blew him away and the moment the song was over he leapt to his feet and applauded like crazy. There were also moments when the boy looked over at me and shook his head, as if to say "What the fuck is wrong with you?! Why are you crying during this song???!!!" (I'm sorry, Walter doing Gaucho has moved me in a way I can't really explain. Something happens during the chorus when Walter starts singing, the background changes, and Herington starts strumming that makes my heart burst. Can't explain it!)

There were songs Nightmare knew, but couldn't recall by name because Don and Walt didn't announce the names of anything (a fact I only realized last night when it was brought to my attention). He said he recognized Peg (because I jumped up and yelled PEG!!! WE DON'T SIT DURING PEG!!!), New Frontier (which I played earlier in the car and was like I FUCKIN LOVE THIS SONG!) and Kid Charlamagne because of Kanye West and my "Is there gas in the car?" bumper stickers. One of my favorite moments was early on in the concert when he notices something on top of Donald's keyboard, turns to me and says "Is that a melodica?" Warms my heart...of course he's seen one before as I have one at home. Melodica's are awesome, but to each his own.

Few more concert notes:
Walter's Hey 19 speech was a hoot. He mentions that we're on the original sight of the Woodstock festival (and that Donald lives nearby, but don't tell anybody!). But since the human cells regenerate every 7 years no one who was at Woodstock is here tonight. You go to a concert, you have your backpack, space is a premium in the backpack so you have your hippie beads and your stash of shrooms and something to smoke and something to drink, but what the hell is that drink? Girls?

During Josie these two guys jumped on stage left, by the girls and just started dancing. It took a minute, but I could see Skip across the stage, fire in his eyes, bolting across about to boot those guys off. They jumped off and ran to their seats before anyone could get to them. Nightmare said "This is the song that makes everybody crazy." Then he informed me that a woman in the aisle had a pair of underwear in her hand and she was about to run to the stage! Jesus, what is this, Beatlemania?!?! We watched her in horror as she moved towards the stage, but thankfully she didn't throw anything up there. Good lord! At the end of Josie, Donald said, "I'm buggin! And those guys were buggin' too!"

Walter was standing by Donald and Freddie again, but during Scam he stood on the Jeff Young platform, right in front of his piano. He moved back and forth during the night between Freddie and Herington.

Jim Pugh was noticably absent, his replacement from Beacon Theater was there instead.

During the intros Michael Leonhart was introduced as Uncle Mike.

During "Love is Like an Itchin' in my Heart" instead of each girl taking a mini-solo, they were introduced all together and sang together.

Carlock is a goddamn animal. Fuck, am I ever glad they put Aja back into the set!

Walter noticed Doc's plates during Gaucho and pointed and sang to him.

And thanks to everyone who came over and said hi to the Nightmare afterwards. I'm glad he got to meet some of the fabulous people who make my life so fabulous. And I'm especially glad that I got to share something special with my brother. I don't think he'll turn into a diehard, but he definately liked what he heard and probably wouldn't mind seeing Steely Dan again... "As long as someone else is payin!" he said.

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 10:32:46 ET
Posted by: Don Cornelius, Soul Traaaaaaaaaain!

Lurker Ray - Good news for ya buddy. A little bird y friend told me that Cat Russell is doing the rest of the SD tour. Afro and all!

Have fun!

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 10:20:58 ET
Posted by: Stimpy, Phil Woods solo

Phil was (is) also married to Charlie Parker's widow, and has his horn.

Charlie's problem(s) with smack are well documented, even in other SD songs.

Remember also the name Steely Dan refers to the Burroughs creation, and no one did more H or tried more different kinds of rehab than WSB.

All the more reason for me to see Dr Wu as a re-hab image at least, and probably as the real person as well.

SD lyrics are often so crypic almost any interpretation will fit (that is why we like them), but this one makes sense to me.

Could DF have heard of the real Dr Wu in 1974?

I think so.

Nothing travels faster in the Junky underground than news of a new way to kick.

Unless, of course, it is a rumor about a new shipment coming in that is FACKING PRIMO MANG.

maybe someday we will know the story, maybe even as an intro to playing the tune live.

In the meantime I kind of like not knowing, and wondering what it would sound like as well.

Good weekend all

s

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 10:13:31 ET
Posted by: Doug Kupper, Show Biz Kids - The Steely Dan Tribute. Hartford, CT

Hey, just to clarify:

Show Biz Kids will be playing TONIGHT in Simsbury CT at the Maple Tree Cafe, starting at <b>9:30pm. </b>

http://www.mapletreecafe.com/mtc-dir.htm <-- For directions!!

Hope to see you there!

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 09:48:47 ET
Posted by: fuck, melodica

if i'm ever close enough to donald i'm gonna grab that melodiaca and smash it against a wall - a la belucci in animal house.

it is officially the worst sounding instrument in the world.

they have some of the finest players in the world up there and he screws up a chance for us to heart a solo by them - on a noble instrument - by insisting on playing that yeck dreck.

why not just do a fart-noise solo with his hands.

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 09:24:32 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

Chris - thanks. Yeah, ouch!...and you're probably on target with the origin being the NYRASR (I always forget that one...it being a "qausi" solo off-shoot).

Had you seen this version/release before?...have to confess I'm a bit confused by their advertsing it as "new" but also that it's "15 year's old".

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 09:17:17 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

We've had a Melodica in our house since the mid-60's (Days of Wine and Roses, Moon River)...it's curiously reassuring to see DF still using it as the years pass (one of the many instrumentally cool things about SD IMHO (OK, maybe not sounding cool to some/most). Anyone know what DF likes about its sound, when he first played it, etc.?

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 09:09:42 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Bob - I've heard the bass/drums/vox version of Trans Island Skyway. I might still have it, will have to check when I get home. Either way, all it is is Trans Island Skyway with all the meat taken out of it ... it's kind of cool to hear Fagen's voice so clearly, but its definitely not worth the $70 for the "collectors item."

As for the live track of Home At Last, no idea but my guess is that it's from the NYRASR.

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 09:00:15 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

Maybe this has been discussed before but curious how the bass/drum/vocal and live tracks sound:

http://eil.com/shop/moreinfo.asp?catalogid=439255

jaquesofspeed at hotmail dot com

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 07:41:49 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., NJ

Thanks for the info, Fife. Hope all are well and happy b-day Carolyn!

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 02:18:59 ET
Posted by: Travelling Minstrel, The Outhland

I am enjoying the Dr Wu lyrical debate, but sometimes the analysis gets a bit much, n'est pas? What I do know, though, is that the Phil Woods sax solo is one of the most concise but blisteringly hot solos ever recorded. Are you with me,[on] Dr W[oods]?

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 02:18:38 ET
Posted by: MikeA, Seattle

Read some recent posts discussing the Melodica. Everytime I see Don playing one it takes me back to a weird place. Probably scarred for life I guess:) The melodica was the instrument (sometimes weapon) of choice for the nuns in the Catholic schools I attended. Some jammed pretty good and some sucked. We had a multi instrumentalist, Sister Veronica in 5th grade. In addition to the Melodica, she played guitar and piano. She would entertain once a week and you damn well better pay attention. One poor guy, Chris, was goofing around with his phonics and the "PH" pronuniciation. Sister V. stopped the Pete Seger song she was playing, and screamed out "Say it Chris, Spit it out, F U C K". She went berserk and continued shouting and spelling out FUCK"." Everyone was freaked and Chris' folks put a few less bucks in the collection basket on Sunday. unfortunately, I have a hundred more "anicdotes" from those 9 years. Oh well...

Don, you play the melodica great, but it brings back some strange memories.

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 02:00:05 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol, Gpk

L Ray, Couldn't agree more!

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 01:51:36 ET
Posted by: Randall, Alone at last

Good to "see" you again LWO. I hope all is well. Thanks for reminding me it was Alan...but who was the other Aussie with him? I remember he was homesick for his son...or maybe that was Alan...I forget. Take care.

Randall

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 01:43:00 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

One last thing -
Ever since the Montreal
shows something has been
gnawing at me about that
great city and Steely Dan.
Tonight I think I have figured
it out. It's oddly enough
about reggae and artists with a
limited vocal range singing their
emotional hearts out. Is it just
me or isn't C$ a great companion
piece to Bruce Cockburn's great,
"Stealing Fire" nearly 25 years
later? Right down to the
captivating cover art and "stories"
within the songs and tasty Fender
licks by the author.
Serious inquiries only
please.

Date: Fri, July 11, 2008, 00:47:46 ET
Posted by: Fife, Florida,eh

I saw posted on her facebook page she had a boy, Vaughn, and that's all I know. It's her birthday today as well. Happy Birthday Carolyn!

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 23:25:43 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Thanks for the "Minute By Minute"
report Gal Marg & Hoops. Hope
you get well soon Hoops. Gal
Marg, why do you call your bro
"Nitemare"?
So yet another amazing show with
the classic 3 gal line-up with
Cat Russell?! How can this be?!
I thought Cat was way too busy
with her own tour this month?
You just never know ;O)
BTW,
That gal at Soboba would have
been welcomed on stage for the
entire tune if she didn't start
sloshing her beer onto Wally's
music stand.

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 23:14:03 ET
Posted by: Joey,

" There you go.....please give me your thoughts on my interpretation. "

I always thought a ' taste ' referred to heroin .

Shiver ......................

J.

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 22:59:15 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret texting the setlist , upstate ny

Outro. tango whatever the hell this is amazing show.

more later :)

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 22:58:06 ET
Posted by: Joey,

" This song, this Dr. Wu, might just be their finest moment.

Do not tell me this song lacks dramatic impact. It's a slam dunk bomb. Every time I play it. We know it and I think Donald knows it too.

Coming to terms with it, well, I guess that's the real rub. "

Christ , that is Postin' on loan from God right there !!!!

Rajah .... you are much loved by Joey .

J. " Snuggles " Fly ! ™

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 22:48:26 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret texting the setlist , upstate ny

Kid c

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 22:48:12 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret texting the setlist , upstate ny

Don't take me alive
motherfucker!

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 22:41:57 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., NJ

Or perhaps they're just conferring the "Unc" title tad early just to be cute during the intros??? I don't know exactly when she was due.

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 22:40:31 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago, going through palettes of Kleenex®

Thanks, Mark.

And also thank you for letting us know about Kevin.

His passing is a loss to all of us. The Greater Dandom is a little less in a way but also the better for Kevin.

Jim

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 22:39:22 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., NJ

"Supremes. mike introduced at uncle mike"

...Does that mean Carolyn had the baby??? If so, when? Boy or girl?

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 22:38:34 ET
Posted by: Beacon Attendee, nobody cares

No rumor. He was not at the last Beacon show. Nelson Foltz was his replacement and is again tonight.

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 22:38:26 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret texting the setlist , upstate ny

FM

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 22:32:07 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret texting the setlist , upstate ny

Peg

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 22:31:18 ET
Posted by: Boston Rag, .

Hoops - Nitemare is Margaret's brother.

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 22:31:07 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret texting the setlist , upstate ny

Supremes. mike introduced at uncle mike

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 22:26:21 ET
Posted by: Jive Miguel, Bogata

What's the scoop with the great Jim Pugh. Someone said he's absent tonight, and I heard (rumor) he missed one of the Beacon shows.

Other commitments?

Health?

Jive....concerned

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 22:19:06 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret texting the setlist , upstate ny

HOLY SHIT AJA!

now i'm buggin!

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 22:18:40 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret texting the setlist , upstate ny

NM says thats the song that makes everyone go crazy

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 22:18:22 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret texting the setlist , upstate ny

But they jumped off b4 skip got them. nitemare says a woman ni the aisle has her panties in her hand.

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 22:17:36 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret texting the setlist , upstate ny

2 guys jumped onstage and danced it was chumash all over again!

[Note from hoops:
Maybe she means Soboba? ]

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 22:16:50 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret texting the setlist , upstate ny

Josie

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 22:08:54 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret texting the setlist , upstate ny

Parkers band

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 22:03:16 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret texting the setlist , upstate ny

Oh there it is. gaucho!
WALTER!

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 21:56:33 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret texting the setlist , upstate ny

Home at last.
Where the fuck's gaucho?!

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 21:51:15 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret texting the setlist , upstate ny

New frontier.
nitemare says he's trippin on the background.

[Note from hoops:
I don't quite understand the "nitemare" bit GM is sending. ]

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 21:43:47 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret texting the setlist , upstate ny

Babylon sisters

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 21:37:52 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret texting the setlist , upstate ny

Godwhacker.

nitemare says is that a melodica?

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 21:30:34 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret texting the setlist , upstate ny

Hey 19

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 21:23:20 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret texting the setlist , upstate ny

2vn

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 21:18:39 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret texting the setlist , upstate ny

Ev U Did

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 21:18:32 ET
Posted by: Fife, Florida,eh

DianeDianeDiane I paid 40 bucks each for the 2 womens t-shirts I bought. My fav is the Beacon shirt though too be honest I haven't had the chance to wear the other. Just too damn hot to wear black here!

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 21:14:24 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret texting the setlist , upstate ny

It's totes kat russell

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 21:11:26 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret texting the setlist , upstate ny

Showbiz kids

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 21:05:44 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret texting the setlist , upstate ny

I Got The News

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 21:04:00 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret texting the setlist , upstate ny

Walter standing on platform in front of Jeff's piano

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 21:01:03 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret texting the setlist , upstate ny

Afro wigs. 3 girls. i think mike mcd's drummer is sitting in front of us

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 20:59:08 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret texting the setlist , upstate ny

scam

(nighmare's jaw on the floor)

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 20:56:36 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret texting the setlist , upstate ny

Fez

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 20:53:37 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret texting the setlist , upstate ny

Intro (Everyone's Gone to the Movies/The Fez/Royal Scam)
--Jim Pugh is absent

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 19:56:05 ET
Posted by: Ha-ha, e

Ponder this,

Have you ever heard of copywright law? You're under arrest.

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 18:54:02 ET
Posted by: Lonnie THE Kingpin, Lexington

Mr. Chiprdr ~~

Just FYI, Steely Dan's Opening Overture/medley in 19 and 93 did not include Your Gold Teeth Part II (although I have advocated for that for some time on this site). It was The Royal Scam/Bad Sneaks/AJA.

Enjoy the show!

Lonnie THE Kingpin (of '65)

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 17:54:51 ET
Posted by: Mer., Boston

Thanks Gretchen for sharing your Melodica sighting-- I have a friend in O.S. and will mention this to her.

I actually got a private chuckle over a Melodica sighting myself while at the Citizen Cope concert a couple weeks ago (Hampton Beach). The concert was excellent and Cope is one of those artists who sounds as good live, if not better than his recordings. (OK, even Santana likes him- he's one of the artists on "Shaman")

I was curious who his audience would be- not sure if this was representive of his audience, or more than venue... but there were so FEW people in our age cohort, shall we say, that we started counting the numbers apparently middle aged and up in the crowd while waiting for the concert to start.
We only got to 18, out of hundreds... Then the keyboard player broke out a Melodica during a tune.... wooo--- hoooo!! Don would be proud....

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 15:12:39 ET
Posted by: Chiprdr, Cuyahoga Falls Ohio

I'm really looking forward to the show in Cincinnati Sunday evening. Back in '93 the band opened the show with an instrumental consisting of, Throw out your Golf Teeth, Bad Sneakers, Royal Scam which was fantastic with Donald coming out and the group broke into Green Earings. Over the years at various I have heard Walter sing Monkey in Your Soul and Slang of Ages. Looking forward to Gaucho. Will write back with show review.

Peace

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 14:00:25 ET
Posted by: Ponder this, keyboard

Are "Selfish Gene" and "Smart Eugene (who) refused to share his moon pie" one and the same? Not sharing your dessert is the ultimate act of selfishness. And maybe these days he's going by just Gene instead of Eugene and he's known more for being selfish than smart.

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 13:48:45 ET
Posted by: Gretchen, a blonde moment.....

oops... here's the link!

http://www.courant.com/entertainment/music/hc-summerjazz.artjun19,0,7909636.story

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 13:47:31 ET
Posted by: Gretchen, Jazz

For anyone in the area, or planning to be around here early August, here's a link to the New Haven jazz festival which will feature, most notaably, Carolyn Leonhart and Wayne Escofferey on August 10. I have attended this in years passed but will definitely see it this year as it promises to be a great show.

G

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 13:32:20 ET
Posted by: Casual fan, Orlando

Not sure if these posted before, but on youtube today show up some alleged outtakes from Gaucho session. I'd never heard of I Got the Bear.

I Got the Bear: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BtkHAdOZSaQ

Second Arrangement: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UZEMtlzebks

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 12:55:55 ET
Posted by: Gretchen, This is my house and that's your cab.......

Thanks to Walter for mischeviously keeping us updated...he knows we're wondering what's next to come. Funny how "Selfish Gene" has grown on me, I think it could also be appropriately titled "Selfish Jean."
Saw an unusual sight while walking through town the other day...a guy was standing out on the sidewalk playing a melodica, but it was not a Steely song. Now this may not seem unusual on the streets of NY or any other city, but Old Saybrook? I almost had to ask.....

G

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 12:37:20 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

And yes Girl Margaret -- this is a great story. Gives me hope too!

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 12:23:48 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

I do think the women's shirts were $40.00 -- I remember thinking "Hey, that's NOT fair"

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 12:11:10 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Workin

Or maybe the shirts were $40, I don't right off recall. $30-40 is my best rememberance, but I'll take Denise's word on it.

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 12:09:27 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Workin

Here's an amusing story that just perked up my morning: my friend Jocelyn works at a day camp, and all the kids get to pick their own camp name. One little boy got up onstage, counselor asks him "What's your name?" and he unabashedly announced "Steely Dan." Jocelyn has no idea who this boy is or what his real name is, but she got a real kick out of him announcing himself as Steely Dan. There's hope for the future yet!

And speaking of the future, just a friendly reminder for anyone heading up to Bethel tonight that The Nightmare and Girl Margaret are hosting a Danfest in the parking lot, titled "Hey Nightmare, That's Don and Walter." Come find us and my Steely bumper stickers tonight before the show, if you'd like my cell phone number you can email me at girlmargaretATaolDOTcom. Hope to see some of you tonight!

Diane,Diane,DIANE, I believe the women's C$ shirts were $30. And they're very stylish and a perfect fit! Not too short or tight or loose or anything, just perfect.

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 12:04:17 ET
Posted by: Denise, Hinktown cubicle

Diane, it was $40

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 12:02:16 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Raj,

What is the nature of your crime(s), can we ask?

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 11:39:04 ET
Posted by: dianeDiandDIANE, seattle

has anyone bought t-shirts at any shows? if so, can you tell me the cost of the circus money baby-doll (or whatever women's t-shirts are called) t-shirt? thanks.

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 11:23:11 ET
Posted by: Mark&Marie, NJ

Bethel, Section AA - First Row open this morning. Grabbed a pair. wasn't planning to go, but First Row at Steely Dan for $109 - it's worth the 180 mile round trip, even at $4/gallon!

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 09:56:55 ET
Posted by: BillfromPgh,

Report from Blues Beach, sort of: http://www.theonion.com/content/opinion/hey_everybody_lets_all_go_to?utm_source=slate_rss_1

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 09:52:43 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, @work

i saw Crimson in 2003, it was a fantastic show. trey gunn is awesome on the stick bass

KC
^
|

King Clean?
Kid Crimson?

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 09:51:08 ET
Posted by: Ben Reich,

Finally located an obit concerning DF's lyricist (of "Century's End") Tim Mayer - I always wondered what became of him - great lyricist!:

Tim S. Mayer, 43, Stage Director, Author, Lyricist and Playwright
By PETER WATROUS
Published: April 11, 1988

LEAD: Timothy S. Mayer, a stage director for resident theaters in Boston and Washington, died of lung cancer in Linlithgo, N.Y., on Saturday. He was 43, and lived in Boston.

Timothy S. Mayer, a stage director for resident theaters in Boston and Washington, died of lung cancer in Linlithgo, N.Y., on Saturday. He was 43, and lived in Boston.

While at a student at Harvard, Mr. Mayer won the Phyllis Anderson award for play writing. He also co-founded, with Thomas Babe, a theater company at the Agassiz theater in Cambridge, Mass.

In 1984, as associate director of the Boston Shakespeare Company under Peter Sellars, he directed a critically acclaimed revival of Bertolt Brecht's ''Mother Courage,'' starring Linda Hunt in the title role. Frank Rich of The New York Times said the company had ''created an event that has eluded far wealthier and more seasoned American companies - a 'Mother Courage' with bite and without tears.'' Shakespeare in Washington

In 1985, Mr. Mayer moved, along with Mr. Sellars, to the American National Theater in Washington, where he staged Shakespeare's ''Henry IV, Part I'' at the Kennedy Center For the Performing Arts.

A year later, along with the playwright George Trow and with Jacob Brackman, Mr. Mayer and his longtime companion, Donna Cusimano, established the Hudson Valley Theater in Hyde Park, N.Y.

Mr. Mayer also wrote the book for the musical ''My One and Only,'' and collaborated with James Taylor as the lyricist on Mr. Taylor's most recent album. He also worked with the songwriter Peter Ivers, and with Donald Fagen for a song on the soundtrack of the film ''Bright Lights, Big City.''

At the time of his death, Mr. Mayer was working on a play about Rip Van Winkle.

He is survived by his father, J. Gerald Mayer of Falmouth, Mass.

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 09:47:15 ET
Posted by: Sandor, Camping in Malibu

Lurker Ray
There is a new dvd "SD in concert"? Could you inform me about it?
Thanks

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 09:34:40 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

I just went on to ticketmaster to look for a ticket for tonight's Bethel show and AA, section 1 center came up. I really can't go but if anyone is interested, it looks like some great seats have opened up...

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 09:07:50 ET
Posted by: WB, Smackville, NC

Who says Dr. Wu concerns specifically cocaine usage?

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 08:25:28 ET
Posted by: Little Wild One, oooo-la-la

New WB Newsletter this a.m was the happiest news in my mailbox. Dare to dream of more so soon?

Hi Randall. Great to hear from you. The Aussie blokes still roll this way from time to time. Alan was in NYC with us last month.

Alan.....this could be record year, non?

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 07:20:36 ET
Posted by: John Walsh, AMW

Raj... Speaking of "Coming to terms with it"

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 05:25:15 ET
Posted by: lol, liverpool uk

further to walter becker interview after clicking on listen again take the nick robbins link.

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 05:19:40 ET
Posted by: lol, liverpool uk

walter becker interview link www.co.uk/stoke click on listen again half way down on the right the interview was on at about 1.35.pm yesterday wed 9th it will be there for the next 4 days its only about 4 minutes long not bad for walter.

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 03:19:36 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

Ah, the neverending debate on Dr. Wu...

Who is he? The spirit of our weaker nature? A false saviour? A friend gone astray? Or, as has been intimated here, our very own selves, at one and the same time the brilliant and the totally misguided part of each of us?

And Katy...the betrayer go-between? Does she do us a favour or an diservice by not coming home with a taste? We trust her, we love her, and then we blame her.

This song, this Dr. Wu, might just be their finest moment.

Do not tell me this song lacks dramatic impact. It's a slam dunk bomb. Every time I play it. We know it and I think Donald knows it too.

Coming to terms with it, well, I guess that's the real rub.

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 02:23:52 ET
Posted by: Gus Winterbottom, Torrance, CA

Dr. Wu Redux:

After reading the posts of the last couple of days, culminating in those from Lee of Tampa, I have to agree that the "Doctor Wu as rehabilitator" scenario I proposed is a lot less likely than the "Doctor Wu as drug source/co-user" interpretation. Though as The Dean said, nothing is certain, the latter is "the way to bet".

GW

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 01:33:03 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu - A Chilly 63 Degrees!

I actually have the fire pit
going this July evening.
I checked my mailbox and today
I received my CD copy of "Steely
Dan - In Concert". It's blaring
on the veranda now. For all of
those people who dismissed this
as a "low-rent" offering. Quite
simply, you are idiots. The
packaging is stellar and how great
to have a copy of this great show
on CD! It will rule on your next
road trip to a SD show! I also
received my copy of the re-issue
of the DVD over the weekend.
DO NOT HESTITATE IN BUYING THIS!
Nothing appears stretched on my
screen. This is the first time
this DVD appears in TRUE wide screen.
Puts the full screen version of Plush
to shame.

Date: Thurs, July 10, 2008, 00:56:27 ET
Posted by: Lee from Tampa, Tampa, of course!

Special Ed,

I think the "are you with me?" and the "can you hear me?" parts go along with the delirium mentioned earlier. In other words, those phrases are to me the manifestations of, and the support for, his doubts about being able to believe what he sees. He was not sure that Wu was with him even though he saw Wu, and he didn't know if this figure he saw could hear him, because the narrator innately understood that because of the condition he was in at the time, he might actually have been seeing things that were not in fact real.

As for "has she finally got to you?", yes, that is part of what he was wondering about. In other words, he didn't know if Wu was in fact in front of him, whether Wu could hear him, or whether Katy had "got" to Wu. So yes, since Wu in this instance was seemingly unresponsive (the narrator kept asking over and over because Wu wasn't responding), the narrator was wondering whether the drug was partially or wholly responsible for that circumstance.

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 23:47:50 ET
Posted by: POP, goes the weasel,

Well there you have it. Fagen says he listens to the same 40 jazz records to be inspired. Appears he was able to be inspired by using Dr Hook's Cocaine Katy, Clapton's not lying Cocaine and combining it for the theme Katy Lied, i.e.the Cocaine Lied to show the danger of drugs. GOTCHA Don if you are reading this. It took 30 years to come out. You sly dog.

Don listened to 40 records alrignt for his inspiration.
That would be the Top 40 records.

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 23:35:00 ET
Posted by: Doc Kelly, here at the KS dude ranch

kzkzkz - you're going to love Return to Forever! I saw them 3 times in the midwest swing of their tour and each was a religious experience. Having said that... I'm so jealous about you seeing King Crimson.

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 23:31:19 ET
Posted by: its , official

As of 12:01 Bill P's. term as a "hot shot" is officially over.

Can't even get a stud fee.

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 23:18:00 ET
Posted by: Deano impersonator, sign in stranger

Dude, big fan - DON"T do it. 5 minutes to see a cover band!? forget it. It ain't worth it!

•••

Well heck with you Deano! It seems to me that we have an official danfest brewing, perhaps you might want to consider taking a flight up?

I mean, imagine how hard it is to be a great dan cover band? imagine the challenges getting bookings? If we as rabid fans won't support them who will?

AND they are good.

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 23:16:16 ET
Posted by: Linda, Rochester

Regarding parking at CMAC in Canandaigua, bring patience. Exiting the lot is a nightmare. You may be able to buy advance VIP parking at $15. You can check their website for availability www.cmacevents.com. I seldom attend concerts there anymore because of the parking. After Alicia Keys a few years back, fights broke out between carloads of people cutting in front of others. It didn't make one proud of humankind.

It's also a lengthy wait to get back on the Thruway. If you are heading west, I'd urge you to turn on Route 96 (heading west) and you can then get on Route 490 a few miles up the road.

Good luck! Bring a bottle of water, music and make sure you go to the bathroom before you leave!

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 22:51:50 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Thanks again for all of the
great reports Woodman.
So Ms Cat DID join them for
the entire Ottawa show. We
were assured by a certain
poster that Cat was done after
Montreal. Like I said, you
just never know. I'm still
hoping for the classic three
girl line-up in LA! As far as
"Wu" live in 2008? Hell, you
just never know? Same goes
for hearing C$ tune.
Looking forward to the reports
after the break from NY &
Cinci. Have a safe trip Deano.
And all others traveling to
the upcoming shows.
Lastly,
Let's also not forget that
JJ Cale also "checked-in" on
the subject of Cocaine in 1975-

"If you want to hang out
you gotta take her out
Cocaine.
If you want to get down
down on the ground
Cocaine.
She don't lie
she don't lie
she don't lie
Cocaine."

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 22:44:20 ET
Posted by: New Mexicans?,

I will be traveling to Albuquerque for the Steely Dan show. What is the best part of town to stay in? Any hotel recommendations?

Thanks much!

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 21:58:35 ET
Posted by: Special Ed,

Tampa Lee, Cool how you gathered some of the previous interpretations, put your own in there and put it all together. This makes more sense than all of that Vietnam, drug rehabilitation stuff.

I would say that just about does it, except that I would add a possible "C" to the A or B ending in that Dr Wu himself is hooked or dying from the coke, you have to do something with Has she finally got to you? and Are you with me, can you hear me? Like you did with adding that there could be a real swindling bitch named Katy to explain about seeing it in her eyes. You know what I'm saying?

Looks like the denizens of the Blue have as a group done a better job at analyzing Wu this time than Sweet or any of the other hacks have come up with previously. But we should keep this going because there could be more refinements out there. Like Tampa Lee, who popped up Out of the Blue! You never know.

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 21:55:29 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, 2 DAYS!!!!!

Can anyone give me any advice on parking or getting out of Constellation Brands PAC, Canadaguia NY??

Anyone know how traffic usally goes here or what I should do to get out of there quickly.

Anyone know if you can buy VIP Parking??

Any info would be great!

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 21:45:38 ET
Posted by: warrenk,

Some great interps of Dr Wu around here lately. Mine revolves around this quote I found on Wu's website awhile back. It puts a really cool spin on the song:

"Ultimately, the answer to the question 'Who is Dr. WU?' is 'YOU!'"

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 20:55:08 ET
Posted by: Copy, & Paste

LF: Uh huh. So I keep noticing these people with these "WU" signs. What's up with that?

DF: I guess thay want us to play "Dr. Wu". What they don't realize is that my personal psychological mechanics insure that, the more they press it, the less likely I am to play it. The truth is, though, it's hard for me to connect with the lyric to that song anymore, and, musically speaking, there's something stunted about it, something pat and unfinished. But maybe we'll do it anyway. Who knows.

LF: Is it because that song represents for you...

DF: Ixnay on the U-way questions, Lewis. Enough already.

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 20:44:30 ET
Posted by: Big Fan, at home

The Maple Tree Cafe is only about 5 minutes from our house. My wife's band has played there in the past. I think I'll try and swing by and check them out.

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 20:43:55 ET
Posted by: Denise, Hinktown

Jive Miguel, thanks for posting that review...it is well worth the read. Cracked me up with the insurance salesman line.

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 20:38:34 ET
Posted by: Jive Miguel, Bogata

So, as I mentioned a couple of weeks back, my cousin mike calls me on Thursday, 6/12 to tell me that "someone from the Steely Dan tour" contacted him to ask him if he'd like two 7th row tix to opening night at the Beacon. Mike immediately contacted me with the proposal, so I drove up to NY from DC on 6/13. This was show #5 for me, starting back in Irvine CA in 1994. Mike is a writer, critic, publicist and agent in the industry, and The Aquarian Weekly in NJ asked him to write a very brief show review. Mike's an admirer of SD, and keeps their CDs in his ongoing rotation, but has never tasted them live, so he was expecting a pleasant, mellow, notalgic evening with an aging pop band, allowing me to be his guide as to the history, players, songs and lyrics in this modern generation of the band. So here is the review, published in today's news-stand only issue of the Aquarian, written by somneone who has only admired their studio work from a distance:

STEELY DAN/Beacon Theater/June 13

New York, NY—Steely Dan has gone from being a quirky little rock band who debuted with 1972’s Can’t Buy A Thrill to the full-blown touring “Think Fast Orchestra” with two keyboardists, two lead guitarists, four-piece horn section, drums, bass and back-up soul singers. The heart of the ensemble is Donald Fagen, as cool an aging hipster as Tom Waits or Leonard Cohen. And he knows it. Fagen was in great voice (Dan fans know as Fagen’s pipes go, so goes Steely Dan). He funkified each song with a damn-near Ray Charles presence, swinging and swaying, with oversized shades, rocking back and forth, adding bluesy little piano fills as everyone around him shined.

Almost unnoticed amidst all the action—solid reggae and bigband jazz charts (that low gurgling growl of Roger Rosenberg’s baritone sax could be felt in the gut) plus the wildly syncopated off-kilter popmusik of Fagen’s deliciously warped lyrics—was Walter Becker, Fagen’s partner for 40 years. Becker stood there like an insurance salesman waiting around for a potential client, but his lead guitar solos were crisp, economical little punctuation marks on all the musical sentences (he even added one of his own by stepping up to the mic to sing the title song from 1980’s Gaucho). Jon Herrington was the more demonstrative and blaring lead guitar soloist.

The night started with an overture consisting of “Everyone’s Gone To The Movies,” “The Fez” and “The Royal Scam,” for which Fagen and Becker finally came out to finish in dramatic style. They were greeted as prodigal sons returning home (which they were) and they got right down to business with beloved refrains from 1977’s Aja (“I Got The News” and “Josie”), the title cut from 2000’s Two Against Nature, 1974’s Pretzel Logic (“Parker’s Band”), 2003’s Everything Must Go (“Godwhacker”) and even Fagen’s 1982 solo album Nightfly (“New Frontier”).

As the solos flew, and the jazz got jazzier, and the funk got funkier, it almost turned into a rhythm’n’blues review a la Stax Records. But this is a Rock Band, make no mistake about it. And that’s because drummer Keith Carlock is one bigtime pounding pummeler behind the kit. For all the swirls of improv and sweet soulfulness flying around the room, egged on by Fagen’s Brother Ray affectations, Carlock never lets it be forgotten that this isn’t, after all, “Parker’s Band,” despite the lightshow backdrop of Bird images (our Lord and saviour of sax). No, Carlock kept it rockin’, and rockin’ large, proving that, despite the naysayers and the purists, there is, indeed, such a thing as real Jazz Rock. It’s not an oxymoron. In fact, you’ve got to be a moron to deny its existence, as Steely Dan proved on this night, rocking, swinging, bebopping and doing the reggae, oftentimes simultaneously.

Even more than the crowd-pleasing encore of “Pretzel Logic” and “Kid Charlemagne,” my personal highlight was a freak-out version of “Show Biz Kids” from 1973’s Countdown To Ecstasy that was as tight as a baby’s behind, soulful, funky, rockin’, juicy, bouncy, and totally irresistible.

“They got the house on the corner/
With the rug inside/
They got the booze they need/
All that money can buy/
They got the shapely bods/
They got the Steely Dan t-shirt/
And for the coup-de-gras/
They’re outrageous/
Show biz kids/
Making movies of themselves/
You know they don’t give a fuck about anybody else.”

No “Rikki,” no “Do It Again,” those who only know the Dan from their ageless hits have no idea what this band is capable of. It is, like life itself, a carnival.—Mike Greenblatt

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 20:11:56 ET
Posted by: Connie, In the vineyard

Sam Yahel Organ Trio
Joey Defrancesco Trio
Deep Blue Organ Trio

I'm sure these opening acts were hand picked by Don & Walter. But why all organ trios? Did I miss something about their love of this instrument?

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 20:11:34 ET
Posted by: kzkzkz, nycnycnyc

120 miles is only a 2 hour drive at 60mph. Well worth the cruise for a SD show, especially on this tour. I may drive to Chicago later in the summer for their 2nd gig there, bit more than 120 miles from here.
Back in the mid '70s there were two bands I said I'd see as often as possible if they ever decided to get back together and tour again.
It's been an incredible dream come true for me as this summer I saw another 4 (and counting) Steely Dan shows ...I fly to Nashville in a few weeks for 2 and then get to see 4 more concerts later mid August in Times Square with the other band I never thought would play live again-King Crimson.
(And then there's a couple of Return to Forever shows in between KC)

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 19:45:17 ET
Posted by: Good guy, Shafted

Hey Lee - stay away from that other guy in you town.

I mean, you think katy lied??

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 19:45:04 ET
Posted by: Truth and Lies, She don't lie, She don't lie, She don't lie, COCAINE

In 1973 Dr Hook introduced us to Cocaine Katy.
In 1974 Eric Clapton said Cocaine didn't lie.
In 1975 Steely Dan said Katy (Cocaine)lied.

Who are we to believe?

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 18:48:14 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

Very fine, Lee, very fine indeed.

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 18:42:29 ET
Posted by: Lee from Tampa, Tampa, of course!

My interpretation of Dr Wu, parenthetically interspersed within the lyrics:

Katy tried (Double metaphor representing cocaine, i.e., "Cocaine Katy", and a female "associate" of the narrator)
I was halfway crucified (He was strung out on coke, desperately wanted more, but was "crucified" because Katy did in fact lie, taking his money to get him some coke, but not returning, probably doing the drug herself, maybe with another man in place of the narrator, making it even worse)
I was on the other side
Of no tomorrow (obviously referring to being strung out)
You walked in (Dr. Wu saves the day/night, bringing the drugs)
And my life began again
Just when I'd spent the last piaster
I could borrow
All night long (remembering times before when he and Wu did the drugs, coke keeps people up all night long)
We would sing that stupid song (the stupid song is a metaphor for the coke that was keeping him up all night long)
And every word we sang
I knew was true (at the time, he THOUGHT he "knew" that the song, meaning the coke, was a true route to some type of fulfillment, but of course coke does that to you while under the influence)
Are you with me Doctor Wu (in this section through the end of the verse, the narrator is in doubt that he is actually seeing Dr. Wu, knowing that in his condition, he cannot necessarily believe what he sees)
Are you really just a shadow
Of the man that I once knew
Are you crazy are you high
Or just an ordinary guy
Have you done all you can do
Are you with me Doctor

Don't seem right (in this section, he is lamenting the lack of coke)
I've been strung out here all night
I've been waiting for the taste ("taste" often used when referring to a hit of coke)
You said you'd bring to me
Biscayne Bay (Miami)
Where the Cuban gentlemen sleep all day (during this era, quite a few of the drug dealers/abusers in Miami were Cubans, and they slept all day because they did drugs "all night long")
I went searching for the song
You used to sing to me (again, as written earlier, the "song" he was searching for was the coke, obviously it is not an actual song because why would he be searching for an actual song in Miami?)
Katy lies (negatively commenting on Katy, the drug and the back stabbing woman who took his money, but did not bring back the drugs)
You could see it in her eyes (this further indicates that the Katy metaphor is a dual one, representing not just the drug, but also an actual person; coke does not have eyes which enable him to see the lies, but the woman "Katy" of course does)
But imagine my surprise
When I saw you (he was surprised, and obviously happy to see, Dr. Wu appear)

Are you with me Doctor Wu
Are you really just a shadow
Of the man that I once knew
She is lovely yes she's sly
And you're an ordinary guy
Has she finally got to you
Can you hear me Doctor (note in the song that at this point the instrumental playing and the voice of the narrator become ever more furious in execution, thereby showing A.how desperate the narrator is to get the drugs; and B.how delirious he is due to being strung out, so much so that he cannot even believe his own eyes)

There you go.....please give me your thoughts on my interpretation.

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 18:30:18 ET
Posted by: hz, geez

Hey Deano. Geez. what a stick in the mud.

Girl wants to go - girl gets to go.

Its the summer of LOVE, baby.

You have too much free time on your hands.

You know there are a ton of nonprofits and charities that could use your vast knowledge and time donation.

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 18:23:58 ET
Posted by: angel, Sorry, angel, I must take, what I see

Did anyone mention this up on You Tube. Green Earrings!!!!!

OMG, look at that video!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZmrUV7Zuw2Q

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 18:18:47 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Bunkered Down at JAX

Janie,

"...remember, 120 miles for a Dan tribute band is not quite the same as travelling 120 miles for The Dan!"

'nuff said. And it should have been more obviously stated in my post. For SD, it's close. Compared to LA, it's close. For a SD-Tribute...well, you make the call. :#)

As I get older, I make fewer and fewer of these kinds of boondoggles. I made far too many, in my youth (I'm not complaining, though), and I probably make too few, now.

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 18:03:27 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

And WHY I'm not going up to Bethel tomorrow night, well I just don't know...

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 18:01:07 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Yes, it must all be kept in perspective, I agree but remember, 120 miles for a Dan tribute band is not quite the same as travelling 120 miles for The Dan!

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 17:58:43 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Bunkered Down at JAX

Janie,

I hope to find some internet access after the concert. If not, the review may not take place until Saturday AM.

I'm pretty jacked, Janie, I will not deny that.

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 17:55:48 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Bunkered Down at JAX

Janie,

"120 miles is hardly CLOSE to NYC..."

Compared to what? (All hail Les McCann and Eddie Harris)

If you live on the west coast, 120 miles away is CLOSE to NYC. When you are young, and brave, 120 is nothing. We used to drive more than 2-hours to party without thinking twice. If the closest The Dan gets to you, in any given tour, is 120 miles, consider yourself lucky, and the venue "close".

I'm flying from Florida to Buffalo, to drive (90+ miles) with one of my best friends to the concert on Friday. It's great because the concert is "close enough".

What's my point? Hell if I know. How about, one man's 120 miles, is another's commute. OR What's a few hours between The Dan and a fan?

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 17:51:51 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Whoo Hoo! Sounds like The Dean is on his way. Can't wait to hear your review Dean.

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 17:48:03 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Bunkered Down at JAX

Joey,

Walt probably could sing Wu (although I think it would be very altered), but why bother when Don can sing it? Don has never expressed reservations about SINGING Wu. Walt singing Wu does nothing to address Donald's stated reasons for not doing Wu live.

Walt could probably play bass on Wu, too...so what? Michael Leonhart can probably play keyboards on Wu...does that help ya?

Donald doesn't like the way the song works, live. It has nothing to do with the vocals...at least as far as we know.

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 17:17:11 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Walt,

120 miles is hardly CLOSE to NYC...

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 16:55:47 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Bethel Dreamin'

Walt's Dop, I'll be there on Friday. Nice way to kick off my birthday weekend. Good times!

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 16:45:01 ET
Posted by: Walt's Doppelgänger, ain't gonna work on maggie's farm no more

maragret???

sorry i missed talking to you in hartford. i was the really good looking guy sitting at a table.

i requested fall of 92 and the bums didn't know it. so, i said how bout kulle baba. didn't know it.

they are good though.

check em out friday. even closer to nyc.

ya wants ur wu - they gots ur wu.

DOP

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 16:39:09 ET
Posted by: angel,

I think the question here is, Can Walter do pain?
Yeah, he's been down that road, so I would listen to him attempt Wu.

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 16:28:03 ET
Posted by: Humongous Fan,

"So I ask again , why CAN'T Walter go ahead and sing ' Dr. Wu ' ?!"

Because that would be completely sacrilegious!

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 16:04:01 ET
Posted by: Joey,

" In conclusion Don and Walt once again assuming the character known to us as Steely Dan delve deeper into the dark corners of his mind and write Wu.
Angel I'm with you girl. I've always said it's the music for me and the words add a nice accent. "

So I ask again , why CAN'T Walter go ahead and sing ' Dr. Wu ' ?!

Developing ................................

J.

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 15:55:01 ET
Posted by: Mr.Sticks, Albuquerque,NM

I am a different person..been trying to find out if there was one alrady..but never heard..so ..im having one!!! Outside at the pool..got it all working!!!

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 15:50:12 ET
Posted by: Leah Strutz, Flagstaff, AZ

Mr. Sticks.

Hoops told me a week ago that someone is having an Albuquerque Danfest in their resort suite just like the one at Chumash in 2007. Did you change plans or are you a different person?

I'm heading to NM and AZ shows. Can't wait!!!!

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 15:49:08 ET
Posted by: angel,

Mr. Sticks!!!!!

I thought that was you on that first post. You moved away from LA?

No matter what, have a great Dan time. :-)

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 14:52:11 ET
Posted by: Mr.Sticks, Albuquerque,NM

The Albuquerque Danfest is set!!!
Saturday July 19,2008..Sandia Resort and Casino!!!

Please join us at the POOLSIDE BAR..at 4pm as we begin what will be an incredible evening in the Land Of Enchantment with the Dan!!!

If the the weather is bad at 4..then we will meet in the casino bar..BA-SHIE..across from the indoor stage...come 5pm-7:30pm..we move the party UPSTAIRS to the awesome BIEN SHUR outdoor bar with a view of the Sandias the city..and the Steely amphiteater!!!

Afer party immediatley follwoing back in BA-SHIE...many of entertainers who play Sandia have been spotted in here after their shows..you never know who will show up..!!!

We will see you there.!!!

Mr.Sticks
Formally of Steely Fan Band!!

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 12:38:15 ET
Posted by: GM, Work

Special guests page has been updated on SD.com. Deep Blue Organ Trio is opening in Chicago in August.

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 11:35:58 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

Boston Rag, your loss is our loss. Godspeed his, and Sponge Bill's spirits both.

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 11:08:57 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Girl M -- you definitely need rehab! Someone, call Dr. Wu!!

Just kidding -- I wish I had the energy (and gas money!!) to travel like you do. You go Girl!

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 10:53:04 ET
Posted by: Matt, Chattanooga, TN

Just noticed that Circus Money is listed as an Editor's Choice over on allmusic.com, which means that they think (realize) that it's one of the best albums to be released in the last three months. It's so great to see this fantastic album getting the press it deserves.

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 10:42:50 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Workin'

Hiya kids! Can't wait for the Dan to come back to New York tomorrow, I'm totes stoked - it's been two weeks since my last show and I'm going through withdrawal, especially after reading Woodman's fabulous posts. There has to be some sort of rehab for people like me.

THAT SAID, since no one else has announced anything, I'd like to announce that Girl Margaret and The Nightmare are hosting a Bethel Woods Danfest. We'll be tailgating in the parking lot, hope to get up there between 6:30 and 7, so come and find us. You can email me at girlmargaretATaolDOTcom and I'll give you my number if you need it. We're popping The Nightmare's Dan-cherry tomorrow night, so it should be a lot of fun. Maybe we'll call it "Hey Nightmare, that's Don and Walter."

In other news, I just had to share my adventures of a group I saw last week, The Showbiz Kids. Now I'm not always crazy about the idea of cover/tribute bands, but a group of musicians who love the Dan can't be all bad, so I went and checked them out. The trip to CT was well worth it, what an outstanding band! They played two long, fabulous sets, the crowd loved every minute of it, there was such an excitement in that place that I've only seen at actual concerts. You could tell these guys had nothing but passion about their music and they were incredibly friendly and very knowledgeable about anything and everything SD. A great group of guys, if you happen to be in the Hartford area you should definately check them out. I know I will again!

Mark, sorry to hear about the loss of Kevin. What you wrote about him and Bill was very sweet.

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 10:30:17 ET
Posted by: Doug Kupper, Show Biz Kids - The Steely Dan Tribute. Hartford, CT

Come check out Show Biz Kids (www.myspace.com/showbizkids) at the Maple Tree Cafe in Simsbury, CT this Friday at 8pm!

And stay tuned for news of the big gig in September...

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 10:09:14 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Not on the grid

Boston Rag, sory for your loss.

May your friend rest in peace.

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 08:19:23 ET
Posted by: WuDuF, having feelings...

Boston Rag--

Just wanted to say sorry about your friend Kevin. I like to think of people I have lost recently as "opening up the doors and climbing into the dawn."

Peace to you and all his family.

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 02:54:13 ET
Posted by: Ha-ha, w

It appears as if Stoner was speaking out of turn. It doesn't say that he was part of that particular touring band, it just says that he talked to Donald soon after to say what a great idea it would be for the guy from Steely Dan to join Dylan's band.

Here's what we do know: Dylan had a brand new tour with a new band (after cutting 'Saved' with high-priced session guys not unfamiliar with Dan records) in the fall of 1980. That falls right in line with the timeline brought up by Sweet in his book and in Metal Leg.

Here's what we don't know: Fagen's intentions.

I don't think anyone should be accused of reading too far into things to think that this sort of out of character move by Fagen (at least for 1980, it was out of character, pre-therapy and pre-Titus) was not spurred in some part by the nasty dissolution of a working partnership that had gone on unabated for 13 years at that point.

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 02:40:12 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Here is a list of Dylan's touring bands.

http://www.geocities.com/trevormidgley/GiggingBands.html

Stoner's last stint was in 1978, according to this listing.

Now, I don't think every concert, and every guest is listed here. But, this puts the entire report into serious question, IMO, as Stoner was no longer "Dylan's bass player" by 1981.

Poor reporting and/or fact checking.

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 02:32:00 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

And, to further emphasize how this all might be time shifted, Rob Stoner (cited in that quote as Dylan's bass player) was with Dylan for Rolling Thunder and for some of Dylan's 1978 tour. I don't believe he was with Dylan after that.

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 02:15:15 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Sleepless in St Augustine Beach

Oh please,

I'm not sure this will suffice as a credible source, but there is this, from an old Metel Leg (ISSUE 7, OCTOBER 1988):

http://www.granatino.com/sdresource/7short.htm

Excerpt:

[When Bob Dylan placed a tiny ad in a Los Angeles newspaper for qualified but unknown musicians for his 1981 tour, none other than Donald Fagen, using his real name, applied for the keyboard player's job. A few days later Dylan's bass player, Rob Stoner, called Fagen and told him what a great idea it was that the co-creator of Steely Dan was interested in playing piano for Dylan. "I will definitely talk to Bob about it," Stoner reportedly told Fagen, "and I'll get back to you in a few days."
Stoner never called back. "As far as I'm concerned," Fagen said, "Dylan passed up a good thing. Sorry, Bob, I'm not available any more. I'm too busy."

He later said, "Yes, I inquired about joining Dylan's band, but when I did, I was quite secure in my own endeavors. I'm in Steely Dan and it was basically a whim." (Becker and Fagen dissolved their partnership only months afterwards.) ]

I think Metal Leg was a pretty good/solid resource, so I give it some credence. But. there are some issues with using this a a "definitive source" as it doesn't relate who did the interview, or give a source/date for these interviews. It could be a case of time shifting, or misinterpretation by the third-hand(fourth hand?) source/author of this article.

It also quotes Fagen (this time with interviewer sourced) with this:

[Interviewed prior to the release of Aja, Donald Fagen told Jim Trombetta what he might be able to expect from the new album. "We have a five-minute ditty about Napoleon and the Congress of Vienna, and we have a song called Were You Blind That Day, which is a kind of Third World fantasy."]

So, go figure.

It may be solid (in these quotes, even Fagen refers to is as "a whim"), but I still have a hard time figuring Don for the Jesus-era Dylan. But, taken at face value, it gives no credence, whatsoever, to Sweet's speculation, or Ha's for that matter. It simply sounds like Don thought it would be something cool to do.

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 01:59:32 ET
Posted by: A special friend,

Oh Please - There is no interview. That whole Fagen/Dlyan thing was made up by Brian Sweet.

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 01:55:19 ET
Posted by: Oh, please

Ha ha - Please show me the interview where Fagen is inquiring about joining Dylan's tour. When I see it, I'll believe it.

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 01:33:14 ET
Posted by: Ha-ha, w

And, on a speculation front, I can see Donald having more to do with the "Gotta Serve Somebody"-sound much more than a band led by Leon Russell and Mick Ronson (two guys I like, a lot).

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 01:31:16 ET
Posted by: Ha-ha, w

I'm surprised Dan freaks on a message board like this wouldn't know this:

this has nothing to do with the Rolling Thunder Revue.

We're referring to to interviews with Fagen from around the time the Nightfly came out where he confirmed inquiring about joining Dylan's tour well after Gaucho came out, late 1980 and early 1981.

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 00:38:45 ET
Posted by: Randall, Alone at last

Is it me, or is chat not functional?

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 00:20:17 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Fife,

When you say, "I always thought that the music Don and Walt wrote were for a character", I think you are spot-on. That doesn't mean some autobiographic elements can't occasionally pop up. Think of "My Old School", as simply one example..."Boston Rag" is another.

As I said earlier, I think trying to nail down any "exact" meaning, is kind of foolish. I think most of the various interpretations discussed here have their merit. We all realize (I think) that it is a love-triangle involving drugs. I lean toward Dr Wu as the "healer" and not the "dealer", in this song. Just, IMO, of course. And I have changed my mind on this several times, over the years. But, whether the docs name was really "Wu" or whether Don or Walt actually saw him, is trivial, again IMO.

But, I'm guessing it is this kind of analysis that probably creeps Don out. :#)

Date: Wed, July 09, 2008, 00:00:47 ET
Posted by: Fife, Florida.eh

Okay I'll wade into this Dr.Wu debate. I always thought that the music Don and Walt wrote were for a character. A fellow who looked for the dysfunctional girl and did drugs on a fairly regular basis and deals with addiction later on in the story ie What a Shame about Me. He has a very dark side yet enjoys a bright and sunny tune. I don't think I ever took anything to be truly a reflection of Fagen's and Becker's real life, though their solo endeavours definately are. I remember reading a story about Fagen a couple of years ago that he told about a woman approaching him at function and asking him how he was coping with his addiction and how he had a laugh because he never was a drug addict. Now that story could be totally screwed up due to middle aged brain but it was something along those lines. Why do I mention this? Dr.Wu of course. In conclusion Don and Walt once again assuming the character known to us as Steely Dan delve deeper into the dark corners of his mind and write Wu.
Angel I'm with you girl. I've always said it's the music for me and the words add a nice accent.
Fife

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 23:21:54 ET
Posted by: and some other things,

As far as these DF and WB "interviews" and such go, keep in mind that on a conscious level they are going to you what THEY want YOU to believe, or the public at large about the origins of a certain timeframe or the inspiration for a certain song.

And on an "unconscious" level here is something to consider. Recently I was going through and getting rid of test papers, notes, compositions from college that I have saved, but it is now apparent that I will never use. I was astonished that I did, in the distant past solve third order partial differential equations, correctly calculated divergence and curl, and wrote some pretty decent short stories and poetry. Today, I struggle with arithmetic, and cannot recall what I was thinking at the time I solved those equations and wrote those things. It was if these equations were solved and those compostions written by someone other than myself more than a quarter century ago.

As intelligent and "with it" as WB and DF appear, they too could be susceptible to these same sorts of things when asked to recall something they did so long ago, such as the inspiration for Dr. Wu among close to the 150 songs and collaborative projects they have been involved with. Add to this the alleged "altered states of mind" that they might have been in while composing the songs it is entirely possible that even IF DF or WB, or anyone else discussing something they did 30 or 40 years ago, even if they intend to be honest, they themselves are not the same person, and the mind over time tends to forget or distort perceptions of what actually took place. Kind of like when you return to a place you haven't been for so many years and it seems smaller and different than you now think of it.

So even if DF or WB are asked "Who is Wu?" or other details about what went into composing something 30 odd years ago, that knowledge might indeed be truly lost forever. The same could probably be true even if you could resurrect Franklin, Jefferson, Newton, Einstein or Darwin, even though you might be talking to the originator himself....

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 23:00:52 ET
Posted by: Boston Rag, .

Dean - you're last paragraph kind of sums it up. Scam was released in May of 1976. Which means it was probably in the can for a couple of months. That would give Don time to take a break and maybe join Rolling Thunder to clear his head before creating "Aja".

I wanted to mention that a very big fan of Steely Dan died last week. Kevin Curran was a great human being and a regular at the Boston Danfests. He also lurked on the Blue but rarely posted. Kevin was a great musician and every party he threw would feature Steely Dan music. He could play a mean version of "Any Major Dude" on his acoustic guitar. He was diagnosed last fall with an inoperable brain tumor and was buried yesterday. He was 53 with a beautiful wife and 3 great kids. I'm sure Kevin and SpongeBill are spinning the Steely tunes together.

Mark in Boston

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 22:32:58 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

B-Rag,

Here's the thing. The Rolling Thunder Review ended mid 1976.

When I see statements like the ones below, I think late 70's, when things were odd between Donald and Walter:

["Fagen's interest in joining Dylan on the road probably had a twofold purpose -- an attempt to jolt Becker into realizing that life could go on without him, and to gain some time and space away from their deteriorating relationship."

That's what we call an educated guess. And, give Sweet all the shit you want, but let's get real with it. Becker was barely showing up to recording sessions back then, before and after the broken leg rehab. Walter essentially left Donald to construct the most exacting and frustrating of all the Steely Dan albums on his own, while he chased down his personal demons in NYC.]

Since when was Walter not showing up to the studio in 1974 or 1975? I never hear of any internal (Don and Walt) strife at that time, in the band's history.

Now, I understand that Don and Walt admire Dylan. But, by this time in their careers, they are HUGE in the music world. Dylan (who I seriously admire) was not at his peak of popularity, by this time. In fact, at the time Don and Walt were having problems making Gaucho, Dylan was doing his born-again Christian thing. That's not something I can see Don getting involved with.

So, given this historical perspective, here's what I can probably believe:

Don may have expressed some interest (or willingness to be involved in) Rolling Thunder, as it was collaborative affair, with some interesting musicians and personalities that probably appealed to Don. How he expressed the interest, and/or how serious it was, is unclear, as far as I can tell. That this would have been in the early-mid 70's it is, perhaps, more likely that it was just something fun for Don to do between Dan albums.

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 22:21:14 ET
Posted by: the Bear's got WU!,

I agree that the SD dictionary and such are interpretations, and the timelines of some of the assertions don't add up in some cases. We are talking 1973-74, presumably way before WB had his problems. SD was pumping out product, at least one LP per year, and arguably their best work. I doubt that Dr. Wu represents WB and DF, the narrator is saying Are you with me? I also do not believe that DF was treated by Dr. Wu of D.C. since it seems he has always had his act together and is the primary force behind SD (my interpretation). Dr. Wu could not have become famous that quickly enough to treat West Coast entertainers. Maybe by 1978-80 when WB had his problems, hit by car etc., but NOT 1974.

Something is wrong with Dr. Wu, who is a drug dealer, as well as the strung out narrator. Dr. Wu is not the rehab guru, his name is a double entendre for "Woo". Dr. Wu is a pusher who turned, "wooed" DF the narrator onto the drug. The dealer himself, Dr. Wu has partaken too much of his own goods, the drugs and is either strung out, overdosed or lying there in a lifeless heap. Furthermore, the chilling ending of the song is the narrator's realization that he himself is hooked and is bound for the same fate, witnessing first hand the death throes or death itself of his mentor and supplier Dr. Wu. It would scare the fuck out of most people if someone you trusted, who got you into whatever activity, drugs, crime or whatever and seemed to have their stuff together suddenly succumbed to the very thing they got you into.

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 22:08:29 ET
Posted by: Boston Rag, Home

Dean - I've read a couple of interviews way back when Donald said he wrote a note to Dylan telling him he'd be more than happy to play keyboards on the Rolling Thunder tour. Dylan never got back to him. It's not so strange. Look at the facts.

* Both Don and Walt are big Dylan fans. Hell, Donald even bought Dylan's home in Woodstock, NY.

* At the time of the tour, Jeff Baxter and Mike McDonald had left to join the Doobies and Donald/Walter were wondering about the concept of having a band or using all session players.

* Rolling Thunder was like an early Rock and Soul Revue

* I was at one of the earlt Donald shows in 1990 where he used to cover Dylan's "Down Along The Cove".

So I wouldn't call it bullshit. It would of been cool, if it happened.

Mark in Boston

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 20:14:57 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Has anyone EVER confirmed the rumor that Don was interested in joining Dylan? Because, that sounds like total bullshit, to me, no matter what the alleged reason.

This would have been at the height of The Dan's popularity, and I simply can't imagine the scenario where Donald Fagen would be vying to join Dylan's band.

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 19:36:16 ET
Posted by: Ha-ha, w

Hamartia and Hubris,

no. No it is not.

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 18:55:55 ET
Posted by: Mr.Sticks, Albuquerque,NM

Albuqreque Danfest..anyone planning already or can I annouce mine/
Thanks

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 18:21:43 ET
Posted by: Ha-ha, w

A Special Friend,

way to avoid the point.

I quoted the passage that John was referring to. If you want to go back to the book, on the record quotes from DF and Stoner are available to scope out. This wasn't something Sweet pulled out of thin air.

But, by all means, distort the actual discussion at hand.

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 17:43:04 ET
Posted by: Tomorrow's Girl, under the banyan tree

All the song interpretations are interesting and I sometimes think about them when I listen to my Steely Dan, But mostly I kind of float away on the beauty of the music alone. The words are beautifol too, but are second in importance for me. Stimpy- I agree with you, Snowbound is hard to interpret. The song probably has a dark meaning (wolves!), but doesn't the music feel good.

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 16:38:08 ET
Posted by: hoops,

A Danfest is simply when two people get together for beers before or after a show.

The Boston Danfest this year was maybe ten people having beers at a hotel bar.

The Dusseldorf Danfest a few years ago was four of us having a burger in a booth at a restaurant.

Don't hesitate. It's a Danfest.

[My apols if that sounded a little barbed b4.]

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 16:08:27 ET
Posted by: A Special Friend,

Ha Ha - What's ironic is that you're making your point(s) from things written in Sweet's book! Now that's a Ha ha!

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 16:06:55 ET
Posted by: SoulMonkey, Louisville, Ky

For those of you attending the show on Sunday 7/13 in Cincinnati, there will be several people going to Lebo Bar before the concert. While not an official "Dan Fest", this seems to be the spot to mingle before every show. I'm not sure about the NSEW of directions, but if you're facing Riverbend and NCP, Lebo's is a half a mile down on the right on Kellog Ave. If you're coming in on 275 East, turn left on the end of the Kellog Ave exit, and go half a mile. It will be on your left. You won't miss the spot. There is parking in the back. A group of us will be getting there somtime mid to late afternoon.

Tom

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 16:00:48 ET
Posted by: Dan Historian, keyboard

When Dr Wu (the one listed in the SD dictionary) died, most columns written about his death cited the Steely Dan reference, although none stated how they knew the song was about him.

For example:

http://content.herbalgram.org/wholefoodsmarket/Herbalgram/articleview.asp?a=2460

At one point, the Steely Dan dictionary stated specifically that it was Fagen who was treated by Wu.

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 15:57:05 ET
Posted by: Ha-ha, w

John Walsh -- he didn't say that DF did it to make Walter jealous.

"Fagen's interest in joining Dylan on the road probably had a twofold purpose -- an attempt to jolt Becker into realizing that life could go on without him, and to gain some time and space away from their deteriorating relationship."

That's what we call an educated guess. And, give Sweet all the shit you want, but let's get real with it. Becker was barely showing up to recording sessions back then, before and after the broken leg rehab. Walter essentially left Donald to construct the most exacting and frustrating of all the Steely Dan albums on his own, while he chased down his personal demons in NYC.

Sweet was off on a lot of stuff, but I don't think it too much of a jump to connect those dotes. People with a legendary aversion to touring don't willingly chase down a chance at taking part in a never-ending tour just as an afterthought.

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 15:54:21 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

Having tasted a good bit of Rajah's whip leather (yes, the wounds are healing up nicely), I'd like to see him back here posting on a regular basis...maybe this'll help.

My interpretation of Wu is Dr. Wu is the clean, alter-ego of the junkie/narrator (Wu backwards being "you" and the "Dr." signifying the "treated" persona)...Katy certainly could be the illicit substance or the Katy of "Katy bar the door" fame...apparently the saying has to do with a women protecting her vulnerable man from any number of "social ills" that might befall him (stealing a WB term "social ills"...love that).

I could be wrong about this, of course...afterall, I'm still sticking to my theory the KC is still as much about Manson as The Bear.

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 15:42:02 ET
Posted by: Janie Runaway, NY

Stimpy, PLEASE don't tell me you don't know how to spell FAGEN!

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 14:55:22 ET
Posted by: stimpy, kid clean

Right. Fagan says as much in the Kamikiriad interview on YouTube.

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 14:54:54 ET
Posted by: Yes,

Yes, Kid Clean. You are correct. Walter has said that.

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 14:52:54 ET
Posted by: stimpy, fair points I guess

Lee is much more common of course.

But if you Google him and read more you see that his specialty was using acupuncture to treat heroin addiction during the same time period the record came out. The song is clearly about addiction.

I don't claim Wu (who presumably had been working on the idea prior to his clinic in DC--which is what started in 1973) treated either of the boys, just that the idea of a real-life Dr Wu as the protagonist in the song is credible to say the least.

It is certainly consistent with the lyrics, and the boys are, well, at least "conversant" with junk and it's associated cultural history.

Imagine having tried the treatment and then returning to the straight life with all the temptations addicts must deal with.

Katy coming over with taste.

Are you with me Dr Wu? Cause I think Im gonna relapse.

The whole think works pretty well, especially for dope "insiders."

Remember Nirvana's "bleach?"

Either way, the guy was pretty famous in the 70's with his chinese medecine as an alternative treatment (an image that surfaces again in AJA by the way.)

Either way, good points and thanks for the response.

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 14:44:40 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, @work

I'd been under the impression that Snowbound was a tune that D & W had written together, sometime in the mid 80's.

KC

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 14:07:52 ET
Posted by: Are you with me?, D.C.

Stimpy - First of all, I think the name "Wu" is probably about as common among Asians as "Smith" or "Jones" is with caucasians. Secondly, you yourself said this Dr. Wu from D.C. practiced from 1973 to 2002. Katy Lied was released in 1975, which means "Dr. Wu" was written, the latest, in 1974 and possibly before that. After one year of opening his clinic he was already so well known that a band based in L.A. wrote a song about him? I don't buy it.

I find it funny that people like to back up their claims by quoting sites such as "The Steely Dan Dictionary" or "Fever Dreams" (or Brian Sweets book for that matter). While these sites are entertaining and, in the case of the SD Dictionary, can be factual in part (what's an Eames chair?), they are created by fans and are generally just opinions and interpretations. To use these as a "source" is comical.

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 13:43:13 ET
Posted by: angel,

Gina: Nice All About Jazz review of Steely Dan. Thanks for the link.

This year they are becoming a touring powerhouse?

After 8 years of following their every move, I have been vindicated! lol

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 12:44:16 ET
Posted by: John Walsh, AMW

Matt- Brian Sweet also said in his book that Fagen tried out for Dylan's band to make Walter jealous. What a crock that is! That's one of the main reasons I don't quote/believe anything from his book.

Enough - No we can't! Not until he's apprehended or turns himself in.

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 12:39:26 ET
Posted by: Gina, All About Jazz

http://www.allaboutjazz.com/php/article.php?id=29957#4

since mizar5 is offline due to some nitwits at the hosting company who didn't have a clue what they were doing and decided to hide in silence instead of getting it back online, i'll just post it here.
my colleague at All About Jazz, John Kelman, devoted quite some lines to describe what he also captured in a singular word HOT.....
but HOT alone is just so....

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 12:17:59 ET
Posted by: fezo, humidtown

years ago, on a stifling summer evening in a house sans ac, I finally set out on a hopefully cooling drive through the back country roads. I was stone sober but practically delerious from the heat as I motored through the soggy air

had radio tuned to some Richmond station, no dj, just late night autopilot, when Dr Wu came on the radio.

I had heard it numerous times before but now for the first time I "got" it. It was like I had the golden ticket, the key to the kingdom, the song suddenly made perfect sense to me. Every word.

Then I got home, went to sleep, and promptly forgot the moment of clarity the tune had briefly brought me.

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 11:53:21 ET
Posted by: Head, scratcher

Stimpy - yeah, Snowbound is pretty impenetrable.
Maybe just a personal memory of a good/bad moment in time that is personal to Fagen and doesn't have a wider resonance. Apart from the reference to the pretentious 'modern' art world.
The 'loser' firing off the flare . . . ." For seven seconds it's like Christmas day and then it's dark again " is a powerful poetic image that could be taken on a dozen levels. Just great pictures that you can hang meanings on if you like.

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 11:50:07 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, a concerned citizen, 3 DAYS STILL STEELY DAN!!!!

Hey, seriously, you guys need to go on Amazon.com and give Circus Money a 5 star review. It has slipped from an average of 4.5 stars to only 4 stars.

Come guys! You talk a big game about how great it is, just take 4 minutes and give it 5 stars... lets make it a 5 star average!!

Let's do it people!!!

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 11:28:18 ET
Posted by: Brutus Charisma,

Remember:

DF respects WB's intellect, talent and is/has always been in awe of WB's personal fearlessness/daring - whether or not that cool/bravado devolved from cool to fool at certain periods in his life. He a;so respected WB's Bavarian Balls to dig himself out of that abyss and survive and thrive again.

WU, ironically, AS IT ALWAYS DOES, became a tale of art imitating life. The Bear always gets you - no matter how much hubris or intelligence you think you may have.

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 11:24:15 ET
Posted by: stimpy, work

I just can't seem to get my head around "Snowbound." I mean, I know it is about winter, but the rest? Wow.

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 11:21:50 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

That's an interesting question, stimpy.

I don't have my answer, off hand. But, let me twist it a little and say this:

Lunch With Gina is an interesting case, IMO. It can be seen as a fairly straight-forward song about an obsessive lover, or it can be seen as a metaphor for drug addiction. To tell you the truth, I'm not sure which it really is...or if it really matters. Obsession and addiction are closely related, and the way we deal with them can be similar. In fact, the song may be about BOTH of those things, simultaneously.

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 11:16:04 ET
Posted by: Matt, Chattanooga, TN

AS far as the Wu discussion goes, Brian Sweet theorized that the "all night long we would sing that stupid song" referred to Visions of Johanna by Bob Dylan, which was supposedly played every night before their shows by one of the sound crew to test levels on the PA.

Coincidentally, having been to a vast array of shows in 2000 and 2003, and several at each tour since then, I can attest to the fact that some of the very reggae music that seems to have directly influenced Walter's stylistic choices on Circus Money are played prior to the band's taking the stage, or the start of the opening act, depending on the tour. It seems like a reference to a song played prior to each show isn't so much of a stretch really.

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 11:10:40 ET
Posted by: stimpy, san francisco (show and tell)

I have a question for the fanatics on this board that has always intrigued me: what SD tune(s) is the MOST obscure and/or open to a lyrical "rorschach?"

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 11:01:51 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Just to give Stimpy's claim a little backup. There is an entry for Dr Wu at the Steely Dan Dictionary:

http://www.steelydandictionary.com/

Excerpt:
"Doctor Jing Nuan Wu (1933-2002), an acupuncturist and artist based in Washington DC. Emigrated from China to the US at a young age and graduated from Harvard to become a Wall Street venture capitalist, finally setting up a Taoist clinic in Washington in 1973. Apparently helped one of the band to overcome drug addiction in the mid-70s, hence the lyrical tribute."

And, here is the Wu website:

http://www.wushealingart.com/

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 10:53:47 ET
Posted by: Enough, is enough

Can we please dispense with the talk of "Raj?"

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 10:48:25 ET
Posted by: stimpy, still California

From the web:

Jing Nuan Wu, L.AC.:
"Chinese Medicine in Modern America"
Jing Nuan Wu practiced Chinese medicine in the District of Columbia from 1973 until his death is 2002. He was a skillful, articulate, and persistent advocate for this ancient healing art, through times when doing so was not necessarily easy or popular.

Dr. Wu was the Chairman of the D.C. Medical Advisory Board on Acupuncture, a position he called "one of the most frustrating jobs of my career." Despite the frustrations inherent in navigating through the murky waters of the world-renowned D.C. government bureaucracy, Dr. Wu managed over the past ten years to bring the ship safely into port -under his guidance acupuncture became legal in Washington.

In this 1990 interview with Dr. Daniel Redwood, Dr. Wu shared his insights on the causes of drug abuse and its effects on society as a whole. He offered a foreboding commentary on the effects that widespread drug usage has on social stability, drawing a comparison between what is happening today in the United States and what happened in China earlier in this century, when a substantial proportion of the population was addicted.

Wu was a translator of various classics of Chinese medicine, including Ling Shu (The Yellow Emperor's Inner Classic), and Yi Jing (The Book of Changes), published by the University of Hawaii Press.

Dr. Redwood wishes to express here his deep and abiding gratitude for Dr. Wu's generous, patient and gracious acupuncture mentoring. Dr. Wu died in 2003.

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 10:46:10 ET
Posted by: Stimpy, California

Guys, just Google Dr. Wu and you will see he is a real person. He is a physician who pioneered treatment for opiate addiction in the 80's in washington DC and maryland.

The song is classic SD, and full of the kind of imagery that attracts fans, but some of the interpretations get kind of out there.

Sometimes a cigar IS just a cigar, so to speak.

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 10:24:15 ET
Posted by: Unlucky Henry, UK

Only about a week to go for UK Circus Money.
I like Walters take on things so I am really looking forward to it. I am one of the minority ( probably ) who loved 11TOW and couldn't get enough of that stark, stripped down imagery of a messy break up.

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 10:19:08 ET
Posted by: Unlucky Henry, UK

This is so cool - I pushed the buttons of the sociopathic inner-child of the Raj stalker so much he's come after me in his various yellow-bellied anon guises !
I guess that means I'm officially one of you now !
And guess what... he won't be able to resist responding to this post either 'cos that's one of the symptoms of the illness !!
Watch this space - if he posts he loses, if he doesn't post he loses.
That would make him, er...well, a loser I guess...

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 10:11:00 ET
Posted by: Hutch, Virginia, USA

Unlucky Henry - I don't know what HeyMike's problem is and I don't know what Redneck Village's problem is but as far as I'm concerned you're welcome here and I think the vast majority of the folks on this board welcome you.
You're going to love Circus Money. It grabs you quickly and doesn't let go for a good long while.

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 09:46:26 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

dirk,

I think that Guitar Hero post is a rumor based on this article in the Wall Street Journal (it was posted here a few days ago):

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB121487474239618065.html?mod=googlenews_wsj

Excerpt:

...The success of Guitar Hero and Rock Band have made them important new sources of income for bands. Irving Azoff, whose Front Line Management manages Aerosmith and other major artists, says videogame deals can be "much more lucrative than anything you can do in the record business."...

Clients including Van Halen, the Eagles, Steely Dan and Guns N' Roses "all have deals of varying types in the works with one or the other or both of these companies," says Mr. Azoff, referring to the makers of Guitar Hero and Rock Band.

Now... I certainly HOPE that it is a rumor. I can't see SD doing an Areosmith-type deal with GH, and I can't really see them sharing the masters. But, perhaps they shared a song or two.

I really enjoyed the discussion of Dr Wu. I think all of the interpretations offered have value. Let's face it, trying to nail down EXACT interpretations of many (most?) Dan songs is a fools-errand...an errand I have run on more than one occasion. The best you can do is get in the general ball-park of the actual story. Over time, I have come to accept Gus' interpretation as likely the closest to the Steely "truth".

With that said, "Time Out of Mind" as a song about "religious revival"? That is something I have never even considered. As far as I know, it is a straight-ahead drug song, and one of the easier Dan tunes to interpret. "Chasing the Dragon" means getting high on opium (or morphine/heroin)...it is a fairly common expression, actually. Combine that with the other lyrics (particularly "Time out of mind") and the song falls together rather nicely. But, perhaps I am missing something.

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 08:45:51 ET
Posted by: HeyMike, Chicago Suburbs

I am a Brit trapped in another rainsoaked 'summer' waiting for Circus Money to get released in the UK ( I put my fingers in my ears and hum when you all discuss it ! ) reading all the gig reports, setlists etc and soaking up the general great buzz of the guys touring . . .
And amidst all that some curious worm does an infantile hatchet job on a veteran Bluebooker in the most nauseating and cowardly way possible over some real or imagined personal grievance.
I struggle quite a bit to understand US politics. Am I right in thinking this person would be a Republican ?

Unlucky Henry-you're too stupid to post on here or anywhere else for that matter-Cheers!

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 06:39:45 ET
Posted by: inside scoop,

The dealer could be tapped out. OR, from the frantic tone of the Dr. Wu outro, you could certainly envision the Narrator leaning over and shaking the prone body of Dealer who himself who has overdosed or has been found dead of an overdose.

Like Charlie Freak.

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 04:57:15 ET
Posted by: dirk, germany

SD on Nintendos Guitar Hero ?

http://gonintendo.com/?p=48408

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 03:06:29 ET
Posted by: UnluckyHutch, RedneckVillage

UnluckyHutchHenry you two must have peed on yourselves by now.
It's so depressing to be so much better than the others.
Especially if the others are a whole country.
British politics are just dandy, and Karl Marx was the man.
He had genital rash, which caused him to be angry all the time.
In London at the time, there was no remedy for this, seems like there is none now.
Hence the fucked up book he wrote.
You guys get some Lamisil and get over it.

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 02:56:36 ET
Posted by: Gus Winterbottom, Torrance, CA

Regarding the Wu discussion, in the UBT site,

http://www.banyantrees.net/

Doctor Wu is described in the "SD Dictionary" section as someone who helped one of the group members overcome a drug addiction problem. Taken in that context, my guess is that the setting of this song is a rehab bed. During the main verses, the narrator is recalling his most memorable past drug experiences. Not surprisingly, both sequences concern the pain of withdrawal and the unlikely source arriving to replace pain with pleasure. Since his body is in the same condition of withdrawal at the present time, it is plausible that he would recall similar painful experiences in his past, with the hope that this time the pain will also be mitigated. The first verse alludes to Vietnam, since the piaster is their unit of currency (although other contries use that term as well). The fact that the song was released shortly after our withdrawal from Vietnam suggests to me a war veteran who became addicted (possibly to heroin) during his tour of duty. During the second verse, he relapses after his return to the States. During the choruses, our narrator returns to a state of semi-consciousness, still hallucinating, with Doctor Wu attending him. In the final chorus, the patient's delusions are combining reality with his past memories, and he imagines that Doctor Wu is fighting a parallel battle against Katy (I would agree with the consensus that this is slang for the drug in question).

Although this is not certain, my feeling is that the "You" of the verses (You walked in, the taste you said..., etc) is a different entity than either Katy or Doctor Wu. This is the subject's miraculous drug connection, coming through just in time with a fix both abroad and later, by sheer chance, after running into him again under similarly desperate circumstances. Probably not complete chance, however: the connection is probably a fellow serviceman who was moonlighting in the drug business overseas, and continued his business after his return home. This would explain the "surprise" of seeing him again, halfway around the world.

Well that's my two cents' worth; for other ideas, you might check

http://en.allexperts.com/q/Steely-Dan-606/Doctor-Wu.htm

I did not read those prior to writing the above, but I may have read them years ago and have subconsciously borrowed something.

Lastly, regards to the Rajah, wherever you are. Even if you pronounce all of the above to be total crap, I am sure that I will enjoy the prose that you employ to do so.

GW

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 02:30:45 ET
Posted by: The inside inside scoop, The Bay

The dealer in Dr. Wu has broken the cardinal rule of dealing ... never get high off your own supply.

The narrator hasn't been cut off. His dealer is tapped out because he's become hooked on what he's dealing.

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 02:20:28 ET
Posted by: CharlieFreak,

Katy! Amazing. The whole Woo/Wu thing pretty much sealed it for me. How these two guys can come up with the double meanings and interwoven dialogue is simply amazing. Lyrics for the thinking listener.

I had a similar analysis with the song "Time Out Of Mind." This is one of the most interesting offerings by SD lyrically. I have heard a variety of interpretations. However, it seems to come down to either a song about a religious revival or it is a song about drugs. I tend to think that it is a song about both...in that religion and drugs share many of the same characteristics. It is pure genius that Don and Walt have found a way to cover both topics in one song.

These are truly brilliant writers.

-P

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 01:37:59 ET
Posted by: Randall, Alone at last

(Randall wipes the sleep from his eyes and wakes up from a five year slumber to find out that SD is touring again) Whohoo!!! Last time I saw them was at Roseland in 03 (Awesome show!). Time before that was during a very dark and stormy night at the Nissan Pavilion. I forget the cool Aussie blokes who flew all the way out here to see the same shows (and a few others I believe). Very cool guys, though. This time I'm all set to see the boys in Berkeley. Any one aware of any pre or post event gatherings?

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 00:03:10 ET
Posted by: You Can't Hide your Lyin Eyes,

sometimes you just need a lyric that rhymes with Lies.

Date: Tues, July 08, 2008, 00:01:10 ET
Posted by: Katy Did,

inside scoop - nice post

Charlie Freak -
It is a love song, he's in love with the drugs. To woo is to court or marry, put an Asian spelling to it (there's that fascination with the Orient again), and you get Wu.

"Katy lies, you can see it in her eyes"

Drugs (Katy) are seductive, so they become like a lover. This is a way of humanizing the seductiveness of the drug.

Date: Mon, July 07, 2008, 23:45:52 ET
Posted by: Dr Robert,

"Dr Wu" should have been called "Dr Roy"

Well, well, well your feeling fine

Date: Mon, July 07, 2008, 23:38:31 ET
Posted by: CharlieFreak,

One more note....

I was on the other side
Of no tomorrow

I'm sure that this refers to being strung out and in dire need of a fix. The hopelessness that is so much a part of heavy addiction.

-P

Date: Mon, July 07, 2008, 23:34:53 ET
Posted by: CharlieFreak,

Scoop/Katy...

Well, that sounds pretty damn close. When I re-listen to the song, it all seems to fit in place.

The haunting part for me is that this could easily be a "love" song...and to some extent, must be.

"have you done all you can do?" in reference to locating more drugs?

"don't seem right" in reference to the "lie."

How do you explain...."Katy lies, you can see it in her eyes" It is the "eyes" that I want to put into context.

-P

Date: Mon, July 07, 2008, 23:33:15 ET
Posted by: CharlieFreak,

Scoop/Katy...

Well, that sounds pretty damn close. When I re-listen to the son, it all seems to fit in place.

The haunting part for me is that this could easily be a "love" song...and to some extent, must be.

"have you done all you can do?" in reference to locating more drugs?

"don't seem right" in reference to the "lie."

How do you explain...."Katy lies, you can see it in her eyes" It is the "eyes" that I want to put into context.

-P

Date: Mon, July 07, 2008, 23:17:06 ET
Posted by: the inside scoop,

Dr Hook had a major hit in 1973 entitled The Cover of the Rolling Stone, which satirically depicted the life of a rock star who finally made it. Joe Walsh had another hit with that similar theme Life's Been Good which poked fun at but was right on about the rocker lifestyle.

In the song, Dr Hook had a freaky old lady name Cocaine Katy, who embroidered on his jeans. As we now know, it is not above Becker or Fagen to utilize or be inspired by popular tunes of the day, and they have admitted to as much. Becker's tune selection on his recent Sirius guest DJ appearances indicated a keen awareness and knowledge of tunes that you would think he and Fagen would be too musically snobby or would lower themselves to even listen to, much less critically interpret or appropriate in their own music.

Katy IS the drug Cocaine. And the timeline fits for it's appropriation from the Dr Hook piece into Dr. Wu, 1973-74.
The narrator is a strung out junkie, of which there are many in Steely Dan lore. The first part of the song describes the cocaine pick me up that the narrator experiences, after being down in life, spending the last piaster he could borrow and his budding relationship with the Dealer who turned him on to the Coke, DR WU.

But the high does not last, (Katy Lied), the narrator is strung out, the Dealer has cut him off. The narrator speculates that perhaps the drug (Katy) has gotten to the dealer himself as an explanation of why the Dealer, DR WU has cut him off. The most probable reason is that, metaphorically, has spent the last piaster he could borrow.

Dr. Wu's haunting, desperate outro emotes the hooked and strung out junkie narrator simultaneously feeling the deceit, or being metaphorically jilted by the Katy, crashing from a high and unable locate or get the fix he needs from the Dealer he depended upon, who wasn't a friend at all, Dr. Wu.

Date: Mon, July 07, 2008, 23:01:13 ET
Posted by: Katy Did,

I always thought of Katy as the drug and Dr Wu as a dealer... Katy finally got to Dr Wu too.

Date: Mon, July 07, 2008, 22:24:47 ET
Posted by: CharlieFreak,

Hutch...

I like your speculation as to the meaning(s) of Dr. Wu.

I don't think that this song would have near the emotional pull it does without Fagan's vocals. I've never thought of Donald as a "great" singer. However, in so many cases, it is impossible to imagine anyone else singing so many great SD songs (with the exception of "Dirty Work").

Up until your post, I had always thought that Dr. Wu was the "connection" with regard to the drugs...that something concerning him was the focus. However, you gave an angle that I believe fits better.

I like the idea that there is a sort of struggle between the love (and need) for the drugs and the love (and need) there is for Katy. I have found similar themes throughout SD lyrics.

So many times I've defined SD as this "happy" music masking the dark corners of our existence. Dr. Wu is that rare (IMHO) of an example where the music matches the sadness of the lyrics.

-P

Date: Mon, July 07, 2008, 22:06:36 ET
Posted by: Hutch, rva

Unlucky Henry - American politics is like some depressing cartoon pitting the Good against the Evil. A lot of it is driven by the media and its "need" to frame things in black and white (re: sensationalism), along with the right wing media using religion as a lever. Very, very depressing for a secularist such as myself but fortunately it is also a constant source of amusement.
Post more often. Good to have you here.

CharlieFreak - Dr.Wu is a very emotional song and for me it's one of the hardest to figure out what it's really about. I have a vague picture in my mind of someone in a tropical locale... maybe in Jamaica waiting for his girl to score some drugs for him but I'm sure there's more to it than that. I've poured over the lyrics here in the last few minutes, trying to read it as a poem and keep the melody out of my head to see if I can get a deeper meaning. Perhaps she did score a little when his "life began again" or maybe it was just her presence that made him momentarily forget about his needs. One could read the chorus as Katy talking to him... "Are you crazy. Are you high, or just an ordinary guy". Maybe she thinks he's more than he is and puts him on a pedestal. In the end he IS just an ordinary guy.. less than she thought he was and less (or maybe more) than he thought he was. Maybe she purposely didn't score to try to get him to kick it. "Katy lies. You can see it in her eyes".

And who could Dr.Wu be in "reality"? Whenever I'd see photos of WB back in the day I always thought, "Man, Becker looks like some Chinese mystical guru". Who knows.

DR WU

Katy tried
I was halfway crucified
I was on the other side
Of no tomorrow
You walked in
And my life began again
Just when I'd spent the last piaster
I could borrow
All night long
We would sing that stupid song
And every word we sang
I knew was true
Are you with me Doctor Wu
Are you really just a shadow
Of the man that I once knew
Are you crazy are you high
Or just an ordinary guy
Have you done all you can do
Are you with me Doctor

Don't seem right
I've been strung out here all night
I've been waiting for the taste
You said you'd bring to me
Biscayne Bay
Where the Cuban gentlemen sleep all day
I went searching for the song
You used to sing to me
Katy lies
You could see it in her eyes
But imagine my surprise
When I saw you

Are you with me Doctor Wu
Are you really just a shadow
Of the man that I once knew
She is lovely yes she's sly
And you're an ordinary guy
Has she finally got to you
Can you hear me Doctor

Date: Mon, July 07, 2008, 22:03:21 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Charlie Freak,

If this ain't the place for that, what is? This is precisely the place!

Date: Mon, July 07, 2008, 21:36:56 ET
Posted by: Web Search, 020

The Gibson quote has been posted on donaldfagen.com

Date: Mon, July 07, 2008, 20:57:59 ET
Posted by: CharlieFreak,

Maybe this isn't the place....but I just can't get away from a particular SD song. It happens once in a while. I play a Dan CD and hear something that I haven't heard in along time. I end up playing the track over and over again. This week, it's "Dr. Wu."

The words, the music are near perfect. I'm still trying to piece together the meaning...whatever the meaning, the song (to me) seems so sad. And I don't even know why.

Fagan's voice is so...so, plaintive...so yearning...so sad. I admit to shedding a tear during lines like...

Don't seem right
I've been strung out here all night
I've been waiting for the taste
You said you'd bring to me

or...

You walked in
And my life began again
Just when I'd spent the last piaster
I could borrow

or...

I went searching for the song
You used to sing to me

This song draws something out of me...I'm just not sure what.

-P

Date: Mon, July 07, 2008, 19:32:03 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

I think there are Steely moments in just about every song on C$. But, I'd have to say I agree that Selfish Gene is pretty Steely. Somebody's Saturday Night also has a log of Dan in it.

I can certainly hear a lot of Steely Dan in 3 Pic Deal and Door #2, too.

Now, a song like Darkling Down, which is not Steely by nature, IMO, has some very Steely moments in it.

Date: Mon, July 07, 2008, 19:21:27 ET
Posted by: angel,

I vote for 3 Picture Deal. Josie vibes abound. :-)

Date: Mon, July 07, 2008, 17:29:36 ET
Posted by: Hopeful, mudroom

Right, well I brought up the word "left side" in reaction to the post:

Date: Mon, July 07, 2008, 08:42:28 ET
Posted by: After further review, in the editing room

"blah blah blah . . . let's keep that clear"

I considered it may be Hoop's post, but not likely. If so, then sorry.

All the same, when I said something like "friend or foe, your left side is showing," I meant that the individual was NOT showing his/her "right side," which I suspect is virtually impossible to do considering the rancorousness of spirit of the writing.

All the same, the self-righteous poser ( I mean poster ) screams liberal to me, spouting off -- right or wrong -- leaving the burden of proving otherwise to the work of others, just because s/he can.

A conservative would probably never allow that caliber of ire to jump out into a strange, public forum, nor allow oneself to be goaded to that degree, just because s/he can. --along these lines.

I am a conservative. Hopeful, at the beach

Date: Mon, July 07, 2008, 16:22:43 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

Unlucky Henry,

It would be overly simplistic to make the assumption that the douche stalking Raj is necessarily Republican. In the US, politicians of both parties, have engaged in the sleazy attack. But, it is fair to say the Republicans are more well-known for the style.

And the remark that the difference between Rep and Dem politics is simply the size of gov't, is extremely overly simplistic. Although it is fair to say that, philosophically, this distinction exists, don't count on it, alone, to help you identify "who's who" on any particular local, state or national issue.

DWB, do you have the Cliff Notes version of that? I'm not sure what I think of all that, or even if I care. I am pretty certain the approach to airing your grievances isn't very good, though.

Hopefully, Donald is resting his voice and drinking herbal tea, and such, and the boys are enjoying their little mini-vacation. I trust they will be ready to kick it, this week, in Bethel and The Finger Lakes.

Date: Mon, July 07, 2008, 15:52:28 ET
Posted by: Newerkes, Backyard

On the other hand,

OH Canada: Right, of interest is the article you found by Chris Cobb: “The Blues Army” at the Ottowacitizen speaks (on page 2) about the theft of Nick Moss and the Flip flop’s stuff in Montreal and almost didn’t make it to Ottawa Bluesfest.

“It was a nightmare day for Chicago bluesman Nick Moss . . . due on stage in Ottawa at 4:30 p.m., had their truck and trailer stolen yesterday morning from a Montreal hotel parking lot. With their transport went all their instruments, except for two guitars they kept in their hotel room . . . Montreal police told the band there was a 60-per-cent chance of retrieving the vehicles, but next to zero chance they will see their instruments and money again. . . . ”

Et que pensez-vous de problems pour les artists including: Andre Cholmondeley’s problems vs. the Zappa’s security woes, etc. and denial to Leslie Feist’s band to use its screens and blah blah blah.

Looking over the artist schedule at Ottawa:

http://www.ottawabluesfest.ca/pdf/performers/2008-Schedule-Printable.pdf.

There’s was a menagerie at Ottawa, in my faraway opinion.

Nwk

Date: Mon, July 07, 2008, 14:43:26 ET
Posted by: Newerker, Outside looking in

Due: No, I didn't like that article. Nwk

Date: Mon, July 07, 2008, 14:01:08 ET
Posted by: Alkali, NYC

Henry,
you would be wrong in you assumption, my friend.
It basically boils down to two essential categories
One that wants smaller government and the other that wants bigger government.
if you can remember this premis, you'll have figured out American politics.
The rest is a piece of cake.

Date: Mon, July 07, 2008, 13:11:05 ET
Posted by: Unlucky Henry, UK

I am a Brit trapped in another rainsoaked 'summer' waiting for Circus Money to get released in the UK ( I put my fingers in my ears and hum when you all discuss it ! ) reading all the gig reports, setlists etc and soaking up the general great buzz of the guys touring . . .
And amidst all that some curious worm does an infantile hatchet job on a veteran Bluebooker in the most nauseating and cowardly way possible over some real or imagined personal grievance.
I struggle quite a bit to understand US politics. Am I right in thinking this person would be a Republican ?

Date: Mon, July 07, 2008, 13:05:02 ET
Posted by: suedave, seattle

That picture of Abe Vigoda holding C$ is priceless! Great job Matt & Mark.

Date: Mon, July 07, 2008, 12:12:25 ET
Posted by: Mer., Boston

Loved looking at those pictures again from NYC- thanks Mark.
Although the older I get, I realize I'm looking more and more like Abe Vigoda....

I wish I could replay that night in Boston- what a great show. Thanks for everyone's posts about the tour, it certainly helps to prolong the Dan experience this year.

Date: Mon, July 07, 2008, 12:03:05 ET
Posted by: Bob, Austin

We received some emails from a guy named Bob who is doing something in Houston for a Danfest.

Should be fun.

Date: Mon, July 07, 2008, 12:03:02 ET
Posted by: Hopeful, Garden

Ugh, who ever, friend or foe, your left side is showing. My advise is to put up or shut up, ya miserable nothingness, speculating with jaded suppositions. What an ugly thing to say to an avatar persona:
" . . . cleaning up after your parents." At least Raj's parents are humans. Maybe you might learn something if you weren't so on the verge of going to hell. Hopeful

Date: Mon, July 07, 2008, 12:02:48 ET
Posted by: Bob, Austin

We received some emails from a guy named Bob who is doing something in Houston.

Should be fun.

Date: Mon, July 07, 2008, 11:47:09 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., NJ

And indeed the Vigoda/Beacon pics link down there and back then on June 23rd still >>IS<< clickable. Me not always write so goodly clear-like. :-)

Date: Mon, July 07, 2008, 11:41:16 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., Abe fondling his money at the circus

Here's the link for Abe's C$ pic as posted by Boston Rag back on "Mon, June 23, 2008, 00:36:54 ET" (presumably with an assist from Hoops since the link was fully clickable at the time)...

http://share.shutterfly.com/action/pictures?a=67b0de21b347b2b5c4fb&sid=0AbOGzJk3cMWTjQ

Now THAT photo was priceless!

Date: Mon, July 07, 2008, 11:32:19 ET
Posted by: Little Wild One, percolating

Bobbo, plans are in the works for Houston and Dallas. Some of us just have to work to pay off our SD (as in Steely Debts) before we can sign up for new ones. Right now, the pre-pre show gathering for Houston is going to be poolside at the Crowne Plaza, 1700 Smith Street. More to come on that.

You know, I work for lawyers and they do civil litigation, so I don't have a lot of experience with criminal offenses. But I do know that it would behoove many of you to consider the real facts or hear someone else's side of the story before you rush to judgment one way or another. No matter though, this is a private matter, now made public, although for the life of me, I really can not understand why some people feel the need to do that.

I think Boston Rag had the Vigoda photo, Gretchen. I will see if I can forward the link.

Date: Mon, July 07, 2008, 10:43:18 ET
Posted by: Gretchen, @ work

Matt,

You know I never did see that pic of Abe Vigoda from the 22nd...

G

Date: Mon, July 07, 2008, 10:09:42 ET
Posted by: Bobbo, wondering who's headed to Texas?!

Hey All,

Well, what does one say but "Wow"? That's pretty mean treatment of our patron saint and wayward Big Brother Wally, on someone's part...I couldn't help but notice you hiding behind a random, anonymous post on a public fanboard there, and it's...well, besides being uncool, I'd have to go out on a limb and ask what the fuck YOU know about crime, in the first place? How dare you, dude...Rajah's kind-of a friend of mine, as you can tell, so sorry to the rest of you for being, y'know, uncouth in my response, here.

So it's not a one-off? WALTER IS DOING "GAUCHO" ON THIS OUTING?! Again, nothin' but a "Wow" from me on that one...it's up there with "Green Room" and "Glamour Profession" among tunes I've never heard live, and I can not wait. Hope that particular one, more than any other, makes it to the Texas shows, for sure.

Speaking of, what's the latest on a Danfest for Dallas and/or Houston? I know I got a line or two around ten days ago, and (dammit!) never responded, and haven't had a peep since; and the tabs (up there over the stylish C$ artwork and Beacon marquee) for Danfests aren't working for me, now-today, when I've of a mind to look into it. Mail me, those of you who can and want to, and of course, thanks and sorry in advance if I've missed the info here already--but I've been scrolling all morning, and, y'know...Thought I'd ask one of you cats, instead. So, shoot me--or, just meet me in Dallas! Selah.

Okay,
Bobbo

P.S. Rajah, I'm with you bro. Just don't ever let me get stuck in a giant, smoking coffee-cup-billboard display again, okay? "Love and kisses killed the fishes!"--I said that! Get in touch when you can, man. Best to you and yours, until next time, right? ---Bb

Date: Mon, July 07, 2008, 09:11:38 ET
Posted by: Matt, Chattanooga, TN

Gretchen, I looked at your link, and Walter and I have much in common. I like Billie Piper naked too.

Date: Mon, July 07, 2008, 08:42:28 ET
Posted by: After further review, in the editing room

So, basically, Raja you're a criminal, and it appears in some kind of financial scheme, huh? Mortagage fraud or something more sinister? Pensions?

You see, you pull out the sympathy violins about your parents and that sounds rough on them, particularly.

But why do you mention your parents and forget to tell us all about the numerous people here - in the states - that you screwed over - some, in worse fashion that you care to mention?

The fact that you chose the cowards way out speaks louder than anything, and the fact that you're cleaning up after your parents seems poetically symbolic; however, it does not erase the crimes you've committed. You are not the raja of erase; rather the punk criminal fraud.

let's keep that clear.

Date: Mon, July 07, 2008, 08:21:58 ET
Posted by: Hopeful, seashore

Raj: Yea, ma' ho[l]mes Aaron split to CA, skipping courtdate, got rehabed by his sister and bought property near Malibu--finally moving around after statute of limitaions ran out--the same now repealed; Ray went to FL, skipping courtdate, helped a friend survive cancer, pursused furniture making dream--remains paranoid to return home over a stupid DUI allegation. Heepy moved to NJ to be with his love who owned was a little joint in Courthouse, settling down later in the Villas--even before States began reciprocating driving records, etc. Hold your head up. Don't waste our tax dollars: get a free ride home when you're ready, and things will be o'tay once again. Hopeful

Date: Mon, July 07, 2008, 08:05:02 ET
Posted by: Gretchen, Good Morning

Some of Walter's favorites.........

http://www.kansascity.com/entertainment/story/694100.html

G

Date: Mon, July 07, 2008, 04:21:05 ET
Posted by: bassicinstinct, Nottingham UK

"Peg", from the same 2006 Charlotte show as the previous clips:

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=7ETwkwOMJ6A

Enjoy!!

Date: Mon, July 07, 2008, 00:14:54 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol, Gpk

Ottawa bluesfest 08 Justposted on ytoob steely dan bluesfest 2008

Date: Sun, July 06, 2008, 22:51:37 ET
Posted by: SS, HK

Hey Woody, good work on all those show reviews. You really got stuck in.

Date: Sun, July 06, 2008, 22:36:55 ET
Posted by: Wlm, not far from YVR

Hey CJB - that's one fantastic quote from homeboy William Gibson, one for the ages. Leave it to him to capture the essence of a Dan show .

Does anyone remember the review he wrote for Two Against Nature? Also wonderful.

Thanks to all for their reports. We are waiting not-so-patiently for the west coast shows and won't even try to guess what the setlist will be by then. But from all reports it will be hard for us to be disappointed.

Date: Sun, July 06, 2008, 21:58:46 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

As I wasn't at the Ottawa concert, I can't rebut Mr. Armstrong's review (at least he didn't try to speak for other fans), but Woodman's comments (and the comments of others) make me think he probably isn't all that knowledgeable when it comes to The Dan's music.

With that said, not every show can be the best of the tour, and this one had some things working against the Boys. Time constraint, huge outdoor venue, last act of a Blues Fest, etc. I'm going to guess that, to most Dan fans, it was sensational. I'm also going to guess that it wasn't one of the top nights of the tour.

Now, I'm not a fan of large outdoor venues for a SD concert. I prefer a more intimate feel, and precise sound. With that said, I have experienced some very good Dan performances at outdoor amphitheaters. The key is to have VERY GOOD seats. The seating is, usually, far more important at these events than at great indoor venues. "The lawn" can be fun, but it isn't the best way to HEAR Steely Dan.

And Woodman, I think having ears and good taste is reason enough to be unable to listen to AC DC, Aerosmith, Van Halen and Rush. But, you can blame (and thank) CHEZ 106, if you want to. :#)

Date: Sun, July 06, 2008, 21:54:57 ET
Posted by: PeeTee, Ottawa

Thank you Woodman for the reviews - I feel as though I was there. No wait! I was there! and I agree - a good time was had by all. Thank you D&W.
While Woodman has covered all the important stuff I have to say I was encouraged by the many "younger" fans in the Ottawa crowd last night who like me, knew the words and sang along.
Good music knows no age.
Thanks Woodman.
Rajah, I always enjoy your posts.

Date: Sun, July 06, 2008, 21:21:12 ET
Posted by: CrimsonTide, Motown

Rama Notes - Great venue! 75 miles north of Toronto, so you do the conversion to kilometers. The setlist consisted of EGTTM/Fez, Royal Scam, I Got The News, Show Biz Kids, Everything You Did, 2vN, Hey 19, Godwhacker, Glamour Profession, New Frontier, Do It Again, Gaucho(Nice Job, Walt!), Home At Last, Parker's Band, Third World Man, Josie, Aja, Itching In My Heart, Peg, FM and Encore: Kid. The Bear from the hallway at Rama did join the boys on stage for the encore. Donald voice was shot and he apologized for his performance. Hey, guys - It is not too late to add DOCTOR WU!!! See you in Motown!!!

Date: Sun, July 06, 2008, 20:09:53 ET
Posted by: CJB, YVR

Via novelist William Gibson's blog, a propos of a Beacon show:

"A Steely Dan concert is akin to witnessing the passage of a single multiplex vehicle the size of a motorcade or convoy, its various segments comprising limousines, ice-cream wagons, hearses, lunch-carts, ambulances, black marias, and motorcycle outriders, all of it Rolls-grade and lacquered like a tropical beetle. The horns glint, as it rolls majestically past, splendid, a thing of legend, and utterly peculiar unto itself."

Date: Sun, July 06, 2008, 19:22:24 ET
Posted by: HouDanFan, Houston

Oh and thanks to you Woodman. Enjoyed reading ur reviews. Very insightful. And good luck to you Raj. Ive always enjoyed ur posts. Carry on brotha.

Date: Sun, July 06, 2008, 19:18:19 ET
Posted by: HouDanFan, Houston

I wont go to another Steely Dan concert outdoors. Outdoor concerts have a place (i.e. the Tom Petty's and Steve Miller's of the world), but to me they just dont do a band like SD justice. I've seen SD and DF a total of 6 times, 3 indoors and 3 out, and the indoor concerts always capture the sound and Donald's voice much better. Preferably at smaller venues too.

Date: Sun, July 06, 2008, 17:29:23 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Cortlandt Manor, NY

Woodman, your reviews have been such a treat, THANK YOU!

I've spent the whole weekend doing nothing but resting, just in time for the Bethel Woods show this Thursday. Out of all the SD concerts I've been to this year, this is the one I am truly excited for because it will be the first time my brother will ever hear Steely Dan live. Fuck, I can't wait to see what happens.

By the by, I don't know if there's a mailing list for "upstate NY" Danfests, but I'm curious to know who all is going to the Bethel Woods show. I'd love to meet up with anyone who's going! If you like, you may email me at girlmargaret AT aol DOT com and we can set something up. Or to let me know there's already a mailing list. Or just to say hi. :)

Date: Sun, July 06, 2008, 17:08:19 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

Woodman:
You are absolutely spot-on with your comments about Mr. Armstrong's "review"......He either needs to back away from the bong, or, maybe just inhale more deeply......Whatever!!

Date: Sun, July 06, 2008, 15:29:38 ET
Posted by: b, Ottawa

Oh boy, do I even dare enter this discussion?

I was there last night. let me say that I am a huge SD fan but not up to the standards of many of you who've been to every show of theirs around the globe.

Last night was hard for me because I was truly torn having to chose between two musical quirks, Steely Dan and ZPZ. I saw Steely Dan in 2003 and I saw the real Zappa here in Ottawa when I was a high school kid back in the early 70's. I ended up running between the 2 shows.

What I got out of it was this. Steely Dan fans smell like stale beer. Zappa fans smell like an endless supply of fresh pot. Both band are made up of exquisitely talented musicians not to be missed. Zappa plays loud,SD plays at an appropriate volume. SD watchers were commenting that the sound was not loud enough for their middle aged ears ( I thought it was at a perfect level). On a side note, Ladytron stunk up the place with their wall of noise. They were the the band that needed to get a room, preferably far far away from anyone with an ear for music. I though for Ottawa, the crowd was respectful and appreciative. I also thought that the performance was better, more intimate, than in Toronto 2003. I do believe that our indoor venues would do better justice to the band live though.

LOL at the police escort comment. Can't blame them for asking but it is cute to see. They should have asked the RCMP not the OPP. I think diplomatic security is their domain.

It was a great night for music in Ottawa. Well done!

Date: Sun, July 06, 2008, 15:16:05 ET
Posted by: Hutch,

A few days rest and then its down to Yasgur's farm!

Sam Yasgur has since become an attorney and has served as an Assistant District Attorney for New York City, as well as becoming the Westchester County Attorney, and the Sullivan County Attorney in the State of New York. On September 14th, 2004, Sam along with his wife Eve were on hand to accept the posthumously accoladed 'History Maker Award' for his father Max from the Sullivan County Historical Society in Monticello, NY. Currently, Sam continues to practice as a lawyer in Sullivan County and supports project founder Alan Gerry on the Bethel Woods Center For The Arts - a $70 million, state of the art multi-structured performing arts center built on the same land that the original Woodstock Festival took place.

Date: Sun, July 06, 2008, 15:15:33 ET
Posted by: Woodman, lining the bird cage with the Sunday Sun

I am having issues with Denis Armstrong’s review. To some who attended, my experience last night was different from theirs. I understand that opinions and observations are objective. The issues I have with Armstrong’s reviews are certain inaccuracies that make me wonder if he was sober for the show.

“to play a rotund and meandering version of The Royal Scam”. First the song has a meandering base that is the attraction to it. Rotund? I’d sure appreciate a more comprehensive description then that. Could he mean “full bodied”, "bloated"? If so, what the hell was he expecting from SD – a power trio? This is a thirteen piece band – how much less “rotund” does he expect?

“Becker on guitar and Fagen on keyboards and vocals seemed resolved to jam each tune until there was nothing left.” Has anyone experienced this at a SD concert? Ever? The structure of the band doesn’t allow “jam’s til there is nothing left”. Besides - each tune? I must have been asleep then because I don’t remember any jam for Peg, F.M. or Home At Last. Maybe the fine Columbian just hit.

“About the only time I felt some excitement was when the brass kicked in”. I don’t know where Mr. Armstrong was for this show – but there was a distinct deafening ovation when Walter and Donald walked on the stage. Excitement was capture with their entrance (I would have loved to have heard Deacon Blues – it’s gotta be this sleep thing kicking in again) and was not relinquished until Kid C was completed. This is so hypocritical to the “rotund” adjective above. OK, so when the brass play Royal it is rotund, yet when they kick in for Deacon (I’m blaming the el-supremo) it is exciting? Whoa.

“But even that was in jeopardy when Becker injected a rap about dating in Ottawa. If it was meant to be funny, it wasn't.” Humour, like an opinion, is extremely objective so I will not lower myself to validate MY sense of humour against anyone else. Still, Mr. Armstrong is the reviewer so I believe it allows me to comment on his, after all he brought it up. There was no “injection” considering the story has become part of the live Hey 19 lore. For anyone who has “been dreaming of the day we'd see the progressive jazz-pop fusionists in the flesh.” would also understand their unique sense of humour. You might not agree with it, but you understand it. How else could you be a fan unless you understood their humour? Their songs are evidence to this. M’Gawd this is a band who won Grammy’s based on the popularity of a song about incent- and they fooled the general public with it! After-all Walter and Donald would roll on the floor laughing if you ever called them "jazz-pop fusionists" to their faces.

“Their set improved after Home At Last, when they focused on their radio hits Do It Again and Peg before closing their brief 80-minute set.” This quote speaks decibels to me. Mr. Armstrong wanted “Gold” and he didn’t get it. So instead of appreciating the quality in what was delivered, he decided to communicate his disappointment in what was not. He should stop listening to Chez 106 as it is affecting his intelligence on the subject. (Chez - "home of classic rock" is a local radio station that has a stable of about 20 acts, with about 5 songs each that they rotate constantly. They are responsible for my inability to listen to AC DC, Aerosmith, Van Halen and Rush. I thank Chez for this).

I cannot ever remember reading anything from Mr. Armstrong in the past. Now “I” know why. Perhaps this was his high school newspaper assignment. Regardless, my advice for Mr. Armstrong is: Sensationalism does not disguise your lack of attendance. Inevitably, Mr. Armstrong your “talent” will be discovered – and the National Enquirer will be your saving grace.

My closing thoughts on last nights show:

My comments on the fans at the show was based on the crowd around me. It is presumptuous of me to belief that all 25,000 had the same experience. Mr. Armstrong obviously didn’t (yet he wasn’t there).

Parkers Band is fast becoming one of my favorite live tunes. Along with Bodhisattva, Kid C and Godwhacker.

There was no backdrop for the show. It was all overhead lights. And it was impressive. The strobe effect (wasn’t really a strobe more like a rapid fire of different colored lights) added an effect. The light manager should be commended. Speaking of lights, once the sun went down it appeared like a horde of locust-like moths attacked the stage. They were dive bombing like the second coming of Tora Tora Tora. The brass was distracted from time to time waving the wee buggers away. Freddie at one time, walked up behind Donald to swat at them.

Further evidence that good music isn’t always shared by just us humans. I wonder which category Mr. Armstrong fits?

Date: Sun, July 06, 2008, 14:34:03 ET
Posted by: Fife, Florida.eh

The reviewer in the Ottawa Sun obviously is not a Dan fan, he only perked up when Do it Again was played. Why do these rags send out critics that haven't a clue I wonder? I read the Ottawa Sun faithfully everyday and almost swore not to today after reading that drivel but then I have to remember that I love Steely Dan and appreciate all to the chagrin of some. I also appreciate the changes made to the arrangements but to the casual fan these are dissappointment when they don't sound just like the record on the phonograph. I loved the new arrangement on Showbiz Kids so I just shook my head when he dissed it. I wonder if Denis Armstrong has even listened to Showbiz Kids on the album or if his reference point is a compilation album?

Date: Sun, July 06, 2008, 14:23:18 ET
Posted by: Pixeleen, NY

I think big shows like that tend to be a bit chaotic and I've always been a somewhat surprised that they have chosen to play those venues because of the lack of control. I agree, it's not at all the best venue for them and what might work better in such a big crowd would be to play (the ONE time that they might do them) some of the more popular songs which, in my opinion, might not suffer from the size and open-ness of the venue, and would please the more, for lack of a better word "casual" fans.

Date: Sun, July 06, 2008, 13:48:09 ET
Posted by: YourRival, Ottawa

DWB, I most certainly enjoyed the Denis Armstrong's review in the Ottawa Citizen much more than your "review".

I think Denis's review fairly accurately reflects the response from some people I saw at the show who were not really big Steely Dan fans (and Denis is obviously not a big Steely Dan fan since he mistook "I Got the News" for "Deacon Blues"!) Some people were a little bored and left early. But my wife (who wouldn't be going to see Steely Dan if I wasn't) was surprised by how many young people were into the show. And not just nerdy young people either, but cool, hip-looking young people! :)
I think Denis was right that the outdoor festival venue isn't the right place for Steely Dan. I'm glad I caught them in Montreal this week - it was a way better show there.

Date: Sun, July 06, 2008, 13:21:04 ET
Posted by: zzzzz, zzzzzzzzzz

DWB - It ain't about liking or not liking. It's about taking half hour to scroll through that crap!

Date: Sun, July 06, 2008, 13:15:43 ET
Posted by: DWB, here

http://ottawasun.com/News/OttawaAndRegion/2008/07/06/6079451-sun.html

zzzz and newerkes, you prolly don't like the review as presented here above then either, huh?

Date: Sun, July 06, 2008, 12:57:36 ET
Posted by: zzzzz, zzzzzzz

Due - Take it some place else.

Date: Sun, July 06, 2008, 12:43:55 ET
Posted by: Newerkes, Garden

Due: Ever consider blogging your stuff? nwk

Date: Sun, July 06, 2008, 12:13:20 ET
Posted by: Due With Buzz, In It For The Music

"Ike Willis, Napoleon Murphy Brock and others are my witness on that, I told them of my intent over a month ago. I was taking the high road -- I greeted every single one of Dweezil's crew with honor and respect -- I genuinely loved meeting the ones I didn't know -- I stayed and watched their show (missing most of Steely Dan, ouch!!) - even after all the crap. I watched, invisibly, from the backstage grounds near stage left. I kept myself unseen. I honored the festival stage manager's requests - great guy. I'm about the music and I want you to know that always. But this crap can't be allowed."

This is an excerpt from a letter written by Andre Cholmondeley, musician/road manager etc etc. Because he mentions Steely Dan, this letter is somewhat Dannered too, eh?

Anyway, here's some dirt, even if it serves something cleaner...
=========================================

hello Friends....

Sorry -- this became kind of a long letter, but it helped me exorcise some real negative shit. It took me two hours.

I was working for ADRIAN BELEW, opening for ZPZ at Ottawa Bluesfest, Canada (Sat 5 July 2008)

Stuff turned REAL ugly.....

Basically---- one of Dweezil Zappa's guys, under his direct orders - threatened, pushed and physically attacked me.... !

For the horrible act of walking onto the stage to watch and enjoy the show. Really.

I should consider legal action actually..it was ...real ugly. real scary. I was shaking like a leaf... They have sued me many times, tried to at least. Should I return the favor? I ask your advice -- should I seek legal action?? I have countless witnesses, I was at work in a professional capacity. Canada law on this is actually quite bad news for someone who would want to work here again....I could cripple the Zappa family financially, real bad news since they are losing their shirts trying to do these tours, pay cuts, playing smaller and smaller venues etc isn't helping from what I hear.

Their Monitor guy, Dave, almost shoved me off the stage, a 10 to 15ft drop, so scary. Scenes of "broken leg in London Orchestra pit" may dance through your head......

These people actually had a MEETING on THE BUS...Tour Manager, Dweezil, crew, etc. Wrap your mind around the level off dysfunction -- to have a fucking MEETING about a guy you hate --- a guy who has never really done anything but piss you off for some reason. Imagine being so unprofessional -- and self-important -- to think that a HUGE festival, should do your bidding and ban people from public areas. I know - Unreal. - But -- par for the course in Post-Mortem Zappa-land. No surprise. Bullying at every turn.

After a meeting on the bus --Dweezil then demanded from the Festival stage manager (ONE HOUR before their show!!) that I would NOT BE SEEN by him (Dweezil).....!! he asked that he NOT SEE ME AT ALL, EVER, throughout the night. I can't wait to see when he delivers to the shocked people at TODAY's festival the same pompous request.

The incredible, pro stage mgr guy, Wiggy, from the Ottawa Bluesfest, ensured cooler heads prevailed all night. I hope we work together again.

Ok, Now, this is a GIANT festival with about 230 bands...11 days.... we are on a fucking SIDE STAGE -- and Dweezil DEMANDS of the festival staff- ONE HOUR BEFORE HIS SHOW - to KEEP ME OFF THE STAGE (even the side stage, monitor area, backstage, etc!!) and make sure he (DWEEZIL) NEVER SEE ME!!!! Can you even wrap your mind around that??? he wanted to CONTROL the attendance - at a public event he is getting paid to be at - of someone he is soooo pissed at. Unreal.

The (very cool) stage manager , when I asked him -- said " Dude - no, I have NO PROBLEM with you going into the AUDIENCE and watching them, front row, whatever. I just have to respect these guys and ask you to stay off the stage. I wanna run a smooth show - I am here for 11 days, I have no time for issues"

As you all know-- I'm a fucking PRO, and I of course honored the request -- I stayed off stage. But this is after FINDING OUT for the first time....with the prick monitor guy SCREAMING IN MY FACE AT THE TOP OF HIS LUNGS -- SPITTING IN MY GODDAMN FACE...and pushing me backwards to the edge.... it was terrifying and I've seen a lot of dark shit in this life, trust me on that.

It was unreal. Surreal. The best part is -- before ZPZ played - BELEW played--- and I had met this very same guy - Dave - monitor guy -- and he was COOL!! We were rapping, talking gear, he showed me a pic on his computer of his guitar-rig..which featured the same amp that Adrian uses (Johnson JM 150), like good nerds we chuckled about that as well as his computer gadget his laptop sat on...some device with 2 fans to cool it off, blah blah blah. We talked about him being new on the crew, after I said "Napoleon says hi" --"oh no -- that was the old guy, I am new since last year, etc etc"....We talked all kinds of stuff -- later he claimed "Well I thought you were just acting like nothing was going on". Wow.

So-- SAME GUY turn into a RAGING PSYCHO 2 hrs later!!!! He literally almost pushed me off the stage and down some steps. It was scary shit. I can't emphazise that enough. I am shaking still, almost 12 hrs later as i type this after 4 hrs sleep.

I'm not easily shaken, you know that. But I drive 5 hrs today -- to another fest where ZPZ again plays right after us --- and I dunno how it will turn out. I went to the monitor guy after the show and said "Dude, do you have something to say to me"??

He copped TONS of attitude, but I actually got him to begrudgingly apologize, I accepted it, kinda, since he claimed he had been TOLD by up to 6 people that I was FULLY INFORMED of my "persona non grata" status. Well- I wasn't informed. The FIRST TIME I knew about ANY of this crap was when he violently accosted me!!

I think I will call the next P/O tour by that title. --- PERSONA NON GRATA. how do you like it??

I feel extra let down that I wasn't warned, wasn't told. Joe Travers, the bass player Pete and other crew/band members said hi, some shook my hand, we rapped. I - as I always try to -- will give the benefit of the doubt that each person thought "Oh - I thought Someone ELSE told him". I feel sorry for these people -- including my hero Thomas Nordegg -- thee greatest guitar tech in the Solar System, who I had a lovely time hanging with all afternoon before I loaded in.

I feel sorry that they are all caught between the horrible pressure of being told to DISS ME as part of their job....and knowing me for years and knowing who and what I really am. Terrible - to put people in that position. But that's how tyrants operate. Pitting people against each other. It's worked for centuries. Check the history books.

OK. whatever. But does the 'adult' monitor guy need to have dealt with it that way??? Screaming at the TOP of his lungs, spitting his filthy fucking spit in my face, pushing me backwards in shock?? Later he even justified the screaming (!!) --- "hey my in-ear monitors were on". Yeah right. Any pro engineer knows how loud they are talking!! Ridiculous. Dude has major issues and I will make sure I deal with him today with lost of witnesses around.

Thank You,
André

Now -- I'm not gloating here but.......I'm The guy who, Unlike Dweezil Zappa, has shared the stage with more Zappa alumni and family than almost ANYONE BUT FRANK ZAPPA ..people like Ike Willis, Napoleon Murphy Brock, Candy Zappa, Ed Mann, Roy Estrada, Mike Keneally, Adrian Belew, Denny Walley, Don Preston, Bunk Gardner, Bob Harris, Thana Harris, Jimmy Carl Black, Billy Mundi, Ray White, Al Malkin, Arthur Barrow, Bruce Bickford and more. Actually only someone like the amazing Ed Mann, Ike Willis, Scott Thunes or Chad Wackerman has been onstage with more people -- due to their LONG tenure in the band (over 21 years for Ed and about 7-10 years for Chad/Scott/Ike)

I'm not gloating. It's called PRIDE. I am proud I have dedicated a part of my musical life, just one part -- to paying back to a man who changed my life - Frank Zappa. An amazing, genius man I was lucky enough to shake hands with several times, look in his eyes from 3 feet away, tell him a joke or two, walk up to at a concert and give a funny sign to (feb 1988 , wash DC) that made him laugh his ass off (cherished memory!! Making Zappa laugh!!! C'mon - can it get better??!!!)

A man who asked on his deathbed for people, musicians or not - to PLAY HIS MUSIC!! Frank asked for that -- I have always tried to honor that request. I am PROUD of engineering a SOLD OUT show at Irving Plaza, Halloween 2001, raising TEN GRAND for Prostate Cancer research (a show that owes much credit to my great management team at CEG Music in NYC and the great Matt Ross, now CEO of Paul Green School of Rock). I am PROUD of getting many , many alumni out of RETIREMENT and back onstage. I am PROUD of paying my way, losing money to go all the way to my beloved Germany, to play music and hang out with THOUSANDS of Freaks...at the Zappanale festival -now being SUED by Gail Zappa as well.

I'm proud of my work in this area. No one can or will ever take that away from me. Frank Zappa changed my WORLD at age 16.....and I am very very proud to have had the chance to meet most of his players, to call them all my friends to this day. I am proud to have his original family members as cherished friends. I say this not to impress anyone but to add perspective. No one reading this is unaware of the dark energy that has emanated from Zappa central in recent years. It's a thing of real concern.

PS: This is the core of what pisses them off. They have BURNT EVERY BRIDGE with most of the Zappa alumni and family -- and they hate themselves for it. They know they've BLOWN IT and insulted Frank's Legacy. They know they can NEVER turn back -- can never celebrate his deep kinship with so, so many people.

They know that Musicians they have sued, dissed in the press, not paid, ignored as they stood in the audience at ZPZ shows...won't take that crap and will not ever work with them. I have kept silent about THAT part of things for YEARS...but being physically threatened by Dweezil's crew CROSSES A LINE that I can never go back over. Sorry, Dweezil. You should have thought about your actions. Right now they are in court with the ZAPPANALE...they have sent cease and desist letters to Bogus Pomp and other bands, they keep going after the Grandmothers...suing TV stations....it doesn't end with me -- and that's how I sleep at night -- IT'S NOT JUST ME!!!

As peaceful as a person as I am----I cannot sit by with this crap - It's been OVER TEN YEARS of attacks, insulting emails from Gail, LAWSUIT THREATS, threats to some alumni who play with us, falsified, libelous letters from ASCAP/, and watching the SAME happen to many friends and colleagues WORLDWIDE. It's scary, downright scary. The "Zappa" "Family" feels it can just go around suing, attacking, and trying to squash the truth -- but reality and truth have a way of bubbling up.

Why has EVERY SINGLE LAWSUIT filed against me by Gail Zappa been thrown out ?? Why did i win in NY State Court AGAINST Gail Zappa and ASCAP? because their claims are baseless. My band stays within acceptable US and international law where applicable -- performing the music of a composer in certified venues. End of Story.

I write this to all of you -- in case some dark shit goes down today (Sun, 6 July 2008) at the 2nd festival, in Quebec City QC. I will go there - do my job -- and stay out of the way. I haven't decided yet if I will watch the music --some of my favorite music ever -- from the audience, up front, as I deserve. But we'll see.

My boss--my amazing friend actually -- Mr. Adrian Belew -- has not decided if he will perform on one song today with them. I can;'t speak for him but he is upset -- and feels caught between some painful stuff. Again-- the method of pitting people against each other is in play.

I Urged Adrian to do whatever he feels is right -- and to forget about this (I know- impossible). But he knows that I will not at all be upset if he gets onstage with them, well, with Dweezil. You know why?? Because from BEGINNING TO END -- I have always been about one goddamned thing - FRANK and HIS MUSIC...and about YOU -- the fans and alumni! that's all!!! Every last one of you on here, many who have celebrated Frank's amazing music with me and my band....KNOW THAT. And I thank you again -- and hope we meet again in music.

I also thank, deeply, a blood relative of Frank's who will remain nameless -- who related to me 2 days ago, before all this - in email an old saying:

"They .....will get you sick before you get them well."

(this person added the words........)

"I urge you to protect your beautiful mind from the psychic poison, of which there is a never ending supply."

Great stuff. This made my day. I am trying to do that, my friend. I am trying real hard. You got me through yesterday in many ways and your words will echo all day as I deal with another encounter with this dysfunctional camp.

This letter is public domain. Spread It to others if you feel the need. Post it on forums. Delete it if you don't care. But ponder it as another chapter in this crazy, post-mortem, mis-handling of Frank's legacy. Horrible.

I will get it on my blog soon at http://robotvomit.blogspot.com/

PS -Believe it or not --- when I heard about us opening for ZPZ -- after getting over the shock and apprehension, I decided that if I saw Dweezil, I would walk up to him and say "hey man... I know there's lots of water under the bridge..but it's GREAT what you have done and are doing...and just fantastic how you have celebrated your dad's music - Thank You."

Ike Willis, Napoleon Murphy Brock and others are my witness on that, I told them of my intent over a month ago. I was taking the high road -- I greeted every single one of Dweezil's crew with honor and respect -- I genuinely loved meeting the ones I didn't know -- I stayed and watched their show (missing most of Steely Dan, ouch!!) - even after all the crap. I watched, invisibly, from the backstage grounds near stage left. I kept myself unseen. I honored the festival stage manager's requests - great guy. I'm about the music and I want you to know that always. But this crap can't be allowed.

Help me-- should I be suing them?? Should I walk away and just keep living my life at as high a spiritual level as I can manage?? Don't worry -- will go into today's encounter peacefully -- a very , very difficult day lies ahead.

Yours,
André Cholmondeley
Tour Manager/Guitar Tech - Adrian Belew Power Trio
Founder/Guitarist/Grey Hairs - PROJECT/OBJECT - the longest running, internationally touring Zappa repertoire band. Actually Respecting the Alumni Who Made the Music Come Alive.

guitartour@earthlink.net
andre@adrianbelew.net

www.adrianbelew.net

ADRIAN BELEW POWER TRIO tourdates

JULY 2008 - NORTH AMERICA

05 SAT Ottawa Canada 2008 Cisco Ottawa Bluesfest
06 SUN Quebec Canada Quebec City Int'l Summer Fest
08 TUE Quebec Canada Quebec City Int'l Summer Fest
10 THU Boston MA Harper's Ferry
11 FRI New York NY Rockin' The River Cruise
12 SAT Pittsburgh PA Diesel
13 SUN Newport KY Southgate House

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2008 - EUROPE

OCTOBER
15 WED Budapest Hungary
18 SAT Lugano Switzerland Auditorium, Radio Svizzera
24 FRI Woergl Austria Komma
25 SAT Vevey Switzerland Rocking-Chair
27 MON Aschaffenburg Germany Club Colos-Saal
28 TUES Groningen Netherlands
29 WED Den Haag Netherlands Paard Van Troje
31 FRI Zuerich Switzerland Moods Im Schiffbau

NOVEMBER
01 SAT Schwerin Germany Der Speicher
02 SUN Muenster Germany Hotjazzclub
03 MON Leverkusen Germany Jazztage

more USA/International dates TBA soon!

www.adrianbelew.net
Read BelewBlog, Get BelewMusic, Check Belewdates, See BelewNews.

Date: Sun, July 06, 2008, 12:08:04 ET
Posted by: YourRival, Ottawa

Dean, I'm sure you're right about Walter. I unfortunately wasn't able to catch SD on last year's tour. I had tickets to the Syracuse show, but didn't make it - since my wife got food poisoning the day of the show - or so she claims! but that's her story, and she's sticking to it. :)
I agree the police escort story is trivial, funny what newspaper people think is news. Good idea to blame it on the manager too!

Date: Sun, July 06, 2008, 11:51:41 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Excellent reports from Ottawa. At first, when I saw the short setlist, I was worried, until Woodman put it all into perspective. I'm guessing that was a OTO occurrence, due to the late time, and the noise ordinance. It sounds as if it was well thought out by the band, too, as they shortened the into/overture.

Rival, I think Walter has been fairly "involved" as far as soloing goes, for at least a couple of years. He took many, if not most, of the solo's last year, I thought. But, as I have yet to see them this tour, so you may be right and he may be showcased even more, this tour.

As for Donald's and Walter's request re: the police escort, I'd say this likely came from the tour management/agents, etc. Don and Walt may, or may not, have been that involved in the request. Either way, it's pretty much a non-issue, IMO.

Date: Sun, July 06, 2008, 11:28:31 ET
Posted by: YourRival, Ottawa

Yeah, my wife gleefully pointed out that blurb in the Ottawa paper this morning about how Fagen and Becker requested a police escort from the airport to the show. As if Ottawa traffic on a Saturday afternoon was going to be anything significant! The police refused to do it, even for a fee, calling it "Inappropriate use of police time", or something like that. Their manager claims that it's common practice in U.S. cities. Maybe U.S. taxpayers wouldn't complain about it?

On another more positive note, my wife did say was impressed with Walter on guitar last night in Ottawa (even more so than in Montreal). He was definately the best I've seen him in the last six years. Also, it seems like they have decided to showcase Walter more this year, and downplay Jon a little.

Date: Sun, July 06, 2008, 11:27:24 ET
Posted by: Fife, Florida,eh

Wow sounds like a good time was had by all in my hometown. I'm glad to hear that the crowd was into it, Ottawa crowds have been known to be very polite and docile, and that there was dancing. Woody thanks so much for the updates and know you must start saving your pennies for NYC! Great story in the Dandom Digest about a chance encounter with Walter. How fun that would be.
Fife

Date: Sun, July 06, 2008, 10:59:23 ET
Posted by: Oh, Canada,

This is odd:

http://www.canada.com/ottawacitizen/news/story.html?id=ad87f708-301d-453b-911b-e15c511e88ab

Date: Sun, July 06, 2008, 09:18:30 ET
Posted by: Poxeleen, NY

Wood,

Thanks for yet another great review! Wish you WERE going to more shows so we could look forward to some more of your reviews.

Cherish the memories man!

Date: Sun, July 06, 2008, 04:31:39 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol, Gpk

Just back from Ottawa Bluesfest.Best Dan party show we've been to.Black Friday Boogie!What an arrangement! Also killed on News and Showbiz kids.Nothing like an outdoor Dan show!A great five day run,Just kicking myself for not having the fore sight for Casino-Rama tix.Heck, what's an extra 10 hrs.driving? Just more time to listen to the boys on the road.To all of you waiting for shows, the wait is well worth it.Peace.

Date: Sun, July 06, 2008, 01:38:48 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, @home

Thanks for all the Canadian updates.

9 days till Chicago!!

KC

Date: Sun, July 06, 2008, 01:14:56 ET
Posted by: Web Search, keyboard

Found this Jeff Porcaro video explaining how Rosanna was taken from (among other songs) Home at Last and Babylon Sisters.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=MwFdExvCxM4

Date: Sun, July 06, 2008, 01:14:04 ET
Posted by: Woodman, Back from the Bluesfest

They played like Romans with their eyes on fire.

So I joined about 30,000 fellow fans of Steely Dan at the Bluesfest in Ottawa tonight.

This was the 1st time the band played Ottawa and the fans let them know it with their unbridled enthusiasm. There were no apparent ill-effects of Donald’s voice as was the case from the reports of last night’s show in Toronto. Perhaps Donald wasn’t sleeping at a Best Western?

I will get this over with first – gone were Everyone (from the medley), Everything, Godwhacker, Aja,, Glamour Professional, New Frontier, Third World Man and Babylon Sisters. In were Do It Again and Black Friday. Their set was only 90 minutes long due to the archaic noise by-laws in this here gov’t town o’ mine.

Donald rarely moved from behind the piano. Dressed much like a rock n roll Boris Karloff, his focus was on the music. The “Donald Shuffle” was reserved for the exit from the stage during FM. He was quite melodramatic pointing to the various members of the band. Applause was overwhelming – more on that later. I did notice that Donald performed many more interludes to songs then in Montreal. When it really worked? Do It Again. It was a jam before they broke down into the song. It started with Donald – solo – and then Keith, Jeff, Freddie, Walter and Jon took the lead from Donald’s keyboards and sailed us into the groove. In my opinion, this was the only time I really noticed the strain on Donald’s vocals. Otherwise another great performance.

Walter’s presence was felt from the moment he arrived on stage. Dressed in jeans, denim shirt and sandals – he could’ve passed by anyone in the crowd and no one would have looked twice. No pretension, no glamour, simply Walter. Yet he managed to add a second lead to Royal that made the song full. Once again his playing, along with Jon’s, was strong. No need for Dias, Baxter, Derringer, Carleton, et al. You want a Steely Dan guitar song – these are the guys you want to hear. Walter’s “19 story” was one used many times (take your date out for dinner, and dancing) yet this being a Bluesfest he added a little John Lee Hooker twist. When his story winds up at a bar, Walter sits at the bar; “so’s I says to the bartender – come down here – so he gots down here and says wha you want? And I asked the bartender – do you have any of that amber liquid from Mexico? And the bartender says – wha’s that stuff? Girls - ……”. Shades of One Bourbon, One Scotch, and One Beer, Walter’s way. Gaucho was his spotlight as well as the lead in Josie. Both performed in such an impeccable manner that would make even Donald and Walter satisfied.

It dawned on me quite early on the impact Freddie has in the band. The sound, for the first three tunes, was not up to SD’s standards. This was an outside gig. Picture a flat wide open field. There probably wasn’t even a sound check in the afternoon because of the all-day festivities. Due to the bass and the drums mixed louder then the guitars and the horns, Freddie’s playing filled the air. It was not thunderous, nor was it distorted. Consequently, it made everyone around me get into the music. Shortly there was this perpetual bop and sway that didn’t stop until the end of the show. Freddie is to thank for that. He is an excellent match for Keith.

I will restrain from praising Keith and Jon (again) as I no longer have the capacity to find the appropriate adjectives. Although no Aja, Keith did get his moment in the spotlight for the intro’s to Royal Scam and the Supreme’s cover. Jon’s highlights were Royal too, and as well as Kid C. But when he shined was during Black Friday. In fact both he and Walter played back and forth with one another and it really worked well without resorting to some decadent blues guitar jam. Tasteful, conceit, and void of any ego.

The ladies (all three of them) wore the afro’s again. They wore matching red and black outfits. The audience adored Parker’s Band, and was very respectful with their cheers after the Supreme’s cover.

The one factor that was completely different then Montreal (or for that fact any of the previous times) was the crowd. This Ottawa crowd paid the best complement to the band throughout the night. When Donald and Walter walked on the stage, the roar was incredible. During Do It Again, the crowd was ecstatic in their singing of “Get back jack do it again”. The sing-a-long to Peg provided a peculiar spin that made this fan value the song again. The majority of us stood and danced the whole show. After each song there was this wave of unrestrained fervor. If joy had a sound – this was it.

Ya did me proud Gotham.

So my 3 nights of Steely Dan in ’08 are over. Within a span of a week I have fondly collected enough memories that I will cherish as long as I can cherish. Imagine going back and bottling that excitement, that mood, that feeling of hearing them for the first time. These were recreated this week for me with the precision, and consideration only Steely Dan can nurture.

And I only have Steely Dan to thank for it.

Date: Sun, July 06, 2008, 00:44:00 ET
Posted by: YourRival, Ottawa

Just got back from the July 6th show in Ottawa at the Bluesfest.
They followed Lucinda Williams, and started at 9:25 pm.

It was a crowd of about 25,000 at the outdoor festival venue. The sound was not so good for the first song but gradually got better, and was fine by a few songs in. I thought Don's voice was sounding a little stronger than it was in the first Montreal show.

The set was a pretty much the same as Montreal, but abbreviated, and they were finished by 11:00.

I think the intro was just the Fez, and then Walter and Don joined for:
The Royal Scam
I Got The News
Show Biz Kids
* skipped: Everything You Did
Two Against Nature
Hey Nineteen
* skipped: Godwhacker
* skipped: Babylon Sisters
* skipped: New Frontier
BUT* Big Surprise!: Do It Again
Gaucho (Walter Becker lead vocal)
Home at Last
Parker's Band (background vocalists lead vocal)
Josie
* no: Green Earrings
* instead: Black Friday
Band intros to - Itching In My Heart (Supremes)
Peg
FM
encore:
Kid Charlemagne
Walter and Don exit stage left.
+ "Last Tango in Paris" outro

It was nice to hear Do It Again, which I hadn't heard live before. They did a good job on it, and Keith had a great drum solo to end it.

They had Giant screens projecting TV images to the masses in the crowd, and it was cool to see the closeups of the the guitar work by Jon and Walter. Walter is a much more exciting guitar player when you're only looking at his hands on the guitar!

Date: Sat, July 05, 2008, 21:22:15 ET
Posted by: Fife, Florida,eh

Anyone interested in chatting?

Date: Sat, July 05, 2008, 20:18:57 ET
Posted by: L.R., Malibu

Not sure why that posted twice.
Please remove the waste hoops.
I'm sure we won't hear anything
from C$ tonight unless "Jimmy
Fish" presses the issue.
But I am looking forward to the
reports from tonight.

Date: Sat, July 05, 2008, 20:12:14 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu - I Would Call This Day Picture Perfect & You Could Jog With Show Folk On the Sand

Another f*cking fire yesterday
in Malibu State Park. These
idiots just don't get it. Sorry
to vent. But your nerves get shot
after a while. Put a complete
damper on my 4th until the great
200 plus brave folks swooped in
and gave us some peace of mind.
Bless them.
Mr. Gus Winterbottom -
May I call you "Winter"? My
fellow Rankin/Bass nerds will get
that one. Thank you so much!
Sorry to hear that you have to skip
Paso Robles & Pala. You just never
know what will happen at a SoCal
Steely Dan show without an opening
act. ;O)
Glad to see people catching clips
of the 2006 Charlotte show. That
boot is a perfect example of how this
band could bring it in 2006. People
tend to forget that that band was on
the road with Donald for a month before
the tour and they were ready to go.
"Deacon Blues" from that show is
probably the best, if not THE BEST
version ever professionally recorded.
Like that night in Shoreline with
Bonnie, Donald nailed the sh*t out
of it. Also, for people who said
they couldn't "hear" MikeD during the
tour, just check out "Peg". Again,
one of the greatest recorded takes
ever. Just try and "not" hear Mike
during that show.
So Don's voice was a bit "sore" last
night. What a great opportunity for
Walter to sing two tunes tonight to
give Donald a rest. "Audrey" or
"Darkling" would be great.

Date: Sat, July 05, 2008, 20:12:12 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu - I Would Call This Day Picture Perfect & You Could Jog With Show Folk On the Sand

Another f*cking fire yesterday
in Malibu State Park. These
idiots just don't get it. Sorry
to vent. But your nerves get shot
after a while. Put a complete
damper on my 4th until the great
200 plus brave folks swooped in
and gave us some peace of mind.
Bless them.
Mr. Gus Winterbottom -
May I call you "Winter"? My
fellow Rankin/Bass nerds will get
that one. Thank you so much!
Sorry to hear that you have to skip
Paso Robles & Pala. You just never
know what will happen at a SoCal
Steely Dan show without an opening
act. ;O)
Glad to see people catching clips
of the 2006 Charlotte show. That
boot is a perfect example of how this
band could bring it in 2006. People
tend to forget that that band was on
the road with Donald for a month before
the tour and they were ready to go.
"Deacon Blues" from that show is
probably the best, if not THE BEST
version ever professionally recorded.
Like that night in Shoreline with
Bonnie, Donald nailed the sh*t out
of it. Also, for people who said
they couldn't "hear" MikeD during the
tour, just check out "Peg". Again,
one of the greatest recorded takes
ever. Just try and "not" hear Mike
during that show.
So Don's voice was a bit "sore" last
night. What a great opportunity for
Walter to sing two tunes tonight to
give Donald a rest. "Audrey" or
"Darkling" would be great.

Date: Sat, July 05, 2008, 19:25:03 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, 6 DAYS TILL STEELY DAN!!!

I go away for a couple days and then I see all these weird messages with Rajah....what the fuck is going on?

Hope you all had a great 4th of July.

Any setlist from yesterday??

Date: Sat, July 05, 2008, 18:57:43 ET
Posted by: Pixeleen, NY

Special,

LOL!!!

Date: Sat, July 05, 2008, 17:50:43 ET
Posted by: A special friend,

Pix - Nasty school boys with no place to go but here to the blue.

Date: Sat, July 05, 2008, 17:29:31 ET
Posted by: Pixeleen, NY

I really don't understand why people are SO nasty to each other -- what is the deal?

Date: Sat, July 05, 2008, 17:28:51 ET
Posted by: Pixeleen, NY

Date: Sat, July 05, 2008, 16:16:55 ET
Posted by: Woodman, Ottawa Bluesfest

Off to see the lads now.

.....and wouldn't ya know it at the same time the boys are on stage, across the grounds - Zappa plays Zappa.

The weather is beautiful for a summer's night outdoor concert. If the beers are cold, you might have to wait until tomorrow to get ANYONE'S thoughts on the show.

Date: Sat, July 05, 2008, 15:43:49 ET
Posted by: PJBubbles, Toronto

I was tempted to bypass the Casino Rama show, seeing as they usually play right in Toronto. It's an interesting venue..I was on the first balcony, and the seats must be temporary because they were shaking with all the foot tapping. The sound was excellent...I've never heard Donald's Rhodes so forward in the mix before at previous concerts. The setlist was pretty anticlimatic since I've been checking reviews here, but the surprise inclusion of "Third World Man" was a real treat, and rendered beautifully. Other highlights were a muscular take on "Aja" and a rhythmically mutated "Showbiz Kids".

Donald was having vocal problems, especially during "Do It Again", but I thought he sounded pretty good for the most part. Carlock and Herrington were smoking throughout!

As for the audience, I don't know if it was the acoustics from where I was sitting, but more the most part they sounded unenthused, with hardly any response at the start of most tunes, and polite applause afterwards. Maybe they had all just lost a bundle at the casino and just weren't into it, I don't know.

When you come back boys, please stay in the city!

Date: Sat, July 05, 2008, 15:29:49 ET
Posted by: bratfille, Ottawa

Hey Fife,

Thanks for the heads up several months ago! Tonight's the night, I'm heading to Lebreton Flats now to get ready for the show. Anyone from the Toronto 2003 showing up tonight ?

Date: Sat, July 05, 2008, 15:14:30 ET
Posted by: Judge Larry Seidlin,

"Mean" Dean - You and Rah should get a room! (preferably one without bars on it)

Date: Sat, July 05, 2008, 14:56:29 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Heading Toward the Manatee Bar

Canon,

COMMUNITY is the key to your last post. He's one of ours. He was asked a question and (bravely) answered it. He didn't bring it up, and he only answered it once.

The one who needs to move on, is you, methinks.

Date: Sat, July 05, 2008, 14:30:46 ET
Posted by: Canon Van der Paele, Downtown

Hey Raj, Bob is not your uncle (or father-in-law)any more. Let's move on. This is a SD community, not a therapy session.

Date: Sat, July 05, 2008, 14:23:24 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol, RocknRollland

Halfway to Ottawa,at my bros place.Time to start "setting the mood"! Wodman keep yuor eyes open for an old hippie maybe we can meet.

Date: Sat, July 05, 2008, 14:16:08 ET
Posted by: Steely Fan, NJ

Saw Boz Scaggs at the Borgata last night. He played their smaller Music Box venue, not the Event Center where all the Steely Dan and Fagen shows have been. It's a much better place to see a concert. The side sections are angled towards the stage. Unlike the Event Center, the seats are not temporary and it has a sloped floor like a regular theater. I wish Fagen had played there instead on the Morph tour.

Date: Sat, July 05, 2008, 12:11:46 ET
Posted by: Craig B.,

Rajah
We will keep you and all your family in our prayers

Date: Sat, July 05, 2008, 12:11:07 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

Very fine review of "The Boys (and girls)" at the Montreal Jazz Festival:
www.allaboutjazz.com/php/article.php?id=29957

Date: Sat, July 05, 2008, 11:50:03 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol, Gpk

Off to Ottawa.Weather looks great but I'm wearing my "lucky" 93 shirt,it has never failed me!

Date: Sat, July 05, 2008, 11:47:50 ET
Posted by: bassicinstinct, Nottingham UK

The Dean

Yep, I remain firmly subscribed to the "carlospc" YouTube account.

He has some real gems.

Date: Sat, July 05, 2008, 11:39:22 ET
Posted by: SteelyCam, London, Ont

More Rama:
My first time there, Casino Rama is like any other casino, in that they want you to spend money... there's NO WAY to get inside the venue without going thru some part of the gamblin' action.. heavy rollers, indeed...
The room itself holds just over 5000, and acoustically, its the best indoor room ive seen SD in yet. It's big, well airconditioned, lots of staff to help ya, etc..
There's more parking than you can shake a stick at, and it's free...
Getting back to the show, the 9pm start was punctual, and they came back on for encore at 11:02.. ( some crew has pushed a 8 ft. tall stuffed bear onstage ( right in front of Carlock), and it stayed there all thru KidC... Walt made a comment that the " crowd was un-BEARably good" or something like that... i think it may be a Rama thing, when an artist goes past curfew, they wheel out the bear!..... anyone?.. this sound right?
Oh, and Third World Man was perfect last night, with Jon H playing the snot out of the harmonized solo section... just fine!
In the end, its too bad that Don and Walt dont play at the Sony Centre in T.O, its a much better room, ( ask anyone who saw the Zappa plays Zappa shows)..
Also, i hope Don has a good nights sleep, and has a miralce cure for the voice, or Ottawa is in for the same tonight ( stuggling to hit notes, voice giving out altogether)... still, it's Steely, and we love 'em just the same, no?

Date: Sat, July 05, 2008, 11:00:15 ET
Posted by: The Dean, s

"...Dons voice was shot..."

Just my luck...I don't get to see the show until Friday. But, the boys have four days off, after tonight's Ottawa affair, so that should give Don's pipes a little rest.

SteelyCam, how is the venue at Casino Rama?

Date: Sat, July 05, 2008, 10:55:08 ET
Posted by: Just a fan, Ca

Yeah I did want to meet Rajah.Out of the 24 times thatI have seen SD.The last in NY last month I never seem to make it to any pre-parties.My wife and I are great fans of SD.Maybe one day we will be able to meet some of these good people who post here on the blue.

Date: Sat, July 05, 2008, 10:47:47 ET
Posted by: SteelyCam, London, Ont

Rama Report:.. Added to the set: DO IT AGAIN !!.. also got Aja, Glamour,... but Dons voice was shot, and he made note of it just before encore ( Kid C)... Carlock stole the show again, and all in all, it was an 8.5 on the fun scale!

Date: Sat, July 05, 2008, 10:39:32 ET
Posted by: I second , that emotion

I also lurk. You form pretty reliable opinions about people by the tone of their posts over a long period.
Rajah sounds like someone you might just wanna get to know, even if he is a luckless pedestrian.

Date: Sat, July 05, 2008, 10:32:16 ET
Posted by: I would do the same, Rajah if thats true

Rajah my mom is 101.7years old I call her everyday.Fly to go see her whenever I can. When I am not traveling to see SD.She is lucky and is able to get around slowley.And her mind is still pretty sharp.But if I were in your shoes, I would do the same thing.Stick it to the man and take care of my mom.Great luck in everything.I have been lurking here for the last 2 years.Thanks everyone for the great knowlege of the Dan and all the great info.Rajah keep up your great posts dont worry what other people think or say.

Date: Sat, July 05, 2008, 09:28:39 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., NJ

Nothing Dangential or even new, but I found this Snopes piece mildly amusing in the context of A) how an opening act can get paired with a headlining act (or at least how it may have worked at one time), and B) how the false claim of the reason for parting of the ways got started as a tongue-in-cheek fake press release that got taken seriously. (Sound like anybody we know?)

http://www.snopes.com/music/artists/hendrix.asp

Date: Sat, July 05, 2008, 09:17:42 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

bassicinstinct,

Very nice. That "carlospc" has a lot of great live Dan clips. I really enjoyed the Turtle Talk intro. It's nice to hear the band do some straight-ahead jazz, to set the tone.

Raj, your situation sounds even more complicated than mine. But, while you get to spend your time in Italy, I'm stuck in Florida, in the country's oldest city. Care to trade venues for a month?

:#)

Date: Sat, July 05, 2008, 06:09:45 ET
Posted by: bassicinstinct, Nottingham UK

Greg

You are more than welcome.

Here is another from the same show:

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=mR_gd8Krzx4

Date: Sat, July 05, 2008, 00:32:07 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

no news on tonight's show, but holy shit -- just found a copy of 2008-06-27 and it sounds incredbile. if you know where to find those sorts of things, i recommend it. royal scam is bumpin!

hapy 4th folks.

Date: Sat, July 05, 2008, 00:07:21 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol, Gpk

Any news about Orillia/CasinoRama show?

Date: Fri, July 04, 2008, 20:00:51 ET
Posted by: Greg, Dunedin, NZ

Thanks for posting the youtube link Bassicinstinct. Note how Keith looses one of his sticks at about the 8th minute!

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=I2F6cVan1UY

Date: Fri, July 04, 2008, 17:16:26 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

Woodman:
Love reading your comments and impressions of the Canada shows.
Keep 'em coming!!

Date: Fri, July 04, 2008, 15:10:34 ET
Posted by: I cant, give out that info come on

Date: Fri, July 04, 2008, 14:51:10 ET
Posted by: Woodman, Bluesfest - just down the road from the Jazz Festival

Fife,

Villa Deli was a many "scene of the crime" for me. You name the occasion - concerts, football games etc. It was a wonderful institution. Great food, great atmosphere. It is missed dearly by some of us ole-timers in Ottawa. It was a given that the pre-party for anything at the Civic Centre, was to drop by the Villa for a warm-up. Memories of spending Panda games there are a little sketchy however are still fond.

They rarely have events at the Civic Centre (except for OHL hockey, and the Ex), and the Villa has been replaced with a retirement home.

Date: Fri, July 04, 2008, 13:31:59 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol, Gpk

A Happy 4th to the U.S.Dandom!

Date: Fri, July 04, 2008, 12:31:08 ET
Posted by: bassicinstinct, Nottingham UK

Nothing new - in fact recorded in 2006 - but I thought I'd post this link because the quality (both audio and visual) is amongst the best I've encountered on YouTube:

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=I2F6cVan1UY

Enjoy!!

Date: Fri, July 04, 2008, 12:03:59 ET
Posted by: Craig B.,

Raj
Is the man really after you or is someone here on the Blue yanking a chain or two

Date: Fri, July 04, 2008, 11:02:00 ET
Posted by: Rajah, hold the beavertail, though

Thank you, Woodman, for your very fine observations.

Date: Fri, July 04, 2008, 10:27:58 ET
Posted by: Fife, Florida.eh

Woody did you ever go to the Villa Deli across the street from the Civic center? I was a cook there for a couple of years and Montreal smoked meat was our bread and butter and don't forget the mustard, yumm. I miss it though my heart doesn't. I wonder if the boys had a Montreal bagel nothing and I mean nothing better in the world straight out of a wood burning stove with poppy seeds and cream cheese. Have a beavertail for me tomorrow,eh.
Fife

Date: Fri, July 04, 2008, 04:12:56 ET
Posted by: polite in public, 500 yards

Hey folks, don't forget the court order is still in place.....500 yrds
Man i hope you guys never like one of my tunes ..to scary!

Date: Fri, July 04, 2008, 04:06:02 ET
Posted by: polite in public, 500 yards

Date: Fri, July 04, 2008, 02:39:27 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Sorry for the error-
Cat actually plays in LA on
the 23rd of July not August.
I believe it's a free concert
at Jimmy Webb's Macarthur Park.
All the sweet, green icing.
That show will be "cake". But
I'll be Paso Robles.
Doesn't this sound like a hoot? -

Legendary Rhythm & Blues Cruise
Jan. 24, 2009 to Jan. 31, 2009

Fort Lauderdale, FL
Week long floating Blues Festival at Sea in the Caribbean, Catherine Russell will be a special guest appearing with The Holmes Brothers

Sounds like a great winter break.

Date: Fri, July 04, 2008, 02:32:19 ET
Posted by: Walt's Doppelgänger, was in hartford

So Kids, do you wanna hear Dr Wu, a better-than-steely dupree, a nice churning show biz, and a great home at last? then check out Show Biz Kids next week (i think it is). im guessing less than 2 hrs from new york. ROAD TRIP!

saw em tonight in hartford. they're very good. great players, lotta fun.

of course, i know that everyone really loves the walter rap in hey 19 too. they do that pretty much verbatum???÷!!! Hey guys, let me write you a new rap, please!

i know that you folks might be wary of celebrity endorsements, but i receive no compensation for this glowing assessment. and i only know one guy in the band (kinda) and he's a whacko - wants everyone to call him papa, what's with that?

or, i'm sure that someone can get them a gig in NYC.

good night i'm tired - i'm tooo good to you peoople.

DOP

Date: Fri, July 04, 2008, 01:48:03 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

I just can't stop listening to
Dark Horse Dub. It's in heavy
rotation on veranda yet again
tonight. I just keep hitting
replay on the CD. My C$ OCD
kicking in again. So who is
"Chuck Miller" & Jimmy Fish"?
I do prefer it in the middle of
C$ and still end with 3PICD.
Woody -
Can you please review all of the
shows for the rest of the tour?
It is a pleasure to read your reports.
I am living vicariously through them.
Excellent job buddy.
Another Bald Guy -
Of course we know that "Cat" is on
tour. But if you actually took the
time to investigate instead of
pontificating, you would know
that Cat is only touring in the
month of July. And she is off
the 7th through the 15th. And
she has the entire of month of
August off. She plays in LA
on the 25th of August, but she
has the 23rd off. Boy would I
love to see her at the Nokia in
LA!!! Also if you actually did
some homework, you would also know
that she is playing the Ottawa Blues
Fest Sunday night. It's a
good possibility she could be singing
with the band on Saturday night.
You just never know.
Dash -
Yup, Neil Hefti swings! But then again
when you cut your teeth working for
Woody Herman and write charts for Count
Basie, you better damn well swing!
Woody Herman, there you have the
Steely Dan connection.
Gus -
I'm sending you an email now.
I hope I get the address right.
And, finally -
I would like to wish everyone
stateside a happy and safe 4th
of July. And to our friends in
Canada, have a great weekend of shows.

"Work like you don't need the money. Love like you've never been hurt. Dance like nobody's watching."
-Satchel Paige

Date: Fri, July 04, 2008, 01:20:02 ET
Posted by: Woodman, Ottawa

Not me again:

I believe Keith played with a black coloured drum "skin" on nite one in Montreal.He also tossed a drum stick after the end of the intro - no harm/no foul. On night two the drum skin colour was silver - almost metallic. On both nights his kit was the same. Micheal was also using the "large head?" trumpet on a few occasions. Any word from his sis?

Re: what I like to call the "Donald shuffle" - He was quite mobile during God and Aja. It was like he was directing the band in a different manner then singing sitting in front of a piano. Donald often points to either the horns or to the singers while doing this. Wednesday, Donald would shuffle from in front of the horns to almost beside Jeff - all in one verse!

Re: W + D - Early while playing Royal, after they began the tune from the beginning - Walter had wandered to behind a singing Donald. I was in a position sitting about 8 rows behind Jon's side of the stage to see Walter look at the back of Donald's arching head, close his eyes - and take the lead from Jon for a few bars. They connected.

Re: Keith - on at least three occasions - between songs - while the theatre is still reverberating the elegant conclusion of the previous song - he yells over all the count to the next song.

You never know if Dr. Wu has come to town.

Fife, give me a shout as I would luv to discuss this "Ottawa-thing" with ya.

Date: Thurs, July 03, 2008, 23:35:36 ET
Posted by: Howe Cumm, USA

How come you can't get in Zim?

Date: Thurs, July 03, 2008, 23:12:06 ET
Posted by: Pixeleen, NY

Yeah, thanks Woodman -- what a fabulous review of what sounds like a fabulous show!

Date: Thurs, July 03, 2008, 22:58:42 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

I gotta tell ya Wood, you paint a hell of a picture. I LOVE your inspired posts and your unbridled enthusiasm for The Dan.

Date: Thurs, July 03, 2008, 22:57:04 ET
Posted by: Zim, CT

A bit late but I tried to get into the Greenroom and got in! Haven't been able to get in for months now. So anyone around?

Date: Thurs, July 03, 2008, 22:22:48 ET
Posted by: Woodman, In Ottawa awaiting round 3....if this stalking?

Just got into Ottawa from Montreal and I have to say this adventure is turning into delirium, or is it danlirium?

The 2nd show was by far the best of the two in Montreal. The band, whle retaining their "tightness" were alot more relaxed - more like comfortable.

Glamour - Third World and Aja were inserted - as mentioned previously. Otherwise the setlist remained intact.

Donald boogied across the stage on numerous occasions, he seemed to be "zoning out" while shuffling during Godwhacker. He appeared to be in a "creator's trance" absorbing the band's output - especially the horns. On Thursday night Aretha Franklin performs at the fest. During "19" Donald not only mentions Aretha (not Otis) but claims "well she's playing here tomorrow night!" during the song. He and Walter shared center stage during a moment in Aja and one could feel their magnetism towards each other. No words were exchanged and rarely an eye lock, but while Walter played guitar, and Donald played the melotron, they shared something there. If their structure ever called for an improv Jam - I had the feeling it would have happened at this moment. His vocals were fine throughout. Yes he had gas in his car (which he hit perfectly).

Walter appeared to be more laid back. Almost like playing to a home crowd. His playing was fluid and it appeared he was more interested in allowing Jon (and the band) to shine. More on Jon later. Walter did have a funnier tale to tell during 19, something about the only way to supress a cardiac attack brought on by eating a Montreal Smoke-Meat sandwich was to down some of that amber-type liquid who's name he forgot. If you ever saw a Montreal Smoke-Meat sandwich - well you will get the joke, think pork fat. Lots of pork fat. Walter also mentioned his grandmother lived in Montreal at one time which made Walter the bona-fide Canuck on the tour bus (but where was his hockey stick? Lumberjack Shirt? HIS ACCENT?). In my honest opinion - Walter owns Gaucho. It's his now. His vocals were so ripe for this song on this night that it made you forget that the original vocalist was sitting a mere 6 feet to his left. And I would imagine that Walter's feet were sore after the show. He paced the stage for most of the night.

The ladies (all three of them) wore afro wigs for the duration of the show. Think Beyonce in Goldmember afros. I originally thought it might have something to do with "shaking it" on Sisters, or the Supremes tune - but they were mere props. I loved it. And m'gawd did they dance the night away.

Keith wore this shimmering t-shirt that looked like it had a silver roman breast plate. It was actually skeletal. He bedazzled the "rookies" with his Aja. Why not? It's like listening to Moon doing Won't Get Fooled Again, or Baker doing Sunshine of Your Love. The only regrettable thing was that Keith wasn't the original drummer for the tune. Yet if Walter owns Gaucho - Keith owns Aja. I cannot get over the energy he expells during Parkers Band. If this could ever be harnessed, well we probably have solved the gas/oil crisis. He was so precise when the time in the song would hange, that despite being surrounded by masters of their instruments, it was Keith who led them on the change. He is by far the best drummer for the band, and most likely the best drummer I have seen.

Freddie, Mr. Y and the horns are truly the backbone to the music. Michael played tamborine on many a track (I counted three). I wonder if his inspiration with the instrument is Laurie Partridge or Linda MacCartney? Walt, "Rose", Jim and Micheal were succulint - and for the Jazz purists in the crowd, provided integrity to having Steely Dan perform at a International Jazz festival. Freddi can do no worng. He is the "riser" Keith's drum kit resides on. Mr. Y - you are Donald's crutch. And it takes a helluva musician to be a crutch for Mr. Fagen.

The night belonged to Jon. My dream is to see Larry Carleton play with Jon for a Steely show. But after last night, I could care less if that ever happens. Jon IS the only lead guitarist for this band. What does a director do? Well if Jon is the template, all a director needs to do is never stray off the track, and play exceptional tasteful guitar licks. He has a style that pays homage to the artist who created the lead, yet adds a hook, a strum, a note, SOMETHING that defines this lead as his. All the while making HIS lead the definitive lead much in the same way Keith does. Although I can think of a dozen other songs to play live then 3rd World, Jon played it so well, that it was undeniably a crowning achievement. His Royal Scam is a wink to Larry C. His Peg is a statement; "hey how about this?". His Kid C is inspiring. Meanwhile his interplay with Walter throughout the show is a statement of respect the two must have for each other. As people and as fellow musicians. On at least 6 occasions last night, right in the middle of a song, sometimes during one of their solos - instinctively the other knows where to go and what to do, to grab the lead from the other and launch the music into the stratisphere.

Au Revoir Montreal - bonne fete 400 Quebec, should Ottawa's show approach this experience I will need to practice my stop, drop, and roll technique.

Date: Thurs, July 03, 2008, 21:49:51 ET
Posted by: kzkzkz, nyccc

Royal Scam AND Aja???

WOW-Roseland was/is/will always be the show all others are/will always & forevber be compared to...but...

ROYAL SCAM & AJA?????????????

WOW

Date: Thurs, July 03, 2008, 21:29:35 ET
Posted by: Woodman, In Ottawa awaiting round 3

Date: Thurs, July 03, 2008, 20:30:39 ET
Posted by: Jesse, Toronto

I have an extra ticket to tomorrow night at Casino Rama. I'm only asking for face value which is something like $70. I don't have the ticket in front of me, unfortunately, but it's around the middle of the area behind the floor. Email me. We can make the exchange at the show, as I will also be attending.

Jesse

Date: Thurs, July 03, 2008, 19:23:20 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

I don't mean the last song of the night, which is last tango. I'm talking about 20 seconds at the end of Kid Charlamange where the final hit used to be.

Date: Thurs, July 03, 2008, 18:57:35 ET
Posted by: That would be -,

Neil Hefti. He also wrote the theme to Batman (The 60's TV Version).

Date: Thurs, July 03, 2008, 18:31:36 ET
Posted by: Dash LaRue,

Yeah I like Tango, BUT - I would like to hear something new. They
have so much energy this year and Last Tango does not say "energy" to me. Plus it's old, kinda like they don't want to take the time to rehearse something new. Someone a while back suggested, "The Odd
Couple". At first I was like, "What?", but the more I think about it, I would love to see that. Great outro music. Steely Dan, the
Odd Couple. Makes me laugh. Who wrote that tune?

Date: Thurs, July 03, 2008, 18:29:22 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

Last Tango is one of the most sensual and seductive melodies ever.

Date: Thurs, July 03, 2008, 17:53:51 ET
Posted by: h, otq

It's music from "Last Tango In Paris". They also played it in 2006. Great stuff! Get the deluxe CD of it with 40 tracks on one CD.

Date: Thurs, July 03, 2008, 17:50:48 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Dean, it's actually tacked on at the tail end of Kid Charlamange, right before the final extra long hit is. Its a new addition to the song I believe. Hard to hear because the crowd is cheering, but it definitely rings a bell.

Date: Thurs, July 03, 2008, 17:48:12 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

Chris,

If you mean the "walk off" song, it is Last Tango in Paris (Gato Barbieri), at least according to a few posters.

Date: Thurs, July 03, 2008, 17:43:40 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

What's the melody the band plays in unison at the very end of Kid Charlamange on this tour? Is it a Mingus tune?

Date: Thurs, July 03, 2008, 16:00:07 ET
Posted by: Rajah, Rome, Italy

That Joe Cocker is priceless, especially when Jesus donned a turban.

Date: Thurs, July 03, 2008, 15:28:04 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Buf.

The "Special Guest" page on "Think Fast, Steely Dan 08" has been updated.

Date: Thurs, July 03, 2008, 14:55:28 ET
Posted by: most high gamester, of trikelion

i'll wagger one quadrillion quatloos that no one can watch this whole thing with out laffing out loud while blowing their cuban breeze out the snozz!

what a freek - but we love em!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T4_MsrsKzMM

down in tampa . . .

Date: Thurs, July 03, 2008, 14:47:53 ET
Posted by: And yet,, like the clueless,

yours is the health you should be worrying about, Raj.

Agents of the Law

Date: Thurs, July 03, 2008, 14:29:13 ET
Posted by: Wlm, BC

A musical director in this context is like a sous chef. Donald and Walter are the executive chefs. The sous chef is in charge of executing the dish (assuming of course an executive chef is not currently directing that execution). Jon probably knows most about all the chart parts, listens for and resolves problems with parts and playing, rehearses the band with new songs before they are tried out with D &W , and may be the representative of the band to D & W if there are musical issues or problems. I don't think he has anything to do with monitoring the mix or BPS.

Date: Thurs, July 03, 2008, 14:13:57 ET
Posted by: Rajah, but it's oh so much nicer to come home

Yes, there is a place called, "Soboba," but whether it's real or not, that's a very deep question. I'm thinking it's more like Brigadoon. It appears every hundred years or so.

What does a musical director do? Well, he makes sure the BPMs are correct which usually means slowing the drummer back down, he monitors the mix, he's the arbiter of consistency. He's the capo dell tutti capi at soundcheck.

And John Walsh, finally, we are in complete agreement. My compliments and my continued wishes for your good health.

Date: Thurs, July 03, 2008, 13:32:23 ET
Posted by: A question, About the tour

What are Jon Herington's duties at musical director?

Date: Thurs, July 03, 2008, 12:48:35 ET
Posted by: Geoff, Wiggy Pad, Deep Ellum

Matt, regarding UK Circus Money - I have to go over there in August, I'll get some CDs. I do have a Lloyds-TSB debit card, I could try that on the download thing. Also will respond to your e-mail and other stuff as soon as I've got all my moving crap done.

Woodman: Thanks for the report on Cat's show. I agree with you on the "annoy (ala Whitney, Christina, Mariah et al)" that stuff is loathsome drivel. Got me thinking there are two types of female singers in my book - brilliant and shite. All the shite ones are warblers. With male vocalists I have a grey scale, but there still is a male warbling thing going on at the shite end.

Geoff

Date: Thurs, July 03, 2008, 12:39:47 ET
Posted by: david p, south florida

angel,

E.S.T. are a tremendous band. Definitely recommend checking them out. His death was a freak and a very sad thing. "From Gagarin's Point of View" is probably my favorite album.

Date: Thurs, July 03, 2008, 12:39:05 ET
Posted by: Provincial Reuben, Tall County, AR

Is there really a place called Soboba?

How much can your Poppy really teach you about changing scenery? Or living alone again? Or jail?

"Shanghai Confidential": Good beat; occult origin; easy to dance to; I think I've got it down as the entracte back in ought94, maybe '97.

I wonder what was the best show? I think The State Theatre in St. Paul is the ultimate indoor venue and Red Rocks in Denver is the best place outdoors, but I don't get out much.

I liked having Michael McDonald along. That 'BabyCakesDoll' was pretty good, and you gotta admit, nobody harmonizes with himself quite like that guy. But when I saw them last year, I got The BarKays and Kenny Wayne Sheppard as opening acts. It was 'all good.'

Date: Thurs, July 03, 2008, 12:12:08 ET
Posted by: John Walsh, AMW

"Rajah, it's oh-so-nice to go traveling"

Especially when the only other alternative is jail.

Date: Thurs, July 03, 2008, 11:52:47 ET
Posted by: angel,

Lurker Ray: Hey Homie...If I drive West on Sunset, I get to ya. ;-)

Maybe catch you at Nokia or Honda.

Still kicking myself for not going to Montréal too. Instead, I get to blow my stimulus check by going to NY for the 50 millionth time. Not that that's a bad thing, just something I think I might have done a few times before (Native NYer here).

Glad some of you got to catch Dark Horse Dub. I like. :-)

While monitoring Radio Dupree yesterday, I hear something that actually interested me enough to write down the artist and song. Esbjorn Svensson Trio - Dodge The Dodo.
So I Google the name and find out the man just died 2 weeks ago! ACK! Nice stuff and very unusual. Anyone ever heard of this group?

Date: Thurs, July 03, 2008, 11:46:11 ET
Posted by: another bald guy,

Lurker Ray - I guess you didn't notice but Cat Russell is on her own tour this summer. Which is the reason why she won't be hooking up with the Dan anymore this year.

Also, I was at both the Soboba show in 2006 and the Saturday night Roseland show in 2003. To set the record straight, Roseland was way better! Soboba was one of the best SD shows ever. Roseland was the best. Let's drop it now.

Date: Thurs, July 03, 2008, 11:24:22 ET
Posted by: was he moving "Upstate" (was it NY?) before the season closes? Hmmmmmm..,

Date: Thurs, July 03, 2008, 11:18:14 ET
Posted by: SS, HK

Raj,I think we assume a change of scenery is inspiring for artists, but I'm not sure the result is predictable, or better. I suppose SD's west coast sound (Aja, Gaucho) couldn't have been...unless they actually lived on the west coast.

But then they didn't need to travel to reference all sorts of places, like Lhasa, Aja, or Biscayne Bay, and create exotic images without any first hand experience.

How about the fake oriental sound of Shanghai Confidential ? Who knows if it would have sounded better had DF actually gone to Shanghai. His idea of what it was like, shaped maybe through old radio shows, movies and magazines, is what we get and it's a romanticized vision.

WB DID live abroad and I'm not sure it changed the way the music sounded. It's obvious though it affected some of the lyrics (Surf and/or Die, Little Kawaii). And he met his chanting monks in Hawaii, not Tibet. He could have met them in New York.

And how to explain Hat Too Flat - is that WB's idea of what Arcturus 'sounds' like ?

I'm just about five spins into Circus Money. Apart from backing singers...Jon Herington and Keith Carlock are the only common musicians, so I'm not sure it's really using the same band a different way. I notice far fewer solos than Morph, Chris Potter not Walt Weiskopf, no trumpet. It's early days though...still hasn't sunk in for me.

Date: Thurs, July 03, 2008, 09:31:04 ET
Posted by: wha, wha, what?,

Hey Malibu Ken doll

So you know what Lurker Ray thinks. We also know he is a deep thinker, key opinionmaker, a talented writer etc. Those are the facts.

The real question is, what do YOU think? If you even think.

Date: Thurs, July 03, 2008, 07:40:36 ET
Posted by: Rajah, it's oh-so-nice to go traveling

SS - part of the reason this C€ record is so good is that a lot of the work was done in Santa Monica. A change of scenery, or rather, maybe a return to the scene, seems to have done wonders for WB's perspective. And you, as a redoutable citizen of the world, dear SS, you shock me to hear your sentiments. Donald has lived in Manhattan for the last, what, 30 years or so? I lived there for six years and believe me it can be just as stultifying as any podunk town in Anywhere, USA. Just cause you live in a great city doesn't mean you don't fall into a conventional and even provincial mindset. You go to Balducci's for some prociutto, you hit the newsstand, later you make the scene at Birdland, next day you take a jog around the resevoir, you have a dog and a papaya at Nathan's. OK, the odd benefit at Carnegie Hall, that's nice, but what, I ask you does Morph the Cat tell us about life in post-9/11 America that we didn't already know? I love the music, but it really didn't move me, just as the title cut of EMG left me thinking: "didn't I hear about this last week on CNN?" Donald's now working behind the curve, IMHO. But now Walter...

Have you heard Dark Horse Dub? It's Johan Sebastian Bach meets Ennio Morrocone in an Jamaican spliff house. This is fresh. The little melody that repeats a few times around is haunting and addictive. Walter indeed proves on this record, just like the Police did, that a looping theme need not necessarily be boring. And to think this is basically the same band on Morph, wow, oh what difference an alternate perspective makes.

Date: Thurs, July 03, 2008, 07:31:24 ET
Posted by: Malibu Ken, East Hemet

We get it, Ray--

You really, really, really enjoyed the Soboba show...

"So far, the greatest Steely Dan show ever"

Please...

Date: Thurs, July 03, 2008, 06:36:05 ET
Posted by: SS, HK

Thanks to the Montreal concert-goers for those reviews. I would really liked to have seen the band there.

Raj...I've thought about this and as much as it sounds useful for D and W to travel and draw on that for writing, I wonder if they actually need to go somewhere else. Seems they have a lot of imagination, and books to read, to fuel them.

Date: Thurs, July 03, 2008, 03:16:42 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol, Gpk

Just back after Mtl#2. Just when you think it can't get any better, it does.Could be me,but the band seemed even tighter,the house vibe even stronger!Once again Walter was great on Gaucho.Aftershow caught Trixie Whitley on a side stage. New to me but quite good.A hot night in town tonight!

Date: Thurs, July 03, 2008, 01:46:36 ET
Posted by: Gus Winterbottom, Torrance, CA

Ray,

At your convenience please contact me via the e-mail address above. I tried to send you something without success.

Regards,

GW

Date: Thurs, July 03, 2008, 00:43:33 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Thank you Sylvain!
Nice to see "Aja" and "Third
World"! Hell, in two nights
they mixed up the set list
more than than did the entire
Beacon run! Like I said,
these were THE two back-to-back
shows to see this year so far.
The Unadulterated Truth,
I guess yopu were typing while
I was typing! Yup, nothing so
far will EVER top Soboba. Hell,
Paul Stanley of KISS couldn't
stand the heat of Soboba. The
put him in an abulance, But not
Don & Walt and band. So far,
the greatest Steely Dan show ever.
Roseland shows are gimmees.
Soboba was earned.

Date: Thurs, July 03, 2008, 00:37:13 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Sylvain,

Thank you. Sounds like two beautiful shows. Love the wig, thing.

Date: Thurs, July 03, 2008, 00:31:20 ET
Posted by: Sylvain, Montreal

I just got home from seeing the second Montreal show and it was even better than last night's! The band was just as good but the audience was even better going as far as giving the band a standing ovation after "Aja".

What a beautiful night. I had to wait 15 years for D&F to bring The Dan to my hometown but I have a feeling from now on Montreal might be a part of their touring schedule.

Here is the setlist from tonight's (Wednesday) concert:

Everyone's Gone To The Movies / The Fez/ Royal Scam
I Got The News
Showbiz Kids
Everything You Did
Two Against Nature
Hey 19
Godwhacker
Glamour Profession
New Frontier
Gaucho
Home At Last
Parker's Band
Josie
Third World Man
Aja
Itching In My Heart (Supremes)
Peg
FM

Kid Charlemagne (Encore)

Tonight's concert lasted 10 more minutes than last night (2:10 vs 2:00) and included one more song. "Babylon Sisters" was replaced by "Glamour Profession", "Green Earrings" was replaced by "Third World Man" and they added "Aja" to the setlist tonight.

"Third World Man" may have been played before "Josie". I'm not 100% sure anymore. One thing I'm sure of is the highlight of the evening was definitely "Aja". Keith was incredible on drums and the song got a well deserved standing ovation at the end.

On a final note, the girls wore afro wigs which was pretty cool.

Just a beautiful evening...

Date: Thurs, July 03, 2008, 00:26:30 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Don's tour was great. At the show I attended, he played ONE song from Morph.

The show I was at in 2006 was outstanding. Bonnie Raitt doing Dirty Work was a treat, but even without it, the band smoked.

The show I was at last year, was better than in 2006. The band was live, tight and very hot. Nearly everyone I spoke with agreed.

So, maybe you keep going to the wrong shows.

:#)

Date: Thurs, July 03, 2008, 00:24:43 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Thank you angel and a big thank
you to Neb & Sig!! If you guys
are ever out in LA I would love
to buy you a beverage. Blasting
"Dark Horse" on the veranda now.
Yup, it is NOT a leftover added
on just to sell a few extra copies.
I wonder if "The Happy Song" will
ever see the light of day?
So great to see the killer review
of the Montreal show and for Catherine
Russell. I was hoping that maybe
we would get the three girls out here,
but sadly not. BUT, no opening act in
Paso Robles and in Pala WOO HOO!!!
Catherine is amazing. Her father Luis
Russell was Louis Armstrong's orchestra
leader beginning in the mid 1940s and her
mother was a member of the Sweethearts of
Rhythm. Her dad had his own band in the
20's & 30's and wrote some killer tunes
and they are riot! Her new CD "A Sentimental
Streak" is a must have. It is going to be
very hard to top any of the shows this year
with Ms. Russell.
So glad to read about the return of Bran Van
3000 in Montreal! Wow. I dig that band.
Dan, you have sold me. Boz plays the
beautiful Humphrey's By The Bay the night
after Pala. I have added that to my itinerary!
Lastly, 2006 VS 2007? Hands down 2006.
No one has mentioned that Soboba & San Diego
was sans McMike and Donald devoured "Show
Biz Kids" with all of his swagger! Both nights.
I must say I do prefer that version to this years
more laid back take. Plus we got "Any World"
both nights and of course "Dr. Wu" at Soboba.
What's the word from Montreal tonight?
I'm kicking myself. Those shows turned out to
be the two Must See shows so far this tour.

Date: Thurs, July 03, 2008, 00:19:43 ET
Posted by: The Unadulterated Truth,

Here's the Deal:

2006--For the "hard core" Danfreak you aren't going to get much better than the Don solo shows. New Morph material introduced, deep Don cuts, deep Dan cuts, HATWW, 14 or 15 songs.

2006-2007--Sugartooth McDan was a naked, unabashed money grubbing exercise that pandered to the least common denominator, the fan who knew only three or four of Dan's the Greatest Hits. I believe that it was sort of a retribution, and maybe resignation on Don's part who railed at the fans who were yelling out for "wormy 1970's radio hits" at his solo shows. So he figured, what the hell, give the unwashed masses what they want for the Dan tour, a short Greatest Hits Show. The only shows that were worth it, were the "DAN ONLY" shows of San Diego and, of course, possibly the Greatest Dan Show of them all, SOBOBA! SOBOBA! SOBOBA!, which a wild-eyed Fagen screamed out like a war whoopin banshee at the show's conclusion. This, after playing for 2 1/2 hours in 95 degree heat.

2007--Heavy Rollers was more of the same, except that time the money grub was ever more apparent by doing a 13 song show, going back only to places with the highest sales, and shutting out those West of the Mississippi. The World portion of the tour was for much deserved R&R and paid for itself via tour profits. Like a business trip for a working stiff to Asia, Europe or Australia.

2008--The Dan has taken heed of and INCORPORATED feedback, from the Blue or whatever source you want to believe. They are delivering a 2 hour set of 20 songs. They are letting the band improvise, and not trying to sound purely like the records. The intros to the songs keep you guessing until the vocals start. Walt is being worked more into the mix. And we are FINALLY getting "SCAMMED", but in a good sense. Overall, every 2008 show has been a Soboba-like show, (setlist-wise) although the magic and awe of that night in the desert will never be recaptured. It was only for that place and time, that all of the ingredients, the whole being greater than the sum of the parts, the GESTALT, came together.

The ONLY 2008 drawback, and it is understandable, is that they probably should be cranking in 2 or 3 CirCus Money tunes like what Don did with Morph. But, then again, that was the Don Show....

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 23:32:40 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Special guests for remaining shows (mostly) finally posted at SD.com

http://www.steelydan.com/tour08guests.html

Sam Yahel Trio for some and Joey DeFrancesco Trio for others.

I'm psyched to see Sam again, this year.

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 23:21:50 ET
Posted by: Dan Belcher, Louisville, KY

Another confirmation that it's Shane Theriot. I just caught Boz in Kettering, Ohio last Saturday night, killer show. Theriot cooked on Loan Me A Dime and Runnin' Blue. Greg Phillinganse on the Rhodes was my other big highlight from his current touring band. Outside of Boz himself, of course. In great voice, sounded fantastic on his guitar solos as well.

And apparently Shane Theriot is also touring with Madeleine Peyroux in August.

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 23:16:15 ET
Posted by: Hutch,

Remember the Memory Man... man?

Check out the blue photo.

http://www.donaldfagen.com/gallery.php#

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 22:55:59 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Hutch,

BINGO!

http://www.shanetheriot.com/tour.php

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 22:40:19 ET
Posted by: Hutch,

Pretty sure it's Shane Theriot.

http://music.songstuff.com/articles.php?selected=40

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 18:50:40 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

BozFan,

I just scanned several reviews and more than a dozen interviews, and the guitarist doesn't seemed to be named in any of them.

He is referred to as a "new young guitarist" in one article.

He has a guitarist, David Jcaobs-Strain, opening for some shows, it seems.

And there is this about his band at last year's Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival:

"At last year's Hardly Strictly Bluegrass festival in San Francisco, Scaggs played with an ad hoc group that included Buddy Miller on guitar, Jon Cleary on keyboards and Greg Leisz on steel guitar".

Here are a couple of sites with info and links. Maybe you'll have better luck finding the info. I only spent a few minutes:

http://www.beautifulboz.com/

http://www.bozscaggs.com/

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 18:30:58 ET
Posted by: BozFan, New York

Hey does anyone know who's playing guitar on the Boz Scaggs tour now?

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 17:29:17 ET
Posted by: Pixeleen, NY

Honestly, it's like a post mid-life crisis rebirth. They actually seem to be enjoying themselves (and their band) more than ever. I'm feeling really positive about future tours (please, please, oh please!!!!)

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 17:24:05 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

Pixy,

I can barely hold out. The reports here are helping and killing me, both at the same time. I'm so happy to hear Donald is still in strong voice this far into the tour.

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 17:19:15 ET
Posted by: Pixeleen, NY

Whoo Hoo Dean -- just wait 'til you see them this year!!!

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 17:14:38 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

I was at the 2006 show with Bonnie Raitt singing Dirty Work, and it was terrific. I enjoyed Michael M's opening set, quite a bit...BUT:

I thought last year's show, overall, was better than the one in 2006. Sam Yahel's band was far more interesting and musically advanced than McDonalds, and Steely Dan was simply tighter and better.

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 17:14:25 ET
Posted by: Woodman, Montreal - land of Poutine, Cinquant, and Bleu Nuit

Montreal Maroon - hehehehehe - probably Nels Stewart!

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 17:09:25 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol, Gpk

Just heading out for Mtl show #2. Weather is great!

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 17:07:53 ET
Posted by: Woodman, t - 2 hours 30 minutes

I apologize.

I am so sorry about all of this.

Whip me with the wet noodle.

I forgot to mention Catherine's solo performance last night in Montreal. I am willing to blame it on the Coronas. Or the poutine (local delicacy - fries with gravy and cheese curds). She came out with her band (3 piece) and used her vocals as a lead instrument in a way that takes one back to Holliday, Smith, or Fitzgerald. I never saw any of the these ladies, but I am so grateful to have heard Catherine. Unknown to any of her solo work before the show, I hit her web site and took in some samples. It was reminiscent of early Aretha, mixed with Martha and Diana. Catherine's live show had nothing to do with that. It was truly magnificent. Her vocals are luscious in the sense that they don't annoy (ala Whitney, Christina, Mariah et al) but rather accompany her music. It was truly an ensemble that really worked well as an opening act for SD. I am looking forward to owning some of her music now.

I will attempt part deux of my review tonight after the show. However tonight is bachelor night for the lads (the ladies are taking in another act), so I doubt the eye/hand coordination thingie will be working.

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 17:00:46 ET
Posted by: bobboo's doctor, keep your appointment

dear boobbobooo

please keep your appointment with me dr.wu yung.

you are apparently off your meds again.

even i, a devout paula abdul fan, know that fall of 92 is one of the BEST SONGS EVER WRITTEN.

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 16:48:20 ET
Posted by: Matt, Chattanooga, TN

Tried Itunes here and nothing doing. Switched my country to UK and it showed, but it won't let me download it unless I have a valid payment option in the UK. Damn.

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 16:34:51 ET
Posted by: angel,

One last post about this and I won't bother anyone again. ;-)

I heard it again a half hour later. Definitely a heavy rotation, so worth a check, if you have an Internet connection that can play Live 365.

http://www.live365.com/stations/pergunnareriksson

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 16:33:26 ET
Posted by: alan, Shellharbour AU

As for the opening act debate, I think the Australian 07 tour holds the trump card there...

WORLD PARTY !

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 16:28:43 ET
Posted by: Lars,

Huh? - I guess you haven't seen any shows this year. Because no matter how cool Soboba was this is the best this band has ever sounded! And the great reviews are right on the button. So go see a show first this summer before you comment on how it was better in 2006 or 2007.

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 16:02:12 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Huh, I didn't see Soboba, I much prefer Sam Yahel to Michael McDonald, and while I love him singing backup on Peg, Do It Again and Show Biz Kids lost just about all the attitude with McMike taking the lead. 06 was the most disappointing for me (although it was a still a great show).

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 15:59:53 ET
Posted by: angel,

Just a guess, but I think it might be on a heavy rotation over there at Radio Dupree. I listened for less then a half hour and it came up.

Very different tune then normal Walter and guess what? That's a good thing! Dueling sax at one point and flute playing going on, especially toward the end. Cut is almost 7 minutes and almost feels Fagenesque as it goes toward it's end.

You go Walter!!!!!!

ITunes has it in Sweden, so you ITunes types might want to check it out here in the US.

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 15:50:58 ET
Posted by: Bobbo, on NOW?!

Angel....really?! Right now, even as we speak?!

Ha! Thanks darlin', it is a thrill to see ya's all swarming like snarky, hungry bees again...

Bb

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 15:47:38 ET
Posted by: angel,

On NOW!!!!!

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 15:36:47 ET
Posted by: Bobbo, enjoying the Rennaissance...

Hey,

Raj, I'm as stoked as you are brother...don't these little "revivals" come right when we need one? Like 2vN, Morph, Chumash, and the like: so good to know that others are discovering the same stuff, in "real" time, with you. Don't you think?

Believe it or not, I got my copy of CIRCUS MONEY on Monday, a couple of weeks after the initial release, because Hastings kept saying they'd have it in "a couple of days," and never did. Finally snagged mine on the Amazon for $9. Of course, I'm liking it very much! Not the same punch I got initially from MORPH..., but still quite good, stacked next to 11TOW. (Got to consider "Medical Science" and "Fall of '92" in the same list, for good or ill, and I think even those fine tunes are somehow beneath what Walter has accomplished in the new one.)

I'm excited about a show in Dallas (and Houston!), as I just could not make the last Beacon date, though I tried and tried to get the time off! And man, it's true Wally--I've never seen so many consistently knocked-out and positive reviews for the SD show...which forces me to ask (in advance, forgive me):

Has anyone a compiled little list of links for the reviews from all of these cities and venues? I google them constantly while a tour is on, but--just in case I missed one or two, y'know...Let me know, I'll be watching for it, and thanks in advance, too. Just about time for the 10th Revelation--I surely hope it's a new studio album, but again: I really think the current line-up should be recorded live, for posterity's sake, while they're playing together, don't you think? Young and Carlock and Herrington are worth the price of a "double" live album, all alone...selah.

Okay,
Bobbo

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 15:33:41 ET
Posted by: angel,

I just came across a post on Radio Dupree saying that they might be playing the cut in question. I have nothing better to do, besides work, so I am listening while I work. If I get a listen, I will post thoughts.

Google Radio Dupree and follow the links, if you are so inclined.

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 14:51:11 ET
Posted by: Fife, Florida,eh

That was a great review by the Montreal Gazette. I also enjoyed the review of Catherine Russell especially this bit: A bit of love for the opening act: Catherine Russell had the unenviable task of opening for Steely Dan at Salle Wilfrid-Pelletier of Place des Arts, which meant she had to get 3,000-plus Dan fans --- as weirdly obsessed with their heroes as Deadheads --- on her side.
Very true. As far as Mike McD, I never did hear his back up vocals when they did Peg in 2006.

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 14:35:18 ET
Posted by: Pixeleen, NY

I agree -- the reviews (except for that moron John Black's) have been really positive and although I think the shows the past few years have been amazing, there is something about this year's shows that has just brought me to my knees!!

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 14:30:10 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

I believe you're right, Chris, the reviews this summer at this juncture are far more favorable than the past two years.

Absolutely great terse and tight review by Bernard Perusse of the Montreal Gazette regarding their level of play, especially buoyed by this unexpected renaissance of Walter. Look, I can only judge by what I see on You Tube and what you all tell me, and of course, by C€ itself, which, cripes, is a revelation. Steely Dan, Walt and Don, together and apart, seemingly continue to grow and thrive.

And all your reactions seem to run along the same lines.

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 14:22:49 ET
Posted by: Huh?,

>>07 was better than 06<<??????
I couldn't disagree more!! 2006 gave us Soboba!, San Diego, "Dirty Work" with Bonnie Raitt. I also really enjoyed when McD joined the
band onstage. 2006 contained some of the best versions of "Peg"
when McD was singing. I'll take McD over Sam Yahel ANY day.

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 14:09:17 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Is it just me, or are reviews of this year's tour generally more positive than last year's?

I don't recall any really negative reviews, but I've been reading some more rave/near-rave reviews this year it seems.

I think 08 has been much better than 07, which was much better than 06.

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 13:33:42 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol, Gpk

Here's a link to Mtl. Gazette review of tues. night at JazzFest.

http://communities.canada.com/MONTREALGAZETTE/blogs/wordsandmusic/archive/2008/07/02/jazz-fest-steely-dan-at-salle-wilfrid-pelletier-of-place-des-arts.aspx

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 12:05:44 ET
Posted by: bassicinstinct, Nottingham UK

Exquisite indeed.

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 11:46:32 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

While we're at it, have you seen/heard Carolyn and Jay's version of Nature Boy? Exquisite:

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=lOR4_-EpMN8&NR=1

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 11:19:23 ET
Posted by: bassicinstinct, Nottingham UK

The Dean:

Nice one!!

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 10:14:27 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

What a stellar review from The Wood. I can just feel the excitement. Thanks, so much, for sharing.

Also, thanks to Mr Patrol, for the remarks about Catherine Russel.

Damn, I can hardly wait until July 11th.

bassicinstinct: Nice interviews. Very interesting. Also, found this nice piece with Michael, Jon and Keith, Freddie and the girls:

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=7oA5ab_na_8

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 10:04:36 ET
Posted by: Fife, Florida,eh

Sounds like a good time was had by all in Montreal!
How I kept my ticket purchases down I bought an upper balcony seat at the Beacon for 54 bucks and then one for the following night at 154 bucks. My seat in the upper balcony was great, I could see everything and the sound was very good. When you think about what other major artisits charge, I do believe I saw seats for Paul McCartney 400 bucks a pop, I tend to think the Dan are reasonable priced. I wonder what Stones tickets go for?
Fife
P.S. Woody so glad you enjoyed your first show of 3, lucky bastard!

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 07:30:39 ET
Posted by: Provincial Reuben, Tall County AR

Mr. RAJAH, Sra: Spot on with the predilection thing. I always wondered how they developed that Eastern bent (and the Gulf Coast songs for that matter.) I always figured the vibe was passed down by somebody's Poppy.

I always thought that "H at L" and "I G the N" formed one of the most powerful 1-2 punches on any album I ever heard. When a group, or THE group, does a couple of #'s that originally were released back-to-back, I thought it would be neat to sequence them that way in the show.

When I first heard the song, 2vN, I thought it was conceived to open a show. I was ecstatic in Memphis last year. Then they did that very number.

I like a full choir, but I'm still holding out to get that vibraphone player back on the stage.

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 06:26:38 ET
Posted by: bassicinstinct, Nottingham UK

2 part interview with Jon Herington and Michael Leonhart on 11th July 2007:

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=5he-MR3XL9E Part One

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=GHcB-XiuaVI Part Two

As always, apologies if this has already been posted.

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 06:17:18 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

SS - Given their predilection for the Orient, maybe a six month stay in Hong Kong or Singapore or Bangkok or perhaps even a serious study of the Forbidden City might kick-start a companion piece to AJA, the crown of their creation?

Could you recommend an astute travel guide for them?

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 03:57:30 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol, Gpk

Woodman, How ya like my town Mtl? You say you're"looking forward to tomorrow night" Don't forget about tomorrow day! Trollster you may be a passive fan, but still time to get tix for the 2nd show.Cause now you're hooked.

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 03:47:10 ET
Posted by: SS, HK

Blade Runner is about right, Ray. Hong Kong just had its rainiest month since record keeping began, in 1884.

I'm sure it's true of almost anywhere, but if WB and DF had spent enough time in Hong Kong they could have come away with a concept (double) album based on the stuff that happens here every day.

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 02:26:58 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Still Sparkin -
I always love your reports
from Hong Kong. Thanks.
I still hope you can come
to a show this year. I always
think of "Blade Runner" when I
read your stuff!
Don Patrol - On the Dawn Patrol-
Looking forward to your reports
from Canada.

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 02:23:09 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol, Gpk

As expected,another great show from the boys! Woodman,glad to hear you liked the show. Catherine Russel was the perfect warm up. Also my first indoor Dan. The air was a little too clear for my like. Can't wait for tomorrow night to do it again,then two nights off 'til Ottawa. Anybody off to that one? It's outdoors, so the el supremo should be in the air!

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 01:52:59 ET
Posted by: SS, Hk

Woody, I guess that would have been a Montreal Maroon.

Lurker, Hong Kong Records is in a mall. All above board stuff.

For the less expensive stuff, we don't actually have to go down a dark alley. Since there's no duty in HK, cheap music is brought in from the Mainland and sold openly. In fact, I bought EMG together with a second disc of SD greatest hits (remastered) for about US $2.50. Circus Money from a mall though was about US $20.00. It might well show up later in the cheap shop for $2.50. That same shop also has a huge selection of rock and jazz concerts on DVD for US $4.00, and some of it is even rare. I've seen the same stuff on sale for four or five times the price in North America. The tv series on sale are clearly pirated. I bought the last season of Boston Legal for about US $12.00

No one in the store knows anything about the product and the guys taking the money look like they're on some kind of work release program.

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 01:18:36 ET
Posted by: Luker Ray, Malibu

Thanks Woody!
THREE GIRLS ON STAGE!!!!
Boy it sure looks like these
two Montreal shows and the 17th
at the Beacon are setting the bar
for the rest of the tour.
So Catherine did an entire opening
set and then did the whole Steely
Dan Show? Wow. You just cannot
beat the Three Girl Line-up.
I hope we get some of that out
in SoCal!
Happy 400th by the way.
I adore your fair city and I wish
I could be there.

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 00:34:08 ET
Posted by: Woodman, Montreal - 1 down 1 to go

WOW

Band was tight, as in the best I have heard them. Of course Keith and Jon were the highlights - Walter was in great form as well. Donald occuppied his normal place in the grand scheme of things, master of the mayhem. The stage show was not what was expected, but I was grateful it wasn't distracting. The venue was perfect for them and their music.

Set list:
Medley with Everyone/Fez/Scam - Donald and Walter came out to sing/play the song after a 3 minute instrumental - all three backup singers were on stage. A greeting unlike I've heard in awhile welcomed our dynamic duo.
I Got The News = Mr.Young's moment in the spotlight and he did not disappoint.
Showbiz Kids - I like the groove!
Everything You Did - nice addition and a great live song
2VN - 1st time for me, and I was barely contained with my enthusiasm
Hey 19 - not one of Walter's best stories, but tasteful
Godwhacker - they nailed it
Bab Sisters - the ladies didn't "shake it" but Donalds vocals were strong
New Frontier - pleasant addition
Gaucho - Walter was magnificent
Home At Last - During the intro some maroon yelled "Rikki". There was no reaction from W & D.
Parkers Band - Keith looked like he was about to knock over his kit
Josie
Green Earrings
The Ladies Spotlight - Catherine really looked like she was enjoying herself, Cindy seemed distracted though.
Peg - Jon plays an incredible guitar
FM - did sound a tad like Josie part deux but the "no static at all" was amazing.
***Encore - Kid C - I get goosebumps thinking of this one

All previous live experiences have been outside - this is my first inside gig. I really wanted to hear what the sound was going to be like within a confined space. I was not disappointed. Also this was the first where I was on Walter's side of the stage. Jon is an incredible musician and was happy he received the ovation he got. He sure loves his pedals. I am really looking forward to tomorrow night - just to see if there are any changes to the setlist. I guess Glamour could be added.

F - if you could give me an email or a F-book message, I'd like to know how things are going in Fla. Thinkin of ya, that's all.

Gab at ya tomorrow.

Woods

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 00:23:01 ET
Posted by: Lutz, SF

Yeah Dean, for the sourpusses WB wrote the beautiful "Girlfriend"
It's avaialble for free now and dedicated to them.

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 00:16:59 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Well put, Lutz. I've already bought three copies (two for friends). One more won't hurt. I'll just copy DHB (don't tell Walt), before I pass it on.

Of course, your solution assumes one has friends.

:#)

Thanks for the report, trollster. I hope we hear some more detail, though.

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 00:10:15 ET
Posted by: Lutz, SF

We have over an hour of great new Walter music and people are bitching it's not an hour and 5 minutes. Who would have thunk.
I will buy it again, and mail one to a friend.
Help your neighbour to good taste and stop biatching.

Date: Wed, July 02, 2008, 00:02:02 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Thanks trollster!
How was Catherine Russell?
Did she join Steely Dan for
any tunes?
SS (Still Sparkin? - Do I have that right?)
When you buy that CD from
Hong Kong Records is that
on a blanket on the sidewalk
or do you have to go down
a dark alley and ask for "Bob"? ;O)
Why was Australia & New Z able to
get the US release and others
could not?

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 23:43:48 ET
Posted by: SS, HK

If I've got the history correct, the remastered versions of the original 7 albums were not shameless money grabs. Didn't MCA admit to screwing up the first run of cds ?

As for greatest hits and repackages, I don't know where the band has a say in how/when those get released. Mobile Fidelity Sound Lab discs are welcomed by any audiofile, as are DVD-As and SACDs.

International releases ? Apparently Hong Kong isn't on that list. I casually asked whether Hong Kong Records had Circus Money and presto they put a copy down in front of me....earlier than the international release date, and without Dark Horse Dub.

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 23:40:28 ET
Posted by: trollster, montreal

I am just back from the Montreal show - was 10 rows back. Band was awesome - sounds was crisp. They played pretty much the same setlist as I have read on other fan sites. The staging was excellent, backup singers were very tight - in general the band was extremely tight and I enjoyed many songs that I had never heard before. I am a passive fan and really enjoyed myself. The crowd was pretty subdued until it looked like they would not come back and then began roaring. Only played Kid Charlemagne for an encore. All in all an enjoyable concert.

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 23:25:36 ET
Posted by: Pixeleen, NY

I agree, that was a good deal but was upset at the time that you couldn't really get a good seat unless you opted for that. However, $154.00 for an orchestra seat is kind of high, especially when you want to go to more than one show.

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 23:23:11 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Any reports from Montreal????

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 23:22:42 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Larry,

You said, "If a troll makes a good point, it's still a good point. Troll or not."

I agree. This troll did not, IMO, make any valid point. First of all he asked a question that was snottily sarcastic. Clearly he knew I made the remark today.

My remark was that D and W weren't money-grubbers and leave plenty of opportunities to make $$, on the table. I didn't say they don't ever take any opportunity to make money. When I start to hear Dan songs regularly used to sell consumer products, see Don dancing with an iPod in a TV commercial, see Walt as a guest judge on American Idol, I will change my tune.

I find nothing offensive about REMASTERED versions of their album, and don't consider it money-grubbing.

And your explanation of the VIP tickets is spot on, IMO.

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 22:53:45 ET
Posted by: Larry,

Dean - If a troll makes a good point, it's still a good point. Troll or not.

Pixeleen - Bad example. That VIP All Access package for Fagen's solo tour was great! You conveniently are forgetting to mention that for the $154 you got:

1 - Accesses to the sound check

2 - A meet and greet with the players

3 - Food and drinks

4 - A first row center seat.

I paid the same amount for the Steely Dan show at the Beacon and got a decent seat half way back. I would rather give the money to the band and get all of those perks than give it to a scalper for a mediocre seat and that's it!

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 21:28:28 ET
Posted by: Provincial Reuben, Tall County AR

D&W don't have to grub. After all: "It's the Steely Dan Show." They can be virtuous in their collective humility because they've got me to support them. It's those danged record companies that accidently fill the general coffers with those reorderedpackagedmastered cases of jewel. How can B&F possibly feed on the bites that hand them hits? How to handle the suits?

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 21:13:08 ET
Posted by: Pixeleen, NY

And, let's not forget Donald's VIP All Access package tickets for his solo tour, or the way expensive $154.00 tickets for the best seats...

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 21:13:02 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Troll,

I believe I made that comment today.

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 21:08:30 ET
Posted by: Monty Hall,

"As Walt and Don really aren't the money-grubbing type"

Dean, was this comment made before or after they "remastered" their whole catalog ten times?

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 20:53:03 ET
Posted by: Pixeleen, NY

Daddy, I tend to agree with you. Fans are the first ones to go out and buy music by their favorite artists so why would I want a box set of music I already own? For the bonus tracks obviously, but I don't feel like paying for THREE cds that I already have even though I AM a big fan. Luckily, I still don't own C$ because the two stores I went to (BB & CC) didn't have it and I didn't manage to snag one the night Walter decided to give them away at the Beacon. Of course now I'm happy I don't have it yet, so I can get the bonus track. But yes, it's ALL VERY ANNOYING!!!!!!!

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 20:34:35 ET
Posted by: Provincial Reuben, Tall County AR

As always allow me to wax effusive as I admire the easy give-and-take here on my bi-monthly observation of the book. I wish I could type faster, so I could join in the discussion-- creeping out the subject matter be damned. Here we are tonight probing the reasons folks feel compelled to share files. Darned Dooley runnin' up a holler...

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 20:04:50 ET
Posted by: booker,

Another steely dan related cd is JAY and THE AMERICANS LIVE album.

the title is called JAY and THE AMERICANS LIVE and UNRELEASED.

It is an official release dated april 2, 1970. I assume donald and walter are backing band.

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 19:49:18 ET
Posted by: Well if you think so - why not say so ,

I'm pretty sure Sonic360 ONLY sells physical CD's.

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 19:35:00 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

Walter's store has C$ available in FLAC. I assume one will be able to find D-Horse in a similar, lossless, format.

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 18:53:22 ET
Posted by: Golden Rule,

Just remember folks, that if a download is not "Lossless" like in a FLAC or WAVE format, it will never sound as good as it does on the actual CD. You would actually be wasting 99 cents.

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 18:46:56 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

Daddy, my outrage is for those who think "they are ripping US off! We now have to buy TWO CD's." That simply isn't the case. If you feel you really need the song, you can download it, and burn a CD with the full C$ plus the one tune. In 10 minutes you have a hard copy of the entire thing, for an extra buck, plus the cost of a blank CD. Maybe the entire process will take 15 minutes, but I doubt it.

I don't use iPods or MP3 players of any kind, either, and have never downloaded a single song. But, I'm fairly certain it's quite easy to do and involves no membership or long term commitment. In this case, I will probably download the song and add it to a C$ disk. But, in the past, I have simply done without the song.

With that said, I understand the whole "principle of the thing" argument, and tend to agree. The only thing is, I don't really understand all of the ins-and-outs of international music distribution. As Walt and Don really aren't the money-grubbing type (they leave a lot of $$ opportunities on the table, I'm sure), I'm guessing there is good reason for the practice. I think Dan and Hoops have hit on some of the likely reasons.

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 18:45:27 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., One last thing

I just want to add that this is not the first time this issue has surfaced for me personally and it won't be the last. I've railed against this practice to friends for a while (not that they want to hear it either). This is just the first time I've felt compelled to rail against it here.

In fact I didn't even bring it up in relation to The Nightfly Trilogy which BTW I have not purchased. At least that had one whole disk of bonus stuff, but I still didn't feel it was worth it for me since through the years I had happened to come into possession of digital versions of seven of the ten bonus tracks and had already made my own custom CD to include them in a format I will actually listen to on a semi-regular basis. If I could have bought just the bonus tracks disc without having to re-purchase the official trilogy, I would have gladly done so.

Anyway, now I'm done with the topic and am moving on... Thanks for your patience and indulging me while I presented my views on the issue.

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 18:29:21 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., NJ

...plus sometimes it's simply a case of that old rallying cry: "It's the principle of the thing!"

And part of conveying that is making one's sense of displeasure known, however futile (or tiresome) it may seem.

So in this one instance I understand and can abide some disgruntled rumblings. But perhaps that's just simply because I happen to fall on the side of the disgruntled ones of the moment. So be it. I just don't think the sense of displeasure is entirely unfounded in this case.

I may see if any of my hi-speed friends are already iTunes downloaders, but I really have no idea if they are or not and I'd rather not have to bother them or go to the trouble of converting the mp3 to wav and then making my own custom CD of the int'l version when I could have just bought the full authorized version if I'd known.

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 18:15:56 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., NJ

Dean, For some reason it always rankles me just a little when folks criticize other folks simply because someone else's m.o. for listening to music is not the same or is "not keeping up with the times." I understand that there are options available, but I also understand that for some people those options aren't really viable options, either by preference or by specific limitations.

I for one prefer my music on a physical CD in album form with the associated lyrics/credits booklet to hold in my hand. I do 99% of my music listening in the car and the other 1% on a standard CD playing stereo system. I don't listen to music on the PC as there are always other ongoing sounds and distractions that keep me from enjoying the music. And I don't own (or even want) an iPod or similar device.

I don't want to have to sign up for a service that I will never use otherwise just to get one song regardless of the price. Plus I still, believe it or not, use dialup internet access (due to lack of reasonably cost-effective choices available to me in my area) which precludes massive downloads for the most part with rare exceptions (and often resulting in connection problems at inopportune times).

All that being said, I personally had already decided to do like Hoops says and simply do without the extra song. C'est la vie. I COULD buy the full int'l version of the CD, but I refuse to pay full price to re-purchase the same twelve songs (or the one new one depending on how you look at it) just a month after having first bought the album. Maybe someday I'll be able to track it down used for a reasonable price.

Personally, I'd prefer ONE album version, ONE simultaneous world release. I'm sure there are "hidden" reasons why that isn't done, but nevertheless that's what I would have preferred. If I'd known in the first place that there was going to be a bonus on the int'l version, I would have foregone having the early listening experience and opted for the delayed, but complete listening experience. As I'm sure many others would also---which is, of course, why they don't announce such things until after the initial sales wave.

I don't really understand why a world release with ALL tracks can't be done in this day and age. I consider myself a reasonably hard-core fan, but I guess I'm just not THAT hard-core or hard-core enough. Oh well. I still love my C$ in hand and will forego the one in the bush. But that's just me.

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 17:30:33 ET
Posted by: Don't Worry, Be Happy

Like Hoops said, "If you don't want to buy it again, don't buy it!"

We should be happy there is a bonus track at all!

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 17:14:42 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

As for us hard core fans getting "scammed" or "screwed" or whatever...isn't it something like 99 cents to download a song? WOW, that really sucks.

Crybabies.

And, I really hope Don and Walt don't make any major deal with the guitar hero-type games. I remember seeing the ad for the Aerosmith branded version and gagging. I thought, "Thank God the bands I like have too much class and integrity to do something this horrendous." It's perfect for corporate driven garbage like Aerosmith (I simply can't stand them), but not The Dan.

If they contribute a song or two, then that's not a big issue, I guess.

And, "Yes", I'm a pompous snob, when it comes to stuff like that.

chocoholic, the music isn't bad, but I'm not sure it is compatible with Steely Dan. As for "hip"...well:

Hipness is
what it is!

Sometimes hipness is what it ain't!

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 16:30:36 ET
Posted by: Pixeleen, NY

Thanks for the tips Hoops. I was at that Joe Jackson show and have also seen Rickie Lee Jones so Steely Dan live. What can I say -- it was just the best!

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 16:19:45 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago, going through palettes of Kleenex®

Oh yeah,

I forgot to mention the perennial footnote of Herbie Hancock's "The New Standard" CD. Only the German version came with his interpretation of "Your Gold Teeth II" (one of SD's most brilliant tracks), not to mention this nifty amber-colored CD jewel case.

While we're on the topic of "must have" tangentially Steely Dan recordings, let's toss on the heap

√ Rickie Lee Jones' "Flying Cowboys" album. "Get" that one and then you'll really "get" 11TOW
√ HH's "Gold Teeth II" mentioned above. What if GT2 went on for ten more minutes with HH as a guest?
√ Joe Jackson's version of "King of the World" from "Summer in the City" I dare argue it's the only SD cover that is better than SD's original. It made me wish John Cage had covered it. JJ covered "Junkie Girl" during another show from the shows that album was culled from.
√ And of course, "Music From and Inspired by Glengarry Glen Ross" My favorite Jazz record of all time. I purchase and find loving homes for every budget-bin copy I find. Of course, it features the Fagen-penned "Blue Lou". That's now on the Fagen box, but the whole album is full of amazing performances including "best-ever-in-my-book" performances by Al Jarreau, David Sanborn, Georgie Fame, Bob Shepard, Peter Erkskine, and many, many more. Performances so great they transcend the performer.

I'm sure there's more than a few I've left out.

Jim

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 15:45:37 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago, going through palettes of Kleenex®

Regarding the "we've been scammed" bit about re-buying for the extra track:

Don't like buying it again? Don't buy it. It's not like your whole world will end without it. For me, the other side of it is, after I buy it, I'll still need to paint the house, mow the lawn, etc. My teeth will be no whiter or yellower as a result either way.

I can't say one way or another if that's the case with C£ and C$, but with some albums the number of tracks has to do with publishing royalties. This is especially true when someone is with one label in one country and another label elsewhere. One record label may decide that they are willing to pay for ten tracks of songwriting royalties per copy while the other label may decide they will pay for eleven. A twist on this also occurs when a music publisher only allows the song to be used for one record company's release in a certain country versus another record company's version in another. I wonder if iTunes versions have different royalty rates than those on CDs?

I have no idea if this was the case with 11TOW, but remember that in the US, Giant Records was handled through Warners. In Japan, at the time, Giant was handled by BMG.

Well, you get the idea -- there's all sorts of possibilities.

And, oh yeah, it's also not uncommon for there to be bonus tracks only on certain countries so rabid completist fans like me can't help themselves and buy it twice.

The only album I've ever purchased from iTunes was MTC so that I could get the then-itunes album exclusive, "Rhymes".

Speaking of this topic and Rickie Lee Jones' "Pirates" and DF being on Martha Wainwright's new one, I don't think it's been recently mentioned that Donald plays a little bit of synth on the title track (I wonder if they really mean Fender Rhodes in the credits?) That I can pick out. But, completist that I am, back over a decade ago I picked up a Jenny Muldaur CD because Donald Fagen was listed as a guest. I STILL can't distinguish his playing on it!

I wonder if we will see different bonus tracks on C¥ or C€ or...

Just my 2 C¢!

Jim

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 15:40:22 ET
Posted by: Dan Belcher, Louisville, KY

Kid Clean, I'll just play my real Fender Rhodes instead, thank you.

Crap, now I feel like playing Black Cow or something, but I'm stuck at work!

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 15:31:06 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, @work

Can Fender Rhodes Hero be far behind??????

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 15:28:00 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol, Gpk

Woodman, I know that you'll enjoy this fine city of ours.A mountain in the ceter of the city, on an island in the river.A truly beautiful place.Maybe we'll bump into one another en ville.

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 15:19:24 ET
Posted by: Dan Belcher, Louisville, KY

I haven't seen very many international releases, but I do know it's a common practice in the industry. The idea is to give overseas consumers incentive to actually wait and buy from the international distributer instead of just importing it from America early. I do know that Jeff Lorber did this quite a bit several years ago, for example. His Japanese releases usually had two or three extra tracks compared to the US releases.

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 15:17:38 ET
Posted by: Woodman, Montreal

Happy C-Day everyone!

I am in downtown Montreal pacing in my hotel room awaiting the show tonight - T minus 4 hours 30 minutes. I got a taste of the Jazz festival last night and I have to recommend the experience to everyone. Think Mardi-Gras, way north, in summer.

While strolling through old Montreal today, we stopped at a patio for a break. And viola - New Frontier starts over the PA. It dawned on me at the time that even on a ratty-old PA system, good music is just that - good music. They followed it up with So What. We stayed for a few Coronas. Who could blame us? Sun. Beer. Music. "I'm in heaven man!".

Speaking of bonus tracks I would just like to let all you spoiled ones know, that C$ was just released in Canada this week! So I would like to thank all those who have supplied their comments, now I can try and validate them. My initial comment is that Walter has been listening to alot of Lee "Scratch" Perry. There is no problem with that.

I will attempt to post a set list later tonight, and provide some constructive feedback. It all depends on how many Coronas damage the liver. The brain. And the typing fingerZZZZZ....ooops started already!

I am in Montreal. The heartland of hockey. So I have to state my opinion on the Sens GM issue. I sincerely believe when he signed all those contracts a year ago, he was making up his mind how he envisioned his team this year and years to come. I doubt there will be any big signings and I emphatically believe there will be any big trades. The reason why? The new coach. It is my opinion the GM wants to see what the new coach can do with these spolied brats, and what he can get out of them in the upcoming season.

Quite frankly I'd rather talk football at this time of year.

No, I stand corrected. I'd rather talk SD at this time of year!

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 15:07:56 ET
Posted by: Wlm again, .

I will wager that Steely Dan and Donadl Fagen discs came out within days of one another, ameria to uk/international. In ANY case bonus material abroad is almost always because distributors believe they need some help. If becker wanted to score more sales because of this he would have released a bonus cut version here in north america as well, and make it easier for us buy "buy again" right thru amazon

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 14:59:55 ET
Posted by: 11TOW EPK,

There was a great EPK from 11TOW up on YouTube about a year ago.
Does anyone still have the link? Thanks in advance!

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 14:57:35 ET
Posted by: Dark Horse,

Wlm, I don't follow other bands like I do Steely, but I don't recall many other artists adding bonus tracks to international releases. Steely Dan has never done that, nor has Donald Fagen.

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 14:51:13 ET
Posted by: Wlm again, BC

Glad I stuck around to see that last from "scammed". The only reason to add bonus tracks to international releases is when they are released after north america. If you don't offer something extra, buyers will just buy the "import" from the US in the months while they're waiting for it to be released in Japan or europe. Let's get real -- the international distributors require bonus stuff so they're not at a disadvantage coming to market months after the product.

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 14:48:21 ET
Posted by: Loyals Scammed,

Walter adding a bonus track to a foreign release is nothing new. It was the same thing with the song "Medical Science" on the Japanese import of "11 Tracks of Whack". The only reason for doing this is to sell more albums, and the only people that are going to buy both versions are the hard core fans. That would be us, folks! He's sticking it to US!

This is curious since I recall from Walter's website he seemed so against the VIP All Access packages for the Donald Fagen solo tour, thinking they were taking advantage of the fans. I saw two shows with All Access and they were worth every penny. Having to buy two albums because of one additional song? Now that is taking advantage.

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 14:39:13 ET
Posted by: Wlm, BC

No LWO they probably wouldn't. But I bet they'd let one of their trusted engineers (scheiner etc) do it. DO IT don and walt! You may save the sanity of parents all over the world!

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 14:07:55 ET
Posted by: Little Wild One, post-ironic phase

Not that I would mind hearing guitar riffs from SD songs coming from the teen-ager's bedroom, in lieu of Aerosmith or the Police, but do you really think W+D would give up their master tapes in order that such a thing might come to pass?

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 13:40:28 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

A Steely Dan guitar hero game? Goddamn, I'm goanna have to buy an Xbox.

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 13:29:31 ET
Posted by: SS, HK

Fife, our new GM replaced a perfectly good GM and came in saying he'd be bold. He's done nothing yet. How about if you take him instead ?

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 13:10:29 ET
Posted by: Fife, Florida,eh

That Lexi says was just too fucking funny. When reading the review I thought his head might be there considering his total lack of anything of good taste!
I love the drawing as well would work well as a needlepoint, hahahaha
SS would it kill you if Ottawa acquired Luongo? There has been some whispering to that effect though to be honest I think he'd be way too expensive.
Fife

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 12:50:48 ET
Posted by: SS, HK

Happy Birthday Canada - party on Fife.

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 12:43:10 ET
Posted by: Denise, Hinktown cubicle

New Lexi Says from June 27. Sorry if this has been printed before, but it's quite funny, re: the Cape Cod Times critic...

http://donaldfagen.com/lexisays.php

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 12:42:21 ET
Posted by: john , nyc

Read this about steely and guitar hero

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB121487474239618065.html?mod=googlenews_wsj

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 12:41:43 ET
Posted by: john, nyc

Steely Dan -- Guitar Hero Video game..They are in talks allegedlly

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB121487474239618065.html?mod=googlenews_wsj

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 12:38:12 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

AnonTwit and Hammertoes, evidently it's you who just ain't over me yet. Must be hell.

Is Walter using the additional cut on C€ to hear a second cha-ching at the check-out? It's a fiendishly clever ploy...and I think it'll work.

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 12:06:04 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol, Gpk

Thanks for the C-Day salutations Fife. Getting pumped for the Dan show at the Jazz Fest tonight.First home show with the boys after
30 some odd years of waiting.Allez-vous!

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 10:36:48 ET
Posted by: chocoholic, driving the nautik blau

ok. so, were the dansters hip, they would have requested the following act to open for them:

http://www.thedeadkennygs.com/

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=glxKyuCpr70

or

http://www.toddsickafoose.com/

yeee haw!

2. seems like walter kept the best song off of the american released. bastard! someone get me a copy of dub, please.

3. showsniz kids in hartford - better be free - as it will cost $20 bucks in gas to get there.
and how about the "kids" moniker. i bet there ain't nobody under 55 in the damn band.

4. those of you in LA - silent movie theatre - july 3. be there. 8 pm

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 10:30:41 ET
Posted by: Greg Moonspank, White Plains

<< Enjoying C$. Couple of questions. What exactly is a coffee truck? I'm thinking one of those silver trucks that lurk around DMV offices and sell coffee and pastries and stuff. >>

These are commonly known, in the construction world, as Roach Coaches.

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 10:18:38 ET
Posted by: C$ questions, out there

Enjoying C$. Couple of questions. What exactly is a coffee truck? I'm thinking one of those silver trucks that lurk around DMV offices and sell coffee and pastries and stuff.

Also, is it true that if an American artist wants to release a CD in Japan, they must include one track not included on the American release? That would explain the bonus tracks on WB's solo releases. But as far as I know, DF also releases his CDs in Japan with no bonus tracks.

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 09:49:13 ET
Posted by: angel, Wishing She Was In Canada

Thanks for the Dark Horse Down Clip!!!!!

So there I was doing fine with it and then it hits a nice interesting note, just before the end of the clip and I go Agggrah!
Leave it to Walter, to leave us wanting more. :-)

Fife: Happy Canada Day from one who REALLY wanted to be there tonight, celebrating Steely Dan and Canada Day. Sigh...

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 09:28:42 ET
Posted by: Doug, Hartford, CT

This Thursday night, come kick off Independence Day with The Show Biz Kids, a Steely Dan tribute band, at Black-Eyed Sally's on Asylum Street in Hartford, CT! We're playing two 90-minute sets of everyone's favorite Steely Dan tunes! Whether you're a die-hard fan or new to Steely Dan, this show is for you!

WHEN: Thursday, July 3rd, at 8:30 pm
WHERE: Black-Eyed Sally's on Asylum Street in Hartford, CT
FEE: None! It's FREE!

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 09:04:52 ET
Posted by: FYI, Food Network

Poutine?

May I have extra cheese curd?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Poutine

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 08:42:23 ET
Posted by: Fife, Florida,eh

Happy Canada Day to all you Dan Fan Canucks out there in cyber space!
I would have loved to be in Montreal tonight to see the boys and celebrate Canada's birthday. Woody enjoy the shows and don't eat to much poutine!!
Fife

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 07:44:19 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Thanks for hipping us to the Dark Horse Dub clip.

Someone ought to let Walter's people (and ANYONE associated with website related activity for any media) know that REAL media is the worst possible choice to use for streaming media.

There are any number of reasons why it is the worst choice (horribly invasive software) , but if you need one, it completely mutes the "wave" volume on many computers. So, you click on a clip, and there is no volume...for almost anything. You have to open the "Advanced" functions and turn the "Wave" volume back up. The next time you hit play, same thing happens. For less advanced computer users, their machine's sound is simply gone.

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 06:23:20 ET
Posted by: pge, this side of summer

29 sec clip of the Circus Money bonus track Dark Horse Dub now icluded in the audio player here:

http://www.sonic360.com/walterbecker/

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 00:33:40 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

kz –
Thanks for all for all of the great
NYC clips. Triple Divas! I love that.
Yup, the 17th sounds like it was THE
Show to see during the Beacon run.

Randy In Edmonton –
Thank you! That Bitter End clip was
really smoking. Besides Bill Ware’s
set, that tune was something I really missed
not seeing. But your video took me there.
The quality seems much better than a cell phone!

Is Walter starting to warm up to doing a C$ tune live????
I don’t know. But I have not seen this posted –

“Now there happens to be a little town down south of the border
whose entire populace is devoted to the manufacturing and bottling
of a very special elixir. A golden amber elixir that kind of smells
like burning rubber, tastes like bourbon, you have a little lemon and a little salt and Bob’s your uncle”

- Walter Becker during “Hey 19” live at The Borgata 2008

Looking forward to the reports from Montreal
with Catherine Russell opening.
Triple Divas.

Date: Tues, July 01, 2008, 00:14:01 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol, Gpk

Hello Dandom

Date: Mon, June 30, 2008, 22:27:28 ET
Posted by: maxi-me, not for long

<<And I'm holding out for a nice "finish" back in NYC. Is that too much to hope for?>>

is there a nice finnish community there. heck i'm holding out for "breathing." but a nice finn gal with ice blue eyes, a bottle of V1 and a penchant for coal miners would do the trick.

and another thing - Mosquitoes: fuck them!

Date: Mon, June 30, 2008, 20:49:52 ET
Posted by: Raven, Laptop tree top

Hammertoes or Anon or who the hell? That's all you got? Raven

Date: Mon, June 30, 2008, 15:31:54 ET
Posted by: This Just In.........,

Lovely new Bio & picture of the great Ms. Tawatha Agee over at SD.com
"Band Bios".

Date: Mon, June 30, 2008, 14:39:55 ET
Posted by: Jason, Boston

Anyone know where some good digital shots of the '08 think fast band in action are posted? thx

Date: Mon, June 30, 2008, 13:22:31 ET
Posted by: Bob G, Houston

Folks ... I submitted my intial message to the bluebook without realizing how fests are organized. Now that I've been made aware, I am abandoning the email address and my efforts. Please disregard my previous message. Details will be posted by the Texas hosts once they are developed.

Yours in Dan ... Bob G

Date: Mon, June 30, 2008, 12:56:46 ET
Posted by: HammerToes,

Rajah - Your handle is a nice *ahem* cover for your actual life as a fraud. next you'll be saying that in a former life you alleged to be a singer in some kind of punk band.

but we get the drill: punk, fraud, lamb, whatever.

your posts are "self-healing" bits of irrelevence. please get over yourself. we have.

Date: Mon, June 30, 2008, 12:54:42 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

I suppose we would have already heard, but I'll ask anyway:

The Philly.com article posted by Daddy G states that reggae music was played between sets @ Camden. Were any C$ tunes played? I'm surprised the reviewer didn't mention that C$ was reggae-influenced. I'm guessing he has yet to hear it, and wouldn't recognize the tunes if he heard them.

Thanks to podbay, Due with Buzz and Daddy for the links and such.

And Raj, I would never say never, with these guys. It was said they would never return to the west coast later in the tour ("that's not how tours work"...I think that was the pompous comment)...they will. Now they have five days off in August, so they might slide something in there. And who knows what they will decide to to after August. I'm thinking none of us know for sure.

Hell, it seems The Dan doesn't even know who will open for them after July 2nd. Either that, or someone is too lazy to update the page.

Date: Mon, June 30, 2008, 11:54:42 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., NJ

Short, but decent general review of Saturday's Camden show in today's Philly Inquirer...

Steely Dan offers a splash of reggae
By David R. Stampone
http://www.philly.com/inquirer/magazine/Steely_Dan_offers_a_splash_of_reggae.html

Date: Mon, June 30, 2008, 11:30:03 ET
Posted by: Pixeleen, NYC

A girl can dream, can't she...

Date: Mon, June 30, 2008, 11:19:39 ET
Posted by: Raj, where are you?

Pix- Yes, it will never happen.

Date: Mon, June 30, 2008, 10:57:16 ET
Posted by: Pixeleen, At Work

And I'm holding out for a nice "finish" back in NYC. Is that too much to hope for?

Date: Mon, June 30, 2008, 10:56:45 ET
Posted by: Pixeleen, At Work

Date: Mon, June 30, 2008, 10:52:07 ET
Posted by: Joey,

" So, Lurker Ray, I'm holding out for a tour extension into September on the west coast "

Amen to THAT !!!!! ---- your young Joey is holding out for a tour extension of many more MidWestern Dates ( read : Kansas City ) into September / October .

Developing ..........................

J. " Snuggles " Fly !

Date: Mon, June 30, 2008, 10:44:49 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, @ work

Date: Mon, June 30, 2008, 09:38:31 ET
Posted by: AnonTwit, Monaco

Rajah - Your handle is a nice *ahem* cover for your actual life as a fraud. next you'll be saying that in a former life you alleged to be a singer in some kind of punk band.

but we get the drill: punk, fraud, lamb, whatever.

your posts are "self-healing" bits of irrelevence. please get over yourself. we have.

Date: Mon, June 30, 2008, 03:13:29 ET
Posted by: Pete Evans, m

Is Walter's album getting anywhere in the US charts ?

Date: Mon, June 30, 2008, 02:30:06 ET
Posted by: SS, HK

I've been living the tour so far through posts here on the Blue and people I've met on earlier tours. I can tell by some of the things posted that going out of your way for this tour is time and money well spent. Alan is a critical reference point. He's put on a lot of miles in the last five years traveling to shows and his last post was glowing.

So, Lurker Ray, I'm holding out for a tour extension into September on the west coast. Too much work to get over any sooner, although it's interesting stuff. I have to do a documentary profile of the guys who cloned Dolly in Scotland, then go to Germany to do the same for an astrophysicist. Our (television) company boss is behind some big science prizes, and the documentaries are part of what we do to support those. Kids, don't ignore your science in school, like I did. You'll never know when you have to explain submillimetre astronomy. I think it's all some bizarre karmic penalty: My name is Sparkin'.

Date: Mon, June 30, 2008, 02:11:13 ET
Posted by: Due with Buzz, here

http://radiodupree.blogspot.com/

an interview with Donald Fagen in the Montreal Gazette

"We also had similar interests in reading; we both liked certain authors. And there was a similar way of looking at the world, a similar sense of humour, which was maybe the most important thing," he said, leaving a beat go by. "By now, of course, we've lost our sense of humour - but at the time, it was a big thing."

about the Grammy:

"I happened to be looking at Madonna's face. She was also up for an award," he said. "The look of disappointment - she took it really seriously. I don't think we did."

Date: Mon, June 30, 2008, 01:18:51 ET
Posted by: Duane R, NYC

Very cool license plates.

Wasn't there a web page dedicated to Steely Dan license plates?

Date: Mon, June 30, 2008, 01:10:15 ET
Posted by: podbay, Edmonton AB

.: Greetings all. It was great to see and hang out with everyone in NYC last weekend. I was able to attend the shows at the Beacon on 20 and 21 June 2008. The pre-show dinner at Blondies' on the 21st was a blast. Check out this video of Doc's licence plate collection:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cDwKX6xlNYw

The shows were outstanding as always, with a few new twists. The after-party at the Bitter End was also much fun. Thanks for Pete Fogel for setting that up and for guaranteeing our entrance into the club. Here's a video clip of the entire rhythm section from Steely Dan, along with the backup singers, performing a Sly and the Family Stone tune, "Let Me Have It All".

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lR7ruD-kWaQ

Hoops, any update yet on a Chicago Danfest for the 15th of July?

- Randy in Edmonton

Date: Sun, June 29, 2008, 23:30:38 ET
Posted by: we're talking poetic content here....,

It's kinda like, you know, Haiku:

Lurker's posts
Have great insights
And content

Lurker almost always
Puts effort into them
Resulting in

A quality post

Date: Sun, June 29, 2008, 23:02:44 ET
Posted by: DimSkip, Eternal Path

There's another dead critic on the landing...
http://www.donaldfagen.com/lexisays.php

Date: Sun, June 29, 2008, 22:52:08 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

kz x 3,

Well played.

Whatever you do, remember to think of the children whose parent's won't take them to a Dan concert.

Date: Sun, June 29, 2008, 22:40:57 ET
Posted by: kzkzkz, look below

Hyundai is advertising their "Think Fast, Summer Sale" on tv.
For some reason I must get one of their new cars...or 4...or 6.

Dean- Brody is downstairs with a bat, should I tell him my idea for using 3 cameras to film the next video? Kramer in the orchestra and George in the loge.

My 2 cents- if they play Dr. Wu and have it segue abruptly into Home At Last it will work.

Date: Sun, June 29, 2008, 22:30:17 ET
Posted by: kzkzkz, center of the universe

Date: Sun, June 29, 2008, 21:59:28 ET
Posted by: steely fan, NJ

Fife,

It was your sister in law.

Date: Sun, June 29, 2008, 21:48:13 ET
Posted by: Fife, Florida,eh

Wow I wonder who did that? So I was in Camden while I sat on a Greyhound bus hell. Man they suck! I wish I could have been there but these things happen. Thanks to whom ever sent the text message, it wasn't Mr.Sam. Anyone who knows us knows we are anti-cell phone to the dismay of some,lol.
Fife

Date: Sun, June 29, 2008, 21:48:11 ET
Posted by: Adrian, Buffalo

Still
doesn't
make
posting
like
this
any
less
annoying

Date: Sun, June 29, 2008, 20:55:21 ET
Posted by: twelveth, of 79st nyc

say thank you

Date: Sun, June 29, 2008, 20:08:01 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Ray,

The Duchess sounds like a "grand old gal". Unfortunately, I never had any patrons with money, growing up (except, of course, my parents who came through...when necessary).

That's an interesting use of the expression, but I have never heard it used that way. I just did a little Google search to see if it is/was documented, but couldn't find anything that suggested that was ever a common expression. Perhaps it was one of her own nuggets, or maybe it's just too archaic to come up in a search.

Typing "grand old gal" has made me crave some Morph.

Date: Sun, June 29, 2008, 19:52:40 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Deano-
Here's a quick story.
When I was 16 I wanted to buy
a used beat up Corvair convertable.
My grandmother said she would
help pay for it and I took her
to see the car and she said,
"Do you want a reliable car,
at a fair price or do you want
to Shuffle Off To Buffalo".
I also remember her using the term
to "get ripped off" -

"Matrimony is baloney
She'll be wanting alimony
In a year of so
Still they go and shuffle
Shuffle Off to Buffalo
When she knows as much as we know
She'll be on her way to Reno
While he still has dough
She'll give him the Shuffle
When they're back from Buffalo".

Date: Sun, June 29, 2008, 19:25:26 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Guess it's slang I learned
from my grandmother, "The
Dutchess" who lived during
the depression. Boy do I
miss her.

"To Niag'ra in a sleeper,
There's no honeymoon that's cheaper".

Humongous Fan -
As I have said before, that
is the SOLO Tour! Wally
opens, followed by intermission.
Then Donald's set and some Steely
songs for an Encore!
We can dream.

SS-
Always enjoy your posts.
What show are you catching this
summer?

Date: Sun, June 29, 2008, 19:11:24 ET
Posted by: Humongous Fan, Circus $$$$$$$$$$$$$$

How about this for Steely Dan's opening act?

Steely Dan with Special Guests "The Walter Becker Band"

Have Becker open up with a fifty minutes set and then join Fagen for the SD set. Now that's what I'm talking about!!

Date: Sun, June 29, 2008, 19:08:02 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, Reggae Sunday

Ray,

I missed the formatting explanation, my bad.

And, all these years I never knew "Shuffling off to Buffalo" meant "half-assed". I mean, I've heard the song, of course, and know "For a little silver quarter, we can have the pullman porter turn the lights down low. Ooh!" But I have never heard anyone use that in a derogatory fashion, before.

Date: Sun, June 29, 2008, 18:49:13 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

My Bad -
Actually it's,
"Brother can you spare a dime?".
But you give the "porter a quarter"!

Date: Sun, June 29, 2008, 18:41:25 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Slowly I turned....
Deano -
I am surprised. You are
much older and wiser than me
yet you didn't catch the
"Era" of my comments. I have
nothing against the fine people
of Buffalo. But back in depression
during the era of the great Adrian
Rollini, "Shuffing Off To Buffalo",
meant "on the cheap/half assed - pay
the porter a dime."
And I did respond to your question.
Scroll down.

Date: Sun, June 29, 2008, 18:17:30 ET
Posted by: Dan Belcher, Louisville, KY

Some tangential Steely Dan from yesterday:

Drove up to Kettering, Ohio to see Boz Scaggs in concert at Fraze Pavilion. Great little venue by the way, a really nice quaint town and a small pavilion with great acoustics and comfortable seating. I didn't recognize anyone in the touring band except for the guy seated behind the Fender Rhodes -- Greg Phillinganes! He also had a digital piano and organ stack, took several solos on each. Fantastic show. Loan Me A Dime never fails to give me goosebumps. Boz also threw in a couple great covers, Sick & Tired by Fats Domino and Street Life by the Crusaders. Boz is still in good voice despite being right up there in age with Don and Walt, but he's now doing shorter set lists (1 hour 45 minutes or so) just like Don and Walt. But it made me even more anxious to go see Steely Dan in a couple weeks in Cincinnati. Can't wait.

Date: Sun, June 29, 2008, 17:51:29 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

Don't be dissin' all of Buffalo, for one bad apple, Ray. I've lived in Boston, SF, LA, NYC, etc and can tell you Buffalo has some of the best people in the USA. It reminds me of Milwaukee, a bit, actually.

These are real, friendly and honest people. They are, by no means, cheap nor half-assed, my friend.

BTW, you never did answer my question as to why you post in that format.

Date: Sun, June 29, 2008, 16:52:21 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Believe me,
The real Adrian Rollini
would never have been
caught dead in Buffalo.
Mr. Rollini never did
anything cheap or half-
assed.

Shuffle off.

Date: Sun, June 29, 2008, 15:06:17 ET
Posted by: suedave, Seattle

I wasn't ready to leave NY so my airline working in concert with the weather people graciously canceled our flight too. Got to spend an extra evening of fun with Alan and Matt enjoying a tiny slice of what NYC has to offer. The Beacon shows were fabulous and getting to hang out with with Geoff, Margaret, Ed, LWO, Prez Logic, Matt, Alan, Gretchen, Fife, Lady Bayside, Denise, and meet up with so many more of you at the beforefest a pleasure. Huge kudos to Pete & Shari for arranging the late night show at the Bitter End - what a treat that was. Best sound system I've heard in a long time. Even though the sound was cranked up, there was no problem having a normal conversation (no screaming necessary). We were sitting with a couple who had not been at the Beacon show. When C$ was playing in between sets, I noticed some head bopping in play. I asked if they liked the music. "Yes", he replied. I asked if they knew that Walter Becker had a new CD out. "No", she replied. Enjoyed especially seeing the SD rhythm section have so much fun on stage together.

Geoff - thanks for letting me know the name of that first tune Jeff Young played in his set at the Bitter End. I'll be buying his CD Soul Pharaoh, containing that track.

I hate to dredge up old news, but since I've just caught up it, I had to wonder if the infamous John Black thought he was going to the Stealers Wheels concert, therefore, was hugely disappointed that they didn't play Stuck in the Middle with You?

Date: Sun, June 29, 2008, 13:00:03 ET
Posted by: Gretchen, Right Coast

Hey, everyone, it's been a week's time since the NY crew disbanded, but what a fantastic time it was. I just want to thank everyone, most of all Pete Fogel, a true class act, for such a great gathering of friends, some of which I have not seen in a long time. Almost a Roseland-like experience, memories of the 4 days spent in NYC will stay with me forever. It's almost like a "Brigadoon" experience when we all get together, not to get sappy, but I have the best times with my Steely Dan friends. I feel very fortunate to have met everyone, and must thank Hoops for this site to get it all started. I'd love to get away to another show or two, but the work schedule is tight and it's unlikely I can take off again. I'll experience the shows vicariously through posts, until the next time we all meet in person! Love to all,
G

Date: Sun, June 29, 2008, 12:28:12 ET
Posted by: Pixeleen,

Dean, the Salami Gene is all yours -- enjoy!

Date: Sun, June 29, 2008, 12:25:29 ET
Posted by: Pixeleen,

And Walter's voice is getting better too! Hopefully we're in for another good, long run of new music and live shows -- HOPEFULLY!!!!!!~

Date: Sun, June 29, 2008, 12:24:47 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Heading Toward the Manatee Bar

Salami gene!

I LOVE it. I hope you don't mind if I steal it for use, off of The Blue, of course.

Date: Sun, June 29, 2008, 12:22:36 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Heading Toward the Manatee Bar

You know, my voice is getting better all the time...stronger, more consistent and longer lasting, etc. I'm 51, now.

Donald could just be unusual, that way, or could be taking his instrument more seriously...training differently, singing a little differently, drinking/eating differently.

60 really isn't that old, so it's not that surprising...especially when you consider Donald never was known for a powerful singing style.

Date: Sun, June 29, 2008, 12:17:39 ET
Posted by: Pixeleen,

Dean, I too am Sicilian but I guess I was born without the salami gene!

Date: Sun, June 29, 2008, 12:15:56 ET
Posted by: Pixeleen,

Dan, I read that too and was wondering if he did start up again. Maybe it's just me but he sounds so much more like the old DF than he did even in '06 during his solo tour.

Date: Sun, June 29, 2008, 12:15:20 ET
Posted by: Joey,

" Plus I'm willing to bet you he would look better in those ass-open dresses Maria Carey wears. Wally probably has better legs. "

Funny !!!!

Great Postin'

J.

Date: Sun, June 29, 2008, 12:15:05 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Pixy,

The Dean is a Sicilian boy. If a pig didn't die, it's not dinner. But, cows and chickens are fine...for lunch.

Vegetarians are people who like to kill living things that don't have the slightest chance of running away. Besides, vegetables are what food eats.

Date: Sun, June 29, 2008, 12:14:24 ET
Posted by: Pixeleen,

Date: Sun, June 29, 2008, 12:11:28 ET
Posted by: Another Dan Historian, Elsewhere

And in the past maybe 3-4 years, Walter noted in an interview with Donald that although they were off busy doing their own separate stuff, both happened to start smoking -- and also quit-- in roughly the same period without either of them knowing it at the time.

Date: Sun, June 29, 2008, 11:58:23 ET
Posted by: Pixeleen,

But how can we explain why his voice is sounding so good? I never thought I'd hear him sound this good again -- what a treat!

Date: Sun, June 29, 2008, 11:55:29 ET
Posted by: Dan Historian, pages of history

DF quit smoking in '85.

Date: Sun, June 29, 2008, 11:15:00 ET
Posted by: Pixeleen,

I agree about Donald's voice -- he's sounding better than he has in YEARS. Did he quit smoking maybe?

Date: Sun, June 29, 2008, 11:12:39 ET
Posted by: Pixeleen,

I guess it would be safe to say that The Dean is NOT a vegetarian?

Date: Sun, June 29, 2008, 11:12:11 ET
Posted by: steelymike77, philly

just waking up....MAN was it Hot in Philly last night. I have to say some highlights of the show were Donald's vocals. He hasnt lost it a bit. The two Dan band members that stuckout themost to me, were first and foremost Walt Weiskopf. He's so effing great on sax. Sounded great on show biz kids. and keith carlock. You know though, im really starting to get sickof hearing Josie, FM, Peg....the usual suspects. this was the 12th time i saw them, and every single time i have to sit through those songs. Sometimes i feel like listening to them on CD/Ipod is more enjoyable. It was a solid two hours of great music though. Walk weiskopf has some great solo work. definitely worth checkin out. That venue does suck,if you compare it to the Tower Theater. Last year when they were at the tower I had front row, and could literally rest my arms on the stage, with the band being no more than 10 ft away. this time in Camden, iwas in 3rd row, but still about 50 ft away. acoustics not nearly as good, and there were a ton of seats open. there were 4 empty seats to the right of us and 6 to the left. Why arent these seats sold??? Someone sittling close to us said he got his ticket the the day of the show. IN the third row!! Donald was sweating his face off. I really miss Carolyn at backing vocals. Walter on Gaucho......ick....

Date: Sun, June 29, 2008, 10:44:38 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Wu,

Dunno, for sure where the wings will be had. Pretty easy to get good wings in Buffalo...and since I make excellent wings, when I really feel the need, the wings will be the #2 food priority. As long as the place makes them "Stoopid hot", I will be fine.

The Beef is the #1 food priority. I hope to make it out to Schwabl's or stop by Annacone's. But, if that doesn't work out, I may have to get both wings and beef at Mister Dee's or Kelly's Korners or some place like that (that does a good job with both).

I'll take suggestions, though.

Now, back to Dan-talk

So, the band was fine in the heat and humidity? That's good to hear. I was afraid they may have dragged, a bit.

There's been a very slight formatting change on steelydan.com, but still no special guests listed after Montreal. Who we getting on July 11th?

Date: Sun, June 29, 2008, 09:49:37 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Buffalo

Dean... awesome! Where are you planning on getting your wings?? I could make a couple recommendations if you like...

We do have IMHO the best wings in the fucking world.

Date: Sun, June 29, 2008, 08:36:18 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

Yes, indeed, it was hot in Camden last night, but what an incredible show!! Walter was so smokin' HOT that he was wearing his "formal" flip-flops!! And Donald was singing his brains out.....
Getting out of the parking lot was a challenge, but, it was worth it just to see such a great show.
One show is not enough!!! Now I'll have to plan another road trip to see them again this summer........

Date: Sun, June 29, 2008, 01:52:53 ET
Posted by: Pixeleen,

Steelydoc -- Fife and Girl Margaret are celebrities!! Wish they were there to see that!

Date: Sun, June 29, 2008, 01:39:16 ET
Posted by: SS, HK

Lurker Ray, the Odd Couple to close out a show ? Absolutely. Swingin' TV music is a fit.

And your teleprompter approach to posting works for me. I read from one all the time.

Date: Sun, June 29, 2008, 01:28:11 ET
Posted by: Rajah, L'Aquila

Anon Twit - Your handle says it all. To know oneself, my brother or sister in Dan, is a great thing, so, hey, congratulations on that. Karma? Walk a mile under my Turban, sunshine, then spew your misinformed bile. Talk about Steely Dan and cogitate your self-appointed Twit status is my honest advice.

You may now consider yourself, "overserved."

;)

Date: Sun, June 29, 2008, 01:12:31 ET
Posted by: steelydoc, got lost in Camden!

as reported, same set list as AC, with Green Earrings instead of Black Friday

Live Nation had a message board on the video screens, where you could send text messages...three of the bluebook-related messages:

1) sorry you can't be here Fife

2) Can you believe that Girl Margaret is not here?

3) Where is the guy with the Steely Dan license plates?

There were no tickets sold for the lawn area...pretty full crowd inside...very hot...

DF said "...a little muggy, huh? ...we like muggy..."

Date: Sun, June 29, 2008, 01:00:20 ET
Posted by: Pixeleen,

Cool, I love that Jerome Aniton bit...

Date: Sun, June 29, 2008, 00:52:50 ET
Posted by: Camden Attendee, home

Camden = same set list as Borgata except Green Earrings instead of Black Friday. Place was hot. Sam Yahel commented that it was like a sauna. Donald complained it was muggy. Walter did a little Jerome Aniton during the introductions saying "you can tell all your friends over in.. that they missed out on a damn good thing."

Date: Sun, June 29, 2008, 00:34:18 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Where are the Camden reports?

Lurker Ray, picking up from our conversation, last night. If the Santa Rosa shows don't appeal to you, you might consider seeing them again at Mountain Winery in Saratoga, Ca. It's a pretty nice spot. I saw Van there and it was awesome.

Date: Sun, June 29, 2008, 00:18:40 ET
Posted by: WuDuF, enjoying the fun here

All these discussions about Dr. Wu led me to imagine what it would be like if the first few notes of that song were to ring out in the concert hall. Everyone would go absolutely APESHIT, and the screaming and singing along would be so loud that neither Donald or Walter would be heard. So perhaps we can let the band know that all they need to do is provide the instrumental background, and we would all perform it as a "sing-along."

"All night long, we would sing that @#%&*% song!"

Date: Sun, June 29, 2008, 00:13:10 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Wu (and Adrian)

I "grew up" (right) in Niagara Falls and lived in the Bufftown for many years. I will be flying into Buffalo and driving to the Finger Lakes for my one Dan show, this year.

I vow to have a beef-on-weck, some actual wings (not the crap they serve in Florida) and see The Dan all on the same day!

Date: Sat, June 28, 2008, 23:56:47 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Buffalo

BTW: You made Buffalo proud with that sarcastic smart ass post...very funny. I hate those things too.

Date: Sat, June 28, 2008, 23:55:41 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, BUFFALO!!!

Adrian Rollini! Another Buffalonian!! Finally someone local on this thing. Are you going to Canandaigua on the 11th??

Buffalo buddy!!

Date: Sat, June 28, 2008, 23:13:44 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

kz X 3,

Thanks for sharing the story and the vid. Although, I don't think Brody will be real happy with the quality. It certainly is no Death Blow. More on the order of Cry, Cry Again.

:#)

Date: Sat, June 28, 2008, 22:22:30 ET
Posted by: Adrian Rollini, Buffalo

It's the same
as typing
in all caps
Annoying and
pointless
The content
should be
in the message
not in
a bizarre
format
that's why
I always
scroll
through those
weird posts and
move
on to
the ones
normal
people
write

Date: Sat, June 28, 2008, 22:11:26 ET
Posted by: kzkzkz, NY

www.youtube.com/watch?v=JY82Xlheq0U

Pretzel Logic-Beacon June 14. Enjoy

I remember thinking that WB was digging the fact he was playing NYC on a Saturday night. That this was what it was all about. Playing NYC on a Saturday night to a packed room of cheering fans. That it didn't get any better than this.

It was hard to film while trying to enjoy the music and avoid security and enjoy the music...I caught the first 4 at the Beacon, compared to all 5 last year. They just started adding shows and with the Allmans canceling thought SD would play 10 (still may end the tour with 2-3 more here) and at 4.50 a gallon (no, there's no gas in the car!!)and a ton of other bands to see this summer and I can't believe I only caught 4 blah blah blah. For me Tuesday-17th- was the best. Carlocks longest (20 second) drum solo into Royal Scam to start the song was incredible, the triple divas w/ Catherine Russell added that little extra and after Green Earrings, The Donalds normal intro to Josie blew me away when he went into my fav Home At Last. Also felt Walter was belting out Gaucho with more confidence...wish I recorded that version as the one from Friday the 13th I posted didn't do it justice. He nailed it that Tuesday night. The sound at the Beacon was perfect from my balcony seat-sat front row (F) of the balcony every night but in a different section for all 4 shows this tour. Great seats, great sound and for 54 bucks-great value. I've seen them all up close before-including a ton of those Lone Star Roadhouse shows in the early 90s up to DFs solo show in 07-last minute box office front row orch tick. Anyway looking forward to reading tonights and future shows setlists and thoughts and hope this video brings back some great memories and Sir Walter and the Donald back for a few more in NY later this year. etc.

Date: Sat, June 28, 2008, 21:47:21 ET
Posted by: tonybass, camarillo

Dean- I'm for Tower Of Power!!!!

Date: Sat, June 28, 2008, 20:10:38 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Ray,

I don't know what you are smoking (or drinking), but can I have some?

And, Wu, the Doobies would be good (Tom Johnston edition, please). So would Blood Sweat and Tears (David Clayton Thomas at the vocals, please). But, the best two-fer would be The Dan and Tower of Power, I think.

Of course, a double order of Steely Dan is what I crave.

Date: Sat, June 28, 2008, 19:38:32 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, blah blah blah

If Steely Dan did a double bill like they did before with Michael McDonald, who would you like most to see open for them?

I'm thinking the Doobie Brothers?

13 days till Canadaigua!!!

Date: Sat, June 28, 2008, 19:18:09 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

So the gents are starting to
roll out with "Last Tango In
Paris". Sniff, sniff. Is that
me? Nope. C'mon guys that
chart is over two years old.
If I may, why not roll out with
a swinging new chart of "The Odd Couple"
by Neil Hefti. If that tune doesn't
say, "Steely Dan", I don't know
what does. Plus it swings and your
band with Jeff Young and The Pugh
Institute would knock it out of
the park. And what a swinging way
to end the evening. Hell, there is
even a vocal that is just sublime.
Written by the great Sammy Cahn.
The girls and Jeff would slay this!

No matter where they go
They are known as the couple.
They're never seen alone
So they're known as the couple.

As I've indicated
They are never quite separated,
They are peas in a pod.
Don't you think that it's odd.

Their habits, I confess
None can guess with the couple.
If one says no it's yes
more or less, with the couple.

But they're laugh provoking;
Yet they really don't know they're joking.
Don't you find
When love is blind
It's kind of odd.

Don’t you think it’s odd?
Don’t you think it’s odd?
Don’t you think it’s odd?

"If it weren't for Neal Hefti, the Basie band wouldn't sound as good as it does"

-Miles Davis 1955

"It took me three hours to figure out that 'F.U.' was Felix Ungar"

- Walter Matthau 1968

Date: Sat, June 28, 2008, 19:10:07 ET
Posted by: tarheeldanfan, Raleigh

Walter,
Thanks for Circus Money. So good, especially "Paging Audrey." Screw James T and Jimmy B, please come to Carolina next year. Regards, TarHeelDanFan
PS- good to see the blue stratocaster in GA.

Date: Sat, June 28, 2008, 17:15:42 ET
Posted by: Pixaleen, cyberspace

Things I miss the most:

Seeing the Dan three times in one week...

Date: Sat, June 28, 2008, 14:57:19 ET
Posted by: hoops, back in chicago finally

Greetings boys and girls, boysenberries.

A week already since the New York and Boston Danfests!? I can't believe it! Thanks for the great Danfests Pete & Shari, Fife, and Mark and Denise and whomever, whatever.

My Tuesday flight from Boston was cancelled so I was stranded at the airport overnight and didn't get home until Wednesday afternoon, I managed to pick up a really nasty cold at Logan Int'l and missed a couple of extra days of work. So I'm even more behind than ever.

Which brings me to the Danfests...the pieces of all these pages are there but I still have to assemble the parts. Things have come off pretty well so far on all these dates and Danfests, despite my being dead wood in the middle of it all. It says a lot about how great our Danfest organizers are.

One thing meant for anyone planning a Danfest: Often there have been previous Danfests where others have hosted. As a courtesy we defer to those who have hosted in the past for their direction on the next one.

As far as Bob's request as to who wants to attend Danfests in Houston (and/or Dallas), there already is a list going of who wants to attend. EIGHTY-EIGHT (yes, 88) are already on the list, having expressed interest in attending. Some never look at the Blue or the Dandom Digest. So those people need to be kept in the loop. One other person has expressed interest in doing something for both or either of these. I've referred them a couple of days ago to our most gracious LWO (Only Gail could be both gracious and wild at the same time, you know—Let's see anyone else do that.)

So the Danfest list is out there and is there to serve the 88 (and counting) and whomever else is hosting or is impacted or is potentially offended.

Sign up at http://dandom.com/mailman/listinfo/tx

One thing that is different this year is that I had to change Danfest email list software. I'm rebuilding each list as it is requested. The good news is that the posts generate an archive. So that means the Danfest page for each show updates itself with info, although it's kinda ugly in spots.

So puzzle pieces are there...some just need to be put in place.

Jim

Date: Sat, June 28, 2008, 13:18:55 ET
Posted by: Little Wild One, a usual suspect

Wow! Thanks for getting the ball rolling Bob G! I remember you from 2006 and the greatest thing is to inspire others to pick up the torch and plan a DanFest.

But I will warn you, your life may never be the same! ('specially if you're impressionable like me...)

The good news is that the Verizon Theater is about a block from my office building, so I have some ideas. I also have contact info for our t-shirt guy from 2006 and our own lovely Denise in Boston is an excellent designer.

We'll pick this up on the Houston DanFest list or at your dedicated e-mail site, but to all of our non-locals, come on down! Houston and Dallas are going to be Wing Dings!

Date: Sat, June 28, 2008, 12:39:05 ET
Posted by: lucky henry,

hello, one and all.

i just scooped up a 3rd row seat in the PIT through ticketbastard for tonight's show.

yes, i'll be there,
lh

Date: Sat, June 28, 2008, 12:28:41 ET
Posted by: HouDanFan, Houston

Being that Gaucho is a top 5 favorite of mine I was disappointed to hear that it is being sung by Walt. That song compliments Don's voice perfectly. But I'll take it with Walt nonetheless.

Of the five solo albums I would rank Don's 1-3 and Walter's 4 and 5. I like C$ but I haven't wanted to listen to it over and over. It does display Walter's craftiness in writing and guitar work. Now if you had Don sing the lyrics to C$, that could be one fine Steely Dan album.

Date: Sat, June 28, 2008, 12:26:05 ET
Posted by: AnonTwit, The Plaza

Wow - what a coupla weeks in NYC! Awesome shows, methinks the midweek ones were more relaxed with the band, but nothing was really off imo. Herington has displayed some incredible, tasteful guitar work, as did Walter in addition to Donald's soloing. It's fabulous to see them really dig in.

I think the Walter singing debate is a bit much, really, and can only state the 'familiarity breeds contentment' idea. Anything Walter sings that is proprietarily Dan-ish would be criticized. I applaud the efforts all week which brought stretched out, musical performances.

Also great to walk amongst the NYC crew at the after party and see some long-published faces from years past. Awesome after party - thanks to Pete & Shari and everone at the Bitter End. And I wasn't recognized, which was nice.

Now, Rajah, I think your reputation is fairly overserved here, at least. And I'll remind you that Karma is a bitch, so I'd be careful, Dave. Sorry you weren't around to get your cuffs on. And Bob's your Uncle.

Date: Sat, June 28, 2008, 11:29:08 ET
Posted by: tony, lbi

sweet sue. i was about 10 rows behind you in section 200 at the borgota. i saw you folks dancing. i was standing by myself for about 15 seconds, but when no one else got up, i sat down because i can't dance too good. i wish i was with you guys. it was my 6th steely dan concert, and i felt the best i have seen. they were great.

Date: Sat, June 28, 2008, 10:27:57 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Here's a C$ review I have yet to see. Apologies if it has already been posted:

http://www.musicbox-online.com/reviews-2008/06172008/walter-becker-circus.html

Finally, someone (other than me) hears a little Boz Scaggs in Downtown Canon.

Date: Sat, June 28, 2008, 10:07:04 ET
Posted by: Bob G, Houston

In 2006, I experienced my first DanFest as DanFans from Texas and around the world celebrated the tour stop in Houston. New friends were made, plots were hatched and adult beverages were consumed as we prepared for the show.

Such a good time was had that I've decided it has to happen again in 2008. Therefore, I'd like to take this opportunity to announce the formation of DanFest 2008 Houston.

Plans are murky at this point. Since the show's downtown at The Verizon, I doubt the city will tolerate grilling on the sidewalk. I'm going to solicit various establishments within walking distance of the show to assume the position as host. (The Star of Hope is on the other side of town, so that's out as a venue).

I've also got feelers out to a number of graphic artists with the hope a truly worthy design can be created for a shirt to celebrate the event.

Date: Sat, June 28, 2008, 09:58:01 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Thanks to Steely Doc, Steely Dan, Daddy G and Sweet Sue, for the recap of last night's show. Sounds like another good one.

Slipping in some Sly? Outrageous!

Daddy, I can't believe this is the first I'm hearing about that particular change in Show Biz Kids. Now, I'm wishing you didn't tell me. Kidding, of course. If I didn't want spoilers, I wouldn't read The Blue.

And, haters take note, despite what the occasional "critic" says, more and more INFORMED Dan fans like Walter's rendition of Gaucho, after they see it in person. I remain excited and optimistic.

Date: Sat, June 28, 2008, 09:15:48 ET
Posted by: Ravin', Ready, set, fly

right, stealywheel--good comeback to the idiot--unfortunately my boss, who's a broken record with a hermie wish, who won't confirm with anyone on anything or answer the flippin' f@*king phone!!!

Ok, all rivals SEE YOU? SSue SDMike77, coming Steelydoc? and others: There's 2dgs, Jack the knife, Debraella, artist S.Crawford and her entourage from Phila., Big Bill and auburn Aubrey from Columbus,Ohio, the DH from Severna Park--perhaps, softcrab Laurie, and Pokeymon. Bring a little chair for the parking lot. I'm bringing grubs.

"He's got a scar across his face; he wears a hearing aid. Sure, he's a jolly roger until he answers for his crime. Yes, I'll match him whim for whim now." Steely Dan, "My Rival"

Ok, out. Hope you fly by--the flag should be way up there on 20' RV.

Raven

Date: Sat, June 28, 2008, 07:26:43 ET
Posted by: StealersWheel, Philadelphia

Dude

Date: Sat, June 28, 2008, 06:56:04 ET
Posted by: Newark, , Newerkes Capon Ranch

Right, now I can't decide. Should I wear a tube top with my antique Roman Athena breastplate--very tastefully dramatic, OR, go ahead and throw on the tazing bite-activated titty guards--they were sort of expensive, but they're hot. The plus is that add somehow to the silhouette of the cleavage. Ha ha LWO with the shoes! Ok, the jury is still out on skirt or shorts, but definitely a fabulous plum top by Sarah Jessica Parker's "Bitten" line. newerker

Date: Sat, June 28, 2008, 06:43:16 ET
Posted by: SS, HK

I wouldn't be too interested in hearing someone else try Surf/and or Die.

Date: Sat, June 28, 2008, 06:02:59 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

The subject of Walter's voice is a seemingly never-ending polemic here on Blue. Like Dr. Wu. Maybe we're just a bunch of old-fart, "fanboys," is that what she called us? OK, I'll cop to that, hell, I'll cop to almost any appellation that includes the term, "boy," at this juncture in this strange sojourn of mine. OK enough verbal pyrotechnics, shit, there i go again.

Walter has a TERRIBLE vocal instrument. It's not his fault. I don't have any hair. It's not my fault. His voice, God love him, has a very strange hard edge, it's consistently flat, I mean consistently. Shoot, y'all, as my friends from Tennessee say, even a blind hog finds an acorn(?) now and then. That pitch-master gizmo or whatever it's called really helps make a big difference on C€. What is that song that starts out, "I cracked the code?" I came off my hand-crafted Corinthian leather traction bed when I heard that. That's technology, Clyde.

Anyway, I'll shut up and sit down now but Walter's clip of Gaucho is thrilling to me, bad quality notwithstanding. He doesn't exactly shape and caress notes like Frank, (no, not Zappa), or hit exhilarating high Cs ala our late Maestro Pavarotti. But now just stop and think of singers with beautifully gifted vocal instruments like Celine Dion, Steve Perry of Journey, Bernadette Peters from the Broadway stage, or that hideous Maria Carey, ugh, Walter's interpretations are heartfelt and gracious in their humility of presentation, so very sympathetic in contrast. Walter doesn't sing well...and he knows it. That is his magic.

Plus I'm willing to bet you he would look better in those ass-open dresses Maria Carey wears. Wally probably has better legs.

Salute, Signore Becker.

Date: Sat, June 28, 2008, 05:17:55 ET
Posted by: angel,

Daddy G and Steely Doc. Glad you got together. :-)

Thanks for the reviews. I was worried, especially after the lukewarm CT reviews from the other night. Happy to hear you got a good show.

==

BTW, The year was 2002, not 2003 on my earlier post about Carlsbad. It doesn't feel like 6 years ago already, but it is.

Date: Sat, June 28, 2008, 04:34:48 ET
Posted by: the bullgoose, sweet home bonalbo australia

And a big cheerio to you, Lurker Ray.
Your copy could be right up there with the three-sided 'double album' Johnny Winter put out way back. Apparently if you played the fourth side backwards it sounded like your stylus disintegrating. But it sounded better than those rubber turntable mats; they sounded like Mitch Miller playing the sex pistols with a curry comb.

Date: Sat, June 28, 2008, 01:33:43 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., NJ

Forgot to mention... I didn't realize they were doing Show Biz Kids without the "lost wages" refrain. I still loved it, might even like it better that way, actually.

The YouTube clip I watched of Walter doing Gaucho really doesn't come close to doing it justice imo. But then even though 11ToW was kind of hit and miss with me I actually have always liked Walter's voice and I LOVE C$! I hope he's not in any way serious when he denigrates his own singing. His biggest problem vocally is just that he doesn't sound like Donald, but then who does? I always enjoy the changeup when Walter sings an SD song that Donald originally did. Don't get me wrong, I not saying Walter should replace Donald as lead vocalist, but if Walter wants to do an SD song or two, well, I've heard nothing from him yet that would put me off. And if it gives Donald a needed respite, well, that's good too.

Date: Sat, June 28, 2008, 01:19:46 ET
Posted by: Sweet Sue, Home at Last (on the outskirts of AC)

Steely Doc & Don--couldn't agree more--fantastic show! I went to Beacon 6/13 & 14, & tonight was my fave of the 3. The band was jamming and tight, and Don & Walt seemed to be really enjoying themselves. Loved the lil' Sly bit! The girls were great on Parker's Band. Home at Last was driving/groovy. Bablyon Sisters was one of the best I've heard in a while. The crowd was cool for the most part, but why the h-e-double toothpick won't anyone get up and dance at the end? I am about to have knee reconstruction #2 and hence in a brace and using a cane, and for the encore #s, myself & my 2 buds were the only peeps up and grooving in 200 section! Camden tomorrow is going to be hot and stifling, looking forward to it, I just hope Don is in a good mood. I'll look for the Jolly Roger, Jayme!
Peace - xoxoxo - Music,
S.

Date: Sat, June 28, 2008, 01:03:35 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., NJ

...Just in from A.C. I see SteelyDoc posted the set list already. I had a printout with me of the list for the CT show and this one was identical until they wedged DTMA in as the first encore song. Yes, a great show indeed. Certainly up there for me. Crowd seemed especially appreciative (though reasonably well-behaved) and Donald seemed loose from the start.

Walter wandered the stage from song to song, sometimes left, sometimes right. Mr. Young's grand piano was in place and utilized. First time I've heard 2vN live---tremendous! And count me among those who love Walter doing Gaucho. Itchin' was pretty darn good too. I like that the band intros are shorter and to the point. Mr. Carlock had a very brief solo between Fez and RS. Don't know if he's been doing that all along as I don't recall any mentions of it, but then it's nothing like the solo during Josie a few years ago.

Getting out of the parking garage wasn't bad at all as the Borgata was just letting folks leave without bothering to collect the usual $5 parking fee. Nice. I didn't even try to bust the bank inside as Walter urged, so I'll gladly accept free parking and consider myself a winner. :-)

Last, but not least... SteelyDoc, it was a pleasure to meet you. Love the plates. Thanks for the SD sticker! Neat that I got two SD-related stickers the same day! Wish I'd had an extra to pass along in person, but I'm sure your new one will arrive soon.

That's my one show for this tour. I won't be at Camden. Camden's actually closer for me, but the A.C. run is a much nicer drive and I like the venue better too. Mapped out some back roads through the Pine Barrens to and from A.C. to avoid the major arteries. Personally, I always prefer back roads. You just have to be alert to dodge the deer on the way home at night. Still, having some radiator trouble of late I also wanted a route that would keep me moving 98% of the time rather than stuck in traffic at countless traffic lights watching my heat gauge edge ever upward. But I made it home without incident. Maybe I'll catch the 2009 tour. (Hint, hint.)

Date: Sat, June 28, 2008, 00:48:22 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Thanks steelydoc!
Sounds like you and your license
plate had a great show!
"thank you fallettin me be mice elf agin"!
Wow!
Sly and the Family Stone was the greatest
show I have seen this year so far!

Date: Sat, June 28, 2008, 00:48:18 ET
Posted by: SteelyDon, Lord I know you're a special friend

Just back from the Borgata Show.

AWESOME!!!!!

That was the best show I have seen since 2000 or 2003. Great set lists. I really loved Everything you Did and Royal Scam. New Frontier was really really good. They really were on beat with the exception of a few lyric mishaps on Gaucho.

Gaucho is a really tough song to sing because of the choppyness of the lyrics and Walt really struggled with nailing the lyrics. I thought the arrangement sounded really good though.

Donald sounded the best I ever heard. He is really hitting the notes as they were on the original records. In recent years he had been taking the easy notes and not striving for those "hard to reach" notes. Now he is singing strong and confident. He sounded really good.

Overall really really great show. It was definitely a change of pay and a more "laid back" Dan.

I was able to snag a setlist printout from the lighting tech at the end of the show. SWEET!

Date: Sat, June 28, 2008, 00:22:10 ET
Posted by: janie runaway, ny

I must confess; I listened to 11TofW today with a totally open mind after so enjoying Walter sing Gaucho and I'm thinking that yes, I DO like this. Then I listed to The Nightfly and I'm sorry to have to put 11 at a VERY distant #5.

Date: Sat, June 28, 2008, 00:21:21 ET
Posted by: steelydoc, home at last

set list

6/27/2008
Borgata
Atlantic City

Everyone's gone to the movies
The Fez
The Royal Scam
I got the news
Showbiz kids
everything you did
two against nature
hey 19
godwhacker
babylon sisters
new frontier
gaucho
home at last
parkers band
josie
black friday
love is like an itchin in my heart /snippet of thank you fallettin me be mice elf agin
peg
fm

encore
dont take me alive
kid charlemagne
last tango in paris

incredible show
great crowd

at the encore WB said: what a great audience...you know what I hope? I hope that after the show, you go down into that casino, and bust the fuckin' bank down there...take them for everything they have!!!

what a night!

Date: Sat, June 28, 2008, 00:13:08 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

I'm not really a game guy, but I have to admit "guitar mayhem" sounds very cool.

Maybe if the stars align, I'll meet you in Santa Rosa.

Date: Sat, June 28, 2008, 00:12:01 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

I almost forgot,
Formatting.
Do something different.
Something that will get
you noticed. I always
try to do something
different. But then again,
that is why I love Steely Dan.

Date: Sat, June 28, 2008, 00:04:56 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Deano-
It's official, you are the man.
That was the most honest post
I have read here EVER. Okay,
Santa Rosa, Connie has already
sold me on the idea but tickets
seem pretty steep. I'm hoping
we get another SoCal Show on
the 23rd before they head north.
Speaking of computers, now that
today is "opening" day and I can
talk about it, "Wall-E" the video
game is out and the soundtrack
features some great work by none
other that Dean Parks recorded
at Conway Studios here in LA.
You'll love this, he is credited
for "Guitar Mayhem"! Isn't that
sweet!
But how about a report from the Bat
Cave?

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 23:47:40 ET
Posted by: a suggestion,

if you do Galveston, you can do all three!

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 23:26:09 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

No problem, Ray. You are one of the good guys, so I don't mind.

After a short time in academia, I spent most of my adult career in television management, media research and consulting. I have worked, in one capacity or another, for TV stations and networks (and for a short time in a recording industry-related company) all over the country. I worked for start up networks (most recently Al Gore's Current TV) and established ones, as well.

During that time, I made good-to-very good money. But, as a single fun loving insane (women, booze, etc loving) person, I always managed to spend quite a bit more than I made. (I blew a $40K bonus in six weeks with absolutely nothing to show for it. Sweet! That was in the mid 90's.) Anyway, I have very marketable skills and few responsibilities. Blow money? No big deal, I'll just make more.

Well, my family relocated to The Oldest City, and my father (84) and brother (59 hard years from being a life of a professional musician, most recently in New Orleans) are in very poor health. My sister, who has lived here for 20+ years, was going nuts, with Dr appts, clinics, hospital stays, etc. So, I moved here with no job or prospects to help out. Not much for my skill-set, that I care to do, here. So, I didn't work for over a year...and, as I said, I didn't save any money.

I recently started my own computer troubleshooting company. Business is picking up, and I think I should do fine. No big bucks, but what the hell. I've managed to keep swilling decent booze, smoking excellent cigars (etc) and getting the occasional side trip to South Beach (a week or two ago) and Canada in a couple of weeks (where I will catch The Dan in Central NY). So, don't cry for The Dean, he's doing fine...but in a much smaller way then he is used to. Perhaps it will keep me alive for an extra year, or two. :#)

If I scrape together another few hundred dollars of disposal income before the end of the tour, maybe I'll fly to SF and catch a Santa Rosa show. I have a lady-friend with a place, there.

So, Ray, let me ask you a personal question. Why do you post in the small column? Not a problem for me, just curious. One thing's for sure, I can always spot a Lurker Ray post, by the formatting!

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 23:03:23 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu ,

It's a little dicey to tell if Walter is that off-key or not. The mics for the babe choir and Walter are mixed up high and saturating the crappy microphone of the hand held. In contrast Potter's sax is mixed down and sounds pretty on.

One thing's for certain. A LOT of folks got up to get some brew.

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 23:02:21 ET
Posted by: Little Wild One, home on a Friday night

Newark, girl, you can never miss with those Steely-ettos! Alas, I missed wearing my bitchin' leopard print pair with the large faux rhinestone trim this trip.

Maybe Houston? Speaking of, the best ever Houston Danfest was stationed out of an RV in the parking lot, so rave on you Jolly Roger!

I ask the teen-ager....South Padre Island or Steely Dan in Houston and Dallas this summer?

She chose well. Wants to meet Carlock. Hey, Kranny, man, I'm doing my part!

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 22:59:09 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Again for the record, I like
you Deano. When I read that
you were only able to see
just one show this year, I was
very sad. If I may pry, but
you have made this public,
what has brought you to the
land of "Ponce de León" and
"Jail Tours" and your current
financial dire straits? If
this is too personal skip it.

BTW - "Hard Up Case" Irvine 94
is just amazing. Have a great
weekend buddy. I value your
opinion.

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 22:37:49 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

I certainly wouldn't leave during Darkling Down, or any Walter tune.

I don't remember where I saw The Dan that tour, but it certainly wasn't Florida. I'm a relative newcomer here...about 18 months or so. I was living in CA (either SF or LA) at the time, but could have seen them in up north.

As for my speculation, Walter has made some statements that Dan fans come to Dan concerts to hear Dan songs. I might be reading into it, though.

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 22:31:57 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Deano-

Fair enough. BTW I saw a news
clip of a Manatee drinking out
of a garden hose the other day
and I thought about you. I'm
not sure why though? For the
record I saw no one around me
take a piss break during Walter's
tunes at Irvine in 94. I think
you are thinking of "Fall of 92".
Mass exodus. I don't know about
the Florida crowd, but we love
to dance here in So Cal. I
would like to see who is leaving
during a smoking take of "Darkling
Down" for example.

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 22:24:18 ET
Posted by: warrenk,

Dean, you may be right. But the way I am thinking about it is that if Walter's voice is misrepresented, the band's notes are as well. So it's all relative. Notes are relative. And I don't think he's on relative to the band.

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 22:08:36 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Warren, your only problem is thinking you hear a proper representation on that video. I have heard many poorly recorded clips on Youtube where Donald sounded like total shit: off key, unstable, etc. Ive even heard clips where the background singers sounded flat and, actually horrible. Since I was at some of those shows, I know they weren't proper representations of what actually was presented. A LOT of distortion can happen with sound, especially with cheap recording sources so far from the source.

With that said, he really doesn't sound that bad, except for on a couple of notes. And, as far as the phrasing and such, it's a really nice take. I am looking forward to hearing it, live, and will give my best analysis after I do.

Ray, crying about SD doing two sets, w/no opening act is as productive as the whining about Dr Wu. It is just not in the cards, right now, it seems. And, while I liked Walter's tunes on that tour, my recollection was a mass exodus for the lobby/bathrooms/etc every time they played a Walter song. It sucked the life out of the room. It might be a reason why they decided to skip that strategy on this tour. And, if I'm not mistaken, it didn't exactly result in huge sales for 11TOW.

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 22:01:38 ET
Posted by: Newark, Kitchen cleanup

I refuse to watch the Gaucho spoiler. nwk ROAD TRIP!

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 21:56:03 ET
Posted by: warrenk,

Re: Walter on Gaucho.

Let me first say thanks to the Dan for finally mixing up the setlist and throwin in some deep cuts. Pullin out Gaucho is brave, and I appreciate them trying to play something special for the fans.

However, with all due respect, I disagree with most of you on Walter's singing capabilities, especially on Gaucho. First off, from a purely objective technical standpoint, Walter's performance on Gaucho is very weak. Sound quality or not, you can hear his voice, and you can hear the notes. Perhaps your guys' ears are not trained very well, but he is VERY unstable on that clip. His pitch wavers a lot and half the time it feels like he is struggling to find the notes (when he goes high, ughhhh). I also didn't like the harmony with the girls in the chorus, but I guess they did the most they could with 2 backups.

Now from a subjective, "interpretive" standpoint, perhaps people like Rajah feel there is actually meaning and intention behind his voice. IMO, I think you all are extreme fanboys and are subconsciously trying really hard to justify his singing talent. I mean, all the power to you- you can enjoy something I can't. But I personally just do not like his voice at all, and I can't take one of my all time favorite songs seriously when I hear his voice sing it. I still love him though.

Please don't bash me. I'm one of the few who actually put an argument behind my opinion; and I did it respectfully.

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 21:54:25 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu - Bring The Camera, That Sunset Is Going To Be Something Tonight

I think the easiest way to solve the
"Gaucho Vs C$" argument is to cut
the shit and get rid of the opening
act. Go back to two sets or add
to the set list and let Walter sing
TWO tunes! Where is the promo for
your amazing NEW CD Walter? Sirius?
Are you serious? Don is already
not doing more that two shows in a
row, so why not add a little time
and do a second C$ tune? It gives
Donald yet another rest. Walter's
solo stuff smokes live! EVEN if you
don't like 11TOW, you cannot deny those
tracks live. While I await the reports
from "The Bat Cave" this evening, I pulled
my SBD copy of "Steely Dan 1994-09-17 Irvine
Meadows Amphitheatre Irvine, CA" a show
I was lucky enough to be at and it is
cranking on the veranda. Is that not THE
greatest Steely Dan boot CD! Bill Ware
and crew are just amazing on it. How's
this for a set list (Note TWO solo WB Tunes!)-

True Companion
Aja
Reelin' In The Years
Josie
Hey Nineteen
Down In The Bottom
Sign In Stranger
Peg
Babylon Sisters
Black Friday
Royal Scam
Parker's Band
The Fez
Green Earrings
Bodhisattva
Deacon Blues
Tomorrow's Girls
Hard Up Case
Chain Lightning
Third World Man
Kid Charlemagne
My Old School
FM (No Static At All)

"Donald and I got our start making records here in Southern California
and when ever we play here, we have the greatest time of all".

-Walter Becker

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 21:50:06 ET
Posted by: ForwardGirl,

So it's the end of the Boston show, and I'm waiting for the crowd to thin a bit, I'm standing by the tshirt shed. Young couple goes by me, the girl holding an Aja shirt. And I hear her say as they pass, "What does A-J-A stand for?"

Oh, the humanity...

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 21:24:08 ET
Posted by: Dan Belcher, Louisville, KY

I am not getting all the hate on Walter's take on Gaucho. Based on the Youtube video and another sucky quality sound clip I heard of it, I think it sounds great. Then again, I actually like Walter's voice a lot anyhow...

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 20:49:06 ET
Posted by: Newark, Road Trip

Whew! Just got back from a day of shopping and found the most high-tech nipper protectors for Camden show!! These have an on-command taze controller with iPod adapter, fits under the shirt, very cool. LWO, Zimmer, other Steelygurls--what's in to wear this season to the show? I don't want to upstage Donald. What kind of shoes? more later

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 20:42:25 ET
Posted by: tonybass, camarillo

1. Nightfly- Brilliant...just brilliant..the best solo effort of all time!

2. Kamakiriad- Very good and under-rated album. It's funky so if that's not your thing you might not like it... I think it's far better than most of the posters on this board do. (Much much better than "Morph")

3. Morph The Cat- Four GREAT songs (Mona, Pagoda,Mary, Morph) but not much else in the "brilliant" catagory...Bright Nightgown is unlistenable to me...sorry. Not crazy about ANY of the arrangements besides "Morph The Cat" and " The Night Belongs To Mona". I think Walter's input on the rhythm section would have been extremely valuable.

4. 11 Tracks Of Whack- Bits and pieces of coolness... "Book Of liars" "Hat Too Flat" "Cringemaker" are almost great. No melodies to speak of...and not enough arrangement and production to give it that WOW factor. I think Walter was trying purposely to seperate his sound from Steely Dan with less than effective results. Have to REALLY BE IN THE MOOD for this one.

I refuse to rank Circus Money at this point (I thought "Morph" was way better than it really is upon my first few listens).

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 20:35:03 ET
Posted by: D, noticing the irony

If ranking seems unnecessary, why do I care if C$ gets mentioned on NPR's list of Best CDs of the Year so far? Maybe I just want WB to get his due. A lot of mediocrity out there: would be nice if they recognized a CD of C$'s caliber, I guess.

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 20:09:25 ET
Posted by: Denise, Hinktown

Ranking CDs seems unnecessary to me. It all depends on what you want to hear at a given time. I listen to 11TOW often, much more than some other SD CDs. It is unique: it is Walt. That is all.

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 17:54:17 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

Well, I guess the best answer to that is BOTH, you stupid fuck.

And let me remind you that henceforth you will address me as the Poet-Laureate of the Blue.

And you also have my good leave to kiss my ass.

Now, you prohibitive moron, talk to me about how great it would be to hear Walter's version of, "Don't Take me Alive?"

Do we take off in "D ?"

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 16:57:19 ET
Posted by: Hey Raj, are you on the Lam, or on a LAMB???,

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 16:48:50 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

Oh my dear friend John Walsh, would you and I could meet face to face, I really don't believe you'd take that tone with me. You'd find me as sweet and kind as a lamb. So I certainly wouldn't be so cavalier about batting about another person's reputation like that.

Be very careful about that, John...

Now, Walter singing Dr Wu would be, of course, a radical departure but the more and more I think about this issue, is there a Steely Dan song Walter couldn't sing? I'm telling you, there's nothing he couldn't do. Naturally, it would all be different.

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 16:34:54 ET
Posted by: JanetBee, New York

11TofW definitely grows on you and no, it's probably not the best solo effort but you really cannot discount its value...

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 16:20:13 ET
Posted by: George T.,

11TOW is buh, buh, buh, buh, buhbuhbuh BAAAAAADDDD.

Bad to the Bone!

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 16:19:42 ET
Posted by: Lonnie THE Kingpin, Lexington Ave.

I must agree that Shatner's "Has Been" CD is fantastic. The song "Common People" with Joe Jackson on vocals with The Shat is an all time classic. Good shit!!!! Check it out now.

Lonnie

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 16:14:55 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Hector, yes I am aware that my opinion is unpopular but I'm pretty used to it around here. Perhaps you and I are looking for different things when we listen to albums. I think your hyperbole is a little much. No redeeming social value? Really?

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 16:04:49 ET
Posted by: hector E.,

It is not subjective, 11TOW is absolutely Bad to the Bone, with no redeeming social value. Circus Money has redeemed Walt. We'll see how the rankings come out. Even superfan Dean ranks 11TOW down there as last. I will bet you that 11TOW will not be ranked higher than 4 by anybody among the solo SD albums! For example, Dr Wu started this solo ranking shit but he hasn't said yet what he thinks except placing the Nightfly in first place, which most any fan would agree it would be at or near first place. I guess if you want to you could also call that subjective. The majority is not always right, but it is probably where you should put the smart money. Even if you want to call it subjective you are entitled to your opinion, but do you realize that saying 11TOW is that great really puts you at odds with the majority, which is a fact?

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 15:42:02 ET
Posted by: angel,

Steely Damned and Dr. Wu. That would be a yes, I heard it played definitely at Carlsbad in 2003. They probably played it during the RRHOF weekend at Le Bar Bat, too. I don't have the set list for that one though.

Steely Damned and 2nd Arrangement. Heard it live twice. Great song.

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 15:33:12 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Chris,

Of course it is subjective. And, while I don't agree with your assessment, I think there is far more merit in it than in this little gem: "On an absolute scale it ranks somewhere between a Slim Whitman and a William Shatner solo album." That's just fucking nuts, IMO of course.

BTW, Shatner's "Has Been" is actually pretty good (in an amusing way), I shit you not. It was produced by Ben Folds and simply does not suck:

http://www.amazon.com/Has-Been-William-Shatner/dp/B0002RUPH4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1214595029&sr=1-1

With that said, musically it doesn't hold a candle to 11TOW.

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 15:27:40 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Hector, could it be ..... we disagree on a completely subjective matter?

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 15:12:09 ET
Posted by: Hector E.,

Hold on, 11TOW ranks second? How can you say that with a straight face?

11TOW is the bottom of the barrel. On an absolute scale it ranks somewhere between a Slim Whitman and a William Shatner solo album.
I have theory that 11TOW is something that WB cobbled together from poetry he had on the shelf and did not put in enough effort for it vocally or musically right after DF released Kamakiriad just so he wouldn't be one upped. It didn't work.

Circus Money is a different story. WB took his time, got good support, got the right songs, took voice lessons?, brought back some of the old Steely sound especially with the girls. Whole lotta soul.
And possibly WB's body has been possessed by someone who can sing. WB has demonstrated he also has a fine broadcaster's voice as well. He sounded great, professional and did quite well ad libbing on his recent Sirius radio shows.

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 15:02:16 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

WuDuF,

"Lastly, I do get annoyed when people exit a show bitching about what they DIDN'T hear, instead of being appreciative for what they did hear. Let's face it, at some point in the future (hopefully FAR in the future), Steely Dan will not be touring anymore, and then everyone will wish they could hear anything from them. Enjoy it for what it is now, or you are missing out on alot of pleasure."

BRAVO! Couldn't have said it better, myself. Fucking crybabies.

I think someone said the pic on Walter's amp is King Tubby. Also, someone said Donald's pic was of Charile Parker, so I don't know. Maybe they are changing the pics.

And, SS, Donald didn't say he wasn't comfortable singing Dr Wu. That is simply the warped creation of some of the posters on The Blue, a straw man. He said he didn't like the way the song sounds live...it lacks dramatic presence, or something, like that. The matter of who sings the song is not part of the equation, it seems.

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 14:49:24 ET
Posted by: SS, HK

Walt is alive with a real shot at Dr. Wu.

The notes don't even cover an octave and a half. And his voice would sound particularly good on the lower ones. If DF doesn't feel right singing it, here's to Walt and Dr.Wu.

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 14:49:19 ET
Posted by: WuDuF, still basking in the glow...

As Walter so eloquently put it in Wallingford the other night, "What a great fucking crowd we turned out to be!" Except for the few scattered annoyances, like the guy who told my friend Zim's daughter to sit back in her seat (imagine what he would have done if she actually got up and danced, like some of us on the floor were!), I thought this crowd was much more appreciative than the crowd in Clearwater. I can't even compare the performances of both nights, nor do I want to. Each Steely Dan show I have been at in the past 14 years has had it's own special magic. For me, "Show Biz Kids" was great again, and Walter's delivery of "Gaucho" was definitely a moment to remember. There were a few different songs than in Florida, so for that I was grateful, but I really wouldn't care if I had heard the same set. There is so much to take in as the night goes on.
Someone asked about where Walter stood--he was on the right behind Donald. Why, I don't know since it looked like his equipment was still in it's usual spot. I guess only they know. Carlock was so slick, as usual, and I think John Herrington doesn't get enough attention for the intricate things he is doing on the guitar. He was also introduced as the band's "musical director," so obviously they have alot of respect for him, as we all do.
A silly question, but I am sure one of you will have the answer---I know the picture on Donald's piano is Duke Ellington's band, but who is the person on Walter's amp?
Did anyone catch that the "outro" song was the theme from Charlie's Angels? Someone said it was "Last Tango in Paris," but I don't think it was. Maybe they heard something I didn't.
Lastly, I do get annoyed when people exit a show bitching about what they DIDN'T hear, instead of being appreciative for what they did hear. Let's face it, at some point in the future (hopefully FAR in the future), Steely Dan will not be touring anymore, and then everyone will wish they could hear anything from them. Enjoy it for what it is now, or you are missing out on alot of pleasure.

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 14:42:01 ET
Posted by: Another Critic Grabs Us,

Courant.com -

"Becker's turn on vocals for "Gaucho" was clunky".

It aint playing in Peoria Walter. The faithful at the Beacon swoon
over anything. But you are on "tour" now. Please bring on the C$!

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 14:27:38 ET
Posted by: Big Fan , at work

A day late and a $ short:

The Hartford Courant didn't have their review of Wednesdays show in until today. Hey they announced they were cutting their staff 20% yesterday so we are lucky to get a review at all. He certainly liked it better than that one reviewer in Boston. His comments about Walter singing Gaucho I think are shared by many here. I like to hear Walter sing - I'm not sure Gaucho is the right song - although it's fun and it's only one song - I would think one his songs off C$ would be a better choice - but they have never listened to my suggestions as to what to play -LOL

When I was thinking about the Steely Dammed today I remembered they sang the Second Arrangement - another cult classic oftened debated as to why SD doesn't sing it. Did the Dammed ever sing Dr. Wu?

http://www.courant.com/entertainment/music/hc-steelyrev.artjun27,0,3740681.story

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 13:46:58 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

I actually think 11TOW is a great album, at least as far as songwriting goes. The production is hit and miss. I think the drum machines and keyboards actually work really well on the some songs (Book of Liars, This Moody Bastard, My Waterloo) but unfortunately bring a few of the songs down. The songs with real drums are all classics.

Here's how I would rank the solo albums:

1) The Nightfly
2) 11TOW
3) CirCus Money (although its really too early for me to put this on any list)
4) Kama
5) Morph

Kama has some of the same problems that 11TOW does on the production side. That synth sax solo is cringe-worthy and I would really like to know why a guy like DF who constantly says he can't stand digital synths would put that on a record. Morph just sounds really derivative.

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 13:39:08 ET
Posted by: Dash LaRue,

I can picture Donald nailing anything off of C$. But definitley -
Downtown Canon & Somebody's Saturday Night

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 13:31:17 ET
Posted by: El Sup, Louisville, KY

With all the discussion about Walter singing Steely Dan songs, I thought it would be interesting to see what Walter songs you could hear Donald taking a stab at.

Paging Audrey would work and I think Cringemaker would be fun.

Any others?

El Sup

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 13:11:19 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Nice Sleepwalk video, but I'll raise you with this one:

http://youtube.com/watch?v=haLd0r_K1Dc

For those who don't think ALL Dan releases are an A (or, at worst a B), you must not listen to much other music...or maybe you need to get your ears checked.

:#)

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 13:02:41 ET
Posted by: JL,

Deano, Kepler was right. This issue of grade inflation starts with the likes of YOU!

If The Dean Himself is giving out easy A's, what are the teachers to do?

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 13:02:14 ET
Posted by: steelydoc, on the way to the Borgata

I have an extra ticket for tonite...

section 400, row 13, DF side....

call me on my cell and leave a message if interested

will sell at a discount! everything must go!

610 613 0565 cell

Doc

thanks!!

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 13:02:10 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

With regard to grading, I agree with you. I taught at the university for several years, and was considered one of the harder graders. While I agree that not everything deserves an A or a B (something the students didn't seem to understand), there is no objective, or accepted, measure of what makes music good or bad.

Also, not that I am grading against all of released music. To grade only against SD releases, is crazy. Gaucho may be one of my favorite (and one of the better) albums of all-time, but I wouldn't put it in the top 5 of the SD catalog. Does that mean it should get a C? Preposterous.

If we are grading on a curve (as we really must in this case, I think), a "B" is 80%. 11TOW is better than AT LEAST 80% of what is released in "pop music", these days. The crap I see getting 4-stars from writers (fucking Madonna?) is embarrassing.

And, I stand by my earlier statement that the songs on 11TOW are quite good. Fine material, simply in need of some production help, deserves the recognition that it is fine material. My advice...listen to (DO NOT WATCH) this again:

http://youtube.com/watch?v=vZPGYzB_YFI

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 13:01:06 ET
Posted by: a passin' stranger, here

"They really filled a void during the times that the Dan was not touring and we miss seeing our left coast friends perform. My favorite was always Hank Easton’s guitar playing on Haitian Divorce – a song at that time SD had not performed live. His voice box thing ala Peter Frampton was great to listen to."

Big Fan! When I first heard Steely Dan on the radio, it was their song Haitian Divorce and it came after Peter Frampton's Show Me The Way. Those two songs are glued together since. Very funny you mentioning it as a whole here.

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 12:59:35 ET
Posted by: Remember When Steely Dan Was Actually "Steely"?, The Office

Happy Friday All!

I found this quite enjoyable this morning! -

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hD4rqYOx9PY

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 12:57:04 ET
Posted by: Krammy, Vermont

Dear Raven -

Kranny: What do ya mean by "you can forgive and forget anything these guys do live"? Can you please elaborate a bit, or am I missing part of a thread somewhere? RVN
__________________________________

Guess what i meant... was that we forgive/overlook the little things (tempo-who is singing lead- different versions of tunes - pitch - sound etc..) becauz we are stark raving fans and are just incredibly happy that these guys are still putting out great product and touring...my son, on the other hand, was like "Dad why does this sound so different than the song??" HE and his generation are,at 14, the "keepers of the flame" for SD muisic to go strong into the next generation, he really loves a lot of this what he labels "easy listening" music, so HE wanted to hear the songs (which he said some where) exactly like the record. This amazing catalog of music needs legs (zappa does zappa being exactly what i'm talking about) to keep it going and bring it forward, face it, this is a "boomer" crowd in here (45-65)- our collective enthusiasm is as strong as our yrs are wanning---peace out my dan brothers and sisters till next time..krammy

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 12:49:37 ET
Posted by: Keppler,

To the dean

agree with your list but you need to move 11TOW way further down. it is not even close to Kamakiriad and comes in dead last.

And not everyone needs to get B's and A's, that's why grading goes from A to F. The country is being ruined by that philosophy-grade inflation-which passes teachers that can't teach and students that haven't learned.

Johannes

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 12:01:40 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Solist,

Just read your post (and glad to see you also used spaces to represent the relative space between albums). Don't agree, but that's to be expected.

Just a couple of quick things: Maxine is fucking BEAUTIFUL! It certainly isn't typical (and cynical), but that doesn't mean it is schmaltzy. Even if there is some schmaltz, it doesn't make it bad. It proves that Donald has range in the kind of songs he can master.

11 TOW isn't shitty. I agree that, it is the least of the solos efforts (or official studio Dan efforts), but I have found (after coming back to it a year ago) it is actually pretty damn good. The songs are strong. I think it would be a great album if Walt had the same band and production team on it, that he had on C$.

Overall, I'd give Nightfly an "A+" (every song is strong, and it might be the best sounding album of all time). OTOH, now I'd give 11 TOW a "B" (good songs with some terrific playing, but the vocals and production need some work).

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 11:51:45 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Raj is the resident poet, so we can forgive him the occasional outlandish hyperbole.

For Walter to sing Wu, they would have to change more than the key, I think. The range is too big for Walter's comfort, I'm guessing. Unlike Gaucho, the song would likely sound quite different with Becker at the mike.

But, while Donald has said they won't do Wu, he never said it was because it couldn't, or didn't want, to sing it. He can sing it. He doesn't think it is an effective live song. He doesn't like it live. Case close, dontcha think?

Dr Wu, as for ranking the solos efforts, I think they are all quite good but would rank them, today, thusly:

Nightfly

Morph
C$

Kama
11 TOW

I'm liking C$ more all the time, so it could move up. But, I'm also liking Morph more, too. In fact, I'm liking all of them more, all the time. :#)

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 11:42:43 ET
Posted by: Soloist,

Wu

Never heard of "Cirucs" Money, but if you mean CirCus Money, we still need to listen some more. And you need to go back and listen to the others again, you'd be surprised how the experience differs when you have been away for awhile.

11 Tracks of Whack is undoubtably the Worst. So that leaves a four record field of competition of the three DF solos sandwiched in between 11 Tracks and CirCus Money, if you believe CirCus Money is the best.

Now, it is not a given that Nightfly is #1, since the schmaltzy Raindrops and Maxine, 25% of the record heavily weigh it down. However IGY, NF and the title track strongly counteract those deficiencies. Therefore, it can be no lower than #3, and it most likely sits at at least #2. If Nightfly is #1, it is not a STRONG #1 in as much as 11 Tracks is a WEAK #5.

Kama, although at a high level overall, musically it is the most consistent of the solos. No really high peaks, and no low lows. It is a solid #3, probably #2, but it can be no lower than #4 because of the abyssmal 11 Tracks.

Morph is the Wild Card in the deck. Some people rave, some are lukewarm. Most of the raving came after it first came out in 2006, people were swept up in the excitement. It has a few high highs, such as What I Do and Brite Nitegown but not many low lows. But the songs drag out too much. So depending on how much you like Morph, it most likely can never be ranked #1, but it can be no lower than #4
because of the shitty 11 Tracks.

YOU FOLLOWING ALL OF THIS? Still awake?

CirCus Money really stands an excellent chance to be in at least the Top 3 of the solos, it could be #2, but most likely #3.

From Worst to First, the rankings are not evenly spaced and are proportioned to how good, overall each record is:

5. 11 Tracks

4. Morph

3. CirCus Money
2. Kama

1. Nightfly

SUMMARY:

CirCus Money has a good ways to go before, or IF it ever catches Nightfly. But at the very least it is clearly in a tight race for second with Kama, as of June 27, 2008. And, as the ranking shows, Walter can go to his grave secure in the knowledge that CirCus Money is a HUGE fugging improvement over 11 Tracks.

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 11:35:58 ET
Posted by: Lets bounty out, on Rajah

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 10:02:19 ET
Posted by: John Walsh, AMW

"hey, maybe Walter is the, "new," voice of Steely Dan."

Rajah - I really think you've been on the run to long. It's time to come home and face the music.

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 09:50:29 ET
Posted by: SS, HK

The only one on record saying no to Dr. Wu is DF, no ?

They'd change the key to have WB sing it, but his voice would be fine for that lyric.

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 09:35:35 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, blah blah blah

I think it is really funny that some people dont understand that they will never play Dr. Wu...

Anyways... quick question:

Do you guys think that Cirucs Money takes the prize for best solo album, or does Nightfly still hold that position?

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 09:28:23 ET
Posted by: raven, laptop treetop

Kranny: What do ya mean by "you can forgive and forget anything these guys do live"? Can you please elaborate a bit, or am I missing part of a thread somewhere? RVN

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 09:22:45 ET
Posted by: Big Fan, back at work

My wife was cleaning out a closet recently and found a matchbox from the now defunct La Bar Bat – picked up at one of the Steely Dammed shows for sure. So it was really coincidental that I saw an article online in the San Diego paper yesterday with a nice write up about them. They really filled a void during the times that the Dan was not touring and we miss seeing our left coast friends perform. My favorite was always Hank Easton’s guitar playing on Haitian Divorce – a song at that time SD had not performed live. His voice box thing ala Peter Frampton was great to listen to. Bernard Pretty Purdie sitting in on drums was always a hoot - his little sign "You have now hired the hitmaker" always made me laugh. You’ll have to scroll down for the interview.

http://www.sandiegoreader.com/weblogs/bands/2008/jun/26/george-michaels-penis-commando-performance-ina38aa/

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 08:23:28 ET
Posted by: CrimsonTide, Motown

Sure, Let Walter take a crack at WU. Just play the song! WU! WU! WU!

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 07:32:30 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

Well, of course, Donald remains forever the voice of Steely Dan but, hey, maybe Walter is the, "new," voice of Steely Dan. How about that? He gets a lot of help from the girls but so does Donald...and he needs it. Pipes don't last forever. Gaucho as sung by Walter is a stroke of genius, the lyric is personal, uncomfortable, painful even and it seems that while Donald tends to shy away from that sort of stuff, Walter is pretty much fearless in that regard. So, that seems to be a pretty good working model there. Some of my dyed-in-the-wool rock fans criticize SD for, "mailing it in," or just generally being pretty bloodless about their performance. Cold, sterile, you know, fill in the blanks there. But it's just not true, like that young woman said so brilliantly on the Plush video when interviewed outside Sony Studios, their music has a lot of heart. Could be you have to have one to appreciate it.

Let's hear Wally have a crack at Dr. Wu...

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 05:04:39 ET
Posted by: Reidar (Radar), Norway, near the northpole!

Back from 14 days in NYC and I'm exhausted. The six shows at The Beacon were marvelous as many has already written. If I counted rigt they played about 24 or 25 different song during the six shows and thats good enough for me. I had a great time in NYC and met some wonderful people on my way, both at the shows and everywhere else in the city. A very big thanks to The Bitter End people for the great party, it was awesome and a pleassure to attend and will always live in my memory.
I more or less can guarentee for you people who are going to this summers shows that you'll have a great time, I would have loved to more shows but six shows isn't bad for me. I have to hope for a European tour maybe next year.
To all Dan fans all around the world, I wish you a very pleasent summer and thank you New York City for a wonderful stay and everlasting memory! I hope I'll be back someday.

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 00:15:40 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Mr. Clean,

That was outfuckingstanding! God DAMN can Carlock play. My only (small) complaint, is I couldn't hear Herrington well enough, in the mix. Young did a real nice job on the vocals, too.

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 00:15:15 ET
Posted by: krammy,

ok...so i bow to the mighty "holder of the key" concerning Mr. B and the gaucho discussion, i mean who am i, i just show up the day of and day after a show once every couple years...the best point being that if you are part of "this" fraternity you can forgive and forget anything these guys do live... just revel in the fact that they bring all these amazing recordings to us with a great band... the other point being that Uncle Don should get a break from all the vocal chores AND this is his buddy.... BUT (sorry, it's just my nature) the folks here are rabid fans, my son and that other persons daughter are the "new" generation of dan fans, and we all want their incredible contribution to continue for ever, right? And when my son said "why didn't the keyboard player sing that?" S no need for all of us to be too snooty...Lastly, when looking at the video, it was clear that the girls sang unison with him through much of the tune

Date: Fri, June 27, 2008, 00:05:09 ET
Posted by: cj, in Rudys getting high

I need danfest for Chicago

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 23:48:42 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, @home

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MSOpUMjWZ8s&NR=1

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 23:35:24 ET
Posted by: Cheech ,

Joey you remain ...... forever a moron

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 22:55:45 ET
Posted by: Joey,

" I'm with you. Given the overall poor audio quality of that clip, Walter sounds pretty good. I'll wait for the up-close-and-personal version before passing final judgment, though. "

Amen My Steelian kin ...................

BEST WALTER BECKER YET !!!!!!

I remain ...... forever .... your Joey

J.

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 22:35:47 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Typo trouble

Of course I meant "And now, holy cripes, turns out Wally is also one."

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 22:33:56 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Raj,

I think it's probably true that Donald is thrilled with Walter's "emergence". I don't think Walt or Don have much ego/jealousy when it comes to their musical partner.

But I have to strongly disagree with this statement: "And now, holy cripes, turns out Wally's the one." OTOH, I would agree with this statement: "And now, holy cripes, turns out Wally's is also one."

Donald is still the better and more versatile singer, of the two, and remains the voice of Steely Dan. Even Walter agrees with that.

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 22:27:38 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Daddy G -

Thanks for the info about the
ERRATUM over at WB.com.
I knew I wasn't losing my mind.
I kept telling myself, "There
is no way that Carolyn is doing
all of those parts by herself,
especially on Darkling Down!"
So I guess some of us now have
highly prized collectors editions?

Or as our Aussie friend bullgoose
would say, "You have a Penny Black!"

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 22:24:10 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

I've played the Gaucho clip from U Tube countless times now and please know I've studied it carefully. Walter, he's just brilliant. He's captured the essence of the song. I'm...Jesus, I'm shocked at his performance. Recall what a terrible voice the Great Satchmo had? But he sang from his heart and that is the most essential element of singing, or speaking, or indeed let me offer most humbly, of living. It don't mean a thing if it ain't got that thing. Walter has really crossed over into a heightened level of performance. The true voice of Steely Dan has finally emerged, full-blown from its half-shell, I just couldn't be more pleased. Especially for Donald. I can only imagine what a great satisfaction it must be for him to see his friend and confidant step forward like this, really now, let's just be honest, after being in the shadows all these years while Donald danced. And now, holy cripes, turns out Wally's the one.

More from Walter must be heard...

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 21:26:56 ET
Posted by: alan, back in the land of oz

Hello one and all

Well I am finally ovah the jet lag and just wanted to check in with some thoughts about the Beacon shows this past week.

Firstly I want to say that I have been very privileged to see Steely Dan/Donald Fagen some 25 times since 2003 (which isn't a bad effort for a boy from OZ) and all I can say is this current line up is and sounds bloody HOT !

To hear songs like The Royal Scam, Glamour Profession, Green Earrings, Everything You Did and Gaucho just blew me away. I know Walter sounds a little flat sometimes but he has a style all of his own. You either like it or you hate it but there is no use bitchin about it.

Big shout out to Pete and Shari for organising the Bitter End gig.
To have the opportunity to see Jon and Jeff with their own bands doing their own stuff was something else and then to have Keith, Tom, Cindy etc get up and jam was ffffing incredible and all of this for a lousy $10.00 You can't get much better value than that !

I have to agree with Prez Logic, NYC is an amazing place and it was great hooking up with a such a great bunch of dedicated fans and I look forward to the next tour( whenever that may be ) when we can all meet together again.

Special thanks should also go out to fife and Gretchen for organising a great Danfest prior to Saturday nights show, and to all those who attended it was a pleasure to meet you; LWO who once again came through with some great party favours and Ed Beatty ( I think ) for getting the limo to get all us inebriated folks back to our hotels after the Bitter End.

And finally to hoops, thanks mate, I don't know what we would do without your efforts.

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 21:12:01 ET
Posted by: steelydoc, near the Tower

was Walter in his usual spot last night, or did he move to the DF side?

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 19:40:27 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., NJ

I also now see that the C$ graphics page includes the main page "blurb crawl" for folks to grab and put up wherever (as per the usual recommendations posted there)...

http://www.walterbecker.com/cmelements.html

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 19:30:08 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., NJ

Note on the lyrics/creds page re DC, DD, & GEV...
_______________________

ERRATUM: An early North American production run of the printed jewel case booklet omitted the last credit lines of these three songs. Correct and complete credits are on this page, in all downloaded pdf packages, and in all subsequent production runs. Our apologies for the error.
_______________________

Looks like in all cases a name or two was left off the list of background vocalists.

Does this mean my edition is now worth more as a "collectible" because is proves it was one of the first ones minted? Oh well, I'm still not parting with it.

:-)

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 19:09:16 ET
Posted by: Former Uncle Bob,

1. There was indeed a wonderful Boston Danfest in the lobby of the Westin Hotel down the street from the show.

2. There are Danfests planned for Camden, Atlantic City, Denver, Chicago, and presumably Houston.

Time for Danfest page to come back.

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 19:05:28 ET
Posted by: V, Minneapolis

Have I missed any discussion about a Danfest before the July Chicago show? I'm traveling from Minnesota, so I'd rather spend my pre-show time hanging out with other fans instead of watching HBO at the hotel.

Thanks!
-V

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 19:01:53 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

Daddy G,

The lyrics weren't there yesterday. Thanks for the heads-up.

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 18:56:00 ET
Posted by: Shave, Boston

First time posting... Just found this site after I saw Steely Dan in Boston last Monday evening. Wish I had hooked up with ya a long time ago. I'm still reeling from the show. Had awesome seats (40th bday gift from my wife). I am getting off on their set list more every day I think about it. Kicking back this evening with some Scotch... New Frontier was absolutely incredible! The whole set was incredible! One of the few concert experiences where I now crave the live version to the studio versions I usually listen to. Unbelievable... I just signed up for the digest. Hope there is a Danfest next time around!

Cheers,

Shave
Boston, MA

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 18:52:00 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., NJ

Hey, when did they post the full lyrics and credits? I hadn't checked for updates for a little while and just now noticed it. Nothing for D"ark Horse Dub" yet, though...

http://www.walterbecker.com/cmtracks.html

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 18:47:47 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Joey,

I'm with you. Given the overall poor audio quality of that clip, Walter sounds pretty good. I'll wait for the up-close-and-personal version before passing final judgment, though.

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 18:46:44 ET
Posted by: JanetBee, New York

Gaucho works so well with Walter that it's the song I find going through my head the most after three shows...

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 18:45:36 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

Wlm,

The link works. Thanks

King Tubby looks like Tracy Morgan (or vice-versa).

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 18:37:24 ET
Posted by: Joey,

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4dHUz-yL26Q

Nice . Go Walter !!!

Thanks .....

Great Stuff !!!!

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 18:35:23 ET
Posted by: EightStrings, Toronto

Hey all,

Is anyone going to Montreal? Are there any Danfests in the works before/after the shows?

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 18:00:47 ET
Posted by: Wlm, BC

Nice pictures at
http://www.flickr.com/photos/hernanhernandez/2597379054/

Saw the one showing the picture screen across Becker's amp. Someone posted the question who was this? It's King Tubby. (don't know if this monster link will work but here it is):

http://www.plong.com/MusicCatalog%5CK%5CKing%20Tubby%20-%20King%20Tubby's%20Rastafari%20Dub%20(1974%20-%201979)%5CKing%20Tubby%20-%20King%20Tubby's%20Rastafari%20Dub%20(1974%20-%201979).jpg

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 17:08:19 ET
Posted by: Gaucho Works with Walter?,

Hey Dean>>>>

Why wait? -

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4dHUz-yL26Q

Who let the dogs out?

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 17:02:54 ET
Posted by: prez logic, a week late and a few dollars short

A few dandom thoughts after a week on the road...NYC was awesome, and it was great to see everyone again. Special thanks to Fast Eddy and LWO for always making sure that I am taken care of, and Girl Margaret for being "the great facilitator". Wake me up before you Woogo...

IMHO Gaucho works with Walter, a pleasant surprise indeed. Speaking of Mr. Becker, does anyone else remember he and the girls being off a bit on "the Cuervo Gold" Saturday? And, the Bitter End was an all access awesome experience, well worth the trip to the big apple. Thanks again Pete! Thanks to South of Hollywood for the ride too...Especially nice to meet Lady Bayside, Fife, and others that my blood alcohol level then and fatigue now prohibit me from remembering...

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 16:15:35 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

I have yet to hear Walter sing Gaucho, but according to EVERY account from those whose taste I respect, he sounds really good singing it. I tend to pay little attention to those with ever-changing handles.

If, after I hear it (hopefully) on July 11th, I think he does it poorly, I will amend my opinion. Right now, Gaucho trumps "something off of C$". Door #2, indeed.

As much as I like Walter's voice, I don't think he's equipped to sing Dr. Wu...at least not properly.

Denise...done!

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 16:14:51 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., NJ

John in nyc, thanks for the Sirius Walter reports! Sounds like a hoot.

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 15:46:24 ET
Posted by: nevermind,

Sorry, I just realized it was for Borgata

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 15:45:30 ET
Posted by: would you care to explain, please

Steelydoc - I just looked up a seating chart for Camden and don't see a 400 section, only 100's and 200's.

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 15:34:04 ET
Posted by: steelydoc, near the Borgata

I have one extra ticket for tomorrow at the Borgata in AC
section 400
row 13
seat 6

really close seat! on the DF side...

face value: $95 plus fees

will sell for $85 flat no fees and will throw in some SD goodies from my basement

will deliver to you at the Borgata

email steelydoc AT mac DOTTT com

or try steelydoc AT aol DOTT com

or call my cell 610 613 0565

thanks!!

Doc

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 15:07:38 ET
Posted by: Joey,

" I guess the real question is would you rather hear Walter sing Gaucho, or not hear Gaucho at all? "

I would rather hear Walter sing ' Dr. Wu ' ........

.....and you's ?!

Developing ........................

I remain ...... forever ....... your Joey

J. Fly

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 14:55:21 ET
Posted by: Brutus Charisma,

Wow - SD's doing "Gaucho" in D major (the original recorded version is in F major) - a minor 3rd down from the original!!! Sounds kinda weird - perfect for Wriggly Waltress.

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 14:54:50 ET
Posted by: Gurber Baby,

Hey Raj - The best thing about Joey is when SD isn't touring he doesn't post here. At least that's one positive.

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 14:48:34 ET
Posted by: Joey,

" Plus he loves the Rajahneesh of Capeesh to distraction and that only goes to show that he bears the soul of true genius.

As ever, I nuzzle you warmly, my J. "

Rajah ...... you are much loved by Joey .

Joeykins ! ™

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 14:47:29 ET
Posted by: Denise, Hinktown cubicle

Vote for C$ on NPR's Take the Poll: Best CDs of the Year (So Far)

http://www.npr.org/blogs/allsongs/2008/06/take_the_poll_best_cds_of_the.html#commentform

It is not on the list, but you can write it in by placing a comment on the blog.

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 14:38:43 ET
Posted by: Lars,

I guess the real question is would you rather hear Walter sing Gaucho, or not hear Gaucho at all?

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 14:38:43 ET
Posted by: Freddie G, Hartford, CT

Die hard Dan Fan. Part time Drummer, sometimes known as "Stix" or the G-Man.

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 14:11:12 ET
Posted by: Wha?????????????,

You would rather hear Walter do "Gaucho" than something from "C$"?????
Don't get me wrong. I love Walter and his limited singing. BUT HE BUTCHERS Gaucho. That why C$ is so great. Every tune uses his voice
wisely and plays on the strengths.

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 14:07:00 ET
Posted by: steelymike77, philly

yo Raven!

Ill try to stop by. I gotta see what the woman wants to do though. Hope to see you at the Jolly roger Flag. And I have never had a bad experience with Parking there.

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 13:55:04 ET
Posted by: Sandman, zzzzzzzzz

Dean- You can't handle the truth!

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 13:12:55 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Sorry. I just got it.

I will stop feeding the troll.

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 13:03:51 ET
Posted by: Fife, Florida Bound

Man it sounds like I'm missing one hell of a show.
LWO, JanetBee, NYC will always have a special place in my heart. The whole weekend was just fucking amazing (for those that are 18 and under please replace f**king with truly) Didn't lose a thing though Alan will tell you I was constantly checking to make sure I had everything. I think I drove him nuts.
Janet is was just meant to be, eh. Dandom has offered many of us some really great friendships and really good times.
Nothing better in life then a Danlove fest. Whoohoo!

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 13:03:39 ET
Posted by: Sandman, zzzzzzzzz

Dean- You're right. Bashing Sam is really not right. We should be bashing Steely Dan for choosing them to open. Booking Sam's trio as an opener is a sure fire way of them not getting up-staged.

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 13:02:55 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

Yeah, seems Walter is taking the piss out of certain tunes, I think it's all in good fun.

Now, for that certain person who keeps ragging on My Joey, My Starlight, My Joy, My Beemish Boy, the Angel of My Heart, back off, bitch. Our Joey is inviolate and woe to anyone who seeks to bedraggle his pristine clarion call into the muck and mire of their own unavailability to the monde of the absurd.

He's our treasure and please do not fuck with what you can't appreciate.

Plus he loves the Rajahneesh of Capeesh to distraction and that only goes to show that he bears the soul of true genius.

As ever, I nuzzle you warmly, my J.

The Who? Well, they were...OK...

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 12:54:37 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

I certainly understand wanting to hear more Dan, and not an opening act. But, that is unlikely to be the case for most shows, so the point is moot, I think. It's easy to avoid that disappointment....don't show up until he is finished and spare yourself the pain of listening to great music.

Bashing Sam because he is an opener really isn't fair, IMO. I prefer his Trio to Michal McDonald's opening set...and I liked that fine, too. Would I prefer no opener? Certainly. Next...

Fife, I'm with you re: Walter singing. I have NEVER minded when he has taken a song in concert. But, I have to say that, until C$, I never realized how good his voice really was. As I have said before, the vocals are a strength of that album.

As much as I have come to really like C$, I prefer to hear Gaucho to anything off Walter's new one. Gaucho is one of the (many) great Dan songs that I have not heard live. It's a no-brainer, as far as I am concerned.

LWO, I also really like most of Walter's choices. A couple just have to be jokes, though

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 12:52:29 ET
Posted by: Little Wild One,

I, too, have to defend our Walter on Gaucho. It was the highlight of both of the shows I saw in NYC! The other one I can't get out of my head is New Frontier..it sounded so much richer and vibrant than on the Fagen solo tour.

So many wonderful memories of the last week that it is hard to pick one or even two. Fife, I'm glad that you ended up with the C$ poster. I know it will look fabulous in the "shrine." Gretchen, sorry about your phone and thanks for the kind words. Hope everyone else made it home safely without too many casualties (me: I only lost sunglasses, a sweater and a cell phone charger...oh, and my voice for about 3 days.)

It was great to get together with the old crew and meet some new friends, too. Too many thank yous to mention here, but we keep coming back for more, so I guess that says something about the calibur of the funn!

Loving Walter's guest dj picks, although more than a few seem to be in the Sarcastic - Zone. Moonlight Feels Right!

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 12:51:26 ET
Posted by: LZ, CT

Front row loge, center sounded good to me. Makes me wonder why Chris said it sucked and gave no details. Except for the jackass in the burnt orange polo behind us who had the gall to poke my daughter, at her first SD show, hard in the back and told her she had to "sit back in her seat", we had a great time. How dare this jerk think he could tell her what to do. He couldn't see over a 5 ft tall 13 year old!?

She had a great time watching Carlock, so maybe I've done my bit for the world and signed up on more danfan!!

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 12:49:59 ET
Posted by: John , nyc

Larry Klein just called walter and said take a little yellow pill and have a machiato to get through the 70's playlist.

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 12:40:09 ET
Posted by: John, NYC

...more from Walter on Sirius:

Ghetto Child - The Spinners
Kodachrome - Paul Simon
Take my breath away - Rex Smith

This seems very tongue in cheek...his choices and his comments....

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 12:32:56 ET
Posted by: JanetBee, New York

Hi Fife! SO great to meet you this past weekend. I too loved Walter on Gaucho but he's definitely an acquired taste and I find even some of the diehards just aren't used to him. But yes, his new cd is GREAT!

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 12:31:20 ET
Posted by: krammy, vt

In Regards to "Sam the jazz man" and the opening act flurry.
I appreciate,play and love jazz...all kinds...i'm not a jazz snob, or a music critic, i just like what i like...bottom line is...in the right venue (some club in the village) Sam & co. would be terrific---having them open for Dan in a 5000 seat room, that is not sold out, with low energy anyway, is simply, the wrong move... you are 100% right...SD picked them, and probably becuz of their connection with ML & WW, but that does not vindicate their choice in opening acts- quite frankly they have NEVER needed one, it is simply used to test mic levels...and really who the heck cares anyway...no one writing in here is gonna lose sleep and i haven't heard from either walt defending their choice..oh yeah, my son tried to get on stage and get a closer look at don's leopard skin tissue box and was told to quickly hit the road!

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 12:30:52 ET
Posted by: Here's To Hoping!,

I hope they never update the Special Guest List! I hope they scrap the opening act for the rest of the tour! Yahel = Snooze!
And why they are at it, scrap Gaucho and why not have Walter Becker
sing something from HIS NEW ALBUM!

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 12:27:50 ET
Posted by: john , nyc

Walter said he cant stand to hear steely songs so he wont be playing any now he is playing Evil Ways - Santana....

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 12:26:38 ET
Posted by: ziva david, ncis

Walter has to be joking.

right Jethro?

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 12:25:39 ET
Posted by: Fife, Florida Bound

I really love Walter singing Gaucho, I think he owns it. I realize that is not the case for some which is fine but have you given Circus Money a shot yet? I'm totally addicted to it and Walter's voice. I wish he had sung some more at the shows. He was terrific last year when he sang Haitian Divorce, the dirty bird! I also love the fact that he's totally honest about his singing abilities but he sure does love to sing. Kudos to him.
Walter you got to do a few solo shows in NYC Mr.Sam and I would scoop up tickets right away.
Fife

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 12:21:10 ET
Posted by: john, nyc

walter sirius....

Moonlight feels right - Starbuck

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 12:17:30 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

John,

Please do. I'm interested to see what he plays, this time.

Mer, thanks for the tip. I will check it out. I must say, though, I am often puzzled by what some people think is similar to SD(or, interesting for Dan fans, etc). I have hear some people talk up the merits of Wilco and Coldplay (and My Morning Jacket and such). I never got any of those. I just saw Coldplay on The Daily Show and they sucked. As boring and non-Danish as it gets. IMO, of course. But, because I have a lot of respect for a person who "gets" the Dan, I try to check out their recommendations.

Zzzz, and others, too bad you don't appreciate Sam Yahel Trio. These guys were hand-picked by Don and Walt, to open for them. I thought they were terrific, last year...a very compatible opener for Steely Dan. I can only surmise that those who bash them simply aren't jazz fans, or are limited in their appreciation of straight jazz. I can't wait to hear what they sound like with WW and ML jamming along. That is, if they open for the band on July 11th. When is sd.com going to update the guest list?

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 12:10:24 ET
Posted by: john, nyc

Walter's playlist so far on sirius:

Family Affair - sly stone
afternoon delight - starland band
low rider - war

He said he will be playing songs from the letter S to Z.

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 12:06:25 ET
Posted by: enough, baby talk

I wish it would make Joey go away.

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 12:05:26 ET
Posted by: Joey,

" My friends and I were walking back to our car when we were attacked by a group of these locals for no apparent reason!! I was left with multiple deep scratches across my face while another friend was bitten badly on her nipple. There were no police in sight until one of us got a way to get help . When she did reach a police officer he wouldn't leave his post ...better yet don't got the TWEETER CENTER!!!!!!! "

This makes Joey Scared !!!!

Shiver .....................

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 11:59:42 ET
Posted by: John , nyc

i will keep a list of what walter plays if anyone is interested?

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 11:58:13 ET
Posted by: Mer., Boston

Re: other music (could there be?). Some Steely fans might enjoy Citizen Cope (Clarence Greenwood). He has a rich, soulfoul voice and creates some interesting stories and characters with his music and lyrics. I heard him featured on NPR years ago, and went right out and bought one of his CDs (has has 3).I've never seen him live and actually never knew he toured until I checked the status of my SD tickets and saw he was playing locally. He's at the Hampton Beach Casino tomorrow night. Very talented artist IMHO.

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 11:56:38 ET
Posted by: John, nyc

Walter on Sirius NOW>>>>>>>>>>

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 11:36:23 ET
Posted by: Sandman, zzzzzzzzz

Dr. Wu- Like father like son

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 11:30:22 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Still on a high from blah blah blah...

Sandman...

Judging from that little comment... you are kinda a douche, arn't ya??

So I guess King of the World has not been played. That's a shame, it's an amazing song. I love the hi hats on it.

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 11:12:32 ET
Posted by: Sandman, zzzzzzzzzzz

Dr. Wu- Daddy was wrong about King Of The World

Krammy - "snorefest" LOL! The Sam Yahel band is BORING! I said that last year. It's like hearing a live band in a elevator. Better to not have an opener at all.

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 11:00:10 ET
Posted by: stocelloman, DC

Goin to the Borgata Concert tomorrow night. I am absolutely psyched. Anyone else gonna be there?

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 10:46:29 ET
Posted by: krammy, vt

IF u were at the CT show, you must have seen my 14 yr old son...stuck out like a lightbulb...love that kid..he had on pasted tight black jeans- tall...hair completely in his face..- anyway he said "why are people drinking so much, they won't even remember being here, its not a fuckin red sox game, it's a concert!" good observation.
NEG- Agree some with the mean writer from Cape Cod on some points and some from a former poster. I love walt & don and they have been my heros for yrs...the woody allen's of rock..
For what it's worth - lose the opening act, "the B3 player said "thanks for indulging us" and that's what it was, a snorefest and takes away form the excitment of the SD band by having 2 members out playing in this dribble -- the review about changing the songs...i kind of agree with...i'm sure they are sik to death of doing dead-on, off the record versions of their songs since 1992, a little diversion and jamming are fine, but black friday with a chicago back beat shuffle vs. a rockin "in your face" pushin' groove, did not work - Bring back the 3rd girl, they need that extra layering and the keyboard player was not covering that 3rd part--no need to take a beautiful song like Gaucho and "throw walt a bone" by having him sing it...that's just not needed, and i have read it over and over again on this site ---and the "gitfiddle doodoling" by Walt, for God's sake please stop..it fits on some things, but when u have someone like herrington...USE him
POS+ Fagen's voice (not his suit jacket!) best i have ever heard him, pitch was dead on--carlock was a joy..he was recording at the same studio i am recording at in vt, so i got to see him work a little, he knows his stuff in the studio, but he comes alive on stage (sorry for the indirect name drop)-- My son had never heard show biz kids and couldn't wait to download it, i loved that version--i agree with a lot of you that ..man it would be great to hire them for a private party and be able to write their set list!
Thanks to the "keeper of the gate" for this fantastic outlet for Dan fans...as my son said on the way out "Dad, that was AWESOME!"

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 10:32:05 ET
Posted by: Chip, Cleveland

Heard Any Major Dude in Cleveland, Blossom Music Center

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 10:04:46 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Still on a high from blah blah blah...

Anyone notice that it is mainly most of the songs from the first 3 albums (and half of Katy Lied) and almost nothing NOT played from the last 5 albums...

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 10:02:52 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Still on a high from blah blah blah...

That list of songs not played ever would make an AMAZING setlist!

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 09:41:25 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Still on a high from Petty but in grieving now because of George Carlin

Ok... I might be wrong.

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 09:35:47 ET
Posted by: Dan Belcher, Louisville, KY

Pretty sure King of the World hasn't been on the setlist since 1974.

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 09:29:45 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Still on a high from Petty but in grieving now because of George Carlin

King of the World was played during the Everything Must Go Tour, right? My dad saw that one and it's what he told me...

Any setlist from yesterday??

I had a dream yesterday where I met Fagen at a Dan concert and he needed to move his car. I asked him if I moved it for him would he play Dr. Wu... and he said No.

It is not meant to be...

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 08:59:56 ET
Posted by: steelyfez, CT-NYC

Yeah Dan I wasn't sure about that one but I think that you are right
I did not include the bootlegs in the list either.

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 08:57:17 ET
Posted by: Dan Belcher, Louisville, KY

steelyfez, Any Major Dude actually was done during the '96 tour I believe.

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 08:50:21 ET
Posted by: steelyfez--- bored at work, CT-NYC

was just going through each dan album and came up with a pretty accurate list of what has NOT been played live since the early 90s Steely Dan rebirth has taken place.
Feel free to correct me if I missed any.

Barrytown
Through With Buzz
With A Gun
Charlie Freak
Any Major Dude
Rose Darling
Dr. Wu (sound check doesn't count)
Your Gold Teeth II
Throw Back The Little Ones
Razor Boy
Your Gold Teeth
Pearl Of The Quarter
King Of The World
Kings
Only A Fool Would Say That
Fire In The Hole
Brooklyn
Change Of The Guard
Turn That Heartbeat Over Again
My Rival
Negative Girl
Green Book

I counted The Fez because its part of the instrumental this year.

I did not include the solo projects from either Becker or Fagen in the list.

Enjoy.

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 08:45:39 ET
Posted by: Raven--Twice as Nice, Assateague

To the Steely Dan Orchestra RE: Camden

1) Hold down left mouse button and scroll down to bottom of setlist proposal below.
2) After the songs are highlighted, RIGHT Click. Select “PRINT”
3) Take your copy and autograph it. Put on floor at your feet on stage at Camden, follow along during performance.
4) Light man, re-configure the light programming; Michael L-- crumple setlist and use for a mute.
5) Play songs and have fun! Do a shout out to the Motorhome Mavens.
6) Smile, you all are baaaad to the bone and cute too.
6) At end of show, fold up setlist into paper airplanes and fly your plane into the pit area.
7) Take a chill.

Make Believe Setlist for Camden—for PRINT OUT:

Instrumental Overture (Everyone's Gone to the Movies/The Fez)
Band intro by Walter
The Royal Scam
I Got the News
Showbiz Kids
Everything You Did
Two Against Nature
Hey Nineteen
Godwhacker
Babylon Sisters
New Frontier
Gaucho
Don’t Take Me Alive
Parker's Band
Glamour Profession
Green Earrings
Itching in my Heart (Supremes)
Peg, Aja or Janie Runaway

Encore:
Kid Charlemagne
My Old School

Ravin' Maven

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 08:23:01 ET
Posted by: Raven, fearless in Camden , Bring it on.

Note: a few reviews of Camden parking--
________________________________________
Marc Steel (6/20/08)wrote:

Dear Susquehanna Bank Center: Thank you for making it literally impossible to get water last night. When you stop selling beer (about an hour into the headlining act) you don't also have to stop selling water. People need water, especially when they have been drinking and need to get home.. . . To be fair, when they stopped selling beer, you could get water from the concession stands on the ground, but it was taking about 30 minutes. . . . we were told all that was being sold was "chicken and soda." . . . Not only is it dangerous to not have simple access to safe water, it's just bad business. . . . to spend $5 on a bottle of water poured into a cup. . . .
_________________________________________

User Reviews for Susquehanna Bank Center
Watch your back!!! 07/23/2007 Posted by skhan920

. . . the drinks are way over -priced . . . but lets just say the city of Camden, NJ IS NOT A PRIME CONCERT VENUE FOR PEOPLE WHO VALUE THEIR LIVES!! FYI: the county prison is located across from the tweeter parking and apparently locals stand outside of it at night waiting to see their loved ones through the windows of the prison. My friends and I were walking back to our car when we were attacked by a group of these locals for no apparent reason!! I was left with multiple deep scratches across my face while another friend was bitten badly on her nipple. There were no police in sight until one of us got a way to get help . When she did reach a police officer he wouldn't leave his post and proceeded to call for patrol cars. Beware also of other shady parking lots near by, not worth the inevitable danger!! Just take the ferry if you'd like to avoid as minimal danger as possible...better yet don't got the TWEETER CENTER!!!!!!!
__________________________________________________________

What's in a Name??? 06/11/2002 Posted by elhombreloca

Been there a couple of times and found it enjoyable. Only objection is the outrageous prices for refreshment, but that is the norm at every venue. Not quite as comfortable as the Mann, and nowhere near as large a complex, has a GREAT view of the city from lawn seating, and good acoustics.

________________________________ :> :<< :>
Ok, now.

TO ALL brave warriors going to Camden--Steelydoc, SteelyMike, Steely Fifer, Are we gonna let them kick our tailfeathers? Any other ca- ca- capons out there NOT going, it's up to you. FYI

Pre-show, get together: We are meeting up at Jack's motorhome (with Jolly Roger freak flag) in main "gated" parking lot. We'll be arriving early, wingdinging away! Do come by! Do try to arrive early so you are not forced to park down the street in dirt, unsecured lots. Come on by! OR STAY the stay the fk home in your safe cubby hole. later, Ravin'

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 05:55:25 ET
Posted by: Big Fan, going back to bed

Setlist at at Wallingford – similar to Boston only they played Dr. Wu – sorry I couldn’t resist. Actually, they replaced Glamour Profession with Home at Last and only did one encore - typical of a CT show to get shorted a song. The crowd was very late getting to their seats. I could do without the Sam Yahel Organ Trio if it meant getting a second encore because the band felt it was getting late and they had a long trip in front of them.

This is the tightest band I’ve seen in a long time. Heard a lot of people complaining afterwards that they didn’t play Aja, My Old School, etc. To me last year was the old chestnut tour – it was really nice to hear some new songs. A milestone of sorts for me – my 15th show since 93 – so one a year. The instrumental overture was very reminiscent of the opening of those 93 shows.

Great seeing Jane Lightning and Al!!!! They were selling Beacon t-shirts – so I got one anyways. I took my 17 year old son – I think he listens to SD more than I do. His third concert – first at the former Oakdale – although SDs third. About 95% full - but certainly not a sellout. He’s off to UMaine in the fall, so this will be our last concert for awhile. Several reasons – a Wed night and their third time in CT in less than a year and their second time here. People not nearly as drunk as the Fri night show last year, except for the guy behind us screaming for Dr. Wu all night. I explained to my son that there is a group of dedicated fanatics that do this, although it’s becoming clear they will never play it. He had some altercation before the last song and had to leave with an injury. Sometime you do the Wu, sometimes the Wu does you. I believe someone had to call the Doctor.

Setlist:
Instrumental Overture (Everyone's Gone to the Movies/The Fez)
The Royal Scam
I Got the News
Showbiz Kids
Everything You Did
Two Against Nature
Hey Nineteen
Godwhacker
Babylon Sisters
New Frontier
Gaucho
Home at Last
Parker's Band - the girls
Josie
Black Friday
Itching in my Heart (Supremes)
Band intro by Walter
Peg
FM

Encore:
Kid Charlemagne

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 03:02:33 ET
Posted by: Corpsy V, Alligator County

re: brutus charisma, hm, you maybe right about Dean Parks' glissandering moves, but I still hears something that makes my eardrum twitch some on 2:24 and 2:25. if it is as you says, might be it's just the reverb (?) bouncing back instead of a glitch allowed to stick on the master reel etcetera.

re: the Black review. please don't let him spoil your own fun. the Blue here's often negative already (sorry for having to say this) without a reviewer pouring his acid on you. even if he's the one who might be reelin' in his own ego, the man's entitled to his view and opinion, freedom of speech and all that. best to ignore him and look for POSITIVE reviews and articles, right?

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/06/16/arts/music/16stee.html

http://www.flickr.com/photos/hernanhernandez/2597379054/
GREAT pictures

http://blogs.creativeloafing.com/tampacalling/2008/06/10/steely-dan-concert-was-a-gas/

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 03:00:00 ET
Posted by: the bullgoose, sweet home bonalbo australia

Tour time is here, bringing with it as it does excitement, belching corn-fed pisspot bozos in the crowd and the gruff repartee of review and counter review.

Meanwhile and Down Under, Circus Money has hit the streets.
Me, I've got the repeat button set from Uncle Bob to Circus Money and the tracks in between; that's where the treasure lies for me.
Health note: throat is red raw from crooning along to Bob and Upside.

Carlock, Krantz and Wilkenfeld coming to Oz in October, also the Headhunters, and that can't be bad.

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 02:12:54 ET
Posted by: Chris, CT

Have seen many shows, tonight in Wallingford sucked....very disapointed!

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 01:05:35 ET
Posted by: steelymike77, philly

im all about danfest for camden!!! Lets meet up!!!!

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 00:50:06 ET
Posted by: "Fair and Balanced",

I will be seeing for myself, and I will be taking into account and observing the things that Mr. Black wrote. I will say, show unseen that he is full of shit on two of his points, the first being his criticism of the solos. They are crucial to what makes a live show "live", no? Second, this setlist is DESIGNED for a more knowledgable fan base, with some customary stuff still there which cannot be eliminated entirely for business reasons. We have had ENOUGH already of the Greatest Hits bullshit setlists, the absence thereof that Black foolhardedly interprets as a weakness in the show. Black shows his naivety on that front.

On the other hand, B. Rag, and others, you are not generally going to get or provide a real objective opinion of these shows on a fan's site such as this. So we cannot and should not dismiss Mr. Black's observations, summarily, just yet, except for the two aforementioned areas. What you will get, however from this website is the expertise which can be used as a basis upon which to gain more critical insights that are normally lost on the vast majority of the concert goers, of which perhaps Mr. Black did not, or has not availed himself.

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 00:42:25 ET
Posted by: yeah, report from wally

i get the distinct impression that it was a wonderful show - less rock, more tasty and band togetherness. kinda on the quiet side.

however, what could have been one of the greatest concert experiences of my life was stolen from me by 6 fucking, loud, drunk assholes who would not shut the fuck up all night. in retrospect, i should have left to find a quieter seat, as unfortunately, the show was far from sold out and i could have moved easily. getting in the first fight of my life at 67 years old is not an option.

if you are reading this and you were the assholes in row x (the real row x and not the "for example row x") - you suck. may a yak shit it your daughter's hope chest.

here's a nice website for you: http://www.alcoholics-anonymous.org/

i got the feeling that this show was a little bit of a downer for the band after boston and new youk as walt's rap was weak and they only did one encore (unless they came back after they left the band out there to play that great song that i forget the name too)

i can't even begin to tell you the set list - doesn't seem like it varied much at all.

highlight. the guy next to me says: what album is this off of, its very cool. answer: everything must go. he says: man i don't have anything past aja - i gotta get it.

wishing you all a much better experience.

###

i agree with the wonderful rajah. mess those tunes up. be the brash young beatniks you once were!

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 00:41:20 ET
Posted by: Gretchen, Back from Wallingford

Ok, quickly before I go to sleep, here's the setlist - more tomorrow:

By the way, there was pleasant surprise when the Sam Yahel trio took the stage - Michael Leonhart and Walt Weiskopf joined them for their set. Fantastic! It was kind of like a fusion-y jam session, to think I almost skipped the opener!

Anyway, here is the list:

Medley (Gone to the Movies, Fez, Royal Scam)
I Got the News
Show Biz Kids
Everything You Did
2VN
Hey 19
Godwhacker
Babylon Sisters
New Frontier
Gaucho
Home @ Last
Parker's Band
Josie
Black Friday
Band Intro's, Itchin' in my Heart
Peg
FM
Kid C
Band doing theme from "Last Tango in Paris"

Donald said they were here to do "your favorite songs and maybe some of your not so favorite songs...." Hearing 18 of the greatest songs from the best F-in band on the planet is always alright with me!

Goodnight, everyone

G

Date: Thurs, June 26, 2008, 00:10:17 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Any word from Wallingford?

Date: Wed, June 25, 2008, 20:31:29 ET
Posted by: Mark from the North of Boston, Currently reading the Blue Book

Wow Mr Black. I am so glad when critics speak mostly everyone doesn't listen. So far from what I have read here from the real fans is the critiques being very positive.
I think these guys know they are playing to a mostly core following that has been listening to their offerings on recordings and live for along time. Now they are loosening up and having fun during their Think Fast Tour. I personally loved it. Each Player has stunning talent on their own. Im glad Don and Walt are letting them have at it. It was cool hearing our Dan songs performed LIVE or may I say ALIVE.
It was definently different compared to the last .... I can't remember how many shows over the flurry of the last few years tours. It was different in a musically phenomenal way.
My only wish....So many songs in the SD digest and not enough time during the shows. How about Centurys End instead of FM just once. Or Bright Lights Big City or......;)

Date: Wed, June 25, 2008, 18:57:36 ET
Posted by: TheFez98, Boston

Funny. Logon to the Blue tonight and first item I see is the blasts about the John Black review (I read it in Cape Cod Times online). As soon as I read the thing I blasted back a comment. This dude is obviously clueless. I truly question whether he attended the show at all or just 'mailed it in'. I can't recall ever seeing a more off-base review ever. Maybe the SD crew dissed him like that woman exec from Channel 7 in Beantown that got shitcanned a month or so ago for getting off a plane shitoed and yelling at the cops 'Do you know who I am? I am a bigshot in this town!!!'. LOL

Anyways, back to the Boston show. We thought it was outstanding, with the highlights being the funked up wawa version of 'Showbiz Kids', the girls doing 'Parkers Band' and the bands take on 'Don't Take Me Alive' to name just a few highlights. Also, the Pavillion is a GREAT venue (with the notable exception of the $8 beers).

I was also great to bump into Hoops, Pete, Shari and her lovely Mom post-show and chat for a few. Hopefully we will get a babysitter for a weekend and get off to good 'ol NYC to hookup in the not-too-distant future. It was funny, we reminisced most of the ride back to the Boston burbs (around the corner from Comcast Center) about what a great time we had HOF weekend in NYC at Le Bar Bat, etc..

Jim & Danielle

Date: Wed, June 25, 2008, 18:53:38 ET
Posted by: steelydoc, near the Tower

Someone posted the other day asking about a Camden Danfest®...

Fife and I were putting something together, but we had only one positive response to our meeting place.

Now, Fife is Florida-bound, and my plans have changed, so our little danfest has to be scrapped.

Sorry for the late notice, but there didn't seem to be too many folks interested anyway.

Hope to see you at the show!

ps thanks to Hoops, Pete, Shari, Fife, Gretchen, Margaret, Denise and everyone in NYC for such a great time! It was great to meet so many of you!

Date: Wed, June 25, 2008, 18:49:48 ET
Posted by: Kalvin, Portsmouth, England

The one, the only, could there ever be another...I speak of course of 'our' very own GM,...thanks for the kind words flower, your dan, your special...x.

Date: Wed, June 25, 2008, 18:35:04 ET
Posted by: Fife, Florida bound

The Dean,
Ah yes now I remember that conversation. I checked their discography and not one mentioned so I figured something was up.
Thanks
Fife

Date: Wed, June 25, 2008, 18:29:08 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

Fife,

We had some discussions about it here. Apparently it is the audio from the 2vN Plush TV DVD:

http://steelydan.com/2vnplush.html

Exact same song list/order.

Date: Wed, June 25, 2008, 18:26:08 ET
Posted by: Fife, Florida bound

Here's the cover photo:

http://www.theriver1059.com/amazon/buyme.php?asin=B00171TE3A

Never seen it before. Wow I'm suprised, nicely of course!
Fife

Date: Wed, June 25, 2008, 18:24:03 ET
Posted by: Fife, Florida bound

When I checked out that website I saw this:

Album: In Concert
Artist: Steely Dan
Released: June 24, 2008
Label: Immortal

Was this posted before and I missed it? Is it true?

Date: Wed, June 25, 2008, 17:49:49 ET
Posted by: MikeA, Seattle

John Black: Lame, pussified, and moronic. I am going to send him a cassette tape of the 70's vomit hit--"Afternoon Delight". He can get all cozy with that.

Date: Wed, June 25, 2008, 17:22:04 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

OK, one more thing about that website:

Similar artists: Gilbert O'Sullivan? Most of them miss the mark, of course, but that is just bizarre. I think it's from All Music Guide (which is usually pretty good). That has to be a test to see if anyone is paying attention.

Date: Wed, June 25, 2008, 17:19:12 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Big Fan,

Thanks for the link.

One question: Is that the gayest picture EVER of Donald and Walter?

:#)

Date: Wed, June 25, 2008, 16:08:53 ET
Posted by: Big Fan, at home

On my way out the door to Wallingford. Keeping fingers crossed for a good - non shortened show.

Interesting link at the local rock station sponsoring tonight's concert. Never saw so many of the unofficial recordings on one site for sale. Art work for the new live CD and DVD is available.

http://www.theriver1059.com/iplaylist/artist/5525/albums.html

Date: Wed, June 25, 2008, 16:08:08 ET
Posted by: SaxPlayer, New York

Mark in Boston : Good point! He didn't even do his research. Musicians hate to be called "Bass Player" and "Drummer"! And I want to hear the musicians take solos. They are the best in the world!

Date: Wed, June 25, 2008, 16:06:00 ET
Posted by: SaxPlayer, New York

I read the JOHN BLACK review and he is another example of a jealous critic with a failed career. The only reason people become critics are because they are not good enough to be the thing they are critiquing. He clearly did not watch the show if he feels that Steely Dan are 12 hired musicians. It's the same band for the last 3 tours now and many of them were party of Steely Dan in some way shape or form for many years. Michael Leonhart has been touring with them since 96. Jim Pugh and Roger Rosenberg were on Fagen's Kamakiriad in 93. Jeff Young played with Fagen on the New York Soul Revue, Jon Herington has been their guitarist since 2000...

I personally think that Steely Dan sounds better than ever. They managed to take the songs we all know and love from the 70's and make them sound like they were written today. The band is amazing, I wouldn't want to see anyone replaced.

Date: Wed, June 25, 2008, 15:41:30 ET
Posted by: Wtf??, 000

Ubiquitous hit machine?? Mr. Black is thinking of the wrong white 70s duo comprised of a keyboardist/vocalist and guitar player.

Date: Wed, June 25, 2008, 15:22:09 ET
Posted by: Boston Rag, .

“Throughout the evening, the musicians all took turns playing solos — including the bass player, the drummer and the two backup singers — even when the songs didn't need them.” – John Black

Obviously, the jerk didn’t know anybody in the band and was too damn lazy to either write down the names during the intros or to even look them up on the Steely Dan website. It reads like a high school review. What a tool.

If I was his editor, I’d tell him – “You go Jack Black, Do it Again!” (groan)

Mark in Boston

Date: Wed, June 25, 2008, 14:04:03 ET
Posted by: Mer., Boston

In response to Mr. Black's review- a few key phrases jumped out at me:
"this year's version" (of SD)
"Pop band"
"meandering mess"
"amateur jam session"
???????????
This speaks volumes about this reviewer- just another un-informed asshole.

Date: Wed, June 25, 2008, 13:48:38 ET
Posted by: fezman, boston

It appears to this "danfan" that mr.black comes from the school of "every note" from the catalog must be ver batum from the original recordings,it is also apparent that mr.black has no use and zero understanding of the quality of the talent that is The Steely Dan Orchestra...He must think he's at an Eagles concert!!He's as boring as they are!!!! Play on boy's and keep surprising us...."fools to left of me,jokers to the right,here i am stuck in the middle again"....fezzie

Date: Wed, June 25, 2008, 13:45:50 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Chris,

I agree with all of that. I'm guessing that Stevie doesn't need to tell the audience to clap, sing and dance, as they will do that anyway when they hear his terrific music. But, if Stevie wants to, I don't have a real problem with it, either.

Date: Wed, June 25, 2008, 13:42:40 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

TheDean, I definitely see your point, and to be honest I'm all over the place in terms of my concert philosophy. Generally, though, I always figure my job as an audience member is to try and respond in a way that will improve the performances on stage (at least when its someone that I really respect and admire). In my opinion, Stevie has earned the right to tell people to count off the first song (a very cool touch) and even stump a little bit for Barack Obama at the start of the show. I suppose if I got dragged to a Phish show or something and they asked the audience to sing along, I'd react differently, but when its someone like Stevie I just give them the benefit of the doubt and try and enjoy myself, even if it means being a goofy, poorly dancing white dude.

Date: Wed, June 25, 2008, 13:26:18 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Chris from CT,

Scroll on down the page, there are set-lists from every show, so far.

Date: Wed, June 25, 2008, 13:22:05 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

My comment to Cape Cod Online in response to John Black's review of the Boston show:

Mr. Black is certainly entitled to his own opinion, even if that opinion is counter to nearly every other reviewer of this tour overall, and this concert, in particular. (I recommend the reviews in the Boston Herald and Boston.com for a more typical, and informed, perspective.)

What I don't understand is how Mr. Black feels qualified to speak on behalf of "die-hard Steely Dan fans in the crowd". I have communicated with many of those fans and have yet to hear any of the complaints cited by Mr. Black. In fact, the impression I get from those die-hard fans is, the show was exceptional. Some have said this was among the best SD shows EVER.

I know I am looking forward to checking them out later in the tour.

Date: Wed, June 25, 2008, 13:18:04 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Gotcha, B-Rag.

I actually kind of LIKE that SD hasn't done many of those things. (IMO, it's the slippery slope, in many cases.)

I know they, very occasionally do a TV gig, but I don't think they particularly like to. I'm guessing their early touring experiences of opening for acts whose audiences weren't really appropriate to (and appreciative of) The Dan's music, has made them a little gun-shy when it comes to these pop festivals. I'd throw up in my mouth, a little, if I saw The Dan at the same festival as Death Cab for Cutie.

They do perform at "Jazz" and "Blues" fests, though (the terms are used very liberally in most of these cases).

But, should they decide to whore themselves out a little, I'd live with it, as long as it had ZERO impact on the music. If it's true that every act/decision has a broader impact, then I want them doing NOTHING differently than what they have decided to do...just in case.

:#)

That they decide to not market themselves really has no negative impact, as far as I can tell. They make records on their own terms, when they are good and ready to do so, and tour when they feel like it. BRAVO! I say.

Date: Wed, June 25, 2008, 13:18:00 ET
Posted by: Jason, Boston

Mark - My brother knows one of the primary guys at the production company, Superfly Presents, that puts on Bonnaroo as well as some other music festivals. Of what I know about them and their musical tastes, I'm sure they would welcome D&F with open arms if they wanted to play there. It would certainly open them up to a lot of new fans. They book a very broad spectrum of artists for the event covering lots of different styles (pop, new orleans, rock, metal, jazz, dance, emo, etc.). IMHO many of the people who go there are always seeking out new bands (new ot them at least) to dig on.

Date: Wed, June 25, 2008, 13:13:47 ET
Posted by: Chris, CT

I am going to the show tonight and am very excited!!! Anyone have a setlist or what to expect?

Date: Wed, June 25, 2008, 13:09:17 ET
Posted by: JanetBee, New York

BR, I was thinking the same thing about them being on Letterman but I just couldn't see it. May have been just too much exposure for our camera-shy guys?

Date: Wed, June 25, 2008, 13:03:54 ET
Posted by: Boston Rag, Hire me as your manager Don & Walt!

Dean – what I meant was too bad Steely Dan or their Management don’t seek out appearances that will get them noticed. Bonnaroo is arguably the hippest, most popular youth festival around today. I’m sure the promoters could have found a place for Steely Dan. They also just wrapped six shows at The Beacon. Wouldn’t it have been a perfect time to do Letterman or Conan O’Brien and say “Hey world! We’re at the Beacon all week and WALTER HAS A GREAT FUCKING NEW CD FOR YOU TO BUY!!!” But this is the same band that didn’t have product in the stores or a tour after they won 4 Grammys including Album of the Year.

Just my $.02

Mark in Boston

Date: Wed, June 25, 2008, 13:00:37 ET
Posted by: JanetBee, New York

Ah, Girl Margaret, you are SO right about some of the New York fans. When I looked around and saw all the middle-aged couples there, I KNEW what they were expecting and I KNEW they weren't going to get what they wanted and would go home pouting and disappointed. Fortunately, after wandering into dandom, I have been able to connect with the REAL fans and dam, there are a lot of them! I was at the Bitter End Saturday night; sorry I wasn't able to meet you.

Date: Wed, June 25, 2008, 12:35:11 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

It's good to see Leon Helm getting his due, these days. It is long overdue. He has always stayed true to the music and refused to sell out. But, B-Rag, I have no idea what you mean when you say "Too bad Don & Walt couldn't take a cue from that!"

Would you care to explain? :#)

And, Raj, you are most likely right when you say few Stones fans own a Duke Ellington record. My point was they are unlikely to hate on Duke, because he is outside of what they feel qualified to judge. OTOH, many "rock" fans freely hate on SD. SD is far closer to Ellington than it is to the Stones or the Who, IMO.

Date: Wed, June 25, 2008, 12:13:05 ET
Posted by: John Dick,

I bet I sat behind that asshole writer, John Black. This guy was miserable before even one note was played, it was obvious he did not want to be there. Anytime someone made a noise or applauded too enthusiastically, he would turn around and sneer. He was taking notes throughout the show, so it was definitely a critic hellbent on writing a bad review. No wonder he writes for the Cape Cod Times.

Date: Wed, June 25, 2008, 11:58:55 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

Thanks to all of you for the reports, really appreciate your detailed posts. Your collective reviews and observations beat the pants off anything this pineapple John Black blurts out. What an ultra-maroon. My dream is still to attend a Steely Dan concert where they have changed the arrangements to the degree I can't recognize the songs anymore. The first time they reanimated "Dirty Work," in 2000, my head came off and rolled down the vomitorium at Universal round about the 8th bar when I picked up on the melody. It was like when your mom brings out the old photo album and plucks one out, covers it up with her hand and then reveals YOU, YOU ZOMBIE, bedecked in cuffed bell-bottoms, turtle neck and platform shoes, a blonde afro with a very annoying gold pendant hanging off your hirsuit chest.

George Carlin was a great humorist and iconoclast. But like a lot of people of that earlier half of the Baby-boom generation, he got stuck in head-bangin blues-rock. I like the Stones, although I think they were pretty much the Beatles' deficient dark-doubles until Exile and Tatoo and I have every Who record made. But I don't play them. Heck, I don't play Beatles' records anymore. Steely Dan opened up whole other musical worlds and, no, I don't think 1 out of 10 Stones fans even own a Duke Ellington record. Their musical sensibilities might stretch out to as far as the Allman Brothers. Maybe.

Date: Wed, June 25, 2008, 11:34:44 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

Girl Margaret:
What an incredible couple of weeks you have had!!!! I have really enjoyed reading all your posts. Hope you can get caught up on your sleep and work......

Date: Wed, June 25, 2008, 11:19:16 ET
Posted by: Newark, Contest for Ms. Margaret

http://www.americanamusic.org/site.php?content=press

Ms. Margaret: Do sign up for this contest, note the nominees for this year's awards--Levon has a couple nominations. If you win, you'll get to go to all the shows at the awards. Good luck. Nwk

Date: Wed, June 25, 2008, 11:06:14 ET
Posted by: Newark, Delmarvelous Delmarva

Yea, B-Rag: (re: Bonnaroo )and Kayne was the big downer. Poor guy. Nwk

Date: Wed, June 25, 2008, 10:59:54 ET
Posted by: Delicate, discussion point

Ah . . . Margret.

Boston, Boston doesn't smell like fish.

•••
Yankees suck!

Date: Wed, June 25, 2008, 10:56:40 ET
Posted by: Boston Rag, .

Beantown loves Champions and we luv Margaret!

Mark in Boston

P.S. Levon Helm was the big hit of the Bonnaroo Festival in Tenn earlier this month. Too bad Don & Walt couldn't take a cue from that!

Date: Wed, June 25, 2008, 10:53:02 ET
Posted by: review, of the cape cod review

Art Section Editor: "Geez, everyone is on vacation, who are we going to get to cover one of the top ten bands of all time."

Wait a minute, there's John Black, who's been the assistant classified ad guy for 36 years. And he's got a whole slew of 8-tracks - Captain & Tennille, Saturday Night Fever, the Best of American Idol. So he really knows his stuff.

Editor: "Kid you got the job."

JB: "Thanks Chief, I never heard of them, but I'll do a good job. I hope they don't actually PLAY their instruments!?"

Editor: "Heck of a job Blackie!"

HZ

Date: Wed, June 25, 2008, 10:40:58 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Work

7 Steely Dan shows in ten days and all I can say is this:

FUCK NEW YORK. (It's not hard to find people to agree with this in Boston)

Yea, that's right I said it. I love New York, I live in New York, my one dream since I was 17 has been to live in Manhattan and the city is one of my favorite places in the world and I try to get down there at least once a week.

But six shows at Beacon Theater can't hold a candle to the show in Boston!

I've said it before and I'll say it again: Boston has the best audiences. Now, don't get me wrong, the Beacon Theater shows were a blast, and the Bitter End afterparty was off the hook BUT there's just something in the air at Boston that I have yet to find in New York (and I ain't talkin' about the fish smell). I'll give the best example: At the second Beacon show I took my seat and was listening to the people around me complain when I suggested they wouldn't play Reelin in the Years or Rikki and they sat through the entire show like they weren't enjoying it. Monday night I took my seat in Boston and the people around me were caught up in a discussion about Jeff Porcaro and Cornelius Bumpus. They were very pleasant to be around and loved every second of the show. THAT'S how it should be!

The only thing that made it seem a little off was Walter moving to the other side of the stage. Perhaps it's a technical thing with moniters, like Denise mentioned, who knows? But Walter has a space all to himself next to Herington; when he moved over, it looked like he was hiding between Donald and Freddy Washington. But he did move back to his mike to sing Gaucho and do the band intros. Whatev, it all sounded amazing. And how about those fireworks! What a nice touch, started up during Hey 19 and continued through Godwhacker and it was damn near poetic.

And on a final note, big thanks and love go out to the Boston Danfans who make it worth a trip full of traffic, accidents, and dreadful rainstorms to get to see such an amazing show: Denise and Dick (thank you for EVERYTHING!), Boston Rag, Fezman (such a celeb, he couldn't walk three feet without being stopped for a picture!), Mark (from Acquisitions), Jane Lightning and Alex, Mer (It was so nice to meet you, if only for a minute!), and of course my fellow travelers Pete, Shari, her fabulous mom, and my darling Hoops. And a special shoutout to Kalvin who was missed on this tour, but thanks for the phone calls and well wishes! And much love to Bill, who was truly missed.

Ok, one more thing: Last night, after a long and dreadful thunderstorm filled ride home, I took my brother to see Ringo Starr and his All Starr Band at Radio City. Jesus, that line up was amazing! But at the end of the show, Ringo brought on LEVON FUCKING HELM as his special guest for the last song and I about lost my mind. I thought a few of you might appreciate that. LEVON!
Holy shit!

Ok everyone, thanks for the memories these last ten days. It's time for Margaret to take a little rest before she goes to another concert.

Date: Wed, June 25, 2008, 09:23:00 ET
Posted by: eric, Akron, Ohio

Found some decent video on youtube of the Bitter End bash. It looked like a good time was had by all. Damn, I wish I could have made this show.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lR7ruD-kWaQ

(Who's the girl singing with Cindy? Also love the Circus Money poster behind Freddie Washington's shoulder!)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-xtKblCd04w&feature=related

(Bill Ware is great! Loved him on the 1993 tour!)

Date: Wed, June 25, 2008, 09:16:19 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

I think you're right, Searchy. Combine that with, "I don't know some of these songs". I'm guessing this guy is not a jazz-oriented reviewer.

It is interesting that he chose to speak for "die-hard Steely Dan fans in the crowd". Did he survey them during, or after, the show? His take doesn't mesh with what the "die-hard Steely Dan fans" are saying here, on The Blue.

Date: Wed, June 25, 2008, 09:08:30 ET
Posted by: Web Search, q

That reviewer didn't have much more to say than "these songs in concert don't sound exactly like the records"

Date: Wed, June 25, 2008, 09:04:51 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Nice find, Web Search

You've never seen anyone other than SD live? Really? Wow! That's both bad and good, I guess. If you had to pick only one, I'd say you choose well.

Chris, I agree with some of what you say. I wasn't there, so it's hard to judge, but I had to laugh when I was reading that article, because it sounded like ME. I always complain when performers order me around. "Don't fucking tell me when to clap", I have been known to mumble (or worse) at shows.

Performers that demand audience participation (unless they are acts targeted at children) cheapen their acts, IMO. It reminds me of comedians that try to get the audience clapping ("who here is single? By applause. Who here is from NYC? By applause"). I got an idea, you want applause? Start making me laugh.

With that said, I have a ton of respect for Stevie Wonder, and had second thoughts when I saw he was the example of the cheesy act. I think SW deserves some latitude.

But, when you say "but what the hell is wrong with getting up, moving around, clapping your hands, and singing along? I mean, do it if the music moves you?" I think the answer is "nothing". The complaint wasn't about the audience clapping along when the music moved them. It was about being instructed to clap along. If the music moves you, nobody needs to tell you that it's moving you.

So, even compared to class-acts like SW, The Dan distinguishes themselves by simply being about the music (at an extraordinarily high level) w/o gimmicks. It's one of the things that keeps me so riveted to what they do.

I wish Christopher John Treacy (the author of that blog article) had picked another artist, one more deserving of our wrath, than SW. But, in some way, he deserves some special praise for getting it right, and having the balls to use such a high-profile musical icon to illustrate his point.

Date: Wed, June 25, 2008, 08:49:20 ET
Posted by: rindy2k, big apple

http://www.capecodonline.com:80/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080625/LIFE/806250302

according to all reports, beantown show was fantastic...

wonder what concert this misguided reviewer from cape cod was at??

peace,

rindy2k

Reelin' in the egos
By JOHN BLACK
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
June 25, 2008 6:00 AM
BOSTON — It took the 12 musicians who make up this year's version of Steely Dan a while to find their groove at the Bank of America Pavilion Monday night. Part of the problem was an awful sound mix that made the first four songs sound as if they were being played at the bottom of a well through speakers made of empty oatmeal cartons. Once the sound had been fixed, the second problem came out loud and clear: Ten days into its current tour, the '08 version of Steely Dan sounds like 12 hired musicians playing individual interpretations of the songs instead of a cohesive musical unit.

There were times during the show when they pulled it together and conjured up some of the magic that made Steely Dan such an ubiquitous hit-making machine from 1972, with the release of its "Can't Buy a Thrill" debut, to 1980's "Gaucho." They did a smoldering version of "Black Friday," for example, that really showcased the smooth guitar work of co-founding member Walter Becker. And his partner for the past 36 years, singer-keyboardist Donald Fagen, took command when they played their last radio-friendly hit, 1980's "Hey Nineteen," and made it sound as fresh and danceable as anything playing on the radio today.

But two good songs do not a good concert make, and even the die-hard Steely Dan fans in the crowd — particularly the semi-sober ones who performed a different interpretive dance in the aisles for each of the songs the band played — were hard-pressed to follow what was going on for the rest of the show.

It's fine for a pop band like Steely Dan to want to break the mold a bit when it comes to re-creating its songs onstage, but there's a fine line between self-expression and self-indulgence, and it's a line the band crossed early in the show. Every song it played, with the exception of "Black Friday," was stretched far beyond what it called for or deserved. Throughout the evening, the musicians all took turns playing solos — including the bass player, the drummer and the two backup singers — even when the songs didn't need them. The result was a meandering mess that sounded more like an amateur jam session than the work of men who have been making hits for more close to 40 years.

Date: Wed, June 25, 2008, 08:19:45 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Web Search, that guy missed the boat on Stevie Wonder. The radio DJ and contest winner was terrible, but what the hell is wrong with getting up, moving around, clapping your hands, and singing along? I mean, do it if the music moves you, don't if it doesn't, but how can you hold it against the artist for trying to liven an uptight audience up?

I like the way Steely Dan puts on a show just fine. It perfectly suits them and their music. I think Stevie Wonder knows what he's doing, too.

Date: Wed, June 25, 2008, 08:07:57 ET
Posted by: Web Search, same

I've never been to anything but a Steely Dan show, so I never had an appreciation for the things that this guy does

Steely Dan: Show Biz Kids Succeed Without Gimmicks

http://news.bostonherald.com/blogs/entertainment/rough_edge/?p=310&srvc=home&position=recent

Date: Tues, June 24, 2008, 22:15:55 ET
Posted by: Jive Miguel, Bogata

From everything I read, the Beantown show was simply epic.

Would it have been "gratuitous" or "patronizing" if the Think Fast Orchestra performed Boston Rag...in Boston?

I've only seen SD perform BR once, opening the 2000 show in Irvine, CA. Very true to the original, with an extended solo from Herington.

If anyone is familiar with The Aquarian Weekly in Jersey, keep an eye out for my cousin Mike Greenblatt's heartfelt review of the 6/13 Beacon opener over the next couple of weeks.

Date: Tues, June 24, 2008, 22:15:51 ET
Posted by: HouDanFan, Houston

Denise....Royal Scam live is a mesmerizing song. I remember in 2000 they played it first song after the break and having the same feeling. That and the leadoff of Boston Rag. The setlist this year is similar to the 2000 setlist as being one of the best ever.

Date: Tues, June 24, 2008, 21:18:38 ET
Posted by: Dave From Acquisitions, still a few feet off the ground

I have seen Steely Dan several times since my first concert in 2000 (late bloomer). Last night's Boston show was my favorite. The music was both exciting and inspiring and Donald's voice was strong. New Frontier blew me away and the background graphics were spectacular.
It was my pleasure to see Hoops, Girl Margaret, Pete, Shari, Shari's mom, Denise, Dick, Mark, Fezman and Mer at the Birch.
Mark

Date: Tues, June 24, 2008, 20:18:41 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Jardin,

Oops, I missed that it was in Boston, whereas Greg's notation was in NYC. Still, it may help answer Dr Gnu's question.

I will be at the concert in the Finger Lakes. Will you be there?

Date: Tues, June 24, 2008, 20:12:04 ET
Posted by: Jardin, Beantown

Dean,

We all know this about Freddie's nickname. But were you at the show in Boston last night? I didn't think so.

Date: Tues, June 24, 2008, 20:09:33 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Dr Gnu

Washington is certainly Steady, but he goes by Ready Freddie. Greg noted the mistake several posts below.

Date: Tues, June 24, 2008, 19:16:20 ET
Posted by: Mer., Boston

Thinking a bit more clearly now and wanted to thank Denise for organizing the Birch bar gathering! It was fantastic to meet everyone- Mark (B Rag.) Hoops (we are NOT worthy!), Fezman, Shari,Pete Fogel, Mark#2 (Dave in Acq.),et al.
Great show even in the cheaper seats- the crowd energy flowed, there was dancing, singing and fine columbian breezes. New Frontier live is unbelievable. The Dan is unbelievable- love to see them really hit their stride at this stage of the game.

Date: Tues, June 24, 2008, 19:12:08 ET
Posted by: Dr Gnu,

Is Freddie Washington called "Ready" or "Steady"? I thought I heard Walter introduce him as "Steady Freddie" in Boston last night, but I could have misheard.

Date: Tues, June 24, 2008, 16:56:53 ET
Posted by: fezman, boston

Hi all,just want to say last night was really special the crowd was electric and the band really caught the energy and put on a fantastic show.Thanks also to all our birch bar group everyone was upbeat and pumped up for the show bill would have really enjoyed this one...fezzie

Date: Tues, June 24, 2008, 16:34:50 ET
Posted by: Denise, Hinktown

Wonderful show last night. When they started Royal Scam, I was mesmerized. That was never a favorite of mine, but it seemed to have a different dimension live: much more majestic. The fireworks started during Jim Pugh’s solo on Hey 19 and continued throughout Godwhaker and into Babylon Sisters. I did miss Carolyn's voice. She adds a depth to the backup singers, the other women were fine, but of the same voice type, if you know what I mean.

Enjoyed Walt singing Gaucho very much. New Frontier was swingin’ and Parker’s band, a joyful romp.

I was wondering if Walt switching sides of the stage might have anything to do with those sound monitors (or whatever they are called) on stage. If the monitor was not working properly, wouldn’t a performer want to move near one that was so they can hear themselves? Just a guess.

Great to see everyone at the Birch Bar.

Date: Tues, June 24, 2008, 16:25:52 ET
Posted by: Jason, Boston

Hi All -

I've been away until I could catch my 1st show of the tour, which was last night. A couple of comments to share...

1. It seems like this year's set features more of the down tempo numbers, although the show was much more jamming than the set list would indicate. It's like thet cherry picked many of these songs that they would scatter 1 or 2 into the set in previous years and made a whole show out of them. It felt like this year's set was one for more of the hard core fans, e.g. us. I'm probably reading into it but who cares.

2. I thought that they had moved Carlock to be more front & center (just seeing Mark's post now that this was not the set up at the Beacon). I thought not only was he front & center on the stage but he also seemed more prominent in the mix. I thought that perhaps D&F felt they had a scrappy young go getter who was worthy of featuring.

3. They slid in a pretty kicking jam at the end of Godwhacker. It reminded me of the wailing jam at the end of green earrings as the volume fades

4. As already noted the fireworks (don't know what event was generating them) during Glamour Profession were perfectly timed to the song.

It always seems like the Boston fans give them a rowdy welcome and they love it. Good energy, great show.

Date: Tues, June 24, 2008, 16:16:42 ET
Posted by: ForwardGirl, Recklesstown

I thought Becker singing Gaucho was very cool. The vulnerability of the lyrics suits his slight discomfiture at taking the mike. Suits his voice, too. There's a sweetness to the melody, the voice of the wistful cuckold. I liked that side of him better than the detached observer in Haitian Divorce. Aces in my book. Well played.

Date: Tues, June 24, 2008, 16:05:58 ET
Posted by: Bill Buckner, ooo

Boston Rag,

A lot of visiting left fielders have a problem with the Green Monster. That's why Walter moved over.

Date: Tues, June 24, 2008, 15:55:02 ET
Posted by: krammy, vt

have not been here for a while...great to see that it still exists!
just got some great seats for CT thru tixmaster...they always let some go 24 hrs b4 a show, but these are like 18 rows back, right center...
bringing my 15 yr old who last saw the Dan at Saratoga when he was like 9 or 10, unfortunately, even though at 9 he loved their music, he was a little young to absorb what was going on and we left after 5-6 tunes! Lovely...This time he pronises to be a good little boy and enjoy the show...its so cool that he is a metal head but really loves SD

Date: Tues, June 24, 2008, 15:29:31 ET
Posted by: Matt, Chattanooga, TN

Geoff,

After all the discussion this weekend, Walter goes and plays Warren Zevon's Boom Boom Mancini on his Sirius show. Fantastic.

Date: Tues, June 24, 2008, 15:14:04 ET
Posted by: Gina/Mizar5, Sunset Mountain

sometimes there are these patterns... dr. Wu was talking about being in Santa Monica and wondering about the cosmic vibe pullin' him there, Georg Carlin died in a Santa Monica hospital... i was into Rossif Sutherland's music today particularly and Rossif resides in Santa Monica. i have a player up with samples of 6 tracks.

http://www.writingaffairs.com/mizar5net/index.php?cat=1

he has a song up in MySpace, it's fairly recent and called Monkey Business. the title alone, when i read it for the first time some weeks ago when he had uploaded it briefly to remove it again before i had a chance to hear it but he put it back along with 2 other songs (have to catch my breath for a moment), made me think of Circus Money which had been referred to as Circus Monkey.... and when i actually heard the track, my jaw dropped some...

the way Selfish Gene begins and then Monkey Business. there's something cosmic here too!

and radio dupree has a VERY NICE article about WB's appearance on Sirius, it has some WB quotes.

"I picked a bunch of 70s tunes because you know, frankly, I was misinformed. This was a sort of a management sort of a slip up where i thought I was gonna be picking all these cheesy 70s tunes and that's what the show is all about. It turns out that's not the case, but I'm sticking with the original plan anyway. And just to prove it I'd like to play a track by David Bowie called Ashes To Ashes."

http://radiodupree.blogspot.com/

Date: Tues, June 24, 2008, 15:07:37 ET
Posted by: All I Can Say Is - OUCH!,

Boston.com -

"The only dead spot was Becker's lead vocal on "Gaucho." "That was terrible," a guy behind me laughed. But we joined in the polite applause anyway."

You gave it a shot Walter and WE appreciate it. But the time has come. Jettison Gaucho and give us some C$ tunes!!!!!!

Date: Tues, June 24, 2008, 14:51:00 ET
Posted by: Boston Rag, .

Did anyone else notice that Walter was standing stage left almost next to the girls last night? At the Beacon he was in his usual spot between Herington and Carlock. Never saw him stand where he was last night.

Mark in Boston

Date: Tues, June 24, 2008, 14:28:36 ET
Posted by: Chan, Boston

http://www.boston.com/ae/music/articles/2008/06/25/steely_dan_jazzes_up_a_summer_night/

Boston Globe review of last nights show.

Date: Tues, June 24, 2008, 14:19:20 ET
Posted by: HouDanFan, Houston

Carlin catered more to the rock and roll crowd and if I recall in those days (70's), or at least where I was from, you were either into the Led Zeppelins or Pink Floyds of the world or you were into motown, soul or music with horns. There weren't many who crossed over from one to the other. So my guess is that Carlin did it just to get a laugh, similar to his skit in comparing strong and weak type names (my Eddie will kick your Todd's ass any day). My guess is that Carlin had to have an appreciation for the Dan, just because of the lyrics. That's my take.

Date: Tues, June 24, 2008, 13:47:37 ET
Posted by: Darkling Down, W Mass

Beacon Saturday was phenomenal!

Bitter End was fantastic! Fell in love with C$ that night.

Boston was the best audience I have seen. Band is tighter than a sphincter!

Date: Tues, June 24, 2008, 12:55:13 ET
Posted by: Fife, Baltimore, eh

Actually Jeff Young did have a grand piano at the Beacon I noticed it Friday night when I was sitting in the upper balcony. Suprisingly enough that was a great seat I could see everything and the sound was perfect. The only sad part there wasn't really anywhere to dance.

Date: Tues, June 24, 2008, 12:29:10 ET
Posted by: BillfromPgh,

The DMB guys have chops. Dave himself is a rather ideosyncratic guitarist but his band can play, especially Carter. Not surprised thst they'd be into SD.

And despite the late Mr. Carlin and some other Stones (and Who) fans, I am a big fan of all three. Even Donald was quoted as enjoying a Stones show a couple years ago as I recall. Not sure that all Who fans are as hostile to SD as was suggested. Townshend is no slouch on guitar or keys, and writes some complex and literate material (detractors would call it pompous). He even delved a little into quasi-jazz a couple times -"Music Must Change" from Who Are You and a Barney Kessel-inspired instrumental from Scoop come to mind.

Date: Tues, June 24, 2008, 12:02:38 ET
Posted by: Greg Moonspank, White Plains, NY

<< I saw the horn players from DMB (Rashawn Ross and LeRoi Moore) walk in from some kind of backstage area just before the show started. DMB is in Mansfield tonight. >>

Wow. So the DMB boys are into the Dan. That's pretty cool. I caught DMB in Saratoga (SPAC) last wenesday and what a show it was. The horn playing in that band is second to none (well, second to maybe *one*).

I always wondered what drummer Carter Beuford would do with the Dan, and conversely, what Carlock would do with DMB.

Date: Tues, June 24, 2008, 11:55:59 ET
Posted by: Chris, one more thing

I saw the horn players from DMB (Rashawn Ross and LeRoi Moore) walk in from some kind of backstage area just before the show started. DMB is in Mansfield tonight.

Date: Tues, June 24, 2008, 11:54:45 ET
Posted by: BillfromPgh,

Some initial observations of sorts - (don't ask where they come from):

The set list text doesn't do justice to the surprise factor and the energy in this year's set.

Best "overture" so far, and I'd rather hear the band work out on SD tunes than jazz obscurities although I did really enjoy the non-SD intro tunes in prior years. Notice that the version of Movies is nothing like the vocal version from 1996, closer to the Citizen outtake with a bit of an "On Broadway" riff underneath. Fez is fun and Scam is appropriately menacing.

Donald gets off a nice Rhodes solo toward the end of I Got The News (unless that's Jeff on Nord - I think it's DF since there is some piano behind it).

The new arrangement of Everything You Did swings - the beat is rather close to IGY. The original snappy Carlton intro is not there but otherwise a nice rewrite.

TvN is becoming quite the hot live song. A little faster than the record, great groove.

Walt's take on Gaucho is one of the most melodically challenging tunes I've ever heard him attempt to sing, and he pulls it off quite well. Even sounds close to the original key - anybody check yet? The Jarrett quotes in the intro are well-hidden in this arrangement.

Nobody is coasting this year, at least as far as I can tell.

Date: Tues, June 24, 2008, 11:38:35 ET
Posted by: Web Search, same place, stop asking

Fagen quote:

"People who are mainly Rolling Stones fans and people who like punk rock, stuff like that... a lot of them aren't interested at all in what we have to do."

http://www.cameroncrowe.com/eyes_ears/articles/crowe_jrl_steely_dan.html

Date: Tues, June 24, 2008, 10:46:39 ET
Posted by: Joey,

" one of those Stones and Who fans who never really had the musical acumen or the sensitivity to appreciate a band like Steely Dan. Seems somewhat incongruous, innit, but there it is. "

What ?!

Rajah ...... you make Joey very sad .

Why ?!

J.

Date: Tues, June 24, 2008, 10:15:41 ET
Posted by: Boston Rag, Draggin' ass

LaPage – I though it was KG at first in his primal scream mode but this Celtic had hair. My eyes say #34 - Paul Pierce.

The only change last night from the Saturday Beacon set was: Black Friday in, Green Earrings out.

To me the highlight of the set is the amazing version of “Everything You Did”. Slowed down a bit and juiced up with some nice work from Jon Herington. Not to mention Donald’s amazing vocal. I’ve always considered that tune one of the quintessential Steely Dan tunes. It’s a gem lyrically and musically. It’s also off of Scam, my #1 album of all time.

Thanks to Denise and Dick for organizing the pre-show gathering at Birch Bar. Great to see the King of Dandom – Hoops, Pete, Shari - and her cool Mom! The Fabulous Dan Babe - Girl Margaret, Fezman, Mark, Mer.

It was a treat sitting next to the Fezman in full regalia -White tuxedo and Steely Dan Fez. Holy shit! He’s the new Steely Dan Ambassador. Everybody wanted a picture with him! He was like Barney the Dinosaur at a kid’s birthday party.

Back to work….

Mark in Boston

Date: Tues, June 24, 2008, 10:04:28 ET
Posted by: Greg Moonspank, White Plains

<<<"-10 shows into the tour and no one thought to mention that Jeff Young has a GRAND PIANO now?! It was so nice to have that back. ">>>

he didnt have one for beacon.

Date: Tues, June 24, 2008, 09:40:01 ET
Posted by: It's Newark again, Werking it.

Flip out! Pit seats at Camden! Go to ticketmaster.com for these. They're not offered at Live Nation, but some great DEALS there. See you in the hood. More on tailgating later. Nwk

Date: Tues, June 24, 2008, 09:29:26 ET
Posted by: Newark, Eastern Sho' MD

It's a beuuuutiful mornin' on the Eastern Shore. Greetings ya Dan freaks. Thanks for all your thoughtful posts.

Wish we could've been at the Beacon (21) show and party but already had tix for David Bromberg and Dr. John in Jersey--Dr. John was a class act, surprised us with severe deep cuts--gadzooks what a show, I gulp his piano leads--like three parts all at once. David Bromberg and clan were simply superb, shocking the audience with "Sharon." He and his wife mingled with the crowd, strolling about the festival.

Ureka! Looks like some really great seats opened up for the Borgata from the Live Nation. After a millionth try, I found out more on BORGATA tickets. Love its magnificent Dale Chihuly chandeliers and cannot get past the gelato at the foot of the Event Center steps. That's right--RJ SQUIRREL et al! Send a note if yer goin'!

http://www.livenation.com/event/getEvent/eventId/321082

Wha tha? The entertainment calendar at the website at The Borgata venue says "Sold Out." I knew there was a way around that little road block. If you never saw the Borgata at night, here's a pic.

http://www.panoramio.com/photo/233162

We're goin' to Camden, the sound was really perfecto last year, and perhaps we'll make it to the Borgata AFTERALL. (There's decent room rates in Ocean City, NJ, BTW.) Later!

Anymore on Danfests for Atlantic City/Camden?

Takerezy fellow Danheads! Nwk

Date: Tues, June 24, 2008, 09:28:45 ET
Posted by: GusMahler, The Isle of Long

Hi Dandom Bluebook-ers -

I'm new around here, and thought I'd introduce myself and say HEY!

I've only come to know the music of Steely Dan in the past few years - a local drugstore had "Aja" in one of those "random CD" bins - and my curiosity purchase quickly turned to obsession... I know know and love the entire Dan catalog, as well as the Nightfly Trilogy and the two solo Becker offerings.

Anyways, I'm glad to stumble upon folk who share a passion for this music.

PS - Who all is going to Wallingford tomorrow night? I'm driving up from Long Island, couldn't make any of the Beacon Shows, sadly.

Date: Tues, June 24, 2008, 09:27:04 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Still on a high from Petty but in grieving now because of George Carlin

Dean... that is an amazing story! God Bless that guy!! May he Rest in Peace.

Date: Tues, June 24, 2008, 09:13:23 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

LaPage - The fireworks!! Can't believe I forgot to mention them. It was magic.

Date: Tues, June 24, 2008, 09:11:50 ET
Posted by: Aja1, Boston

Boston Set list

Instrumental (Everyone's Gone to the Movies/The Fez)
The Royal Scam
I Got the News
Showbiz Kids
Everything You Did
Two Against Nature
Hey Nineteen
Godwhacker
Babylon Sisters
New Frontier
Gaucho
Glamour Profession
Parker's Band - the gals (we missed Carolyn)
Josie
Black Friday - "Chicago Style!"
Itching in my Heart (Supremes)
Band intro by Walter
Peg
FM

Don't Take Me Alive
Kid Charlemagne

Date: Tues, June 24, 2008, 09:10:03 ET
Posted by: LaPage, Boston

Did anyone else notice the grand finale of the fireworks coincided with Donald singing "Distant lights from across the bay" during Babylon Sisters? Perfect timing!

Also, BR, that was a pic of KG, not Paul Pierce. A nice touch.

Date: Tues, June 24, 2008, 09:02:44 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Thanks for the comments (so far) on the Boston show. I'm looking forward to, hopefully, getting a little more detail later today. I have to wait for another couple of weeks. I'm hoping Donald's voice is still strong, by then.

Raj, I certainly hear where you are coming from re:Carlin, but I think Dan fans should have a sense of humor (almost by definition) about this sort of thing. There are plenty of people with more musical acumen than George, that misjudge what the Dan's music is really about. So, I can excuse George, who is after all a comedian, not a music critic. And, let's not forget, it was a JOKE. It's good to laugh at yourself, some times.

I'm not sure this is directly related to the Carlin issue, but as it was brought up...what is it, exactly, about Who fanatics that makes them so anti-Dan? I have seen that, as well. (I find many Stones fans to be a little more evolved...maybe it's the blues influence.) Truth is, I like the Who (well, some of it...more than I like the Stones, actually) but their hard core fans seem a little rigid and have a distaste for jazz. At least that's been my experience.

It's funny (to me) that so many people think of the Who (and the Stones) as some thing "pure" and "real" (I think you get my drift) and dismiss the Dan as "produced" and call it elevator music, and such. While Steely Dan did quite well, commercially, in the 70's, there music is most decidedly not commercial, and they have never come close to selling-out or being part of the corporatization of music. (Corporatization isn;'t the right word, but hopefully you get where I'm coming from.) The Who and the Stones are regularly used for TV commercials, and the like...hell the Stones might as well just have a huge "For Sale" sign on everything they do.

I think part of the confusion with Steely Dan, for these people, is they are trying to interpret them through a Rock music filter (or a pure Jazz filter). Instead, they should be viewed through a Great Songwriting filter. I'm guessing many (most?) of the Dan bashers don't hate on Duke Ellington or Cole Porter or Rogers and Hammerstein (etc). Well, that's what Steely Dan is...and it confounds them.

Quick Story:

In the mid 1990's I was working for a television network in LA. I went to a restaurant for a cheeseburger. It took me several attempts to get the guy at the counter to understand that I wanted my cheeseburger PLAIN...nothing else on it...naked...Meat, Cheese, Bun...that's ALL! Once the counter waiter went away, I heard the guy next to me start grumbling on how hard it was to order a "plain fucking burger". It was Carlin. He, apparently, had just gone through the same thing, moments earlier. I must say, it cracked me up.

Date: Tues, June 24, 2008, 09:01:53 ET
Posted by: Dan Belcher, Louisville, KY

"-10 shows into the tour and no one thought to mention that Jeff Young has a GRAND PIANO now?! It was so nice to have that back. "

Seriously? Was this only for that particular venue, or is he using one at every show? That's been my only real complaint from the past few tours -- digital pianos are nice and all, but nothing is like a real acoustic grand piano!

Date: Tues, June 24, 2008, 08:55:47 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Still on a high from Petty but in grieving now because of George Carlin

Any setlist from last night?? It sounded great!

Date: Tues, June 24, 2008, 08:50:56 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Up far too early thanks to gainful employment, but here it goes. Five Steely Dan shows, four in Boston, and I'm starting to think they were all building up to last night. The set was damn near perfect, and I'll just try to post some things I remember, as I didn't take any notes:

-Good omen: Cute girl with a home made "Steely Dan T-Shirt" (a white T shirt that she stenciled the words "STEELY DAN T-SHIRT" onto) spotted on the way in. Sadly, she looked like she was with her boyfriend. (If that was your brother or something and you're reading this, drop me an email....)
-10 shows into the tour and no one thought to mention that Jeff Young has a GRAND PIANO now?! It was so nice to have that back.
-The crowd went absolutely nuts when the band started playing The Fez; this is when I knew it would be a great show.
-You know those subtle changes that show up in unexpected places and make the song, like the backup singers doing the outro to TvN? There was another one last night on Godwhacker. During the "be very very quiet" part, the drums dropped out and the band came way down. Another was an out-of-nowhere modulation to Show Biz Kids for Walt's guitar solo.
-Speaking of Show Biz Kids, nothing against Mike McDonald, but he took away all the attitude from that song singing "Shaaaaaaaade on the light" at the end of every line in 06. Last night the song was snarling.
-And speaking of Walter, god damn. Gaucho was perfect and I still don't know how he did it, but he owned it and really looked like he was enjoying himself.

As soon as they played Josie, a good portion of the crowd stood up and didn't sit back down for the rest of the night. After the encore, the roar of the audience over the band's outro music was defeaning, and for a minute there I thought they might be moved to come out for a second encore. The house lights went on and the crowd kept cheering. Only when the roadies started packing up the stage did the crowd start to disperse.

What a night!

Date: Tues, June 24, 2008, 07:52:54 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

Rajah - thanks for detailing the Carlin comment.

Sound file and text of "Modern Man".

http://www.boreme.com/boreme/funny-2006/carlin-modern-man-p1.php

Im a modern man,
digital and cost free;
a man for the millennium

A diversified, muli-cultural,
post-modern deconstructionist;
politically, anatomically, and ecologically incorrect.

I've been uplinked and downloaded,
I've been imputted and outsourced.
I know the upside of downsizing
I know the downside of upgrading.

I'm a high-tech, low-life.
A cutting-edge, state-of-the-art,
bi-coastal multi-tasker,
and I can give you a gigabyte in a nanosecond.

I'm new wave, but I’m old school;
And my inner child is 0utward-bound.

I’m a hot-wired, heat-seeking,
Warm-hearted cool customer;
voice-activated and bio-degradable.

I interface with my database;
my database is in cyberspace;
so I’m interactive, Im hyperactive,
and from time to time I’m radioactive

Behind the eight ball, ahead of the curve,
ridin’ the wave, dodgin’ the bullet,
pushin’ the envelope.

I’m in the moment, on the edge,
over the to, but under the radar.

A high-concept, low-profile,
medium-range ballistic missionary.

A street-wise smart bomb.
A top-gun bottom-feeder.

I wear power ties, I tell power lies,
I take power naps, and I run victory laps.

I’m totally ongoing, big-foot, slam-dunk
rainmaker with a pro-active outreach.

A raging workaholic, a working rageaholic;
out of rehab and in denial.

I’ve got a personal trainer,
a personal shopper,
a personal assistant,
and a personal agenda.

You can’t shut me up;
you can’t dumb me down.

‘Cause I’m tireless, and I’m wireless.
I’m an alpha-male on beta-blockers.

I’m a non-believer,
I’m an over-achiever;
Laid-back and fashion-forward.
Up-front, down-home;
low rent, high maintenance.

I’m super-sized, long-lasting,
High definition, fast-acting,
oven-ready and built to last.

A hands-on, footloose, knee-jerk head case;
prematurely post-traumatic,
and I have a love child who sends me hate-mail.

But I’m feeling, I’m caring,
I’m healing, I’m sharing.
A supportive, bonding, nurturing
primary –care giver.

My output is down, but income is up.
I take short position on the long bond,
And my revenue stream has its own cash flow.

I read junk mail, I eat junk food,
I buy junk bonds, I watch trash sports.

I’m gender-specific, capital-intensive,
user-friendly and lactose-intolerant.

I like rough sex; I like tough love.
I use the f-word in my e-mail.
And the software on my hard drive
is hardcore — no soft porn.

I bought a microwave at a mini-mall.
I bought a mini-van at a mega-store.
I eat fast food in the slow lane.

I’m toll-free, bite-size, ready-to-wear,
and I come in all sizes.

A fully equipped, factory-authorized,
hospital-tested, clinically proven,
scientifically formulated medical miracle.

I’ve been pre-washed, pre-cooked, pre-heated,
pre-screened, pre-approved, pre-packaged,
post-dated, freeze-dried, double-wrapped
and vacuum-packed.

And… I have unlimited broadband capacity.

I’m a rude dude, but I’m the real deal.
Lean and mean.
Cocked, locked and ready to rock;
rough, tough, and hard to bluff.

I take it slow, I go with the flow;
I ride with the tide, I’ve got glide in my stride.

Drivin’ and movin’, sailin’ and spinnin’;
jivin’ and groovin’, and wailin’ and winnin’.

I don’t snooze, so I don’t lose.
I keep the pedal to the metal
and the rubber on the road.
I party hearty, and lunchtime is crunchtime.

I’m haning’ in, there ain’t no doubt;
and I’m hangin’ tough.
Over and Out.

Date: Tues, June 24, 2008, 06:16:01 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

Thank you all for your wonderful details about the Bitter End party.

Now, let's set the record straight about George Carlin. A great comedian, a great voice against the hypocricy that we call our government. Bravo George. But he missed the boat on Steely Dan.

He gave an HBO special some years ago and mentioned Steely Dan in the context of yuppie scum who didn't understand what real rock music was all about. George was one of those Stones and Who fans who never really had the musical acumen or the sensitivity to appreciate a band like Steely Dan. Seems somewhat incongruous, innit, but there it is. He sneered in rebuke during his HBO special of, "those people only wanna hear, 'Steeely Dan,' as he referred to a group of undefined, "yuppies."

RIP, George, but your slap at Steely Dan was not appreciated from this corner. Hope the Stones and Who are singing you to your rest.

Date: Tues, June 24, 2008, 00:41:28 ET
Posted by: Boston Rag, almost in bed

Gotta be up really early for a software implementation at work so I'll make this quick......

*Supercharged audience were feeding off the band all night.

*Don & Walt threw in Black Friday as an extra tune early in the set for 2 hour, 10 minute show!

*Most of the crowd were on their feet and dancing for the last thrid of the show.

*Before the encores the LED screens diplayed a picture of Paul Pierce and the NBA Championship trophy. Crowd went nuts!

* First Boston show in 15 years without SpongeBill in the audience. Mer was so sweet to bring a Spongebob Tuxedopants Beanie baby to the festivities to lighten up the evening. Thanks Merideth!

Bill - you missed a great show but I'm sure you were bopping along with us!

Date: Tues, June 24, 2008, 00:16:59 ET
Posted by: steelymike77, philly

set list for boston???

Date: Mon, June 23, 2008, 23:40:05 ET
Posted by: Mer., Boston

Home from the show- what a grat time, and the rain held off. Fantastic to finally connect some faces to names here in the pre-show danfast.
Big Noise, Big Dangasm...

Date: Mon, June 23, 2008, 22:40:22 ET
Posted by: Jive Miguel, Bogata

No doubt torn down and replaced by condos and shops.

I grew up in Summit & New Providence, NJ. We used to see concerts at an old monstrosity called Roosevelt Stadium in Jersey City. What a dump. Old hollowed out shell of a stadium where the Jersey City Giants minor league baseball team played in the 30's and 40's. We saw Yes play there in 1974. Waited all day in the rain, and by the time they let us in, the place was one massive mud hole.

They tore that beast down in 1985, replaced by Society Hill condos.

The Beacon is still an absolutely primo venue.

Saw SD at the Tweeter in Camden, 8/2006. Great show, but unimpressed with the venue and the acoustics.

Irvine Meadows (Verizon) Amphitheatere is the top outdoor venue I've been to for comfort, accoustics and safety.

Date: Mon, June 23, 2008, 22:35:53 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

The Dean - a bit late on my post but agree completely with the band being tighter now than then and, absolutely, Drew Zingg lit it up when he played...I'd say the same for Chambers (he's all over those punches in Bodi from AIA).

Date: Mon, June 23, 2008, 21:41:43 ET
Posted by: bikemann17, nj

Capitol theater is long gone

Date: Mon, June 23, 2008, 21:25:42 ET
Posted by: Jive Miguel, Bogata

Memories of George Carlin
November, 1982, Capital Theatre, Passaic, NJ
Opening act - Leon Redbone

Only musical performance I've ever seen with a band consisting of washboard, tuba and uke. One weird dude grinding away at Depression-era tunes. Wonderful warm-up for bar none, the funniest comic genius I've ever seen.

My girlfriend at the time, Dolores and I went to Spanish Sangria on Magazine Street in Newark for sangria, garlic shrimp, paella velenciana and crab-stuffed lobster. We drove to Passaic, getting absolutely stoned to the bone, and were already in full giggle mode waiting on line.

Fabulous venue for performance. Does anyone here know if the Capital is still standing, and whether they're still booking acts?

Sorry, don't remember the show all too well, except for Carlin joking about having suffered 3 heart attacks already by the age of 45, but do remember laughing uncontrollably, to the point of literally gasping for air.

I loved George Carlin. He broke the mold, and there will never be another. I was too young to remember Lenny Bruce, but my elders tell me he was brilliant until he got deeply into drugs and legal problems.

Still on a high from the 6/13/08 SD Beacon show. I'm still convinced it's the best Dan ensemble ever, the "Think Fast Orchestra". I do believe that Bill Ware would be a brilliant RE-addition, as I recall his lush vibes during the 1994 "Citizen" tour (Irvine, CA), particularly on Sign in Stranger. Razor Boy and Negative Girl would be welcome additions to any setlist.

I commented in my earlier post that of the 5 SD shows I've seen, + the Fagen Morph tour in '06, this was far and away Donald's strongest vocal performance - range, tone, definition, power, command, and that all important ATTITUDE. Watching the live 2vN DVD confirmed this for me. Anyone else here of a similar mind?

Date: Mon, June 23, 2008, 18:39:46 ET
Posted by: St John, L-ton

Thanks Hoops for the info, and to all the others sending in reports. Wish I coulda gotten away for the wingding but the posts are the next best thing.

Hoping Gaucho and Glamor Profession stays in for the Borgata!

Date: Mon, June 23, 2008, 18:16:38 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu - No Power On The Soundstage

So, The reason I couldn't go
to NYC was because I had to be
back for work early this morning.
Guess what? The heat has sent us
home. Oh well. RIP George C.
Genius.
Matt & Mark! -
THANK YOU! You two crazy f*cks!
I want to party with you guys.
That picture of Abe Vigoda holding
Circus Money made my week! I'm ordering
a print of that. The only thing
missing is Skip Gildersleeve. If
Wally's PR staff don't post that at
WB.com they are idiots. I hope you
got Abe to sign the booklet!
But please, don't ever refer to Abe
Vigoda as an "old" comic actor! "Timeless"
gents. Have some respect.
Greg -
Thanks fo the great Bitter End Bullit Points
and all of the nice links! I really felt
like I was there. Bill Ware IS amazing!
Why wasn't he a special guest during the
Beacon run! "Sign In Stranger" anyone?!
After hearing and seeing Wally do "Gaucho"
on a few boots today, I can honestly
say I enjoyed it - BUT
I would much rather hear "Downtown Canon"
or "Darkling Down"! I would love to see
a movement to get Walter to sing something
from C$ as people spread the word about this
great CD.
Well, I'm off to the water. Looking forward
to the Boston Reports later. Have a great time.

Date: Mon, June 23, 2008, 16:54:46 ET
Posted by: HeyMike, chgo

I dont recall the entire Carlin - Dan reference (my recollection is a few posts below) but I think it was during this same show. Funny funny stuff. I never took offense to it, I just thought it fit his shtick.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ohXn8WKpYaA

Date: Mon, June 23, 2008, 14:26:22 ET
Posted by: hoops, ---> Boston

Greg...

Thanks for your posts. A few things in your last couple of posts were on the circus money.

Next time? Aww, shucks...

Date: Mon, June 23, 2008, 13:33:42 ET
Posted by: oops,

I just noticed that you can watch live streaming video from the Bitter End website. Anyone smart enough to catch this on Saturday?

Date: Mon, June 23, 2008, 13:09:22 ET
Posted by: Web Search, up

Jerome Aniton got his 15 minutes of fame just in time.

http://www.kxmc.com/News/250539.asp

Date: Mon, June 23, 2008, 12:33:01 ET
Posted by: Greg Moonspank, White Plains, NY

Some other notes from the after-party:

-Washington is a friendly dude and it was cool rapping with him.
-Carlock, as can be seen in the videos, used the house kit.
-Carlock showed up with an entourage of chicks.
-Michael Leonhart was there but in the audience for a short time.
-Pete Fogel was busy all night getting things together and even moving equipment. Kudos to him.
-Fogel introduced Freddie to the crowd from behind the desk enthusiastically as "Freddie 'Steady' Washington!" Which he right afterward corrected. But the "new" knick name is cool and accurate, nonetheless.
-Herington indeed enjoyed a generous amount of tequila while on stage, and a Stella Artois beer.
-Jeff Young performed Crazy World from his Red Wurlitzer album.
-Herington sang about 4 songs himself, and sounds a bit like Petty.
-No Steely Dan material was performend. Although Herrington teased the Josie intro on the guitar for a split second.

-Bill Ware’s set was ridiculous. He truly is a monster on vibes. The rest of his band ain’t too shabby either. Those who stayed late to see Ware's set were treated.

Date: Mon, June 23, 2008, 12:16:15 ET
Posted by: Geoff, Wiggy Pad II

The other singer at the Bitter end in the all star jam was a friend of Cindy's her name is Piti or something like that.

Suedave: The opening Jeff Young song was "Soul Pharaoh" and it's based on a nickname the guitarist from Sting's band gave Jeff when they were on a stop in Cairo.

Geoff

Date: Mon, June 23, 2008, 12:13:01 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Can't wait for the show tonight. I saw Stevie Wonder last night at the Comcast Center (aka the Tweeter Center aka Great Woods) and am amped for another great show. Looks like I'll be missing out on the festivities yet again as I can't leave southeastern NH until after 5 ... maybe next year.

Just out of curiosity, does anyone have any experience bringing jazz cigarettes to the BoA pavilion? (Like that euphemism? You can have it).

Date: Mon, June 23, 2008, 12:06:43 ET
Posted by: HouDanFan, Houston

Have seen Petty 3 times and he puts on an excellent show. Plus, he always has great opening acts. Im going to see him again this year and am really looking forward to seeing Winwood.

I'm really psyched about the SD setlist this year. I'm considering a Denver to Albuquerque trek. I know about the Gorge but has anyone on here been to the Sandia Resort venue? How is it?

Date: Mon, June 23, 2008, 11:24:08 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Still on a high from Petty but in grieving now because of George Carlin

RIP George Carlin. You were the all time greatest comedian and a personal hero to me. You saw through the bullshit.

RIP. You will be missed.

What is the Carlin skit about Steely Dan??

(I was watching a Carlin doc. a couple weeks ago and they showed a picture of him from the 70s, and he had a Steely Dan - Preztel Logic tee shirt on.)

Date: Mon, June 23, 2008, 11:10:47 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, @work

Thanks for the vids Greg.

KC

Date: Mon, June 23, 2008, 10:32:25 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Great vids, Greg. Thanks

Nice to hear Ware play the vibes.

Date: Mon, June 23, 2008, 10:17:50 ET
Posted by: Greg Moonspank, White Plains

<<<No wonder Hoops takes down your posts.>>>

The reason for this is that sometimes I have been on the wrong end of the slippery slope of online live recording trading discussions.

I accept that.

That said, youtube discussions, as I understand, are fair game. And I am happy to contribute material, as I have in the past.

So, if you are interested is seeing some video of the Bitter End performance. You can check it out at:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h1y7l_MYdIU
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=svl9xmTnJz4
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bzN5BWMIeBs
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-xtKblCd04w
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fLbDqcu7vog

Enjoy.

Hoops, I would have enjoyed meeting you. Not sure what your comment meant, exactly. Maybe we did chat, who knows.

Date: Mon, June 23, 2008, 10:15:40 ET
Posted by: LD, Rochester

Catherine Russell was gracing the stage at the Rochester International Jazz Fest on Saturday night. She was a crowd favorite, the line to get in was six blocks long and queued two hours before each of her two performances. She was definitely worth the wait!

It might have been Paulette McWilliams with Cindy at the Bitter End.

Date: Mon, June 23, 2008, 09:52:54 ET
Posted by: hoops, nyc-->boston

Moonspank...

You should have introduced yourself on Saturday night...it would put things in real perspective.

Date: Mon, June 23, 2008, 09:50:30 ET
Posted by: Larry,

Yes Moonspank - I understand English and I understand that you're a party pooper. Spank that!

Date: Mon, June 23, 2008, 09:19:59 ET
Posted by: Greg Moonspank, get lost

<<Greg Moonspank- The After Party was advertised as a Jon Herington/Jeff Young show. Carlock and Washington didn't owe us anything. We are lucky that they even graced us with their presence. No wonder Hoops takes down your posts.>>>

Larry, this is quite a lame comment, man. Really lame. I never said anyone was "owed" anything. I just said I was disappointed that they played on a single song. That's it. Do you understand what that means? Do you understand English?

Date: Mon, June 23, 2008, 09:17:37 ET
Posted by: Steven Pomorantz, Westbury, NY

Awesome time at the show and the Bitter End.

Did Herington drink that whole bottle of Patron during his set? Good to see Geoff, Alan, Gretchen, Fife and Lady Bayside. And special thanks to Pete Fogel who always come through with these great parties for all of us! Thanks Pete!!

Date: Mon, June 23, 2008, 09:04:04 ET
Posted by: Nelson, Haa haa

With Denise's hint and a few searches, I'm pretty sure Nelson Foltz is the name.

Date: Mon, June 23, 2008, 08:43:46 ET
Posted by: HeyMike, Chgo

Sorting garbage and listening to Steely Dan indeed. RIP George.

Date: Mon, June 23, 2008, 08:22:09 ET
Posted by: Nigell, Here

George Carlin is dead of a heart attack.

Why did he hate Steely Dan fans????????

N.

Date: Mon, June 23, 2008, 08:15:18 ET
Posted by: Ambrose,

*****************PETE FOGEL YOU ARE DEE BEST**********************

Date: Mon, June 23, 2008, 07:42:18 ET
Posted by: Mer., Boston

Yes, we're gonna have a wing-ding!!!

Date: Mon, June 23, 2008, 07:14:44 ET
Posted by: Mark from the North of Boston, Soon to be at the Boston Show!

Hope to see all of you guys tonight. Boston Rag, Fezman, Bill and the rest.
Been really busy working and missing the chatter on here. Scrolling back to find interesting tidbits.
Take care all, enjoy the tour!
Mark from the North of Boston

Date: Mon, June 23, 2008, 03:03:54 ET
Posted by: Gina/Mizar5, Sun Mountain

nice posts about the Beacon/Bitter End event, and nice pics too.

Steelydoc, can you send me an email again, please? (click name)
the pic of your WB license plate ran off somehow etc etc.
thanks!

Date: Mon, June 23, 2008, 01:00:13 ET
Posted by: hoops, nyc

Thanks for the pics, Mr. Rag!

Jim

Date: Mon, June 23, 2008, 00:50:24 ET
Posted by: hoops, nyc

Sr John;

I can take a stab at some of your questions.

It definitely wasn't Catherine Russell. And while we're talking about backup singers, I'm guessing that Carolyn is out because she is taking proper care of herself in preparation for her becoming a mother.

Not sure what was the deal with Jim Pugh but I wondered if the replacement was one of his students.

I was surprised and pleased to see the LED panels as the back drop for the set. Sorry for missing it if it was mentioned here before. Their appearance was choreographed superbly. Before "Show Biz Kids," there was simply a flat curtain with lights show on them. Then during "Show Biz Kids" it was raised in a dramatic way that added a visual thrill to SBK. (SBK was great with Mike McD in 2006 but for this show they really perfected it.)

I'm thrilled at what seems to me to be a great reduction in the between-songs stage patter from D & W. That seems to be part of something very excellent about this year's shows that I will write about when I get some time this week.

I couldn't get the best look at the photos on the amps--one in front of the horn section and the other in front of Donald's keyboard. I *did* notice that the image in front of Donald was briefly displayed large-scale on the LED backdrop during "Parker's Band" so I surmise that it might be Charlie Parker's and his band or something like that.

Nitey!

Jim

P.S. The Bitter End party banner will stay up on the Blue for a few days while we chat about it all.

Date: Mon, June 23, 2008, 00:36:54 ET
Posted by: Boston Rag, Back in Beantown

Hey! Back from NYC, the city that never sleeps! Great time, great music, great people.

Really tired, so I’ll post a review later in the week.

Wanted to share a few pictures from Saturday and one from this morning. About 12 of us went to breakfast this morning at the New Wave Café on Broadway & 79th. Who do we run in to but Mr. Abe Vigoda – who was absent from the Circus Money studio photo. Well we corrected that situation!

Thanks to Matt – even though he’s a southern gentleman, he had no problems harassing an old comic actor to pose for a photo!

http://share.shutterfly.com/action/pictures?a=67b0de21b347b2b5c4fb&sid=0AbOGzJk3cMWTjQ

On to the Boston show tonight!

Mark

Date: Mon, June 23, 2008, 00:08:56 ET
Posted by: Sr John, L-town

Darren -Could the lady who accompanied Cindy Mizelle at the Bitter End have been Catherine Russell? She's a petite woman with long dreads. Someone posted that she joined Cindy and Tawatha onstage one night last week. Wonder what's going on with the singers -- anyone in the club last night het horses mouth nfo?

And I'm also curious about Jim Pugh and his reported replacement of last night. Did any one ask about that one? I hope he's all right and it was just a scheduling conflict and that he'll be back real soon

And, anyone figure out the photos reported on the front of instruments and amps?

Feels like Jun 27 will never come........

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 23:49:44 ET
Posted by: Fife, Baltimore, eh

"Fucking Amazing" are the only words that are really needed to describe the events of the past couple of days in the "Big Apple".
Friday nights show just blew me away and I had a wonderful view in the upper balcony at the Beacon. The band was super tight and Don and Walt were totally into it. Watching Donald dance was proof positive that the old codger is really enjoying himself these days. Walter owns Gaucho and it was great to hear him sing. The whole show was highly addictive.
Saturday night was an anticipation that had been building for a few months and I was not dissappointed. The AfterParty was fantastic. Jon Herrington and Jeff young did an awesome job and to have Keith Carlock, Freddie Washington, and Cindy Mizelle join them for the last tune of the set was absolutely fantastic. What a treat it was to talk to them all and they seemed very pleased to be doing so. When I mentioned to Jon, Keith, and Cindy how much I loved Circus Money they really shined and said how much they enjoyed making it. I knew that was one special album.
Anyhow considering I am not usually as prolific I will end this very soon. I just want to thank everyone who showed up to the Pre-show Danfest at Blondies, all you guys rock!
Pete and Shari words cannot convey how grateful I am that you are so dedicated and generous.
Hoops I've said it many times Thank You so much for starting up Dandom. I've yet to meet a Danfreak I didn't like!
Fife
P.S. I scored the poster!

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 23:49:31 ET
Posted by: CharlieFreak, Yeah, whatever

Thanks Dean....I'll check it out.

-Charlie

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 23:46:05 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Charlie Freak,

I still haven't located the site I was looking for. Perhaps one of the other posters here has the link. I am looking for a long, detailed multi-page article on The Dan. I think the article is on professional recording equipment (or something) site and not a music/band review site.

But, here are some interesting sites and articles that you might like:

http://www.granatino.com/sdresource/wandm.htm

http://pifmagazine.com/vol35/m_clon.php3

http://www.allaboutjazz.com/php/article.php?id=15074

http://www.soundonsound.com/sos/aug03/articles/steelydan.htm

Bob,

I'm on record as missing the contributions of Victor Feldman on Dan records, and I enjoyed Ware's contributions, so many years ago. I also think that Drew Zing played the best "hot solos" of any of the touring guitar players to date.

With that said, the band has sounded better in recent years than they did back then, IMO. Actually they seem to sound better just about every year. Last year's version was tops, in my book, and from all reports, this year they sound even better. So while I may miss some of the parts, the sum of the parts is greater now. Maybe, just maybe, Don and Walt know what the hell they are doing.

I'm just sayin'...

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 23:31:41 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

Lydian was George Russell's brain child (don't know anything about it)...liked the title of his tune "Electronic Sonata for Souls Loved by Nature".

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 23:24:31 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

There is some weird, newish shit out there:

http://www.lydianchromaticconcept.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?p=1090&sid=a5145a41a73b9ff0f2c1ba6fd7d63c23

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 23:22:27 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

Great posts...thanks.

The absence of Bill Ware from SD shows leads to a bigger question...why no "auxilary" percussion live for almost 1-1/2 decades? I have my suspicions but I'd rather hear other opinions.

I really liked the Dan when they had a dominant percussion part in addition to drum set (Congas being the dominant rhythm/solo percussion instrument IMHO...warm and not overbearing like timbales)...take a re-listen to "Razor Boy" or Your Gold Teeth" from CTE to see just how tasty the Congas are (I'm assuming it was Vic Feldman who played them on both tunes...did he play them on "Do It Again"?)...it always floored me that Feldman could play Congas so well (were did he learn those?) while also being a phenomenal jazz/session/everything piano player.

I have to give Winwood credit as he always tours with drums AND percussion....he has a monster Conga player on this tour (anyone that's been to a concert remember any solos from him?)...Winwood himself plays Congas so I guess he has a soft spot for them as they were often featured in the later Traffic tunes and his solo stuff.

So if Winwood can do it, why not...

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 23:19:54 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Dunno if this has been posted yet:

http://bigpicture.typepad.com/comments/2008/06/friday-evenin-1.html

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 23:18:03 ET
Posted by: Larry,

Greg Moonspank- The After Party was advertised as a Jon Herington/Jeff Young show. Carlock and Washington didn't owe us anything. We are lucky that they even graced us with their presence. No wonder Hoops takes down your posts.

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 23:10:06 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Charlie,

There is a fairly well-known site called "Fever Dreams" that delves into the meaning of Dan songs. It has moved a few times, but now resides here:

http://cordmeyer.spymac.com/

With apologies to some fellow Blue posters, it is mostly ridiculous. Apparently, nobody on that site ever thinks that, at least once in a while, a cigar is really just a cigar. It's good for a laugh or two, and the very occasional insight.

The Steely Dan Dictionary helps with some of the less obvious references:

http://www.steelydandictionary.com/

I recall seeing a site that actually did a reasonable job (at least on the surface) of analyzing many Dan songs, but I can't seem to find the link, right now. If I do, I will post it.

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 23:01:05 ET
Posted by: Greg Moonspank, White Plains, NY

The Sly Stone song played at the after-party was "Let Me Have It All." The After party was somewhat of a disappointment because Carlock and Washington played only that one tune. But it was cool I guess. Oh yeah, Michael Leonhart was in the audience for a short time. Let's hope Hoops decides not to erase another one of my messages (this one).

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 22:59:10 ET
Posted by: CharlieFreak, I heard it was you...

I'm sort of a lyrics freak. The Dan's work is some of the most interesting that I have heard. Can someone direct me to a web site that analyzes SD lyrics? Thanks...

Charlie

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 22:40:09 ET
Posted by: wondering,

Any idea what happened to those giant Circus Money posters at the Bitter End? I wonder how a person might get their hands on one...

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 22:14:52 ET
Posted by: Denise, home at last

What a great show in NY. I had not heard all those Royal Scam songs live before, and WB's Gaucho was a real treat. The trombonist was introduced as Nelson...did not get his last name.

Thank you Hoops and Pete for the great time at the Bitter End.

Wonderfull time seeing all the danfans!
D.

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 21:05:54 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., NJ

So... Did anyone hear this? Anything interesting pop up? Apparently it's being repeated in just a couple hours....

http://www.sirius.com/supershuffle

CELEBRITY SHUFFLE: WALTER BECKER
6/22 at 3 am, 2 pm & 11 pm ET

Steely Dan’s Walter Becker is dropping by our SIRIUS studios to discuss songs off his recent solo album Circus Money. Don’t miss it when Walter Becker hosts Celebrity Shuffle!

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 20:15:43 ET
Posted by: ***stoked***,

Wow!! What a night for the SD fans but what a pleasure also to see all those great musicians up close and personal, at The Bitter End afterwards. The place was cookin' and I am so glad I made the effort. Kudos to all concerned for a fine gathering of fans!!

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 20:15:15 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Still on a high from Petty...

Dean... Winwood was amazing! He played for about an hour, but he and Petty didnt play together. He played a lot of the big hits and then some from his new album. Closed his set with Gimme Some Lovin' and the crowd loved it.

Winwood, Petty and Steely Dan... a pretty good summer!

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 19:59:43 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

Daddy G, I think you may be on to something, there. I agree that it isn't likely, but it certainly presented a hell of an opportunity. You never really know, I guess.

A couple of quick question:

Was Jim Pugh absent for a night or two? If so, who filled in?

Have Walt W and Michael L sat in with Sam Yahel every time SH opened, this tour? How did they sound, last night?

Thanks.

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 19:55:31 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., NJ

Oh yeah... I've been enjoying the on-site reporting from the various venues. Thanks to all for taking the time to jot down notes or whatever. Thanks especially to Hoops for being the conduit of those reports on more than one occasion and for the overall digs around here!

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 19:54:49 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

El Sup, thanks for that link. I found that a year or two ago, but have since lost the link. Pissed me off, as I didn't remember the author's name. I don't think I ever finished the entire thing, either.

Wu, nice report on the Petty concert. Glad to hear you enjoyed it. I like Tom and have seen him a time or two (he has a great guitarist). But, I would take the worst Dan concert over the best Petty concert, anytime...but, that's me. Viva la difference!

BTW, Wu, how was Winwood? Did he and TP play together, at all?

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 19:52:17 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., NJ

I know the idea of another live album (or DVD) from past tours has been floated by fans numerous times before and I hesitate to bring it up again because I don't think it's all that likely at this point. However, that being said it occurs to me that if something like that were ever going to come about, perhaps these multiple Beacon shows would be the chance? A fairly unvarying set list would allow multiple takes to choose from, perhaps even some splicing together to smooth out any perceived imperfections.

Again, I doubt it and I'll believe it only when it comes down from official sources, but still I can't help wondering in some small way...

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 19:49:45 ET
Posted by: steelyfez, CT

Had a great time last night at the Beacon. I was very happy about the setlist and the band sounds as good as ever. Donalds pipes are right on and the crowd was very gracious. I am glad I was able to finally meet you Jim, even though I probably drove you nuts by saying more then one time "thanks for this site and all you do"
I was happy to be able to meet John Herrington and Mike Leonhart, they are such humble guys. The Bitter End was a great time and a special thanks to Pete F. for putting me on that list. Also I was able to meet Fezman and a couple of others from the blue. All and all a great time and one of my better Dan experiences.

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 19:48:55 ET
Posted by: steelyfez, CT

Had a great time last night at the Beacon. I was very happy about the setlist and the band sounds as good as ever. Donalds pipes are right on and the crowd was very gracious. I am glad I was able to finally meet you Jim, even though I probably drove you nuts by saying more then one time "thanks for this site and all you do"
I was happy to be able to meet John Herrington and Mike Leonhart, they are such humble guys. The Bitter End was a great time and a special thanks to Pete F. for putting me on that list. Also I was able to meet Fezman and a couple of others from the blue. All and all a great time and one of my better Dan experiences.

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 19:07:56 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Thanks Lars!
What tunes did Bill do?
Blasting my Roseland 1995
boot on the veranda now!
How's this for a line-up
and setlist! -

Walter Becker - Guitar, Vocals
Donald Fagan - Vocals, Electric Piano and other keyboards
Drew Zingg - Guitar
Chris Potter - Sax
Cornelius Bumpus - Sax
Bob Shepherd - Sax
Peter Erskine - Drums
Bill Ware - Vibes
Catherine Russell - Vocals
Diane Garisto - Vocals
Brenda White-King - Vocals
John Beasley - Piano
Tom Barney - Bass

Disc 1:

1. Crowd and Introduction
2. East St. Louis Toodle-Loo
3. Aja
4. Bad Sneakers
5. Reelin' in the Years
6. Josie
7. On the Dunes
8. Green Earrings
9. Bodhisattva
10. Book of Liars
11. Hey 19

Disc 2:
1. Babylon Sisters
2. Band Introductions
3. Peg
4. Deacon Blues
5. Chain Lightning
6. Third World Man
7. Kid Charlemagne
8. My Old School
9. Do It Again

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 18:58:57 ET
Posted by: Lutz, SF

Is Walter still taking the majority of the guitar solos?
Jon Herrington was introduced as musical director at some of the European shows last summer, he did not take many solos anymore.
Love them both, just wondering.

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 18:53:23 ET
Posted by: Lars,

Lurker Ray - Bill Ware played with his own band. I think they started around 2:30am. Bill sounded really good and as someone else mentioned it was a perfect way to round out the night. Very cool time indeed.

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 18:41:51 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Darren!
Please post more often!
Excellent report. Thank
you. Glad to see someone
else appreciating Bill Ware
as much as I do. Roseland
1995 baby! Bill was magical!
What tunes did Bill do and what
band did he sit in with?
BTW, How about that Pete Fogel!
Man can he bring the players
in!

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 18:14:40 ET
Posted by: HomeAtLast, Where Champions are made

Oops, this board is different from any other I have posted on so that's why the previous empty one.

Enjoyed seeing the many of you in NY NY. It's the first time I had ever seen them play in a small venue and it was a great concert.

It was also great to see those of you I had met before and those I met for the first time.

Hope to see you all again soon.

Yours in Dandom,
Jeff

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 18:11:26 ET
Posted by: Darren, NJ

The Beacon concert was fantastic! It's amazing how this bands keeps getting better. Walter's solo on Glamour Profession was incredible! The best I have ever heard him play. I was skeptical after hearing he was singing Gaucho but it worked, and it worked fine. Everything You Did had reggae thing going on and was the best song of the show even though it was never a favorite of mine. Donald is amazing. He's really singing the songs like the album and he is so into his performance. It looks like they are both having a ball up there and it's good to see!

I scored a Beacon shirt and we headed down to the Bitter End.
Despite the crowd waiting in line, we were able to go right in thanks to the list Pete Fogel set up. The place was pretty crowded and a band was just finishing a set. All of a sudden on comes Door Number Two! I wasn't expecting to hear that but it sounded great! Not that I haven't heard it numerous times but it was special listening with a couple hundred other Dan Fans! What an infectious album! Herrington had a four or five piece band. The man can sing! He may not be right to sing with Steely Dan, but I was pleasantly surprised by his voice and his music. Jim Beard sat in on a song and Jon was doing shots of Patron. He's a great showman. Jeff Young's band was up next with Herrington on guitar. His set was more on the R&B side, and a nice mix with Herrington's pop/rock. I was hoping to buy a cd from both of them but never saw any for sale.

Herrington, Young, Keith Carlock, Freddie Washington and Cindy Mizelle all got onstage and performed a soul song, not sure of the name. Another woman joined them but I don't think it was Tawatha Agee, this woman had long dreadlocks. The crowd was electric and the band fed off of them. As someone else posted, it was incredible to be that close to all those players, especially when you were just watching them with Steely Dan in front of 3,000 people! This was the highlight of the night for me, magical!

I missed the 1993 and 1994 tours but am quite fond of Bill Ware's vibe work on Alive in America, particularly Sign in Stranger. I always wondered why they didn't continue to use him. His mellow sound was just what was needed to round out the night.

There were a number of people there with guitars or other instruments but they never got up and played. I recognized Oz Noy from his poster in the window. I have heard a bit about him since Keith Carlock plays with him. I overheard someone else say that the great Elliot Scheiner (SD engineer) was there but I wouldn't know what he looks like.

What a night! I only lurk here occasionally so I didn't "know" anyone there, but it looked like a lot of people had a great time.

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 18:09:42 ET
Posted by: HomeAtLast,

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 17:45:17 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Chan,
The Lakers had no right being
in the Playoffs this year.
Period. Besides I'm from Chicago
and I LOVE Doc Rivers!
Hoops was not at Soboba. But
Pete Fogel was. So I would defer
to him on that one.
As for the Beacon and their Pinkertons,
don't you really wish they would go back
to Roseland?!
Looking forward to your report from
Boston tomorrow night.

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 17:36:27 ET
Posted by: Chan, Boston

Lurker Ray, CAL fans vs Boston fans. Kinda like Lakers vs Celtics.

I have to defer to Hoops on this one, he should know as well as anyone having seen them play all over the country as much as anyone. But hey, its not a competition, just an opinion and probably a fact.

Last nights Beacon show felt like a Boston type crowd to me. Although having mostly been to Boston shows over the years it seemed very normal to me.

As far as security last night, towards the end of the show a guy near me lit up a small one hit bowl standing in the aisle. Two security guys asked him if he was the one that just lit up, and he pointed at the guy next to him and said it was him. One of the guards just sneered at him and said don't do it again I saw it was you.

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 17:18:03 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Larry -
I went to bed sad -
BECAUSE I WAS NOT THERE!

I thought for sure Walter
was going to show up and
do a C$ tune.

Where was Jim Pugh last night
and who sat in for him?

Did they spin "Dark Horse Dub"
between sets last night at the
Bitter End?

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 17:07:05 ET
Posted by: Larry, nyc

Lurker Ray- Don't feel bad for any of us Bitter End go-ers. Just hearing Carlock, Washington, Young ,Herington and Cindy Mizelle in such an intimate atmosphere with a great sound system was good enough for those of us that attended. And I believe I can speak for all of us who were there. Sorry you went to bed sad, because none of us did.

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 16:50:56 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu - The Heat Has Broken!

Thanks for all of the reports
from last night. I am a bit
flummoxed though. They play
a 6 night stand in their home
town and they don't premier
any new live tunes????!!!
And with all the solo stuff
Donald could play, he bangs
out "New Frontier" all 6 nights!!??
You are in NYC for 6 shows and
only one special guest?
The only real surprise of the
entire Beacon run was Tuesday
night when Catherine Russell
joined them for the entire show.
That was the show to catch.
I'm hoping for some more Dean Parks
or Denny Diaz guest spots at least
out in LA or Anaheim. And the
security Nazis at the Beacon rear
their ugly heads yet again.
Oh please bring back Roseland.
So I figured the Bitter End is
where a big surprise was going to
go down. Especially when it was
announced that Jim Beard was going
to be there. I went to bed sad
last night, just knowing that Wally
was going to show up and do something
from C$ with Jim Beard and band.
And that didn't even go down. Oh well.

Hoops -
I'll put that blue-collar crowd from Soboba
up against your Boston crowd any day!

"Soboba! Soboba! Soboba!"
-DF

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 16:35:57 ET
Posted by: El Sup,

Previous post should read tried again in 1993 not 1903 of course ...

El Sup

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 16:34:56 ET
Posted by: El Sup, Louisville, KY

I was browsing the net last night and came across something very, very interesting. I don't remember seeing anything about this posted previously, but if I missed it, it definitely deserves a repost. I couldn't find a direct link to it on any of the steely dan link sites.

Apparently, Dave DiMartino (Creem magazine among others) wrote a book about Steely Dan in 1985 that, at the last minute, was not published. He tried once again in 1903 with no success. In 2005, he dicided to publish the entire manuscript on his blog. I'm surprised I had never seen this before as it makes fascinating reading for ANY Steely Dan fan. A nice companion piece to Brian Sweet's book.

http://blog.360.yahoo.com/blog-SDSWyN41erCbQ5NZk26gOTPpZo_Tig--?tag=steelydan&l=26&u=28&mx=28&lmt=5

Since this is a blog entry, scroll to the bottom and then read back to the top. 28 entries in all.

Did I just miss the discussion on this one?

El Sup

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 16:33:48 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Still on a high from Petty...

Ok, they were both great. We really cant argue either way...

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 16:31:35 ET
Posted by: Beacon/Bitter,

"Thanks for letting me tell the story, the Beacon sounded great, but not as fun as my night...:

Ha! That's what you think!

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 16:24:37 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Not on the grid

I know that everyone is talking about the Steely Dan concert, but I hope no one would mind if I share a concert story from last night's Steve Winwood and Tom Petty concert, easily the most memorable concert I have ever been to and probably ever will go to...

Tom Petty gets on stage, and the sold out 25,000 people at Buffalo's Darien Lake were more than ready, singing every word to the opener You Wreck Me.
Now I was on the lawn, so I saw everything... because when he got up there, big black storm clouds rolled right over the amplitheather. No one thought anything about it except when it started lightning right over the fuckinging stage! All the drunk happy go lucky fuckers would go crazy when they saw the lighning. Drunk people are good fans at big concert! Everyone was loving the lightning...

Then... during the last verse of Mary Jane's Last Dance...
"It was too cold to try when I woke up alone. I hit last number and i walk to the..."

BAMMM!!
A mile long lightning bolt stikes, the stage goes pitch black and all power goes dead!

25,000 screaming drunk fans go dead silent for about 2 seconds, then start screaming, swearing, shouting for Petty to come back! They were flipping out!
"Petty!" "Petty!" "Petty!"
Of corse, he and the Heartbreakers never fucking stopped playing! They just couldnt hear him. They get power back up, and they finish the song with strength
.
Then... the sky started pissing.
The downpour starts.... for and hour and a half.
The fans are going insane.

"You guys are crazy!" Petty yells... and goes into Breakdown... with every person singing along.
Not many rockers will keep going in the lightning and the downpour, but Petty played the longest show of the tour so far!

With the downpour getting worse and lightning sticking around, he keeps jamming. Not letting up at all.

He goes into Saving Grace from his latest album, and the fans love it.

"And it's hard to say who you are these days, but you run on anyways, don't you..."

BAM!!!!

Black. Dead. Again.

If he had not come right back, there would have been a mob. 25,000 drunk Petty fans were not happy. I was on the lawn as said before and it was getting crazy. Everyone was flipping out, and everyone was loving it!

But the power goes back up, he keeps going (never missing a beat) and the fans are loving it!

Petty gets to the mic. "They said it is gonna rain for 15 more minutes, so it's almost over. And if the power goes out again, we are hooking up to a generator, and I'm paying for it."

The fans, once again, go nuts!

He's a great musician...shittyy weatherman.

It pissed throughout the entire rest of the show. but everyone loved it. He just never stopped!

Cold, pouring, lightning, poweroutages, sold out25,000 crazy drunk fans... the best Tom Petty concert ever!

One of Buffalo's most memorable concerts ever! Anyone else there??

Thanks for letting me tell the story, the Beacon sounded great, but not as fun as my night...

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 15:40:56 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Not on the grid

Did they play Black Friday??

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 15:40:45 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

LOVE reading all the accounts from last night's attendees !!
Many thanks for sharing your impressions with the rest of us poor souls who really regret not being there for all the festivities.

Keep those reports coming......

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 15:13:42 ET
Posted by: Beacon Attendee, nyc

"the security was very cool and laid back"

A kid (couldn't have been more than 22 or 23) a few seats away from me try lighting a pot pipe during Everything You Did. A security guy spotted it and ordered him to step to the aisle. He made a call on his radio and within 30 seconds a phalanx of security guards appeared and whisked him off.

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 14:32:22 ET
Posted by: hoops, nyc

Walter said something like New York attendees are the best people.

The consensus was that last night's crowd was the best Beacon crowd ever. They stood and really got into it towards the end and the security was very cool and laid back.

I have to say that Boston has the best Steely Dan audience. Just incredible and the best.

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 14:18:46 ET
Posted by: DimSkip, Eternal Path

New Discovery Proves 'Selfish Gene' Exists
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/06/080620115905.htm

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 13:51:15 ET
Posted by: Chan, Sorry Mate

Allen and Lady Bayside Karen were also at Blondies.

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 12:27:48 ET
Posted by: Craig B,

Thanks Chan and Hoops for taking the time

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 12:00:31 ET
Posted by: NY'ers = BEST AUDIENCE,

I'm pretty sure this was last night's setlist, maybe one song off...

Instrumental (Everyone's Gone to the Movies/The Fez)
The Royal Scam
I Got the News
Showbiz Kids (James Brown groove)
Everything You Did (shuffle groove)
Two Against Nature
Hey Nineteen
Godwhacker
Babylon Sisters
New Frontier
Gaucho, sung by Walter
Glamour Profession (!)
Parker's Band
Rhodes intro -> Josie
Green Earrings
Itching in my Heart (The Supremes)
Band intro by Walter
Peg
FM

Encore:
Don't Take Me Alive
Kid Charlemagne

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 11:56:39 ET
Posted by: Wowie!, It's Connie Lee!

Between the Beacon and the Bitter End that was the most fun I ever had with my clothes on!

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 11:16:52 ET
Posted by: Chan, Dozing a bit

New things I remember:

Jim Beard who plays piano on Circus Money sat in for a song with Jeff Young.

Michael Leonhart was also sitting next to us at the Bitter End, but he left before the jam began.

Between the groups the whole Circus Money CD was played loud. It really is very good.

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 10:45:58 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Chan (and Jim), thanks so much for the recap (I'll assume Hoops will add more after he has some coffee). :#)

DAMN! I really wish I could have made it. The Bitter End sounds like it was a blast.

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 10:42:28 ET
Posted by: hoops, nyc

Thanks, Chan!!!

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 10:40:40 ET
Posted by: hoops, nyc

Your wake-up calls have to be a touch louder than that ;-)

I'm really not awake yet but the set list was something like as follows...but my notes on the scrap of paper seemed so profound last nite.

√ (EGTTM-->Fez-->Royal Scam)
√ Sho Biz Kidz
√ EverythingYouFuckingDid
√ 2vN
√ Hey,,,19
√ Babylon Srs.
√ New Fron
√ Gauch O.
√ Pkr's Band
√ Josie
√ Gr. Ear.
√ LILAIIMH-->Intros
√ Peg
√ FM

√ DTMA
√ Kid C

Then New York City was *really* set afire...............

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 10:36:53 ET
Posted by: Mer., Boston

Thank you Chan- I can't stop smiling. It sounds like a great time!

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 10:27:44 ET
Posted by: Chan, Back in Boston

Believe it or not I am back home in suburban Boston after an incredible day and night in NYC. Here are some quick highlights.

The preshow fest was at a small sports bar named Blondies a few blocks from the Beacon. There were about 30 of us there. I hope I don't leave anyone out but heres a try at a list. Jazzman, Jenny, Steve, Jeff, Jon, Fife, Lisa G, Randy, Paul Fez, Bosotn Rag Mark, LWO, Ed B, Gretchen, Girl Margaret, Joe formerly SOH, Mo, Denise, Dick, Matt, Jeff, Sue, Dave,and I apologize as I am sure I am leaving some others out. We ordered up some food, had some drinks and got ready for the show.

The concert was awesome. Highlights for me were Royal Scam, TVN which I think is great live,Walter singing Gaucho which was perhaps my favorite of the night and New Frontier. The girls did a fun cover of a Supremes song as the back drop to Walter doing the introductions, and the crowd stood and clapped along throughout it. Early on security would not let anyone dance or stand but about half way through the show they gave up and most of us down front were standing, dancing and having a great time. Dont Take Me Alive and Kid Charlemagne were the encores.

By my count this was the 15th the time I have seen Steely Dan and they just keep getting better. To me Donald is singing better now than in years. Maybe its that the song selection allows him to stay in his range, but whatever he is remarkable. Walter is so comfortable singing and working the crowd, they really are a great duo.

As soon as the show ended we booked it in cabs to the Bitter End. A Bunch of us got there as a group was finishing. Sure enough we were on the list and special thanks to Pete Fogel for making this happen. Pete was working his tail off all night, again thanks! We struggled in to find seats and as soons that group finished it started emptying enough to give us Dan fans some seats and a few tables.

First up was the John Herrington band. He lined up four shots of Padron for himself and the band and began. They played 4 or 5 songs including a Stones cover of some slow song from Some Girls and he finished off his shot as he sang and played. Being about 10 feet from watching him play was a real treat. He is so talented.

Next up was Jeff Youngs band. Herrington played with them. He also did about 4 or 5 songs. He commented after the first that perhaps they were too loud. And in fact my ears are still ringing this morning.

As soon as they were done, the real highlight took place. He called up to the stage, Keith Carlock who was sitting next to us in the corner, Freddie Washington who had just arrived, Cindy Mizelle who was there, andTawatha Agee Cindys new partner in Carloyns absence. They played a cover of a Sly and the Family Stone song and it was incredible. The song lasted about 10 minutes but it seemed much longer. What a treat to see these perfomers jam in such a small setting.

Now it was about 2AM and I had to head over to Penn Station to catch my train home.(Joan you were right, there was plenty of time!) So unless Walter showed up after 2 I am afraid to say that his rumored attendance never took place.

I know my summary is a bit vague and all over the place, but I have not slept since Friday night and just wanted to get some info posted here.

All in all a great time with great people to share it with. It does not get better than last night.

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 10:22:54 ET
Posted by: Brutus Charisma,

Paul -

Possibly the bone player was Mark Patterson. He played on DF's "Morph".

Nice player and person.

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 08:52:19 ET
Posted by: Paul , Northern NJ

I was at the show last night. Any info on the guy (kid?) who was on trombone? Walter introduced him but I didn't quite catch the name. Has Jim Pugh not been playing any of the Beacon dates?

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 08:34:13 ET
Posted by: SteelyDanaa,

Okay, Hoops,et al.....
This is your wake-up call. Millions of DanFans are waiting to hear ALL the details of last night's festivities!!!!!!! :-) :-)
Know it must have been a HUGE BLAST!!!!

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 07:45:55 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

kzkzkz - thanks.

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 07:31:28 ET
Posted by: Mer., Boston

C'mon, people.... Rise and Shine....
WAKE UP!!!!!!!!!!!! Time to get ready for Boston!!!!! Wake UP!!!!!

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 04:34:11 ET
Posted by: LisaG, Home, at la- (well, you know the rest)

Just got home, and I'm exhausted but still a bit high. Great show at the Beacon tonight--my first of the season. Will likely post more tomorrow (or later today?). Too many highlights to include as tired as I am now, but I have to say that the best part of my night was talking with Jeff Young at The Bitter End. And it's always a treat to see the happy denizens of Dandom.

Thanks to the Steely musicians and fans for a wonderful time, and special thanks to Pete and Shari for making The Bitter End happen.

What a night!

LisaG

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 04:14:06 ET
Posted by: Lars,

Steely Dan rocked the Beacon tonight! The Bitter End was AMAZING!!!!

Date: Sun, June 22, 2008, 00:18:51 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

KZKZ, you are actually an asshole ... it's going to take a lot of willpower for me not to spoil that for myself before Monday night.

Date: Sat, June 21, 2008, 23:53:40 ET
Posted by: Eric in SF, on the Wrong Coast tonight

Thanks Connie.

Date: Sat, June 21, 2008, 23:19:45 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu - El Diablo Is Going Down

Dean you are so right!
Nothing new at the Beacon.
Donald keeps doing NF and
Wally keeps doing Gaucho.
And no special guests except
for Tuesday night.
When Pete responded to my
post earlier and said Jim
Beard would be playing, my
heart dropped! I am sure Donald
will not show up at the Bitter End.
But Wally is so much more gregarious.
I hoping for a C$ tune at The BE
tonight!

Date: Sat, June 21, 2008, 23:07:43 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu - El Diablo Is Going Down

Date: Sat, June 21, 2008, 23:06:13 ET
Posted by: kzkzkz, New York

www.youtube.com/watch?v=4dHUz-yL26Q

you are all welcome-ENJOY

sorry for delay; it's been a busy week...

Date: Sat, June 21, 2008, 23:05:36 ET
Posted by: Connie, In the vineyard

Eric -

SRO has always been behind the last row in balcony. The sound is great. But I somehow I think that they will have to expand the SRO to the sides of the main floor. They have to sell a lot of seats and SRO to pay for the boys in a 1,600 seat venue.

Date: Sat, June 21, 2008, 22:59:23 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

I think we're in for a long wait tonight, Ray. I'm guessing the post-concert festivities will keep most of the regulars occupied for a while.

I've been thinking, wouldn't it be great if Walter stops by the post-show concert and plays a C$ song or two with Herrington's band? Of course, it would be much better if I were there to see/hear it.

Date: Sat, June 21, 2008, 22:36:50 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Well the sun is still up here
in Malibu, But it s almost 11PM
in NYC. Any reports?

Date: Sat, June 21, 2008, 22:35:13 ET
Posted by: Phil I. Stein , Eric in SF

Re: Santa Rosa -- Do you know where in the auditorium Standing Room is located (back of main floor, etc.)? How's the sound in SRO?

Date: Sat, June 21, 2008, 20:33:29 ET
Posted by: Connie, Absolute Citron & Tonic in the vineyard

LR -

That was a statement from Wells Fargo Center. But the all times I have been to concerts there, there were no security guards and the volunteer ushers are little gray haired retired ladies who are patrons of the arts. Should be a slam dunk! WFC is also offering standing room only tickets for $49.50. They have always been $15.00.

Date: Sat, June 21, 2008, 19:43:13 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu - Many Gin & Tonics On The Veranda Today

How rude of me.
I forgot to thank the boys in
Sweden for the BH Wally link.
I also found this VERY INTERESTING -

"On this day in 1981 - Donald Fagan and Walter Becker announced the break-up of Steely Dan."

What a sad day indeed.
But 27 years late just look
what's going on in NYC!!!
Have a blast you lucky bastards!!

And have one for Ray.

Or maybe two.

Date: Sat, June 21, 2008, 19:31:14 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu - New York Dreamin On Such A Hot Summers Day

While you wait for the show to
start or the reports to come
in, For your reading pleasure -

"Walter Becker Runs Off With The Circus"

From today's Boston Herald -

http://news.bostonherald.com/entertainment/music/general/view/2008_06_21_Walter_Becker_runs_off_with_the_%E2%80%98Circus_/srvc=home&position=also

Hey Connie,

How close is close?
We could rest our elbows on the stage
at Roseland and I saw a gal dance right
next to Don's piano at Soboba!

Date: Sat, June 21, 2008, 18:36:03 ET
Posted by: Connie, In the vineyard

Hey SF Bay Area -

This just in from Santa Rosa CA

Think Fast Summer Tour 2008

August 26 & 27 at 8pm
Tickets On-Sale at Noon
Members June 24 thru June 26
at midnight • Public June 27

YOU CAN’T GET CLOSER TO
STEELY DAN THAN THIS!

For two nights only this summer, these Sonoma County concerts offer a rare and intimate experience with one of the most popular and historically significant classic rock bands of all time! Presented in the 1600 seat main theater at Wells Fargo Center for the Arts, these concerts will feature Steely Dan’s incredible roster of hits, with no seat further than 75-feet from the stage.
Tickets - $149.50 & 99.50

Date: Sat, June 21, 2008, 17:02:27 ET
Posted by: fife, 2 blocks from Blondies

Blondies is just a bar, no reservation needed.

Just show up and party!!!

Date: Sat, June 21, 2008, 16:45:17 ET
Posted by: hoops, nyc

PRE-show Danfest is hosted by Fife/Fionna.

The joint's info is http://www.blondiessports.com

Be forewarned that you might need to pre-reserve a spot with Fife or you might not get in.

Jim

Date: Sat, June 21, 2008, 16:32:37 ET
Posted by: tonybass, camarillo

My 5 year old boy loves "Snowbound"...it must be the sing-song chorus. He often sings the verses and usually ends it with "a critic grabbed us" but he says "a cradle crafter"...it's pretty cute.

Date: Sat, June 21, 2008, 14:55:47 ET
Posted by: Doc Kelly, Here at the dude ranch in KS...

I'm so jealous of those lucky enough to be attending the full spectrum of today's SD-NYC activities. Looking forward to a few shows in the midwest.

Just saw three Return to Forever shows over the last couple of weeks. If you have an opportunity to see them reunited after 25 years then you should do it.

Date: Sat, June 21, 2008, 13:20:33 ET
Posted by: steelyfez, CT

Where is the pre-show fest taking place today.
I am heading down by Metro North in about one hour and want to know so as to try and get there!
looking forward to maybe meeting some of you who post here.
Glad to see Glamour Pro. Back in!!! hope its stays that way tonight.

Date: Sat, June 21, 2008, 13:10:00 ET
Posted by: BronxBoy, Bronx Ny

Agreed, Jim Morrison wasn't the best example of "artist" ... unless you saw his whole life as a kind of bizarre performance theater.

But Jim Morrison on American Idol ... hilarious consequences.

Date: Sat, June 21, 2008, 12:49:42 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Heading Toward the Manatee Bar

I might have used Van (instead of Jim) Morrison as a guy who was, and is, all about the music...and would confound the AI crowd...but, your point is well taken.

It sounds like you guys are doing a good job leading your children down a more interesting musical path than most kids find on their own.

Bravo!

I have no kids, but try to do my best with my nieces and nephews (and the children of friends). One of the first purchases I make for them is "Not For Kids Only" by David Grisman and Jerry Garcia:

http://www.amazon.com/Not-Kids-Only-Jerry-Garcia/dp/B000003913

The kids always like it and the parents always thank me, as it gets Barney and Raffi out of the CD player, for a while. They Might Be Giants also does some fairly interesting kids' stuff.

Date: Sat, June 21, 2008, 12:48:29 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Not on the grid

Any posters from Western New York here going to be at the Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers with Steve Winwood concert tonight at Darien Lake? I'll be there!

Have a good time at the Beacon tonight guys!
Just think... while I'm listening to Free Fallin', you will be listening to Peg... pretty cool.

God bless all the old guys for still coming out and giving fans the time of their lives! Less than three weeks till Canadaigua!!

Date: Sat, June 21, 2008, 12:27:53 ET
Posted by: hoops, nyc

I have 1 ticket Row X Orchestra (floor) for tonight's show at the Beacon. Best offer! All considered

Look for me about 7:45pm out in front of the Beacon tonight or email me at hoopsATdandom.com or post here.

Thanks!

Date: Sat, June 21, 2008, 11:31:58 ET
Posted by: warrenk,

"Imagine the likes of Jim Morrison in front of that panel ..."

+1 to that.

However, I don't know if he is a great example of music being the #1 thing in his life, unfortunately.

Date: Sat, June 21, 2008, 11:25:34 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, @F*&%ing work

Ah, Kids. My son, 16, is well versed in Dan, although he is now going off in some tangents that I don't get (yikes! I'm old!). His favorites are Black Cow and Only A Fool Would Say That. My daughter, 9, had me burn her a copy of C$ the moment she heard it. We listened to Do You Remember the Name over and over and over. She also loves Mary Shut the Garden Door. There is hope for the future.

Enjoy the festivities tonight all you lucky bastards!!!

KC

Date: Sat, June 21, 2008, 11:16:24 ET
Posted by: F of AGF, next door to Central Park

Backstage door update. Quite the gang waiting last night and cheered every time a band member came out, it was after all a fucking amazing show. Donald waved and thanked the crowd and then surprise! Walter appears and actually signs a few autographs. It was great fun and a wonderful time was had by all.
Doc I didn't have any problems bringing a camera in last night.
Looking forward to seeing everyone today, tonight and beyond.
Fife

Date: Sat, June 21, 2008, 11:06:36 ET
Posted by: BronxBoy, Bronx NY

To Dean ... and others.

My son is 16, and plays drums. He was at Hartford last year, and really liked it. Last night he told me the details of how Carlock had changed his drum kit from last year. He missed the Aja pyrotechnics from last year's show.

My daughter is nearly 13, first Dan show but she knows the songs well. "Caves" is probably her favorite.

Both kids are into "Classic Rock" but have different interests. A lot of kids their age are re-discovering old music. Guitar Hero and Rock Band are the rage, it may help create some real musicians. My son came in second at a recent Guitar Hero contest, the winner was a phenomenal young drummer. Funny that drummers can do so well at fake guitar.

I tell my kids that a lot of the rock acts from the 60s and 70s were artists. Whether they were good or bad artists you can have your own opinion, but music was the #1 thing in their life. Not like so many of the acts today which are manufactured. American Idol makes me wretch. Imagine the likes of Jim Morrison in front of that panel ...

Date: Sat, June 21, 2008, 11:01:00 ET
Posted by: Joey,

" I am really looking forward to tonight's festivities and to seeing many of my favorite people gathered under one roof! "

Enjoy the show tonight everyone ........ I wish I was there for such a momentous occasion .

The Set List keeps looking better and better ..

Joey !

Date: Sat, June 21, 2008, 10:57:46 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Not on the grid

It's great when little kids love the Dan!
My little brother is 8 and is going to his very first concert in a couple weeks to see the Dan. He doesnt know all the songs, but he knows a lot. Mostly the bigger hits, but nothing wrong with that for an 8 year old. (Pretzel Logic is his all time favorite song, he knows every word)

At the concert it will be me, my dad, my younger brother, and my little brother.... nothing better to strengthen the bonds between father and sons than a Steely Dan concert!

Date: Sat, June 21, 2008, 10:08:28 ET
Posted by: LadyBayside, NYCish

Hey..

I am really looking forward to tonight's festivities and to seeing many of my favorite people gathered under one roof!

My daughter (Baby Bayside?) turned 9 just a week ago. Several of you on this list have probably met her at a show or two. (Or three.) She was at the last Bayside Bacchanal at Jones Beach (oh, how I wish the Boys were playing there this year), Up On the Hill Fest with Fife and Sam in Hartford, and more than one Beacon show. She came with me Wednesday..proudly wearing a Dan concert shirt that was older than she is (94!) and had asked to go to the show for her birthday present.

I find that some older fans tend to assume I've dragged her along (no sitter?) and some folks at the last Beacon show (Wed) stopped her and said "do you even know any of the songs?" (Those of you who met her at Hartford and who were privy to the infamous "Godwhacker bassline discussion know the answer to this!)

She tends to then rattle off some names..Godwhacker is her favorite song..then Black Cow, etc, then I find that many of those people only know the older, more mainstream stuff.

Last night driving home from LI, she asked me to put Kama on.

Train em young, then you don't get stuck listening to Barney.

See y'all tonight!

LadyB

Date: Sat, June 21, 2008, 09:58:35 ET
Posted by: Brutus Charisma,

Corpsy V. RE: about Upside Looking Down?

"can anyone tell me if it's my ear or does something strike an odd chord at about 2:23-2:24-2:25 in the song, the guitar solo? it's not all that disturbin' to hear, in fact me likes this little step sideways.
just pay attention starting 2:23 if you like. pay real good attention :-)"

All I hear is Dean doing a slight downward glissando with a subsequent slight echo effect? What do you hear?

Date: Sat, June 21, 2008, 09:51:29 ET
Posted by: Craig B,

Gretchen
What a happened at the stage door. Report please

Date: Sat, June 21, 2008, 09:47:39 ET
Posted by: Vondar Totali,

JD T shirt situation is simple buy Denise's tix for tonite and all the shirts you can handle.

S.Doc get some good pics and share. They never search your socks or your collar at the Beacon

Date: Sat, June 21, 2008, 09:34:50 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Thanks, BronxBoy

Tell me, how old are your kids? I assume they've been exposed to SD previously, through you...no?

I find that when I play SD for younger people (older teens and young adults), they almost always take to it right off. It's great (IMO) when younger folks are exposed to this music, and really enjoy it.

Date: Sat, June 21, 2008, 09:18:47 ET
Posted by: BronxBoy, Bronx NY

Corrected Set list, Friday 6/20, a great night.

Instrumental:
Everyone's Gone to the Movies
The Fez
into

Royal Scam
I Got the News
Showbiz Kids
Everything You Did
Two Against Nature
Hey Nineteen
Godwhacker
Babylon Sisters
New Frontier
Gaucho, sung by Walter
Glamour Profession
Parker's Band
Black Friday
The Supreme's Itching in my Heart sung by the great gals
Band intro by Walter
Josie
Peg
FM

Encores
Don't Take Me Alive
Kid C

I went with friends for #2, but took wife and kids to #5. They were most impressed.

Date: Sat, June 21, 2008, 09:18:37 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Not on the grid

Great setlist! Love to see Glamour and Don't Take Me Alive back in!

Date: Sat, June 21, 2008, 08:38:54 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

JD - regarding someone picking up a T-shirt for you...you may want to try putting a "Wanted" ad in the NY Craigslist in the Tickets category.

Date: Sat, June 21, 2008, 07:48:51 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

GREAT photos from June 13 show at Beacon on MSG.com.....link to photos over on Radio Dupree home page.

Date: Sat, June 21, 2008, 07:44:12 ET
Posted by: steelydoc, near the Tower

has anyone taken a camera into the Beacon? Has anyone had trouble getting one in?

Date: Sat, June 21, 2008, 07:12:16 ET
Posted by: Chan, Leaving Boston, Heading to NYC!!!

Its a beautiful morning here in suburban Boston. Awoke at 6:30 to the mellow sounds of streetsweepers.

Heading out soon to begin the trek to NYC. Other than the first time I saw SD in 93, this has to be my most anticipated show. Between the pre show fest, the concert and the after party, today should be truly memorable.

I'll see you all soon!

Date: Sat, June 21, 2008, 06:00:47 ET
Posted by: Corpsy V, Upside Looking Drowned

howdy folks.
here me is again from my old beloved Louisiana based little cabin I calls home.
been listenin' to Circus Money instead of tryin' to get tickets to one of the Steely shows.

about Upside Looking Down?
can anyone tell me if it's my ear or does something strike an odd chord at about 2:23-2:24-2:25 in the song, the guitar solo? it's not all that disturbin' to hear, in fact me likes this little step sideways.
just pay attention starting 2:23 if you like. pay real good attention :-)

carry on until we hear from The Bitter End...??

Date: Sat, June 21, 2008, 01:56:10 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu - The Pacific - "Free AC"

How could you not remember "FM"
or was it "Don't Take Me Alive"?
You bunch of drunks!
Wish I was there! ;#)
Still no surprises though.
And still no C$!
One night to go.

Date: Sat, June 21, 2008, 01:25:48 ET
Posted by: alan, gretchen, fife, 5 Blocks from the Beacon

Amy,ny

Your set list looks pretty close to us.

Another great concert tonight.

Never a band to disappoint,Steely Dan came through with a glorious mindfuck of the jazz rock fusion that keeps us coming back.

A delicious new mix of their beloved catalogue unheard of the past few years was delivered in a sexy new groove that had everyone out of their fucking seats.

All we can say is OUCH.

Donald's singing "Royal Scam" nearly made one of us weep with joy. Walter had great command of vocals on Gaucho, showing he indeed owns the song.

We are tired and have to say goodnight now, more in the morning. If you haven't yet seen this version of Steely Dan, you're in for a treat. Delicious.

AGF

Date: Sat, June 21, 2008, 00:30:43 ET
Posted by: amy, ny

Set list, Friday 6/20, a great night.

Instrumental:
Everyone's Gone to the Movies
The Fez
into

Royal Scam
I Got the News
Showbiz Kids
Everything You Did
Two Against Nature
Hey Nineteen
Godwhacker
Babylon Sisters
New Frontier
Gaucho, sung by Walter
Glamour Profession
Parker's Band
Black Friday
FM (I think -- could be Don't Take me Alive, see below)
Josie

The Supreme's Itching in my Heart sung by the great gals

Band intro by Walter

Peg

Encores

Don't Take Me Alive or FM or something else -- can't remember
Kid C

Sorry for the confusion. What a great week. Five nights of Dan. Can't beat that.

Date: Sat, June 21, 2008, 00:16:48 ET
Posted by: Oh.. Oh, and So

Heinrich Bauer,

Beautiful comment!

JB

Date: Sat, June 21, 2008, 00:04:53 ET
Posted by: Creepy Ray, Creepy Malibu

It's midnight in the Big Apple.
Any reports of tonights show?

Date: Fri, June 20, 2008, 19:32:13 ET
Posted by: warrenk,

Rainey is delusional. He considers SD "hard rock" LOL

Date: Fri, June 20, 2008, 19:31:23 ET
Posted by: Debbie from NJ, My Wednesday night

Mo and I attended the Wed night Beacon show. What an unbelievable time! Nice meeting up with Girl Margaret (Thanks for contacting me), Ed (Loved hearing your Dan stories),“Little Wild One”(Thanks for giving me the setlist, you’re a sweetheart!), Alan (Can’t believe you remembered my name). Shook hands with Pete Fogel and Shari on the street. (Such nice people). Mo did an excellent job of scoring 3rd row tickets a little to the left, directly in front of Herington and Walter. We were so close it was like they were playing in my living room. Fantastic show, great enthusiastic crowd…….everyone was singing. Truly, a night to remember. The song running through my head all the next morning was "New Frontier" It’s 2 days later and I’m still smiling. Mo and everyone, have a great time on Sat. I’ll be there in spirit. Long live the Dan and the Dandom.

Date: Fri, June 20, 2008, 18:30:10 ET
Posted by: Denise, Hinktown

Hi,
Trying to sell my loge seats for tomorrow (Sat.) night, willing to sell for 1/2 price: $150/pair Loge row G seats 109-110. Will be at the pre-show dinner if you are interested. Thanks.

Date: Fri, June 20, 2008, 17:01:07 ET
Posted by: JD, NJ

If anyone is going to the show tonight or tomorrow at the Beacon and would be willing to pick up a tour t-shirt for me (since I was an idiot and forgot to get one myself on Tuesday), I would greatly appreciate it. Please email me if you can, I would pay back in full.

Thank you!

Date: Fri, June 20, 2008, 16:51:14 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Back for Happy Hour at the Manatee Bar

While I guess it is possible that NF was planned as a song for Gaucho, it is also possible that Chuck has mis-remembered, or simply mis-spoke. He (or the interviewer or editor) make a few obvious errors (Paul Herrington?) in the two articles.

Date: Fri, June 20, 2008, 16:38:39 ET
Posted by: Very Interesting,

Thanks for the link with the Mike Connolly 2004 Chuck Rainey interview. I was not aware that "New Frontier" was originally planned as a "Gaucho" song.

-"he(Donald)was always strange and not too much of a people person"

-Chuck Rainey

Date: Fri, June 20, 2008, 16:16:35 ET
Posted by: Lars,

John- Thanks. Yeah, that Rainey article has been a big topic of conversation here for many years.

Date: Fri, June 20, 2008, 14:39:54 ET
Posted by: Also read, This

http://www.chuckrainey.com/bassmanual/makingmusic_sd_1.htm

Date: Fri, June 20, 2008, 14:36:57 ET
Posted by: JanetBee, New York

This is a great interview in Time Out New York and just makes me love Walter even more...

http://www.timeout.com/newyork/articles/music/30260/walter-becker

Date: Fri, June 20, 2008, 13:49:54 ET
Posted by: john , nyc

Has anyone seen this piece about AJA by chuck rainey?

www.chuckrainey.com/bassmanual/ajareunion.htm

This is bizarre!!

Trust me if you havent read this you will find it fascinating!!!

Date: Fri, June 20, 2008, 11:32:31 ET
Posted by: mr2bur, NYC

Due to unforseen circumstances I have two (2) extra seats for Saturday, 21 June @ the Beacon available. Very decent seats - Row DD. Looking for my cost - $167 each.

Date: Fri, June 20, 2008, 10:39:57 ET
Posted by: Brutus Charisma,

RE: Chorus section of WB's "Darkling Down": It was inspired rhythmically by the old kid's C&W tune "I'm An Old Cowhand".

Date: Fri, June 20, 2008, 09:36:56 ET
Posted by: JanetBee, New York

Mike, I'll be there tonight and have a good enough seat so that I should be able to get some decent pics. If so, I'll email them to you.

Date: Fri, June 20, 2008, 09:30:59 ET
Posted by: DF,

*******************PETE F. IS DE MAN!!!*************************

Date: Fri, June 20, 2008, 09:19:57 ET
Posted by: mr2bur, NYC

Due to unforseen circumstances I have two (2) extra seats for Saturday, 21 June @ the Beacon available. Very decent seats - Row DD. Looking for my cost - $167 each.

Date: Fri, June 20, 2008, 00:20:43 ET
Posted by: Pete, New York City

Hey ! Just a reminder for everyone coming to the show at the Bitter End to have picture ID with them.

Bill Ware (Vibe player from the 1993 and 1994 Steely Dan tours) and Jim Beard (Circus Money) are just a few of the special guests that will be joining in the festivities. Looking forward to seeing everybody!

Date: Thurs, June 19, 2008, 23:07:58 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu - Soboba Weather

This is for all of our friends
Down Under who are not getting
a Steely Dan Fix this summer -

Wayne Krantz w/Tal Wilkenfeld & Keith Carlock!!!

July 9 New York, NY Knitting Factory Main Space
October 21 Brisbane, Australia The Tivoli
October 22 Sydney, Australia The Basement
October 23 Sydney, Australia The Basement
October 24 Sydney, Australia The Basement
October 26 Canberra, Australia The Southern Cross Club
October 27 Perth, Australia The Charles Hotel
October 28 Adelaide, Australia The Gov
October 29 Melbourne, Australia Bennetts Lane
October 30 Melbourne, Australia Bennetts Lane

I don't know how this plays into
any rumored Wally or Donald Solo
shows this Fall. Perhaps Solo dates
could even happen Down Under? Just
speculation of course, but Donald
did already do a Solo tour of the
States.
Looking forward to the show and
after show reports this weekend.
Safe travels to all those coming
in. Wish I could join you.
Pete Fogel has said that he will
be spinning "C$" between sets at
the Bitter End, I wonder if this
will include "Dark Horse Dub"?
Hmmmmmm?
Hey Pete,
I think you should add "Peg"
by "Cryptacize" into the mix!
Speaking of cover versions
of Steely Dan songs -
I recently heard Jeff Tweedy
of "Wilco" doing a stripped down
version of "Any Major Dude"
that was recorded in a suburban
living room in Barrington, IL that
was really sweet. Much better
than the MM&I soundtrack version
in IMHO.

Date: Thurs, June 19, 2008, 22:50:29 ET
Posted by: Raven, doing the "full moon boogy all night long"

Doc Mu: It's the Countermoon; you are a genius, sorry--this mosh pit of MU's is baffling. Yea, Parker's Band is a great dance song sonic guitar work like Fire in the Hole and Boston Rag. Cringemaker would be a flip out--one of my favs. God Bless 'em! Ravin' "you are who you perceive yourself to be. Period. That is until someone proves things differently." You can quote me on that one. I humbly beg pardon for being a mean bird :>--~~ .

Date: Thurs, June 19, 2008, 22:02:33 ET
Posted by: tonybass, camarillo

No Janie Runaway???? that song is ultra cool! What a groove!

Date: Thurs, June 19, 2008, 21:52:42 ET
Posted by: Mike F., NYC

RE: Photos on stage. Thanks, Janetbee. I'll try and get a better look tomorrow night although I'll be in the balcony. Maybe I can sneak down and get a photo.

Date: Thurs, June 19, 2008, 20:56:29 ET
Posted by: Fife, 13.5 hours NYC bound

Chan,
I'm in the green though I am not a basketball fan, hockey, hockey, and football, lol.
Fife

Date: Thurs, June 19, 2008, 20:18:46 ET
Posted by: DANIMAL, The outskirts

I really would like to see haitian divorce this weekend...although judging from the recent setlists that is not going to happen.

Date: Thurs, June 19, 2008, 18:47:23 ET
Posted by: lol, liverpool uk

bags are packed beacon here we come

Date: Thurs, June 19, 2008, 17:19:32 ET
Posted by: Chan, Boston

All Celtic and Dan fans to the Green Room.

Date: Thurs, June 19, 2008, 17:00:43 ET
Posted by: Moe, nyuck nyuck

Hey Larry, now we all know why you were the least funny Stooge.

You're a pillock, Larry.

Date: Thurs, June 19, 2008, 16:59:53 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Not on the grid

My personal comments on the recent setlist change. This is just my opinion:

- I really want them to bring back Glamour Profession!
- Pretty please no Janie Runaway
- What happened to Parker's Band??
- Looks like I ain't gonna see Dont Take Me Alive... I wonder why they dropped it so quick
- Glad to see Home at Last
- Love My Old School, would be find with either that or Pretzel Logic

Here is my dream (realistic) setlist for this tour:

This is not a real setlist!

Royal Scam
I Got the News
Show Biz Kids
Everything You Did
Two against Nature
Hey Nineteen
Godwhacker
Babylon Sisters
New Frontier
Gaucho
Glamour Profession
Parker's Band
Black Friday
Green Earrings
Josie
Peg
FM
-----
Pretzel Logic
My Old School
Kid Charlemagne

Date: Thurs, June 19, 2008, 16:21:30 ET
Posted by: Zip, Skip

Of all the songs that they chose to play at every show, Hey 19 is the only selection that really surprises me.

Date: Thurs, June 19, 2008, 16:21:24 ET
Posted by: Mer., Boston

Boston Rag----- LMAO!!!!! Thank you for sharing the real symbolism of green confetti......... I thought I saw Paul Peirce mouthing the words to something familiar...
Can't wait until Monday night's show in Boston. Thanks everyone for posting show info. and comments- I'm virtually there.

Date: Thurs, June 19, 2008, 16:02:24 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Not on the grid

I'm sorry Raven, what the hell did I ever do to you??

Date: Thurs, June 19, 2008, 15:55:55 ET
Posted by: jill,

Please tell Becker to stop with the same old tired talk during "Hey Nineteen". I hear it every time and it is on every live recording. A real snoozer. Besides that, the show on the 14th was the best ever. Not formulatic, like other shows.

Date: Thurs, June 19, 2008, 15:48:39 ET
Posted by: Larry,

Joey- You're right for once. Boston Rag is funny! Too bad you aren't.

Date: Thurs, June 19, 2008, 15:04:32 ET
Posted by: Joey,

" Just got back from gigantic parade that rolled past my office celebrating Steely Dan coming to town Monday night. Hundreds of thousands of people wearing green in honor of Don & Walt putting Green Earrings back in the set list. Amazing! Oh – the Celtics were there too. "

FUNNY !!!!

That is " Miracle on Ice Postin' "

JACKY !

Date: Thurs, June 19, 2008, 14:33:58 ET
Posted by: Boston Rag, .

Just got back from gigantic parade that rolled past my office celebrating Steely Dan coming to town Monday night. Hundreds of thousands of people wearing green in honor of Don & Walt putting Green Earrings back in the set list. Amazing! Oh – the Celtics were there too.

Mark in Boston

Date: Thurs, June 19, 2008, 13:16:00 ET
Posted by: BeaconBoy, SEATING CHART

This is a fairly accurate chart of The Beacon:

http://www.newyorkcitytheatre.com/images/beacontheater/nyct_seat_beacon1.gif

First 4 rows of the Orchestra are AA through DD, followed by A through Z, with ZZ tacked on as the last row.

Date: Thurs, June 19, 2008, 13:08:49 ET
Posted by: Just a Danfan,

I was looking at buying a Beacon ticket for tomorrow night from Ticketmaster.

The map they have there is confusing.

They show a map for the Orchestra level which is the main floor as I understand it.

Their map shows rows starting at AA to ZZ for Orchestra

Yet the Beacon is selling Orchestra section seats for Row T, single, not double letter.

Are the single letter rows off to one side? Or are they in the center but after Rows AA-ZZ or are they better than AA-ZZ?

Thank you.

Date: Thurs, June 19, 2008, 12:55:35 ET
Posted by: JD, NJ

If anyone is going to one of the 2 beacon shows this weekend and would be nice enough to pick up a t-shirt for me (I forgot to pick one up myself- I would pay full price plus shipping for it, or I could pick it up) I would greatly appreciate it. If you can, please email me and we can figure it out.

Thanks!

Date: Thurs, June 19, 2008, 12:24:39 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Work

Holy sweet Mary, mother of God, does it get any better than Steely Dan? Night after night, show after show, I swear I think each show is better than the last one. Great set last night, very enthused audience, I swear Cindy was waving and pointing to me last night (ok, and LWO, too), and how about Chris Cheek! The Chris Cheek Group was as fabulous as I expected them to be - and I was wicked excited to see Tim Lefebvre playing an upright bass - and really set the vibe for the rest of the show. Herington was on fucking fire last night, and I swear it was the best "Black Friday" I've ever heard. Ever. Walter's speeches throughout the show were a treat, absolutely the best "Hey 19" speech, he was basically like "I always do this little schpiel but you've heard it before, so let's get to the punchline. GIRLS?" It rivals only last years version in Boston involving strangling a cat and defecating in a purse. And then of course, the shoutout to the maker of his guitar, which he decided to name Cupcake. And then the other guitar he named Bitchmaster 700 (to which I replied "The bitch is back!"). ON FIRE!

So I know there's going to be roughly 18,000 of you flocking into New York tomorrow and I can't wait to see all of you. I have a feeling this weekend is gonna be off the hook.

And big love to Jim for posting my text messages. Anytime, my friend :)

Date: Thurs, June 19, 2008, 12:15:12 ET
Posted by: Raven, laptop treetop

-<Just chatting with the Winnebago crowd going to Camden, where I shared my knowledge of some of the more current SD concert songs. Here's the list so far that everyone wants to hear at CAMDEN, CAMDEN, CAMDEN.

Third World Man Aja
Green Flower Street Good-bye Look
Lunch with Gina—need a double bass (my dream song--It’s gotta be killer on the BIG system)
Pixeleen Glamour Profession
Green Earrings White Nightgown
Janie Runaway Haitian Divorce
Gaucho New Frontier
My Old School News
T vs. N Show Biz Kids
Maxine Royal Scam
EVERYTHING YOU DID
Don’t Take Me Alive God Whacker
Countermoon
Bodhisativa

Oh, yea, Newark thanks Raj for an exploration of the term anti-charisma. As well, who the hell is Dr. Wu poster. Not the smart guy Doctor WU, obviously. Ravin' at Newark's henhouse.

Just a few requests, that's all.

:>

Date: Thurs, June 19, 2008, 11:35:34 ET
Posted by: Vikki, New York!!!

STEELY DAN’S WALTER BECKER stops by the SIRIUS Studios to discuss songs off his recent solo album “Circus Money” and play some of his favorite tunes by other artists during his edition of the celebrity takeover show “Celebrity Shuffle”! (Super Shuffle, channel 12 - Saturday, June 21 @ 10 am ET)

Not a SIRIUS subscriber? Go to www.sirius.com/3forfree and sign up for our FREE 3-DAY ONLINE TRIAL to start listening today!

Victoria Kane
SIRIUS Satellite Radio
vkane@siriusradio.com

Date: Thurs, June 19, 2008, 11:24:20 ET
Posted by: Casual fan, orlando

I am quite envious of you folks going to these Beacon shows, particularly the Saturday show and the Bitter End Danfest.

Hope everyone has a blast and a safe trip/debaucherous evening/darn good time.

Date: Thurs, June 19, 2008, 10:32:11 ET
Posted by: steelyfez, CT

I hope they play Glamour Profession this weekend at the Beacon.
Not complaining about the setlist but i was excited when I saw that in the first couple of shows. Can't wait for Saturday.

Date: Thurs, June 19, 2008, 10:16:49 ET
Posted by: BillfromPgh,

So, Walter's playing the "Bitchmaster 7000" on Kid Charelmagne... I believe someone commented on him "dueling" with Herington on that one this year. In the past Walter's played strictly rhythm on Kid C (insert Sultans of Swing quote here). Has the arrangement changed?

Date: Thurs, June 19, 2008, 09:40:16 ET
Posted by: Joey,

"I like doing songs that Donald does not want to do".

Walter Becker
Radio Interview 2006 "

Dr. Wu ?!

Developing ..............................

Date: Thurs, June 19, 2008, 09:33:37 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Petersburg Beach

Thanks for all the updates, everyone. It sounds smashing, so far. I hope Don's voice holds up until July 11th (and beyond, of course). :@)

As for Carolyn, I suspect she simply wasn't up for the shows, due to her pregnancy. As the boys had her penned-in for the NYC shows, I seriously doubt her absence is a Walt/Don decision.

To the guy looking for the t-shirt, I would guess you could walk into the Beacon lobby after the show (as the crowd exits) and grab some "promo stuff". (I'm assuming you are in, or near, NYC.)

Date: Thurs, June 19, 2008, 02:47:45 ET
Posted by: beaubo, CLE

Back in CLE after roadtripping to June 17 show.

The setlist struck that nice, delicate balance between being fresh (Royal Scam, Everything She Did, Home At Last, New Frontier, the bluesy Black Friday, Gaucho) and the must-hear (FM, Peg, Kid Char, Hey 19)
and the familiar (Babylon Sisters, My Old SChool, 2vN, Green Earrings).

Sound was clear and crisp. Fagen's voice sounded more robust, not so reedy. And I don't know he pulled it off, but Becker somehow muddled through Gaucho without mutilating it.

A persnickety observation.......whenever the band got a real head-of-steam like after Peg or the Supremes song or Kid Charlemagne and the crowd got electrified, they always took a prolonged break and the crowd settled down. I remember in San Diego in 06, the band did a much better job of seamlessly and transitioing between songs and keeping the crowd momentum.

Hoping for a dounble dip, when the band swings back around the Midwest later in the tour.

Date: Thurs, June 19, 2008, 01:38:35 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu, Radio Headache

"Tues, June 17, 2008, 18:20:35 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

As for Donald's, "creepy," remark as to visiting fan websites, well, it's the very "creeps" on this website that keep him in escargot and unlimited artistic freedom. I respect and admire Donald Fagen as an artist; as a human being, well, he leaves me kinda cold. And I sure couldn't care less what he eats for breakfast or how he gets his jollies. He puts out a premiere musical product, that's what I spend my buck on. The connection begins and ends right there.

But he'd sure never have made it in the diplomatic service with cracks like that "creepy" stuff. Maybe he has more in common with Keith Jarrett than any of us could have suspected.

He has the right to his opinion and I guess I have the right to mine.

On with The Blue, creepy though it may be."

Arguably Stevie Wonder's finest hour:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6BMYsiWlCMc

Date: Thurs, June 19, 2008, 01:01:17 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

BTW -
Thanks for the MP3 of Cryptacize
doing "Peg" HeyMike. Love it. So
spare. Just killer. AutoHarp
on a Steely Dan song!

"I like doing songs that Donald does not want to do".

Walter Becker
Radio Interview 2006

Date: Thurs, June 19, 2008, 00:57:31 ET
Posted by: JanetBee, New York

Mike, I think the photos are of Charlie Parker...

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 23:39:24 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Cory -

Ms. Carolyn has a "bun in the oven".

They technically would have to paid
"two" singers if she did the show.

Union rules. That NYC musician's
local are some strict bastards.

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 23:30:19 ET
Posted by: Mike F., NYC

Just back from the Beacon.

Nice instrumental Fez into Royal Scam at the start. Fantastic Everything You Did, never thought I'd hear that one live. Jon Herington's solos were all right on, all night. Becker cut short the rap on Hey, Nineteen, noting we've all heard it before.

Can anyone tell me who the photos were of that were on the monitor behind Walter Becker and on Donald' Fagen's keyboard?

Looking forward to Friday. Can someone ask them to do Blues Beach, please?! ;)

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 23:29:59 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Thanks for the report gals!
Ray really appreciates it.
Well of the four NYC shows
so far, it sounds like last
night was the show to see
so far. Classic 3 girl line-
up with Catherine Russell for
the entire show. Wow.
Perhaps Ms. Russell will join
them for some songs those two
nights in Montreal. I was really
hoping that maybe they were going
to add her for the entire tour.
Oh well.
Gal Marg -
Any shouts for C$ tunes the past
two shows?

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 23:23:20 ET
Posted by: coreyrad, north jersey

So does anyone know why the big Carolyn no-show at the Beacon this week? She now has officially been dropped from "This Year's Band" listing at sd.com

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 23:07:20 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Thanks to Lady Bayside and, of course, Girl Margaret for texting us set list info. I was stuck in traffic when the texting started, hence the delay in posting. I'm sure they appreciate being missed like some of you kindly posted.

========

The latest edition of the Dandom Digest went out last night. It covered June 15-17, 2008. We also had a Dandom Digest covering June 11-14, 2008 that went out around midnight Chicago time on Saturday.

If you are a subscriber, you should have received both already. As usual, if you don't receive it, please email me. Some people have problems with delivery of the Dandom Digest, usually because of their spam filters, firewalls, etc.

The following are the subjects of the Dandom Digest for June 9 & 10, 2008

√ New Shows in St. Louis & California added
√ I love the spoilers!
=====================
√ ReDuX: "Must Read" interviews with Becker, Fagen
√ UpDaTe! ENTER NOW! PRIZES! C$ Review Contest!
=====================
√ SpEcIaL! C$ fever dreams, ever dreams

√ T I C K E T . E X C H A N G E with numerous opportunities

√ SPOILER: Tuesday, 6.17 setlist

If you are not currently a subscriber but would like to receive the free Dandom Digest email newsletter—definitely not to be confused or affilliated with the glorious (and much more glamorous) Official steelydan.com, walterbecker.com and donaldfagen.com newsletters/mail lists—please email me or see http://dandom.com/dandomdigest

Thanks as always for your support, especially Mark, Bill and John.

Jim

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 22:54:32 ET
Posted by: Setlist updates from Lady Bayside & Girl Margaret, 2 degrees of virtual separation

GM: My Old School phenomenal show!

LB: My old school

LB: FM, walter thanks his guitar maker and said his other guitar was "Cupcake" but the guitar for Kid Charlemagne is the "Bitchmaster 7000" at his wife's suggestion.

GM: Kid c

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 22:51:46 ET
Posted by: Joey,

" I always thought that that would be it! But they just keep on going- I never thought in 08 I would see them. they just keep getting better- whenever I see them I always think it will be their last- even after 20 shows and both coasts! "

Amen !!!!!

*** 2008 Steely Dan ****

BEST DAN YET !!!!!

J.

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 22:38:54 ET
Posted by: Setlist updates from Girl Margaret & Lady Bayside, 2 degrees of virtual separation

GM: Josie

GM: Supremes

LB: Josie, girl's solo, band intros, peg

GM: Peg, fm

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 22:38:01 ET
Posted by: Setlist updates from Girl Margaret & Lady Bayside, 2 degrees of virtual separation

GM: New Frontier

GM: Gaucho

GM: Green Earrings

GM: Home at last

GM: Black friday

LB: new frontier, gaucho, green earrings, home at last. Donald is telling us we need a little midweek 'fizz', black friday,..everyone's in a fine mood

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 22:35:47 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu - Hotter Than Hell In The Valley, But Oh Sooo Nice By The Water!

Chan -
It's called "C$OCD".
Welcome to the club.

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 22:16:01 ET
Posted by: Setlist updates from Girl Margaret, 2 degrees of virtual separation

GM: Ev u did

GM: 2vn

GM: Hey 19

GM: Walter just did the best hey 19 speech ever

GM: Godwak

GM: Holy fuck janie runaway!

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 22:16:01 ET
Posted by: Setlist updates from Lady Bayside, 2 degrees of virtual separation

LB: everything u did, TVN, hey 19 walter did the anti schpiel (you've heard this a million times, let's cut to the chase...girls, what's the name of that drink?)

LB: Godwhacker, JANIE RUNAWAY

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 21:54:56 ET
Posted by: tom, in texas

GIRL MARGARET : THANKYOU DEAR for texting at the shows. I really do appreciate it alot. Also hoops, thankyou for hosting this site. I am able to keep informed about my greatest passion because of all you people here. thanks, Tom

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 21:53:51 ET
Posted by: chicago preservation,

Hoops:
re: your work with preservation in Chicago - do you know Vincent Michael?
Does he still play bass?
Is he into Dan music?

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 21:17:47 ET
Posted by: Fife,, Baltimore, eh

Anyone up for chat? I'm there right now.....wishing I was at the Beacon!

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 21:15:27 ET
Posted by: Chan, Boston

What did Walter put in C$? I can't get various songs from it out of my head and I've only owned it a week. Right now Paging Audrey is repeating over and over. I'm telling you there is something very addictive to this new offering.

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 20:43:04 ET
Posted by: Setlist updates from Lady Bayside, 2 degrees of virtual separation

LB: setlist for 2night; intro (incl The Fez), Royal Scam, I Got The News, Show Biz Kids with a very tasty intro, more to come.

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 20:43:04 ET
Posted by: Setlist updates from Girl Margaret, 2 degrees of virtual separation

GM: Set list! movies, Fez, Scam

GM: No Catherin Russel

GM: I Got the News

GM: Show Biz Kids

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 19:25:04 ET
Posted by: Jamminjoe, Hollywood, CA

I moved here to So Cal after living in NJ all my life. I miss going to NYC for shows. I have been following these guys since the original Rock N soul revue at the beacon. I have been here 7 years now, and can't wait to see them at Nokia july 23rd. Sounds like a Great set list.

It is kind of interesting - because the big deal in the 90's was that they NEVER played some of these songs live EVER! Now they have been touring and recording longer than they have not. If the First part of their career was from 72- 81, the second part has been from 92- 2008. Sixteen years now Wow! When I first saw them in 91 and 92 who would have ever thought that they could ever be touring in 08?

In 93 , when they first started calling themselves "Steely Dan" again- I saw them at the Garden and thought that would be it! and then in 94, Roseland in 95 with Alive in America, 96, 2000, - I always thought that that would be it! But they just keep on going- I never thought in 08 I would see them. they just keep getting better- whenever I see them I always think it will be their last- even after 20 shows and both coasts!

long live the DAN!

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 18:32:59 ET
Posted by: Lutz, SF

Dean,
I agree, why live material now form the 2000 tour?
It was fresh then, still sounds good but for me the Carlock era is where it's at. Was hoping for a dvd after the fabulous 2003 concerts.
Maybe this year...

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 17:42:09 ET
Posted by: Rajah, many miles from home

To our Girl Margaret, thank you for your texts to Hoopsie, makes me feel like I'm there. Your ardour for this music is not lost on me.

"Anti-charisma," is a term the late Marshall McLuhan would have loved. The one overidng characteristic of the true charismatic personage of the electronic age is that this very person really couldn't give a shit about being charismatic. Donald and Walter are the poster boys for this. The genius of their charisma is that they don't care. Brecht wrote at length on this topic, his notion of the "verfremdungseffect," in live theatre, simply stated, is that in the pushing away of the audience, the disregard for the live audience, ultimately only serves to bring that audience closer to the action and the characters. This what Steely Dan are all about. They don't pander, they don't bend to their audience's whim, they don't kowtow to the prevailing winds of pop culture. They make you come to them, if you care to.

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 16:19:03 ET
Posted by: Tour shirts, ...

Unfortunately, tour shirts can only be bought at the show, unless someone's selling them on ebay or something, but you can't get them through the SD website. But if you ask nicely, someone might be willing to pick one up for you.

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 16:16:37 ET
Posted by: JD, NJ

Last time I ask, but does anyone know where I can buy a tour t-shirt? I was at last night's show but didnt have the chance to get one there and I cant seem to find a place to buy it online.

Any info would be great, thanks.

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 15:52:23 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Work, but not for long!

Yes, I'll be at the Beacon tonight...and this weekend, too!

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 15:45:18 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Not on the grid

Girl Margret - You going to the Beacon show tonight??

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 14:48:57 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago, on lunch break

Regarding the political discussion and all:

By far the biggest complaint I hear on the Blue is that supposedly I am incredibly rigid and have all these rules.

By far the biggest complaint I hear from people I know in person is that I am way too flexible and open-ended.

Really what is best for the BlueBook and the Greater Dandom is to be creative, exercise common sense and work the golden rule. Unfortunately, that's hard for some and then some. For every rule that's supposedly steadfast here, there is really so much wiggle room and creative ways of handling things with a subtle wink and a nudge.

The "wink and nudge" is the same spirit in which Steely Dan is very political if you ask me. They don't say it but that's what makes the commentary in their songs so universal, why it can even attract people no matter what their political affiliation.

On thing I find curious is this debate lately with Donald and just in general: Do they or don't they look at the Blue, directly or indirectly. They assert they definitely don't. That recent DF interview comment that keeps popping up should answer that one. But then some say, "Oh, he (or 'his people') are just saying that--they really do look." If the latter is really the case, then it's clear Donald or his people don't want that to be acknowledged--why not respect that? Why even bring it up? I don't really ponder that question -- I just do my thing. So either way it's moot discussion in terms of what's good for the Blue.

Back to politics, as discussed above in this post and those by "hz" and others, Becker and Fagen sure do have political views and strong ones at that. Literal stances are relatively sparse, but as I just mentioned, it's clear that their songs are able to stand the test of time and transcend the details of the current politico. On some occasions--in songs or interviews--Walter or Donald have come out with very specific stances. And that's fair game for discussion to a point. It's Steely Dan! We're not going to talk about what the members of Steely Dan think? Of course we are. But I can also say that nary anyone here has been swayed much by these stances. Moreover, the BlueBook sucks as a political forum. If Donald and Walter's opinions don't sway people much, then I doubt there will be much collective movement on political opinions when issues are discussed in depth on the BlueBook. The only movement I have observed is that those who are very interested in Steely Dan disappear--stop posting or reading.

I'm very politically active in elections and in certain local issues, especially with regards to preservation. It's very unproductive--if not counter productive to discuss and push my vantages here. It's not that I'm apolitical. Quite to the contrary. It's simply that posting on the BlueBook about such things is a highly inefficient use of time for me and my causes. There are much more effective places I can post and work to further causes I am committed too.

In the past three months, I've printed and passed out thousands leaflets and buttons at location of significance to one of my causes. I've attended a local city council meeting about one of my causes. I've written letters to the editor of newspapers and publications. I've posted to newspaper comment blogs in cases where I've had more first hand experience than the reporter. On one issue I'm an expert and I wanted to get my point across to a Fortune 500 CEO and Board of Directors who are the cause of the issue. So I purchased one share of stock in the company and also represented another shareholder at the annual meeting that was five hours away so I could confront them and generate publicity. I was part of a phone pool to make campaign calls to voters far away in support of a presidential candidate. And then I write *more* letters and post more in places where it can do the most good--which definitely isn't the BlueBook. ( I guess that is part of the inspiration of our "C$ review contest" based at the Dandom Digest.)

And when I want to take a break, I go to a good place to take the pulse on Steely Dandom. I don't come to the Blue to push my agendas and I don't come here to talk off the beaten path politics.

My point isn't to list my resume of causes. It's to point out that despite my involvement, I still don't use the BlueBook as a forum for these causes. Why do others think they have that right? The only people who would have that right is Donald and Walter (and they don't come here)! If you really want to further your views and causes spend your energies on ways and in places where that will happen.

As far as pissing matches between those who think they know the most about SD, I'm always by far most impressed by those who ask the best questions--not those who portend to know all the answers.

So there! :-)

Jim

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 14:38:46 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, @work

Joey is the reason the short bus was invented.

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 14:19:35 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Not on the grid

Joey... are you in the special classes??

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 13:49:25 ET
Posted by: Joey,

" we were at a rock concert and were having fun! Finally they couldn't contain the dan fans and everyone just poured into the aisles. "

This makes young Joey smile .

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 13:33:41 ET
Posted by: List of Things Aging Rock Stars Believe Are Killing Music, LiveNation sheds

-File sharing
-Cds
-Mp3s
-iPods
-Fansites
-iPod earbuds
-Cellphones
-Youtube videos of shows
-Fans sharing bootlegs of shows

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 13:11:26 ET
Posted by: HeyMike, sue me if i play it wrong

http://sideways8.wordpress.com/

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 13:11:15 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Not on the grid

Whoever is complaining about Girl Margret texting, please wont you kindly shut the hell up?

First, you arent even at the concert, so her texting should simply not bother you in the least...

Next, anyone who gets upset if someone next to them is texting at a concert should be the one who should pay attention to the show. Steely Dan is playing Gaucho, Girl takes what, 10 seconds to send a text by reaching in her pocket, silently taking out her cellphone, touching the phone, and putting it back...how is that distracting?? Anyone distracted by that is quite simply a very angry, not nice person, and the woman who complained to Girl herself sounds like a bitch...

Third, we should be thanking Girl Margret for doing this... do you relize this kind of luxury we have? We are getting the setlist WHILE THEY PLAY THE ****ING SONG!!! No one else gets that! Thank goodness we have Girl Margret to do this for us.

Steward Copland has it right:

"In an age of multitasking, some wonder if electronic gadgets are really that much of a distraction — or if the anti-cellphone brigade is just being crotchety.

“Do you want people to be strapped to their seats, with their eyes pinned open and a jolt of electricity if their mind should stray?” says Police drummer Stewart Copeland."

Texting a setlist is not refusing to pay attention. You (she) is giving 99.5 % of her attention to the Dan, and one finger on her phone for 15 seconds... and if you are good enough, you dont even have to look down, you can text "G A U C H O" while watching Becker sing it... not distracting anybody... so what's wrong with that??

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 13:07:30 ET
Posted by: Gina/Mizar5, 21st hour

someone wrote about 'recognizing' Steely tunes in C$ tracks, can relate to that notion, am listening to the disc in the car mostly and when 'Circus Money' was fillin' the little cabin, i could 'see' Donald push Walter and the grrrl aside in a 70s presence, singing some of the Show Biz Kids lines --and the grrls then join Donald singing Lost Wages (grin)... and then Walter picks up with Circus Money. it all fits well, very well :-)

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 12:57:05 ET
Posted by: Duw with Buzzzzzzz, Red Snapper Hill

http://www.lepoissonrouge.com/liverecordingsatlpr.html

for Rickie Lee Jones fans, click the link above and you can buy LIVE recordings from 06/16/08 Le Poisson Rouge show

for a wee bit while this link will be up, so be there for something rare :-)

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 12:33:37 ET
Posted by: Richard, Bristol, UK

Hey guys

How is the magnificent Keith Carlock on this tour - still the best the Dan have ever had - or is that a stooopid question?

Cheers

Richard

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 12:18:29 ET
Posted by: Craig B,

Thanks GM for keeping it real... the reviews have been great
That chick waving the license plate...it said "Steely Doc"

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 12:12:19 ET
Posted by: mtsteelybaker, philly

ticket is free by the way....but you gotta buy the drinks!

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 12:01:58 ET
Posted by: mtsteelybaker, philly

I have an extra ticket to Camdens show, 3rd row center, looking for a partner in crime..... anyone interested???? mikethebaker@verizon.net

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 11:27:28 ET
Posted by: Concerning texting at concerts..., Read this

http://www.northjersey.com/betterliving/Are_cellphones_ruining_concerts.html

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 11:18:34 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Work

Hey now, I'm not hatin' on Catherine Russell; on the contrary, I think she's quite fabulous. I was simply surprised to see an extra singer added to the lineup is all.

And by the way, I can text and enjoy every moment of the concert, I'm a whiz at multitasking :)

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 11:06:35 ET
Posted by: hz, delirious

seinfeld = shakespeare

steely is politics - ie. fall of 92 - mary shut the garden door, etc. hoops is just sore he backed a fascist and rajie don't give a shit as he slurps down countless ortolan in unsavory nations.

the way that they are shaking up the set lists, they are going to get deadheads showing up soon.

new england rules the sporting world

i need a front end alignment

catherine russell was there in the beginning - in the trenches. we'll always love her for that. jeff young too.

by the way the exact title of the tribeca cd is incident at the metropolis.

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 11:03:08 ET
Posted by: Humongous Fan,

Girl Margaret - "Not sure why they brought Lady Catherine"

You're not serious about that comment are you? Maybe you should spend less time texting and more time listening to the show. What is "odd" is your comments about Ms. Russell and the back up choir. They were off the hook! So much better than with just Cindy and Tawatha! Or with Cindy and Caroline. Babylon Sisters actually sounded just like the record with this lineup!It was sick!

To those of you that missed this show the girls put it over the top. It was brilliant. Hopefully Catherine we'll stay put for the rest of the Beacon shows/tour!

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 10:51:12 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, @work

Just heard a Corona Light commercial on the radio, they were doing the man on the street bit and he happened to be from London,"...pop a lime in the bottle and bob's your uncle." Wouldn't have had a clue if it weren't for uncle Walter.

KC

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 10:10:44 ET
Posted by: Nwk, back 40

Raj et al: What do you think of the term "anti-charisma" found in that [Beacon?]review? I've never heard the term. Both Donald and Walt are ridiculously charasimatic, IMO, but I sort of like the term, anti-charisma, all the same. I am also more drawn to creepy than predictability for some stupid reason--both qualities together are an oxymoron. Long live Steely Dan! Nwk

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 10:00:07 ET
Posted by: C$ fan, keyboard

Bill,

I think they are just repeating the song's first line.

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 09:51:14 ET
Posted by: BillfromPgh,

Still mining for nuggets in C$, every listen reveals more detail.

Does anyone else hear elements of Daddy Don't Live in that NYC in the title track? Not the rhythm, which is quite different, but the harmonic structure. A lot more angular dissonance in C$ but I still detect some similarity.

What do the girls sing after the choruses of Paging Audrey? It's not in the lyric sheet. All I can make out is something like "in the littlest [?], whoa-oh". Damn, that's a good song.

I also finally read the lyrics to Upside Looking Down and saw a blatant coke reference in the second bridge for the first time - "a line for you, a flake for me." Could be interpreted other ways, I suppose. Those bridges are the most SD-like work on either of WB's solo discs, IMO.

I'd really like to know who wrote what on this album. I am guessing the more conventional or transparent lyrics are Larry's contributions but you ever know.

Wish I was in NYC. Isn't Catherine Russell and her band opening some shows on the tour?

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 09:42:10 ET
Posted by: steelyfez, CT

Looking forward to the show Saturday night. Just wish they would put back Glamour Profession into the setlist. I really love that tune. I Haven't heard that one live since 2000.
Its all good!!!

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 09:38:02 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, And one more thing...

RE: C$

When I first heard the snippets on Walter's website for the C$ tracks, my favorite song was Three Picture Deal. I listened to that clip repeatedly and kept telling people (Ed) that I couldn't wait to get my copy so I could finally hear the whole song. The wait was worth it. I, too, tend to be dismissive of last songs, especially because it can be a downer - "Oh, it's the last song, album's over, SAD FACE :(" - but this one is so upbeat and beautiful, especially with Ted Baker (Teddy Bakes!) on keys, and those harmonies with Walter and the girls, god I love that song!

Side note: When the cd arrived at my house, my brother insisted I put on 3PD first because I'd waited so long to hear it. I insisted that the first time I listen to it should be at the end, after hearing the cd all the way thru, so I could have a full appreciation of the cd. It was at that point he knocked me over, grabbed the cd, put on Three Picture Deal and turned up the speakers. Then we had a dance party. Good times.

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 09:33:05 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Work

Oh man, last night was the best of the Beacon so far. Sorry my texts were missing Babylon Sisters, the woman next to me was bothered by my constant texting, so to be polite I tried to write down the set in the dark on paper I couldn't see and with a pen I was sure was working (details). Just a few thoughts:

I'd be crazy to hate on Catherine Russell, but it's odd to have three girls AND Jeff Young singing along. I love Tawatha and Miss Cindy together (shit, you just HAVE to hear this Supremes song!), but the harmonies were not quite the same as with Miss Cindy and Miss Carolyn. Not sure why they brought Lady Catherine into the fold, not sure if she'll be there the rest of the tour, but damn, it all sounds good.

Carolyn is knocked up to the heavens, and she was only going to do the Beacon shows, but she's not. I don't know why, but I'm sure she and the Dan have their reasons, and it's all good anyway because I really wanted to hear Tawatha Agee like whoa. She and Cindy sound great together.

Doc, there was a woman at the show holding up a license plate!! I'm not sure what it said, but Walter gave her props before the encores.

Great audience, great set, great fucking band, and I'm glad they brought back My Old School, it's such an energy booster. I'm really looking forward to tonight, it'll be my 30th show!

Oh, and I missed Chris Cheek last night, but I hope whoever saw him enjoyed his set. I'll be knocking people over to get to see him play tonight.

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 09:27:00 ET
Posted by: Sax Player, New York

Lurker Ray : It's not that Seinfeld did anything he just gives off that vibe. At the end of the show he was very unresponsive to people that were trying to talk to him and looked miserable. Granted I'll cut him some slack because he was being approached by a bunch of drunks.

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 08:56:43 ET
Posted by: Rainman, Irish Setter Dog

But now that Walter has shown us unequivocally that he is the driving force behind the Steely Dan that we all know and love, does anybody care what the keyboard player thinks?

Anyone?

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 08:54:52 ET
Posted by: HouDanFan, Houston

Ok thanks for the clarification Raj. Makes sense I guess. However, I don't think I'm going to use that word in a sentence. It might cause a seizure or something.

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 08:49:47 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, @work

i thought Carolyn was supposed be doing the 17th-21st ?

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 08:47:23 ET
Posted by: Rainman, the driveway

I'll tell you what's "creepy". An underage Donald Fagen hanging out in jazz bars so he could be closer to his heroes.

This was of course before the invention of the internet...

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 07:47:57 ET
Posted by: Brutus Charisma,

Thanks for the edification/clarification on my behalf, Good Rajah Man.

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 05:14:05 ET
Posted by: Rajah, Etymology 101

"Super," above; "cilium," eyebrow. The raising of an eyebrow later came to be viewed in polite society as a gesture of haughtiness, arrogance, pride. It has now come to mean, I believe, a person or a behavior that is misplaced in its loftiness, too cool and judgmental for the room.

Thanks, Hoops, for the edit job back there, this is indeed not a political forum and I thank you for reminding me of that...heck, we can hardly agree on the Steely Danesque; imagine the chaos a political battle would engender. Then again, let's not.

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 02:17:07 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu - Late Night BBQ On The Veranda

Thanks amy & JD!!!!
Why was Seinfeld an a-hole Sax?
Sorry to hear about the security
woes.
Another reason to - BRING BACK ROSELAND!!!!

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 01:48:13 ET
Posted by: amy, ny

Set list, Tuesday at the Beacon:
Instrumental: Everyone's Gone to the Movies and The Fez

Royal Scam
I Got the News
Showbiz Kids
Everything You Did
Two Against Nature
Hey Nineteen
Godwhacker
Babylon Sisters
New Frontier
Gaucho
Green Earrings
Home at Last
Black Friday
FM
Josie
Itching in my Heart for the great backup gals
Band intro
Peg

Encores

Kid Charlemagne
My Old School

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 01:32:31 ET
Posted by: Walt's Doppelgänger, celtic nation

im in the clover, baby. celtics are the best team in the universe.

yeeee hawww!

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 01:12:30 ET
Posted by: Sax Player, New York

Wow!! I've been at all 3 Beacon shows and this one was the best so far! Great setlist. They played Home at Last! never heard that one live before but Roger had an awesome solo. (I can't get enough sax) Donald's voice was great. Walter stayed on the stage after the show to shake hands. Jerry Seinfeld was there and is an asshole!

And i just want to say that i've never seen such horrible security guards. Anytime someone got out of their seat and started dancing somewhat in the aisle they were told to sit back down. And even during the encore they were telling people this! who ever heard of such a thing?? we were at a rock concert and were having fun! Finally they couldn't contain the dan fans and everyone just poured into the aisles.

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 01:07:34 ET
Posted by: Beacon Bill,

My Old School and Home At Last were played tonight. Band sounded great with the three girls and Jeff.

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 01:00:51 ET
Posted by: JD, NJ

They did indeed play Babylon Sisters, and it was awesome.

A couple others off the top of my head (I dont remember the order, sorry!)

-The Royal Scam
-Hey Nineteen
-Josie
-FM
-Peg
-Black Friday
-Josie

And again, anyone know where I can buy a tour t-shirt?

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 00:57:56 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Wait a minute. You mean
to tell me they had Catherine
Russell, Tawatha Agee, Cindy
Mizelle and they didn't do
Babylon Sisters???????????

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 00:50:59 ET
Posted by: another bald guy,

Three (3) black soul singers singing back up tonight! Now that's what I'm talking about!

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 00:48:59 ET
Posted by: hoop, chicago

I think there might be some songs missing from the set list so far posted. That or they shortened the set list.

Thanks in advance to any one who can verify. And thanks, GM.

Jim

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 00:24:35 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Thanks for the report GM & hoops!
Wow - Catherine Russell!!!
That's the kind of surprises we
are hoping for!
Would love to see Wayne Krantz
join then for a tune!
"Goodbye Look" would be a great
choice.

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 00:08:06 ET
Posted by: The rest of the setlist as texted from Girl Margaret, 2 degrees of virtual separation

Rest of the set: new frontier, gaucho, green earrings, home at last, josie, love is like an itching into band intros by Walter, peg, fm, (encore) kid c, my old school

Catherine Russell was the third singer tonight, not Cynthia Calhoun

Date: Wed, June 18, 2008, 00:00:20 ET
Posted by: JD, NJ

Just got back from tonight's show at the beacon, which was quite awesome. I would post the setlist, but I honestly did not know half of the songs. I do know that the encore was Kid Charlemagne and My Old School. Great show overall.

On a side note, it looks like I missed my change to buy a t-shirt there (it slipped my mind)- does anyone know of any place I can buy a tour t-shirt?

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 23:57:14 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu - Full Moon On The Pacific

Any full reports from night 3
at the Beacon?

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 23:56:16 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, @home

So, was the Plush show filmed in widescreen and only shown/released in 4:3? If it wasn't filmed in widescreen 16:9 all you'd be getting is a streched version of the 4:3. Since I still don't own the commercial version I'll be taking a look at it, but if it is just streched, I'll go with the original.

KC

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 23:04:11 ET
Posted by: steelymike77, philly

this is like listening to a bunch of girls having a pissing contest. How many more times is SD goingto tour. these guys arent spring chickens, and with all the drugs they did, they arent going to be around til they are 90. Let all the "i know more about SD than you" talk go. its not about who knows more/ just be happy these guys are still walking!!! BESIDES EVERYONE.......I LIKE SD MORE THAN ANY OF YOU!!!! HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 23:02:36 ET
Posted by: HouDanFan, Houston

Hey sorry ya'll but somebody used the word superciliousness on here and when I tried to look it up on spell checker, my computer crashed. Jeez...what the hell does that mean. Is that one of those psycho-babble terms. Hey Don I bet that's the first time someone called you supper.....whatever??? That's kinda of creepy term don't you think Don??

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 21:41:59 ET
Posted by: Setlist updates from Girl Margaret, 2 degrees of virtual separation

Overture with EVGTTM/Fez/Roy Scam

Roy Scam

there's a 3rd singer! I think it is cynthia calhoun!

I got the news

Showbiz kids!

Ev u did

2vn

.....to be continued (????)

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 21:27:40 ET
Posted by: Fife, Baltimore, eh

WhooHoo a tour!!! You gotta love it. I can't wait until Friday, I'm almost contemplating heading to NYC tomorrow but the idea of noshing on McDonalds for 5 days is none to appealling.
I'm really loving Circus Money especially the keyboards and bass bits. It has become a major addiction, I need a fix at least once a day. Walter is just too damn sexy on it. Anyhow I can't wait to get into a finer discussion about this wonderful disc at what is going to be one hell of a wingding this weekend. Gretchen you all set for some Donald Stalking????
Fife

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 21:19:01 ET
Posted by: D, H

Steely pun: Celtic reeling in the fears

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 20:52:00 ET
Posted by: Craig B,

I thought comments about politics was for that "other" board
Isn't there a Tour going on

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 20:20:46 ET
Posted by: The Dean, South Beach

hz and Dash,

Thanks. so it is the same show and same audio...but, widescreen and a CD-only version, i take it. That is good to know. (I'm just trying to sort out the facts here.)

Why is it that some people think a quest for information, and the sharing of the information, is a bad/unusual thing?

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 20:07:29 ET
Posted by: Dash LaRue,

The original Plush DVD only comes in FULL SCREEN.
THIS IS WIDE SCREEN. Much better in my opinion, plus you can get a CD of the show. What is not to like people?

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 19:57:23 ET
Posted by: z , impersonators - gotta hate em

dean - as im sure you know, that wiseass remark wasn't mine.

sorry about the swear word. i just get gosh darn mad sometime.

hz

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 19:52:17 ET
Posted by: Missing Something???,

So Deano,
You can play that DVD in the car stereo?
That DVD works in the boombox at the beach?

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 19:47:23 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Happy Hour at the South Beach Winter Haven

Thanks, hz

That link is for the 2vN DVD. I already own it, so this "new" live CD really offers me nothing, unless I am missing something.

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 19:35:54 ET
Posted by: hz, wonderful to hear from you mr dean

check it out sir dean

video and dvd

the company seems a little gray area to me (that's grey area for rajo)

http://www.soundcarrier.se/artistinfo.asp?ArtistID=1634

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 19:32:42 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Biscayne Bay

hz,

That is the exact setlist (songs and order) of the 2vN Plush Lounge DVD. I assume it is simply the audio from that live performance.

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 19:22:29 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Not on the grid

Anyways.... Steely Dan:

I dont it is strange that Fagen finds this creepy... he should. Last week you guys were talking about Becker's sexuality and how someone one of you knew wanted to (bleep!) him...

...I'd be creeped out...

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 19:21:11 ET
Posted by: Hector E.,

Just watching the arguments and mudslingers, it is true that lots of this discussion is really interpretation.

There seems to be a strong feeling on this site that Steely Dan does not read what's posted here. How can they be so certain that they are not, it is like trying to prove a negative.

Why bother posting anything?

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 19:17:36 ET
Posted by: creep squad, oh yeah.

there was a guy hanging out at the turn of the century that was kept from entering sd shows. they're out there - oh yeah.

and no, it wasn't the valuable scrabble square.

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 18:57:30 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

Brutus, well said, I agree.

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 18:47:29 ET
Posted by: Brutus Charisma,

DF's superciliousness is and has always been a defensive mechanism.

He makes such statements to defend, ironically, his own very, very inherently vulnerable and eccentric persona - a persona which is slightly defective.

He and especially Walter have gotten MUCH better at avoiding their supercilious tendencies and misanthropy as of late. They did a whole gang of pretending and deluding themselves in their younger years. It resulted in some great music but lots of anxiety and depression - mainly because it takes a great deal of effort to consistantly uphold this attitude - one is constantly fighting societal expectations/norms/traditions.

Let's face it: most hard core jazzbos/literati were/are major league fuck-ups - how could DF/WB ever avoid that trap?

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 18:20:35 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

As for Donald's, "creepy," remark as to visiting fan websites, well, it's the very "creeps" on this website that keep him in escargot and unlimited artistic freedom. I respect and admire Donald Fagen as an artist; as a human being, well, he leaves me kinda cold. And I sure couldn't care less what he eats for breakfast or how he gets his jollies. He puts out a premiere musical product, that's what I spend my buck on. The connection begins and ends right there.

But he'd sure never have made it in the diplomatic service with cracks like that "creepy" stuff. Maybe he has more in common with Keith Jarrett than any of us could have suspected.

He has the right to his opinion and I guess I have the right to mine.

On with The Blue, creepy though it may be.

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 18:19:04 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, @work

3 picture deal is definately worth several listens. It tip toes along the line of a pop song and in my opinion is the most radio friendly of the songs on C$.

KC

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 17:32:36 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Biscayne Bay

I'm with you, George. Last songs on SD albums are not to be dismissed, IMO. Also, I never considered the Morph reprise filler, as it plays a vital role in the flow of the album, IMO.

I thought it was already confirmed that the concert album in question was simply the audio of Plush Lounge. I guess it is still a question mark.

Has anyone heard (and/or reported on) "Dark Horse Dub" yet? Perhaps I missed it during all that bickering that was going on. (I realize it isn't to be released until July.)

As for the bickering in question, I realize I often have a strong reaction to people who post wild speculation (and utter bullshit) as FACT. Believe it or not, I refrain from spewing my rebuttals far more often than I post them. Such is life for a Tourette's afflicted cheap-shot artist.

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 17:15:53 ET
Posted by: HeyMike, cruizin the mens room

keep on hammerin and yammerin- Read this:

Donald Fagen in a very recent interview said:

"But I don’t like to visit the fan sites because there’s something creepy about the whole thing to me."

There's your PROOF! What better proof can you get?

__________________________________________

Maybe Don doesnt LIKE coming here, but.. maybe he does anyway. Kinda like a gappers block or that unexplainable urge to turn around a view your dump just before the flush???

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 16:57:40 ET
Posted by: George, in Paris

I wouldn't be so quick to dismiss last songs. A few years ago I put together a compilation CD of the last song from every SD, DF, and WB release to date, and it was an outstanding collection. I still stick it into my car CD player on occasion.

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 16:57:24 ET
Posted by: Casual fan, orlando

Re: a commerical CD or DVD of a live show.

If you go listen on youtube to the Pine Knob Show in Michigan from I believe its 2003, and Becker is doing the band intros during Slang of Ages, when he introduces Ted Baker he mentions that he did "lyrical introductions" "on a movie we're just finishing." Or words to that effect.

I always meant to ask if anyone had any idea what he was talking about there. I guess he could have been talking about the TvN DVD, but that would have been three years earlier. Maybe there wa ssomething in the works back in '03 and its finally coming out and perhaps that was what Becker was talking about.

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 16:49:46 ET
Posted by: angel,

3 Picture Deal is a GREAT track. Listen to how animated Walter gets as he sings things like "bowl of cherries and some head shots" and "she's gushing on her cell phone". I laugh every time. :-)

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 16:49:07 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

Also listed on Amazon:
Steely Dan Live (Import) audio CD 2008....available for pre-order...$12.98...released on June 24.

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 16:37:59 ET
Posted by: Dash LaRue,

Hey John,
Those demo releases are not considered "Bootlegs". Look at the track listing and compare it with the 2000 DVD. I thinks it's great that I can finally now buy a CD af this great show!

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 16:36:15 ET
Posted by: Dan Therapy Session, work

I'm enjoying C$ quite much. However I get to the last track, Three Picture Deal, and right know it's just too much to digest and have only listened to it once. When I get there I go back and listen to one of the other tunes. I had the same block with Walk Between Raindrops and Teahouse on the Tracks, which came to be two of my favorite Fagen solo tracks. (Morph Reprise I have dismissed as filler.) There's just something about the last song that makes me think "well if this song was any good they wouldn't have put it last."

Can someone help me overcome this barrier? Is this song worth listening to?

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 16:32:22 ET
Posted by: St John, Living-stone

Hey Dash -- I don't know what you mean about Billboard not listing boots -- they have several of the old demo re-releases under their Becker discography. By the way, how can you tell this is the 2000 concert? I don't see any description on the billboard page.

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 16:14:38 ET
Posted by: Dash La Rue,

NEW STEELY DAN LIVE CD & DVD COMING JUNE 24th!!!!!!

Well it looks like that "Steely Dan - In Concert" CD discussed here a few months ago is not a bootleg! It appears to be a legit release of the 2000 Plush DVD I believe.
So you can own a CD of the show! Immortal records is also releasing the show in Wide Screen in Ac3 Dolby DTS.

Billboard has has it listed and they don't do press for bootlegs and you can pre-order at CD Universe & Best Buy for example.

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 16:09:36 ET
Posted by: Connie, In the vineyard

Hmmmm - maybe it's the wine in Northern CA. Two nights in Santa Rosa -the capital of Sonoma County. Wells Fargo Center only seats 1,600 people. It was originally built as a born again church which went financially bust a few years ago. But up until 2 years ago there were only pews for seating. After several acts refused to play there, the pews were finally removed (and sold) and concert seating was installed. Now I am wondering where SD will stay the night of the 26th. There are limited hotels in the area and it is high tourist season. I'd better shut up before I jinx this.

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 15:48:36 ET
Posted by: angel,

LA got 1 show, Orange County 1 show and Northern San Diego area 1 show.

Everything else is either Northern or Central.

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 15:17:54 ET
Posted by: Dash LaRue,

Santa Rosa is in Northern Cal not SOCAL. But that make 10 shows so far in Cali, 11 if you count the Stateline show.

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 15:10:20 ET
Posted by: Ricos,

SD must not like SOCAL.

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 15:08:45 ET
Posted by: Crusty Punk,

Don't mess with Doc

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 14:09:01 ET
Posted by: Connie, In the vineyard

OMG!!!!

Wells Fargo Center is right down the road from me (8.5 miles)- small, intimate venue. Whoo hoo!!!!!!

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 13:37:06 ET
Posted by: Dash LaRue,

Standing in for steelydoc -
Two new shows added!

Aug 26 - Wells Fargo Ctr for the Arts - Santa Rosa CA | on sale TBA
Aug 27 - Wells Fargo Ctr for the Arts - Santa Rosa CA | on sale TBA

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 13:27:52 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Not on the grid

Instead of killing eacher other...

Love it!!

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 13:03:36 ET
Posted by: Richard, Bristol

Hi guys from the UK

Hope you are all enjoying the shows and what seems to be a fantastic set list

|feeling left out

Cheers

Richard

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 12:52:13 ET
Posted by: Instead of killing eacher other.., Try this...

Can you find the Steely pun on this page?

http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/columnists/lupica/

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 12:50:13 ET
Posted by: Casual fan, orlando

See, now even I thought that was a funny retort by you.

Well played.

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 12:44:50 ET
Posted by: Humongous Fan,

Nobody here really cares about what a Casual fan thinks.

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 12:36:09 ET
Posted by: Casual fan, Obvious town

It never ceases to amaze me how people posting to a board about their common interest in great music can be so harsh and antagonistic with one another.

I am not completely without sin on this point but have immediately apologized on the one or two occassions I got carried away. Honestly, I just don't get these running ego battles.

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 12:17:11 ET
Posted by: D, H

NY times review:

Music Review | Steely Dan
Pop Veterans Still Pumping Anti-Charisma

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/06/16/arts/music/16stee.html?ref=music

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 11:48:12 ET
Posted by: Way deep into, things that creep

Creepy ?
This place is creepier than Creepy McCreep, mayor of Creeptown, creeping and peeping while the peeps is sleeping.
But Don, will your painfully honest remark reshape the Way of the Creep ? I think not - and that's . .er, . . kinda creepy.

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 11:01:38 ET
Posted by: Joey,

" if I could have imbedded that phone into my eustachian tube, it would have been the surgical intervention of the new century. "

My Steelian Brothers & Sisters ..............

Did you all read the quote listed above ?! .... Did you READ IT ?!

That , my friends , is what they call : " POSTIN' "

Rajah -- You're POSTIN' baby!

The Joey - As seen on the reality show "That's Postin'!", 10:00 PM CDT Sundays.

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 10:58:10 ET
Posted by: El Sup, Louisville, KY

Quick flash -

sonic360.com reporting the international version of Circus Money also boasts extra artwork in addition to the extra track.

Can my bobble-head be far behind?

El Sup

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 10:55:26 ET
Posted by: Joey ,

"But I don’t like to visit the fan sites because there’s something creepy about the whole thing to me."

This makes young Joey weep and sh#t liquid .

Why ?!

J. Fly ! ™

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 10:51:03 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, @work

This is why I love this place, at the very least, it's always amusing.

KC

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 10:33:01 ET
Posted by: Crusty Punk,

Hope that long winded post wasn't important...the chiba chiba just kicked in and nothing makes sense

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 09:59:48 ET
Posted by: The Dean, South Beach...heading to Little Havana

911 never really happened. There are just too many coincidences to think it wasn't planned by the govt/Jews/gays/posters on the Blue. This is especially true if you count all the mis-statements as facts.

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 08:52:25 ET
Posted by: Houston, HouDanFan

There is really something creepy about poster(s) on here who write 20 paragraph novels on a message/post board trying to make a point.

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 07:41:04 ET
Posted by: Lutz, SF

There is something special about small markets like the casinos in the middle of nowhere. Donald and Walter are in the limo to the airport after making a graceful exit while the band still plays...
Nevertheless everyone came together for this one night.

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 04:31:53 ET
Posted by: Lindbergh Baby,

It was July, Raji. Friant and that other one was January...

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 04:27:02 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

Gus, Soboba will long live in my memeory banks as one of the great shows, sizzling hot, like 110 F, in a godforsaken edge of the California hinterland that few GPLs could track. A surreal drive through yellow-green grasslands and dried river beds, there it stood, a fucking inflatable casino packed to the gills with Steely Dan fans and Steely Dan characters, the losers, the ne're do wells, the mendicants, the 5 cent slot grandmas. Oh the misery, the appalling wretchedness and distress that attended these casino dnizens. The misgiuded exultation of the sign that read, "Coming soon! Penny slots!" Then the strains of Dr. Wu rising up from the desert, heard only by yours truly thanks to a well-timed phone call from my old friend Luke, if I could have imbedded that phone into my eustachian tube, it would have been the surgical intervention of the new century.

All my old Steely Dan friends and loved ones in attendance, middle of friggin January, Miss Thang up there shaking her booty, gotta say, she wasn't a hooker cause she never let go of her purse. This was a good show. Improbable and more than a little taste of the theater of the absurd.

Soboba-Soboba-Soboba as the Maestro keened out at the end.

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 02:40:47 ET
Posted by: Gus Winterbottom, Torrance, CA

A little late-night fact checking, in response to the preceding statement: "NONE OF THE MC DAN SHOWS WENT MORE THAN 13 SONGS. EXCEPT SD AND SOBOBA, TWO OF THE BEST SHOWS IN DAN HISTORY".

Here are the setlists for the two shows I attended in 2006:

SOBOBA 7/21/06 (no opening act)

Turtle Talk
Steely Dan Show (sung by the ladies)
Time Out Of Mind
Aja
I Got The News
Hey Nineteen
Cousin Dupree
Josie
Any World (That I'm Welcome To); Jeff Young vocals on 2nd & 3rd Verses
Glamour Profession
Black Friday
Bodhisattva

INTERMISSION

Green Earrings
Monkey In Your Soul (WB Vocals)
Band Intros/Show Biz Kids
Black Cow
Do It Again
Dirty Work (Vocals by Ladies & Jeff Young)
Peg
Don't Take Me Alive
Kid Charlemagne

ENCORE:

My Old School
FM

VERIZON(Irvine, CA) 7/19/2006 (Michael McDonald as Opening Act)

"Turtle Talk"
Bodhisattva
Time Out Of Mind
Aja
I Got The News
Hey Nineteen
Cousin Dupree
Josie
Green Earrings
Black Friday
Dirty Work
Band Intros and MM returns
Show Biz Kids
Do It Again
Peg
Don't Take Me Alive
Kid Charlemagne

ENCORE
My Old School
FM

The only thing I can say about all this is that when someone makes an obvious misstatement, my reaction is to seriously question the credibility of the remainder of the post. Or maybe you meant that Michael Mcdonald only sang 13 songs?

As for the opinion of the best shows, to date Soboba was probably the show I will best remember, as far as the show itself, but as for the best show of even that tour, how would I know? My recollection is that one or more Roseland shows have been mentioned as the best by people on this board whose opinions I have come to respect. I have a suggestion: how about contacting Walt and/or Don? They have been at EVERY show and could undoubtedly provide some insight. What, they're not returning your calls? Oh, I know, they wanted to reply, but you posted anonymously. Why do that when they read the board all the time?

Pardon me while I snivel off to bed.

GW

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 02:05:25 ET
Posted by: SS, HK

Is Turtle Talk the name of the instrumental show opener on the '06 tour ?

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 01:53:30 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Listening to Charlotte 06
right now. Yup that version
of Deacon is amazing. But so
is Show Biz & Peg with McD.
I for one loved that tour with
Mike. Oh by the way, this show
with Mike as an opening act is
18 songs. Counting Turtle Talk
which I also dig.

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 00:57:33 ET
Posted by: Everything You Did,

keep on hammerin and yammerin- Read this:

Donald Fagen in a very recent interview said:

"But I don’t like to visit the fan sites because there’s something creepy about the whole thing to me."

There's your PROOF! What better proof can you get?

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 00:56:12 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Um......yikes..Deacon was
played at many shows in 2006.
Killer versions at Shoreline -
the Bonnie Raitt show. Rivals
the Poplar Creek NYR-N-S take
in 92. But you will never top
Miss Mindy. And Donald nailed it
again in Charlotte. Which is
documented on an amazing SBD
& vid.

Date: Tues, June 17, 2008, 00:15:21 ET
Posted by: keep on hammerin and yammerin,

WELL DEAN, I’LL GIVE YOU CREDIT, YOU STEPPED UP TO THE PLATE AND CAME UP WITH SOME INSIGHTS AND DISCUSSION WHICH IS MORE THAN SOME OF THE OTHER SNIVELING COWARDS. STILL, WHAT YOU HAVE COME UP WITH IS, I WILL SAY, NOT WORTHY OF BEING “THE DEAN”, BUT MEBBE AN “ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR”.

"No more Michael McDonald, or anyone else. Now, you're getting PURE Dan. And more of it than 12 or 13 songs."

What? Every show except for opening night has had an opening act. Your claim is simply false. Typically, The Dan does not have an opening act at casinos/Native American venues. That was true for the High Rollers tour as well.

THE OPENING ACTS HAVE, WHICH HAVE NOT BEEN BAD, HAVE NOT BEEN A TIME-HOGGING, SHOW STEALING HEADLINER LIKE MIKE MC D. WAS. IT WAS SO BAD THAT WHETHER OR NOT THE DAN WAS THE HEADLINER WAS CALLED INTO QUESTION. NONE OF THE MC DAN SHOWS WENT MORE THAN 13 SONGS. EXCEPT SD AND SOBOBA, TWO OF THE BEST SHOWS IN DAN HISTORY. EVEN AT THE CASINOS, WITH NO OPENER SUCH AS FRIANT, MILES FROM CIVILIZATION, THEY GAVE A 13 SONG SHOW OF WHICH PEOPLE RAVED ABOUT HEARING GODWACKER WHILE OTHERWISE BEING DISAPPOINTED.

"The Horrible Greatest Hits set lists are virtually GONE!"

Deep cuts have been put into the setlists such as Parker's Band."

This is a matter of interpretation. I agree the setlist is more diverse this year. But, some critics complained about last year's tour being too heavy on "unknown" material. As far as "deep cuts, I would argue that Bad Sneakers is as deep of a cut as Parker's Band. Every tour has had nuggets beyond the well known "hits". But, there is simply no evidence that the setlist selection has ANYTHING to do with posters' comments. In fact, I could argue that the continued omission of Wu is due (in addition to Fagen's comments) the constant badgering of fans to play said song.

"The set lists are heavy on Royal Scam, their Greatest Achievement."

Most would argue that Aja is the band's greatest achievement. I would never dis Scam, as I love it. The idea that the inclusion of more Scam songs on this tour has anything to do with any fan/Blue input is unsupported by anything other than your imagination. I haven't noticed a heavy bias toward Scam from posters on the Blue.

"The shows are longer, and they are getting more variety in there putting in the medleys, and eliminating the bullshit Turtle song."

Are the shows really much longer? Maybe 15-20 minutes, so far? Dunno, for sure. But, the idea that they have ditched the "bullshit Turtle song" is countered by their inclusion of a Supremes song on this tour.

CORRECT, IT’S A MATTER OF INTERPRETATION, YOU SHOULD HAVE STOPPED RIGHT THERE. THE SET LIST IS LONGER AND MORE DIVERSE THAN EVER, WHETHER OR NOT YOU ARE A SCAM PERSON. THE SUPREMES SONG IS BETTER THAN THE MOCK TURTLE SONG. YES, I AGREE “BADGERING” FEEDBACK CAN “BACKFIRE”. IT JUST MIGHT HAVE WITH DR WU, WHICH WAS FOR A TIME POSTED ON THE TOP OF THE BLUE HOMEPAGE, RIGHT IN THEIR FACES, WHICH, YES, COULD HAVE ANNOYED FAGEN. BUT LO AND BEHOLD, THEY DID DO THAT DR WU SOUNDCHECK @SOBOBA RIGHT AFTER THAT BANNER WAS PUT UP! COINCIDENCE? NO FREAKIN WAY!.

"They are getting Walt more into the mix. The guy has really SHOCKED many of us with his true ability with the release of CM."

Again, total bullshit. Walter has sung one song for many (most?) shows in previous tours. He has been upfront with the guitar and as MC for the past couple of tours, as well.

EVEN GOING BACK TO THE NYR&S REVIEW, WALT WAS OFF TO THE SIDE, SOME PEOPLE SAID THAT “HE KINDA HIDES UP THERE”, ALMOST LIKE A SESSION PLAYER, HE DID MC. PERFORMING, HOWEVER HE ONLY DID MONKEY AND HAITIAN SINCE 2006. TO EVEN THINK THAT UNTIL THIS TOUR THAT FAGEN WOULD ALLOW WALT TO DO TWO SONGS OR TO DO GAUCHO WOULD HAVE BEEN BEYOND COMPREHENSION.

"Deacon Blues was played in Brussels as a token of gratitude to a guy who used to post on the Blue with the hand "Deacon Blue". I believe Brussels was the ONLY venue where it was played on the Heavy Rollers tour."

Well, if you have read other posts, you will know that this, too, is false. The Dan played DB in at least one other international show, last tour, and has played the song many times on tour. The boys aren't shy about making special comments at shows (pointing out a celeb or fellow musician, for example). If they had announced they were playing DB for the like-named Blue poster, they might have made that announcement. They did not,as far as I know. Could it be the case that they decided to do it specially for him? Of course, it is possible. Is it likely? i think not. You have nothing solid on which to base the claim.

DEACON BLUES WAS NOT PLAYED SINCE BEFORE THE 2006 FAGEN SOLO TOUR AND ALL SUBSEQUENT DAN SHOWS. THE KEY POINT IS THAT IT WAS THE FIRST TIME IT WAS PLAYED ON THE TOUR, IT WAS IN BRUSSELS, FOR DEACON BLUE, WHO IS A BIG FAN, THAT THEY READ ABOUT ON THE BLUE. THEN DID PLAY IT LATER IN AUSTRALIA, BUT NO MATTER. INITIATING DEACON BLUES IN BRUSSELS AFTER NEARLY TWO YEARS OF TOURING DID NOT, AND COULD NOT OCCUR BY MERE HAPPENSTANCE.

THERE ARE TOO MANY OF THESE THINGS HAPPENING TO BE COINCIDENTAL. THESE CHANGES THEY HAVE MOST LIKELY GETTING FROM THE BLUE BECAUSE OF THE TIMING, MANNER AND SORTS OF EVENTS THAT HAVE TRANSPIRED. THERE STILL IS YET NO OTHER INSIGHT OR EXPLANATION FOR IT.

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 23:12:32 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., NJ

No biggie, but I see that the Gothamist interview of Donald is posted at df.com...

http://www.donaldfagen.com/news.php

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 22:52:50 ET
Posted by: I'm likin that set list...hmmmm...,

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 22:33:05 ET
Posted by: A dream, Not going to happen

1. Countermoon
2. What I Do
3. Brite Nightgown (w/ Wayne Krantz)
4. Aja
5. Dirty Work (babe choir)
6. The Boston Rag (with extended intro a la 20000)
7. Things I Miss the Most
8. Lunch With Gina
9. Everything Must Go
10. Throw Back the Little Ones
11. Night by Night
12. Pretzel Logic
13. Green Earrings
14. The Royal Scam
15. West of Hollywood
16. Selfish Gene
17. Darkling Down

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 22:05:28 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Walt's actually sung a song at every show since the first one. Sometimes a couple tunes.

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 21:48:27 ET
Posted by: The Dean, South Beach

OK, Yammerman, let's take a look at your wonderful observations:

"No more Michael McDonald, or anyone else. Now, you're getting PURE Dan. And more of it than 12 or 13 songs."

What? Every show except for opening night has had an opening act. Your claim is simply false. Typically, The Dan does not have an opening act at casinos/Native American venues. That was true for the High Rollers tour as well.

"The Horrible Greatest Hits set lists are virtually GONE!"

Deep cuts have been put into the setlists such as Parker's Band."

This is a matter of interpretation. I agree the setlist is more diverse this year. But, some critics complained about last year's tour being too heavy on "unknown" material. As far as "deep cuts, I would argue that Bad Sneakers is as deep of a cut as Parker's Band. Every tour has had nuggets beyond the well known "hits". But, there is simply no evidence that the setlist selection has ANYTHING to do with posters' comments. In fact, I could argue that the continued omission of Wu is due (in addition to Fagen's comments) the constant badgering of fans to play said song.

"The set lists are heavy on Royal Scam, their Greatest Achievement."

Most would argue that Aja is the band's greatest achievement. I would never dis Scam, as I love it. The idea that the inclusion of more Scam songs on this tour has anything to do with any fan/Blue input is unsupported by anything other than your imagination. I haven't noticed a heavy bias toward Scam from posters on the Blue.

"The shows are longer, and they are getting more variety in there putting in the medleys, and eliminating the bullshit Turtle song."

Are the shows really much longer? Maybe 15-20 minutes, so far? Dunno, for sure. But, the idea that they have ditched the "bullshit Turtle song" is countered by their inclusion of a Supremes song on this tour.

"They are getting Walt more into the mix. The guy has really SHOCKED many of us with his true ability with the release of CM."

Again, total bullshit. Walter has sung one song for many (most?) shows in previous tours. He has been upfront with the guitar and as MC for the past couple of tours, as well.

"Deacon Blues was played in Brussels as a token of gratitude to a guy who used to post on the Blue with the hand "Deacon Blue". I believe Brussels was the ONLY venue where it was played on the Heavy Rollers tour."

Well, if you have read other posts, you will know that this, too, is false. The Dan played DB in at least one other international show, last tour, and has played the song many times on tour. The boys aren't shy about making special comments at shows (pointing out a celeb or fellow musician, for example). If they had announced they were playing DB for the like-named Blue poster, they might have made that announcement. They did not,as far as I know. Could it be the case that they decided to do it specially for him? Of course, it is possible. Is it likely? i think not. You have nothing solid on which to base the claim.

So there you have it. Basically, you got nothing but an active imagination to fall back on.

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 21:20:16 ET
Posted by: keep on hammerin and yammerin,

In the final analysis all of you beotches can say is what I said was bullshit.

OK, I'll concede that for the time being.

What then IS the truth, or what what is your perception of said truth?

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 21:07:36 ET
Posted by: Everything You Did,

keep on hammerin and yammerin- 'You Must Be Joking Son' just said what I was about to. So no need to comment any further on your idiocy.

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 20:50:38 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Not on the grid

seth2112 (you a Rush fan?)

What is EMG? I didnt see anything with those initials in the setlist...

I assume EMG is Everything Must Go, but they didnt play that at all.

...I'm confused...

I want to know why they dropped Dont Take Me Alive, and I kinda want them to drop Green Earrings...

C$ is amazing! Every spin is better and better!

Just thought I'd put that out there...

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 20:49:20 ET
Posted by: You must be joking, Son

A poster known as Deacon Blue came forth and "confirmed" that because his name is Deacon Blue and he was attending the Brussels show, Donald and Walter decided to play "Deacon Blues" in Brussels... just for him? Well that does it then, there's the proof! Deacon Blue said it, and it is thus! Couldn't be a coincidence or anything... no, they played it just for this guy they saw post to the bluebook!

You people are delusional! No wonder they stay as far away as possible from their "fans" and sites like this! But oh that's right, they base career decisions on what is posted here!!

ROFLMAO!!!!!

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 20:40:53 ET
Posted by: seth2112, cleveland via tampa and nyc

why did they drop EMG and CD from the set list so early in the tour? EMG rocks and is completely under rated! we all keep forgetting to catch the first 2 or 3 nights of the tour. they always seem to play 2 to 4 more songs and than drop some to the same set till the end.

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 20:40:43 ET
Posted by: keep on hammerin and yammerin,

EYD

What proof do you have to the contrary? What observations have YOU made to confirm or deny? Everything I said happened. Deacon Blue in Brussels came forth and confirmed it.

Everything YOU Did was just say what I said was bullshit. The Dean's comment, as bad as it was was better than yours.

What do you really think, other than saying what I said is bullshit?

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 20:24:24 ET
Posted by: Everything You Did,

keep on hammerin and yammerin -I'm not a huge fan of "Mean Dean" but look who's calling the kettle black! You're the one who is coming on here talking BS and stating things as facts. You're the one who needs the proof!

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 20:08:30 ET
Posted by: keep on hammerin and yammerin,

Dean

None of this is bullshit, if you had read carefully it is all true. And verified, in this case by the Deacon. You write things and have no proof of what you are saying, in this most recent case an off hand remark with no comprehension of the subject or original insights of your own.

Furthermore, you are not among the astute ones of which I speak when you make such superficial observations, in this case with malice of forethought. This is clearly an example of your being virtually worthless and weak of mind. What a Shame about YOU!.

I would have expected more out of someone who has declared himself to be The Dean.

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 19:30:41 ET
Posted by: WuDuF, back from Florida

Hey all! Still "reeling" from the Clearwater show last week. I was not able to post anything until I got back home, and I don't want to repeat anything already noted. Cool version of "Norwegian Wood" during the opening act, which was much more beautiful with Micheal L and Walt W's playing.
As far as the main attraction goes, it was one of the best Steely Dan shows I have seen in the past 14+ years. They seemed very comfortable, and were visibly having fun. When Walter announced it was Donald's birthday, they kind of let the joke ride until the encore, and then Donald fessed up, and added that Walter "knows how to manipulate a crowd." Another moment that stands out in my memory was the trombone solo during "Hey 19." Hearing "Everything You Did" and "New Frontier" was a nice treat, since I had not ever heard those live before.
Can't say enought about Circus Money, I listened to it almost the whole ride back from Florida. A truly stunning piece of music.
Anyone headed to the Wallingford show? I enjoyed meeting many of you at the "Lawnfest" in Hartford a couple of summers ago, and would love to arrange something. There is a really nice park only a couple of miles from the venue, and that might be a cool place to meet, since that theater gets uptight about people tailgating.
Lastly, I have had trouble getting into the greenroom, even though I have the recommended Java version required. Anyone know any tricks? I'd love to be able to chat with you all, but haven't been able to get in. See you all soon. Enjoy the music!

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 18:24:44 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, roflmao

I haven't laughed that hard since I was a little girl!!!!

KC

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 17:53:22 ET
Posted by: Nicholas Urfe, Phraxos

The following headline is currently on msn.com:

Obama finds refuge, identity in hoops

Way to go, Jim!

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 17:05:15 ET
Posted by: Ha-ha, w

Loving those pickups on Walter's new guitar. Sting and body all at once.

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 16:34:46 ET
Posted by: R Kreiger,

Any YouTube footage of Walt singing Gaucho?

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 16:08:28 ET
Posted by: Newark, Eastern Shore

Dean @ South Beach. Well, I am fond of roulette. . . .

I was just checking out The Fox in St. Louis--it is magnificient! I am glad my brother lives near there, and he has a swimming pool and there's a casino nearby, and, well, it would be neat! We'll see what the 21st brings when the tix go on sale.

CDs on site! Brilliant! I'm even for chintzy MP3s.

I regret my earlier post. Thx George. I don't have to have a great seat to see/hear SD. If there's a screen that I can see, then hey, no problem, and I'll crouch on the lawn with the best of 'em. But is the lawn offered at Camden? I think not--reserved only seats. Workin' it all the same. Hey Lars! Later, nwk

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 15:30:12 ET
Posted by: CJB, YVR, CA

THINK FAST, 'fore the invite gets pulled:

http://youtube.com/watch?v=UrDwB-pi0aI

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 15:22:20 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Not on the grid

The Dean, hey dont worry about it...

Oh, and Rolling Stone.com, thanks a lot... money used at a circus... I tell ya, I dont know if I can take these obscure references anymore...

;)

But seriously, what is the true meaning behind the song Circus Money (that is, if anyone knows)

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 15:13:03 ET
Posted by: The Dean, South Beach

Newark,

If I may offer a suggestion regarding any casino shows. Typically, the casinos hold back good seats for use as comps for high rollers. Some may get released just prior to the show, and many high rollers (or just gamblers who have spent time and money on the tables) decide to not leave the table, and are willing to part with the tickets. If you go in the later afternoon/early evening and let the pit bosses, casino hosts and bartenders know you are interested...then hang around and play a little...tip well...you may get pretty lucky. I have scored excellent seats for 1/2 price or less. One of my best friend's scored front row Dan tickets at the Niagara Falls casino for free, last year, using this technique.

Re the concert CDs available after the show, i certainly understand your desire. From my very limited experience, these tend to be of marginal quality. I'm sure some are better than others. But, do you really expect Donald (and even Walt) to OK the release of a product they couldn't totally oversee and control? This is Steely Dan we are talking about. I just don't see it happening.

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 15:04:11 ET
Posted by: Web Search, keyboard

GM,

The page is most likely cached in your browser. Try refreshing.

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 15:00:46 ET
Posted by: The Dean, South Beach

Dr. Wu,

I really didn't remember who made the comment, when I was replying last night (these damn old-fashioned message boards! :#)).

Had I realized it was you, I would have refrained from taking the cheap-shot (but, I admit to really liking cheap shots). I know you aren't the typical set list complainer. My apologies.

Keep on yammerin', do you really believe even half of that bullshit you wrote? Seriously? Only a fool would think that.

Let me be another voice confirming that Chiba is pot. (Among my friends a "chiba stick" is a joint.) Sometimes it is referred to simply as "cheeb".

Bobbo, a good live album would be welcome (Blue, or not). Alive in America is the only disappointment among the "official" SD releases, IMO. (I'm not big on greatest hits compilations, either, but as all of SD's are full of SD songs, they are as good as hits albums get, I guess.)

And, yes, Girl Margret is awesome (as far as i can tell from her posts) as are the other fabulous Steely Broads who post here. An influx of estrogen is always a nice thing on the Blue, IMO.

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 14:31:44 ET
Posted by: Craig B.,

GM- just checked it's there

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 14:19:57 ET
Posted by: George , in Paris

Good seats are, indeed, hard to come by. When the Dallas American Express presale opened this last Saturday morning, I was on the telephone with AE and also online through Ticketbastard - all at the instant the tix went on sale. Immediately, no Gold Card tix were left, and the only seats available were in the section BEHIND the front section. I checked regularly throughout the day, and the available seats never got any better. Frustrating.

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 14:18:00 ET
Posted by: Mr. Obvious,

Not on the grid -

Circus Money is about currency used at the circus.

Regards,

RollingStone.com

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 14:17:16 ET
Posted by: CJB, YVR, CA

re: merch

I would love the opportunity to buy an authorized just-burned CD soundboard recording of the terrific show I attended on my way out the door. And the technology's now available to provide same. So, my suggestion to The Management would be, bump those manky-lookin' ball caps and tees off the merch table, and replace them with the stylish sounds of the SD 2008 Ten-Piece Band...

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 14:12:48 ET
Posted by: BillfromPgh,

From the dead horse punishment dept:

Donald sez Dr. Wu is dated, but can anyone explain why? th lyric does not contain any noticibly outmoded slang or concepts. Hell, "Glamour Profession" is much more dated with its references to Szechuan dumplings and making calls from the car as if these were exotic experiences. You can get Szechuan dumplings at the mall food court now and it's almost rare to see a driver without a cellphone or Bluetooth earpice jammed in his ear.

Also, I recall an interview where one or both of our boys regretted using the phrase "chase the dragon" in Time Out Of Mind, saying that they thought it was an obscure reference to heroin use when they wrote it but later discovered it was more widely known. That was before that song emerged in the live set.

>>Now Re: Dr. Wu- "the taste you said you'd bring to me" is probably about coke, although it could be heroin. Who said all this band writes about is drugs?

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 14:12:29 ET
Posted by: GM, Work

Ok, I can't see the updated page, but I'm assured the St. Louis date is there. Carry on.

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 14:07:50 ET
Posted by: Newark , Newark Station

How do you spend your money? Recent discussions here have inspired some self-retrospect. I am beginning to notice new behaviours planning my leisure activities way way into the future. I mean, I just ordered tix for a concert to be held February 2009, and the seats are great, and I feel good about it. I mean, when a special artist or announcement comes up, I jump on it. Recently, I scored unreal seats for Leo Kottke, a show months and months away. I'm finding that I cannot cut my music budget, no matter the cost. But I CAN cut OUT the angst caused by Ticketbastard. For example, thinking fast, I thought, "We'll go to Vegas to see the Dan this summer at the Palms on Aug. 9; the plane tickets will be cheap and the rooms should be cheap since it's sort of off-season." Ok, I'm ready to plop down the bucks and . . . F%@k!!! The show tickets I am offered (three months in advance) are way to the back and off to the side. Never mind, thank you. In all, I am finding that the venues that offer choices, rewarding for early purchases, say, are the places that nowadays have my attention and pennies. This could be Rams Head in Annapolis, Count Basie Theater in NJ, Wilmington Opera House, Weinberg Center for the Arts, a festival somewhere, a camp jam, and on. Unfortunately, the casinos seem to play the T-bastard game and have no clue the buying bevaviours of clients like me, say.

Soon gone for me will be playing stupid flippin' ticket games, trying for last-minute great seats, zooming to Atlantic City to hear Steely Dan, par example, then zooming North to catch them in Boston, say. Gads, this year, I played the ticketing game with Borgata for weeks--being offered the worse seat choices time and time again,AND never did I get a choice of great seats by Borgata ticketing. AND NOW--sold out? Gads.

Despite the screwy economy, I still go to shows and buy CDs like mad--but I'm not as inclined to serandipity and especially not interested in playing out Ticketmaster's cruel games. At the same time, I lean toward something I can count on, being more careful nowadays, choosing quality over quanity. I am an informed player, and if I cannot win once in a while, I play elsewhere.

Please allow me to finish by saying this. I still buy CDs, downloads and DVDs, like mad--despite the economy. I am going to more shows than ever. And my spending is more careful and carefully planned in advance, for the most part. When I go to hear someone new to me, say Keller Williams (at Delfest), I do my research, listen to samples and browse the artist's CDS online beforehand, so I have a clue what to expect. At Keller's, I didn't know one single song, but he actually flipped me with funky and funny, groove jams. Hey, He inspried me to rush to the merch. tent to choose from a selection of $13 CDs. I find myself seeking every single flipping one of his 12 CDs. I.e., I seek to possess the material that he threw out at the show and more, though none of it was familiar to me beforehand. I can go on and on about seeking and discovering exciting music at live performances then buying the hell out of the music because I never heard it on the radio.

I could never understand why a ton of SD's artist's stuff isn't available at the shows. Someone, please help. If I really like a performance, I want the CD or vinyl, full recording. Period. If it is available at the show, I'll snag it. At shows, I will plop down a bundle for CDs that are a little cheaper than online, with hopes of saving rip-off shipping fees. Sometimes, I walk away from the merch tent saying, "Bullshit. I can do better buying this stuff online--or used." Sometimes, I think, "Gads, that artist just lost a bundle not having his/her stuff available at the show." One thing is for certain, I almost always seek the stuff I hear at the shows, and most of my Americana stuff is signed by the artists. It is a great incentive for me to buy CDs--don't know why, shaking hands with a 13-grammy winner like Jerry Douglas, for example. It makes my day. However, if an artist dwells on familiar stuff at a show, I rarely visit the merch tent unless I'm seeking new new copies, as I often need to buy new copies of my good stuff, like SD music. And that's the truth. How about you? How do you spend your money? No tix yet, Newark hugs

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 14:03:58 ET
Posted by: GM, Work

If there was a St. Louis date, it ain't there now. And the home page says the site hasn't been updated in a week.

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 13:43:18 ET
Posted by: Romour,

And cant spell

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 13:32:10 ET
Posted by: Romour, West Valley Dention

To Craig B is Hey 19
Wrong. He is a very immature 63

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 13:27:32 ET
Posted by: Bobbo, in the record room...

Hey,

Still hoping there's a live album on the horizon featuring this stellar ensemble...

I can see the "album cover" now (it'd be a CD booklet stuck into a jewel box, to be sure): All-over deep, royal blue, no photos, no graphics--except for "Steely Dan Live" halfway down the right side, not centered or even flush with the package, in bold caps. All the goodies (lyrics, sound info, touring staff and notes and a poster!) waiting on the inside.

It'd be known as Steely Dan's Blue Album in no time at all. For posterity's sake, I think this band MUST be recorded and preserved in their stellar, perfect state...what an awesome live band.

On other live music, caught the Doobies in Dallas last night; they're still a great five-piece, doing the scaled-down biker/roadhouse incarnation now. Wonderfully tight, loud, and soulful. I know, I know--I'll get crucified for saying that, here. What shocked me was, for one, the Doobies wound up "opening" for Chicago! And, for the first time, I left before a band finished their set. My peeps and I could just not stand anymore silly foolishness from The Band Now Known As Chicago.

I pray that the Steely Dan show never gets as artificial and nastily "soft" as what Chicago is doing on the road these days...selah.

Okay,
Bobbo

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 13:22:01 ET
Posted by: Dr Zitomeyer' son,

There's a new date, St Louis, on SD .com

This from Steely Doc

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 13:18:50 ET
Posted by: Web Search, keyboard

NY Times review of Beacon show

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/06/16/arts/music/16stee.html?ref=music

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 13:06:38 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Not on the grid

Hoops... how many times have you seen Steely Dan?
And then how many times Fagen solo?

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 12:50:47 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

Thanks for your very kind and gracious comments about my Dr. Wu rant, you know most times I just talk shit around here but every now and then I put my whole heart into a message to you all, and that one was brewing for a long time, it's my serenade to all of you...but now on to my new favorite old tune...hit it Binky:

The love bug done bit me
Didn't mean for him to get me
Woo, get up in the morning
And I'm filled with desire
No, no, I can't stop the fire
Love is a real life wire
Ooh, it's a burning sensation
Far behind imagination

Love is like an itching in my heart
Tearing it all apart
Just an itching in my heart
And baby, I can't scratch it
Keeps me sighing, ooh
Keeps me yearning

No, mama can't help me
No, daddy can't help me
I've been bitten by the love bug
And I need some information
To help me out this situation

Now, when you're ill
You take a pill
When your thirsty
Drink your fill
What you gonna do
When love gets a hold
A hold on you
Love is like an itching in my heart
And baby, I can't scratch it

Love is a nagging irritation
Causing my heart complication
Love is a growing infection
And I don't know the correction
Got me rockin' and areelin'
And I can't shake the feelin'

Love is like an itching in my heart
Tearing it all apart
Just an itching in my heart
And baby,

I can't scratch it

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 12:48:37 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Not on the grid

Gril Margret... you are simply the coolest chick I have ever "met" in cyberspace...

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 12:23:39 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Work

Actual conversation between me and my boss this morning:

Boss: So, four more shows, huh?
Me: Well, no.
Boss: Oh, right, you're going to Boston next week.
Me: And Bethel Woods in July and Chicago in August.
Boss: When are you going to Chicago?
Me: It's a weekend. The show's Saturday night.
Boss: But I assume you'll be flying out on Friday?
Me: No, Chicago's a two hour flight, fly out Saturday, come back Sunday.
Boss: (Long pause) You're crazy.

Yea, yea I am.

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 11:30:44 ET
Posted by: baby, talk

I wish it would make joey go away.

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 11:28:28 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, where everybody knows your name

Solo Becker set:

Circus Money
Slang of Ages
Surf and/or Die
Girlfriend
Paging Audrey
Junkie Girl
Do You Remember the Name
This Moody Bastard
Only a Fool Would Say That (the dub version)
Darkling Down
Cringemaker
Monkey in Your Soul

Bob's Not Your Uncle
Medical Science

Let's hope we get the chance of at least a couple of shows if not a small tour!

KC

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 11:22:34 ET
Posted by: Joey,

" I could see the tour manager coming up to Fagen and saying "Man, ya know, the fans on the bluebook really want to hear Dr. Wu."
And Fagen would just look at him and laugh as he says "Ha...I don't give a shit!" "

This makes Joey very sad .

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 11:18:53 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Not on the grid

I could see the tour manager coming up to Fagen and saying "Man, ya know, the fans on the bluebook really want to hear Dr. Wu."
And Fagen would just look at him and laugh as he says "Ha...I don't give a shit!"

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 10:55:08 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Not on the grid

So... what is the true meaning behind the song Circus Money??

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 10:28:30 ET
Posted by: Juan Valdez, in the fields

I thought de fine columbian refered to mi mountain grown coffee beans.

JV

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 10:16:16 ET
Posted by: Craig B is, "Hey 19"

Craig B- By the way, Ciba ,Chiba is weed, not coke. And the "fine Columbian" is weed, not coke.
Now Re: Dr. Wu- "the taste you said you'd bring to me" is probably about coke, although it could be heroin. Who said all this band writes about is drugs?

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 10:03:53 ET
Posted by: Craig B,

Have to agree with Mu about Rajah's take on Dr Wu...experience always has that depth

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 09:59:42 ET
Posted by: Raven, laptop traintracks

Right, these sing-alongs . . . unlikely to happen, but YGTII would really make 'em sing, but so did Pixeleen in Camden.

Doin' a fly-by, I see that Borgata is sold out. Fket, FYI. Ravin'

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 09:53:25 ET
Posted by: Joey,

" They are getting Walt more into the mix. The guy has really SHOCKED many of us with his true ability with the release of CM. He just needs the right songs and collaborators. We have a clearer picture of "his" sound, and you are starting to be able to really tell where he influenced Steely Dan's repertoire. Steely Dan is not as much "all Donald" as some might have erroneously thought.

With persuasive arguments on the Blue, such as that piece by Rajah, Dr Wu might just show up for a cameo appearance! "

Concur with all of the above !!!!

I hearby call for ' Dr. Wu ' with Walter on lead vocal .

Developing ........................

I remain ...... forever ...... your Joey

J.

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 09:28:46 ET
Posted by: West Of Hollywood, Boston, Ma

Let's give this a shot ...

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 09:15:44 ET
Posted by: Everything You Did,

Hi everyone! My name is "Everything You Did". (Actually that's my nickname) but everybody that knows me calls me by that name. Anyway, they played "Everything You Did" at the Beacon the other night. I know it was because of me! You all have me to thank for this song finally be played live. I am the King Of The World! ooops

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 08:16:18 ET
Posted by: Myron, On location

I'm convinced that Darkling Down was tailored to provide plenty of lyrical snippets for the Pretzel Logic section at the end of the digest.

The proprietor knows my name...

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 07:47:06 ET
Posted by: Hey, Wu Fans....,

Here's what you need: plain white paper, string, tape, marker, digital camera, friend to take picture

First, make a sign that reads "Play Dr. Wu!" Tape string to top corners and hang it around your neck.

Then, fold your arms tightly in front of you (don't cover the wording on your sign.) Screw your face into a deep, angry-looking frown.

Now, hold your breath until you turn blue. (Gotta do this, no photoshopping, they would know!) Have friend take picture.

Email photo to Don, Walt and the SD website. Voila! Not only will they play your song for you, they'll buy you ice cream and let you stay up "a little later." But just this once!

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 06:24:23 ET
Posted by: Road Trip,

There really is a Laughing Pines

http://www.laughingpinescabins.com/

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 06:17:31 ET
Posted by: SS, HK

Deacon Blues was played in Australia on last year's World Tour.

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 06:09:10 ET
Posted by: DEACONBLUE, Brussels

Well, i don't know if they (Walter or Donald) are reading the Blue. And if they do, than i don't think they will or should adapt their playlist just because a fan on this forum.

But fact is, that at the concert in Brussels "Forest National", they played "Deaconblues" for the first and last time during the Worldtour last year. So i'm sure that was a casuality but for me personnally a very beautiful one. That made my evening completely unforgottable.

And i think that every concert has his special moments and things for each of us. For me it was without doubt "Brussels" for the "Deaconblue" extra element. But "Lucca" in Italy was as so far the greatest gig ever. We had a free and easy talking with some musicians (Roger and Walt W.) and what we felt in the air during the concert was pure magic, pure and real religion.

Like i said: every concert has his special moments.

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 01:53:21 ET
Posted by: DimSkip, Do you throw out your golkd teeth?

Today's Piranha Club, by Bud Grace...

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/artsandliving/comics/king.html?name=Piranha&date=20080616

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 00:50:10 ET
Posted by: lovethisgig, atlanta

Ricky does indeed post occasionally on the Blue. He and lovethisgig are one and the same. :) Although, I haven't posted recently, I've been silently taking it all in.

I will say that this year's concert, my fifth, might possibly be the best I've heard -- the sound, the songs, the venue. (I say 'possibly' only because the first time I saw them holds a special place in my heart.) To hear The Royal Scam, New Frontier, Gaucho, live for the first time ever, and Godwhacker, Glamour Profession, for the first time since '03). The band was in top form. Carlock was kickin ass. Herington and Becker! The horns!! I knew something was up from the start, with Leonhard on trumpet during The Royal Scam intro.

I had to correct that Atlanta review. Jeez! This band is no month-old baby. Otherwise an interesting take, the hardcore versus casual fan. How do I tell the difference? The hardcore fans are singing along to 2vN!! :-)

Also, I'm blown away by Walter's new one.

Date: Mon, June 16, 2008, 00:26:36 ET
Posted by: keep on hammerin' and yammerin',

So I had you goin' with the first six or seven of them? Actually, I thought the Brussels event was one of the strongest points! That's why I put it last, in succession.

I can, have and will probably dig up more at a later date. The main message is that either THEY, Don and Walt themselves, or Dan associates are reading and heeding the Blue feedback. There are very astute people here with excellent ideas and insights, and these suggestions are making their way onto the Steely scene.

It is to the Dan's advantage to consider this feedback, especially at this point where most of the "casual" fans have already gone to shows, they have satiated the masses. NOW, after two years of touring, they know where the hot spots are, where mostly the hard core Danfans that will go to multiple shows year after year. They have and should be keeping their finger on the pulse of Dandom. I, for one, am excited about this NEW set list, and I'll tell you, I would not be going if it had not materialized, in large part due to the Hegemony of the Blue.

If you check way back, the guy with the handle "Deacon Blue" lives in Brussels. That was the ONLY venue, I'm quite certain, where Deacon Blues was played, out of about 40 dates. Which then goes back to the complaints about the set lists, they weren't playing the "right" Greatest Hits, we were getting Pegged, Hey19'd and Josied to death. Deacon alone might have been worth the price of admission.

A link of Deacon Blue's picture at the concert was posted and there was much discussion about it last fall on this board.

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 23:52:03 ET
Posted by: Monty Hall,

Keep on Hammerin- You should change your handle to "Keep on Guessing"

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 23:43:29 ET
Posted by: Puhleeze,

Keep on Hammerin'- You almost had me til you got to this part:

"Deacon Blues was played in Brussels as a token of gratitude to a guy who used to post on the Blue with the hand "Deacon Blue"."

Steely Dan played Deacon Blues because of a fan on the guestbook?! LOL! Get over yourself!

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 23:28:08 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, well along in the 21st hour

Add me to the list for Darkling Down, I think that would be awesome live.

Also, it took a little longer than some of you but I cannot stop listening to Paging Audrey. Beautiful does not seem superlative enough, yet kind of says it all.

recurring words, themes, etc.

Door #2 - Vegas, gambling - alcohol, G & T is new drink

Downtown Canon - Greene Street, more alcohol - Alsatian wine, narcotics - cocaine, chiba chiba (pet)

Up & down - Well you came on like some blazing supernova : you come up blazing like an open sore (junkie girl)

Gene - more booze - Pinot, Why must everytime i turn my ship around, some bastard come and knock my skyline down : When every time you turn around, somebody kicks your statue down (my waterloo)

DD - Gettin' down on a cellular level, just in case i got to call someone : Pick up on the cellular ray phone,In case you got to call someone (our lawn, played on the '93 tour - thanks to soul monkey for bringing this up not too long ago)

I'm sure there's more but this was more than enough strain on my brain.

KC

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 23:11:07 ET
Posted by: Web Search, My Keyboard

Review of first Beacon show

http://www.northjersey.com/betterliving/Dont_expect_all_the_old_favorites_at_Steely_Dan_concert.html

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 23:06:04 ET
Posted by: keep on hammerin' and yammerin',

Seems everyone has overlooked the concessions that HAVE been made by the band to the Blue. Someday, we will get THE WU. It doesn't hurt to speculate and ask for it. We are the fans, the fans spend the money. Most fans have have spent hundreds of dollars and some fans TENS of thousands including air tickets and hotels. The band can play "just what they feel", but that's the groovessential facts. No fans, no shows, no Steely Dan. Or any other entertainers.

And here are some reasons why, these are some KEY Steely Dan improvements which have resulted from previous discussions on the Blue. You could look it up:

No more Michael McDonald, or anyone else. Now, you're getting PURE Dan. And more of it than 12 or 13 songs.

The Horrible Greatest Hits set lists are virtually GONE!

Deep cuts have been put into the setlists such as Parker's Band.

The set lists are heavy on Royal Scam, their Greatest Achievement.

The shows are longer, and they are getting more variety in there putting in the medleys, and eliminating the bullshit Turtle song.

They are getting Walt more into the mix. The guy has really SHOCKED many of us with his true ability with the release of CM. He just needs the right songs and collaborators. We have a clearer picture of "his" sound, and you are starting to be able to really tell where he influenced Steely Dan's repertoire. Steely Dan is not as much "all Donald" as some might have erroneously thought.

Deacon Blues was played in Brussels as a token of gratitude to a guy who used to post on the Blue with the hand "Deacon Blue". I believe Brussels was the ONLY venue where it was played on the Heavy Rollers tour.

With persuasive arguments on the Blue, such as that piece by Rajah, Dr Wu might just show up for a cameo appearance!

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 23:01:44 ET
Posted by: HouDanFan, Houston

I saw Bill Charlap last year playing with Tony Bennett at the Galveston Opera House. Outstanding show.

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 22:35:59 ET
Posted by: KMITB, Mt. Belzoni

Darkling Down's chorus is pretty damn infectious......that's all I got!!!

Lata!!!

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 22:10:03 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

The Atlanta review reads like something I'd write...I did like Ricky's follow-up just below it...wonder if he posts here...Ricky???

Regarding the lack of appreciation/courtesy for Charlap, Atlanta's only jazz club that booked national acts, "E.J.'s", closed in the early '80s due to the audiences talking and banging glasses/plates during the performances...word got around fairly quickly in the musician community, as I understand it, that it was a club with unappreciative audiences (now Hartsfield is the US's busiest passenger airport and there has since been no national jazz club here in town...I would bet the acts fly thru here but, if so, they are wise enough not to stop.

On a similar note, there is a Dexter Gordon 2 CD set that was recorded at E.J.'s entitled "Backstairs" (it's a smoker!)...and Dexter starts the CD in total silence with no applause saying (imagine his gravelly, slow-paced voice) "Thank you for that very, very thunderous applause"...precious.

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 21:49:27 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Not on the grid

The Dean... there is nothing wrong with saying I never liked that song so I would like it gone...ok? I'm not complaining, and not saying anything against Becker and Fagen, I'm just voicing my opinion about Steely Dan songs...

Dont group me in with those other idiot who bash them because they dont play what they want...

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 21:47:41 ET
Posted by: Web Search, cyberspace

A review of the Atlanta show from from a journalist who "only knows the hits"

http://www.northfulton.com/Articles-i-2008-06-05-172673.112113_No_static_for_Steely_Dan.html

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 21:43:59 ET
Posted by: TZ, Buffalo

My deepest and sincerist apologigies to you Hoops about Friday, I had no idea about the "rules" of this place. (Not being sarcastic at all, very sincere.)

Long live Hoops! And God bless him!

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 21:17:14 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago ("Daddy don't live in that New York City no more")

Happy Father's Day to all you Steely Dads out there. I'm not a dad..as far as I know.

My father was never an obsessive Steely Dan fan but he was an obsessive Cubs and pre-Steinbrenner Yankees fan. The latter is almost unheard of for a boy from Brooklyn. You see, some of the Yanks' office pretty much adopted him for a time in the 1940s, but that's another story...or is it?

My dad always wanted to catch as many games as possible on TV if he couldn't get to the ball park. In the early to mid-70s, before the days when you could have one screen in an inset box over another game when watching TV, he'd go to the point of stacking our little portable set with the Yanks or some other network TV "game of the week" on top of the console TV set with the Cubs--or vice versa--so he could watch both. Sometimes it would drive the family nuts.

I'm not such an obsessive baseball fan, but I'm equally obsessive about Steely Dan.

Gloria--since you chose this venue--and to address other fans who wonder or feel involved somehow--all I can say is I'm sorry. This *isn't* really about *my* being thanked or appreciated. Those who are real and matter have done that to the point that I feel very embarrassed.

Really who needs to be thanked and appreciated are people like yourself, Gloria, and some of my family members, who have put up with my being such an obsessive Steely Dan fan. It's all too regular that you put up with my being late or forgetting something or simply realizing three hours have gone by when I said I would be there in 20 minutes. All too often you put up with situations like the past couple of days. Friday, I'm preoccupied with someone who appears to want to over-post this forum to the point it crashes. And of course, last night, I couldn't carry on a phone conversation because I kept getting texted songs and comments and gleefully posting them here.

So you and my family are more than right and deserving for feeling unappreciated or taken for granted.

And in a way, TnT is a bit correct. I should be paying much more attention to those who are there in my life, in person, day-to-day. But remember, more than a couple of Danfans are also, to varying degrees, in my life in some similar ways.

Sincerely and with love,

Jim

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 21:11:53 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

Believe it was outlined in the past that maintaining this site is a load of donkey-work with no reward...actually, significant webmaster-absorbed expense...despite that, I don't recall the classy guy that maintains it asking for donations.

Thanks to this board, I have learned more about SD in a year than I have learned in the last 30. Thanks for making that possible, Hoops.

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 20:45:17 ET
Posted by: MikeA, Seattle

Listening again to C$ this afternoon. Becker really is soulfull with his vocals. Really a lot of feeling there. A couple of times you could almost cry in some spots. Seriously.

Also, that dub stuff is incredible, nice bass, guitar, and keys (especially the out front organ). Had a great laugh today with the lines "you watch some hobo take a nasty spill." "Laugh like a bastard oh you know you will."
That Cracks me up everytime.

Anyway
No particular order...
Setlist for Becker tour:

Monkey in Your Soul
Daddy....New York City
Book of Liars
Gaucho (now that we know)
Girlfriend (with extended chourus, that part of the tune is Sweet)
Down in the Bottom
Darkling Down
Circus Money
Somebody's Saturday Night
Three Picture Deal
Midnight Cruiser
Junkie Girl
Slang of Ages (for sure!)
Deacon Blues (might be interesting)

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 20:39:55 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Cortlandt Manor, NY

Charlap just had his trio, Peter Washington and Kenny Washington I think were their names? Upright bass and drums, all three were phenomenal. I guess Charlap really likes West Side Story because he did at least three songs from that show. Watching Charlap play piano was mind blowing, he just plays with such ease and his hands are bouncing all over the place. I was really intrigued with the bass player - as a violinist, I'm always intrigued with string players, and he was amazing to watch, just the way he was plucking and moving so fast, I was truly impressed! No special guests from the Dan Band, but outstanding just the same, and the crowd reacted in kind. The guy next to me asked if I was there to see Charlap, as he felt most of the audience must have been because they were going nuts. Not a full standing ovation at the end, but the trio was very well received.

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 20:13:23 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Not on the grid

Ok, I guess I'm pretty dense... can someone tell me the read meaning behind Circus Money, I got a few ideas but not too sure...

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 19:51:41 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Not on the grid

Ok, all you guys want Becker to tour... so put together a 15 or 16 song setlist for him... I'd like to see what you have to say.

Probably some Steely songs he would play:

- Monkey in Your Soul
- Daddy Don't Live in that New York City No More
- Slang of Ages
- Gaucho
- Hatian Divorce

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 19:48:40 ET
Posted by: The Dean, South Beach

Mike,

Nice to hear someone mention Darkling Down, which might also be my fav from C$. I'm still listening and will post my thoughts (not that anyone cares) later in the week.

I'm not sure where the post blasting people for thanking Margaret and others for posting set lists came from. Of course Hoops also deserves thanks, and is often overlooked for all the fine work he does for us, here. I try to say it often, but it wouldn't be enough if I said it in every post. Thanks for all you do, Jim. (For the life of me I can't understand why a simple RIP for a very well respected person caused such a firestorm, but it is over, so let's just let it rest.)

I'm not surprised by the set-list complaints (everybody knows better than the artists themselves, apparently), but try to do better than "I never liked that song" when suggesting a song be removed from the concert. Sheesh, maybe we should all get our personal concert, tailored completely to what WE want to hear. Talk about self involved.

As for the guy that decided to "save his money", GOOD. One less idiot at the concert, as far as I'm concerned.

Margaret, thanks for the Charlap comment. I'm glad to hear he tore it up. Did he have any horns with him? Anyone from the Dan band sit in? He's a really special pianist, IMO and doesn't get nearly the notice his talent merits.

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 19:10:54 ET
Posted by: lol, liverpool uk

looking forward to the beacon on saturday and the bitter end afterwards

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 17:47:26 ET
Posted by: MikeA, Seattle

First ever post here...I used to post alot on St.Al's site in the olden days and have monitored Bluebook for many years. The Digest Hoops puts out is always a welcome occasion at work. Jim does a bangup job and is is due a great deal of gratitude for what he does. It's a labour of love and is a shame when some Aholes feel the need to slam him. Oh well...

Wish I had some dough to make the Beacon Shows or even Boston and Chicago. I scored nice seats for the wife and I at the Seattle show and might make it down to Saratoga. We never miss SD when they get out here. Also had a blast for DF show in LA, 2nd row and got to see the sound check.

It's a great time: tour in full bloom and C$ now in my sweaty hands C$ is awesome, insightfull interviews posted (thanks for that).

Favoite track C$ track is Darking Down so far. I still listen to Whack quite a bit and the two albums are not that similar. Each has it's own "vibe" connected only by Walter's vocal inflections. IMHO

It would be cool to here Monkey (sung by DF this time) on this tour and I would replace Hey 19 with Black Cow and maybe ditch Two Against Nature for Pixleeen. Hey 19, I always felt was a bit gimmicky. But whatever, its all good.. Know what I mean??

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 17:34:56 ET
Posted by: CrimsonTide, Motown

Good to see Pretzel Logic, but I will not stop holding out for WU. Wu is better than anything from C$.

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 17:31:26 ET
Posted by: CrimsonTide, Motown

I would rather hear WU than Gaucho or anything from C$!

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 17:07:29 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Cheap shot
Trash talk
Chump change
Thanks for putting up with all
the pricks hoops.
Glad to hear you also have the
C$ addiction Gal Marg.
C$ OCD - It's A Good Thing!
"So if you rock so - and you
skank so - Well if think so -
why not say so" - Spread the word
people! Why not add requests for
Wally to do some of C$ live this
summer in the fine reviews people
have been writing on the various
sites? Replace the shouts for "Wu"
with "C$" this summer!

NEW POLL -

Given the choice, would you rather
hear Walter sing Gaucho or something
from C$?

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 16:30:44 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Forgot to mention...

...Bill Charlap was the shit! Missed his set on Friday, but last night I was blown away by him. I'm putting him on the list of best opening acts I've seen, right by the top. Can't wait to see Chris Cheek on Tuesday and Wednesday!

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 16:23:38 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Back on the Blue

I haven't read the Blue or the Digest in the last week to avoid spoilers, and was it ever worth it to be treated to such a surprise at the Beacon on Friday night. Both shows were amazing, I liked the audience better on Friday (I made more friends in my section that night), there was such an amazing energy that I often dream of and most of the time get to experience at concerts. From the first note of Everyone's Gone to the Movies to the end of the encores (Does anyone know what the name of the instrumental outro is that the band is playing?) I was falling in love with SD all over again. New Frontier had me in hysterics on Friday and then to hear Walter do Gaucho was a dream come true - he sang that song like it was all his and it was perfect. The real surprise for me was that Carolyn Leonhart was not there. According to sd.com she was supposed to do the Beacon shows and that's it, but she's not there. No worries, though, because I am totes in love with Tawatha Agee's voice, she is so perfect with Miss Cindy Mizelle, especially when they sing that Supreme's song. Sheer perfection. I can't wait to see what else they pull out for this tour.

PS. Boston fans, look out, I'm coming your way next week!

PPS. C$ has taken a hold on me. It's my new crack cocaine, and baby, I ain't shakin' this habit.

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 16:07:14 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, @home

Happy fathers day to all the Steely Dads out there!!

KC

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 15:38:39 ET
Posted by: angel,

Always appreciate what Hoops does, above and beyond the call. He is the best.

Tried to send a C$ review to you, Hoops, but it keeps bouncing back from Dandom.com. Anyone wants a look at it, it's on Amazon. :-)

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 15:11:44 ET
Posted by: Craig B,

Chiba Chiba
Thanks for all those who gave an answer to my question.
My post thanking Hoops and the Turban were missing. Strange

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 15:04:47 ET
Posted by: Colcam, New England

"Dallas" and "...Waterway" MP3 files can be found on Limewire.

I don't recall the Hits disc that included these two rarities. Thought they were only released on 4 track 12" EP????

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 15:00:26 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Not on the grid

Yeah, the setlist is looking pretty good so far, if I could make a couple commentss, it would probably be:

- Keep Third World Man out... I never liked that song
- Keep Glamour Profession in... love that song and never heard it live
- Instead of FM for the encore, do Reelin' in the Years. I know, I know, you guys all hate hearing that again, but I never heard it and it's one of my all time favs... sorry.
- Get rid of Green Earrings, heard it twice already, dont need to hear it again
- Switch Deacon Blues for either Peg or Josie

A couple other songs I wish they would do that are possible:
- King of the World
- Caves of Altimira
- Here at the Western World

I wont bother saying Dr. Wu...

Looking good, a couple changes would be great, but I'm happy right now...

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 14:44:40 ET
Posted by: beaubo, Cleveland

Snagged some 3rd row loge seats, courtesy of Live Nation 'contacts' for the June 17 show.

Regarding set list choices, at least Steely Dan has the consideration of TRYING to craft an eclectic set list that appeals to fanatics, the deep-cuts crowd and the greatest hits gang.

Our (former!!) friend Todd Rundgren, continues to run his career into the ground by IGNORING his catalogue.

There is an implicit social contract that concertgoers should expect to hear a healthy mix of material. I'm willing to be patient with a band's self-indulgent tunes if I am confident that they will indulge ME with more mainstream tunes down the line.

Todd gets a D+ (because he actually was forced to play more familiar stuff when touring with Hall & Oates (gasp) a couple of years ago...other wise a D- ).

Based on this years set list, I'm inclined to offer up a solid A-.
Wish that 'Caves of Altamira' could squeeze back on the list, and was stunned and amazed to hear 'Deacon Blues' last year when I happened to be in Brussels for their show there. And 'Black Cow' has really had too sporadic exposure over the past three tours.
Godwhacker/Green Earring/2vN seem to have the same rolling vibe to me, so I would be poised for anything else from EMG!!!

Anyhow, its always fun to muse our preferences...its great that there is actually a TOUR to theorize about!

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 14:44:13 ET
Posted by: beaubo, Cleveland

Snagged some 3rd row loge seats, courtesy of Live Nation 'contacts' for the June 17 show.

Regarding set list choices, at least Steely Dan has the consideration of TRYING to craft an eclectic set list that appeals to fanatics, the deep-cuts crowd and the greatest hits gang.

Our (former!!) friend Todd Rundgren, continues to run his career into the ground by IGNORING his catalogue.

There is an implicit social contract that concertgoers should expect to hear a healthy mix of material. I'm willing to be patient with a band's self-indulgent tunes if I am confident that they will indulge ME with more mainstream tunes down the line.

Todd gets a D+ (because he actually was forced to play more familiar stuff when touring with Hall & Oates (gasp) a couple of years ago...other wise a D- ).

Based on this years set list, I'm inclined to offer up a solid A-.
Wish that 'Caves of Altamira' could squeeze back on the list, and was stunned and amazed to hear 'Deacon Blues' last year when I happened to be in Brussels for their show there. And 'Black Cow' has really had too sporadic exposure over the past three tours.
Godwhacker/Green Earring/2vN seem to have the same rolling vibe to me, so I would be poised for anything else from EMG!!!

Anyhow, its always fun to muse our preferences...its great that there is actually a TOUR to theorize about!

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 14:43:10 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Not on the grid

TNT...

why dont you take some of that there TNT and shove it down your throat and up your ass you fucker...

Thanks a lot Jim! (hoops)

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 14:21:55 ET
Posted by: BWD, I get it

In other words, Dana, some people have been thanked way too much already.

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 13:29:57 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Thanks for those youtube clips. You guys are right about Donald's voice! He actually sings Black Friday like he did on Katy Lied, sliding up on the "Door/Hole" lyrics instead of going down a 2nd.

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 12:39:49 ET
Posted by: charliefreak, New England

Thanks for posting set lists, all. I'm hitting the Boston show on the 23rd. Can't fricken' wait!

I saw the Dan back in 2000 - still the best concert I've ever seen, and I've a feeling this one will top it.

Next topic: The "Steely Dan" album, 1978...a greatest hits/ compilation disc, with "Dallas" and "Sail the Waterway."

Anyone know where one can get their hands on this? I've looked in a few places on the magic Internets, but no luck so far. Even if I can fins MP3's of those two songs, that would be most excellent. Thanks in advance.

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 12:34:23 ET
Posted by: Thank you all!,

Thanks so much for the set lists, descriptions, and Youtube links. Even with the squished audio the band sounds fantastic and Donald seems to be in his best live voice since the 70s.

re: Dr. Wu. Actually I know a Dr. Wu, but Donald will have to come around on his own, and maybe he will. Maybe if we keep requesting "The Second Arrangement" Donald will forget about his Wu reluctance.

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 12:13:50 ET
Posted by: Lars,

"Everything You Did" could possibly be on of the coolest songs that this band has ever done live!

Upside- Keep your money in your pocket. They don't need fans like you at the shows anyway. Jerk off.

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 12:09:31 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

Gloria P.:
Yes....I certainly do realize that without Hoops and all the hours he puts into this site there would be no Blue Book, etc. Many of us have thanked him many times, both on "the Blue" and personally.
Not sure why my thanking Girl Margaret for taking the time to post the set-list was in any way disrespectful or ungrateful to Hoops, in your opinion. I meant no insult or disrespect to anyone, least of all Hoops, whom we all love and appreciate........

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 12:07:37 ET
Posted by: Chan, A few comments from Boston

Chiba Chiba is absatively Pot.

Rajah, that was one of the best summary's of Dr. Wu. I have read. As usual you are right on. I would add that many of us have felt the despair that is obvious in this song. There have been many times that Dr. Wu has been our personal form of audio medication. Hearing it live would perhaps be the taste we have been waiting for.

Thanks for the updates GM.

Happy Fathers Day to all you Dads.

Lastly and most important, to come on this site and personally bash or insult Hoops is pretty low. Its one thing to voice an opposite opinion, its another thing to be a total asshole.

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 11:47:40 ET
Posted by: Katy, Brooklyn

hey guys. last night was sick. here's the setlist as far as i could tell. please correct any mistakes i made.

Beacon Theater, New York NY, 6.14.08

Instrumental Medley> Keith Solo
The Royal Scam
I Got The News>
Show Biz Kids
Everything You Did
Two Against Nature
Hey Nineteen>Becker Story (Cuervo Oriented)
God Wacker
Babylon Sisters
New Frontier
Gaucho BECKER VOCALS!!!
Green Earrings
Parker's Band
Black Friday>
Josie
Motown Jam (??)> Band Intros
Peg
FM
Encore:
Pretzel Logic
Kid Charlemagne

Sorry for the gaps in song titles, I only got turned on to The Dan within the past year. Holla.

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 11:31:53 ET
Posted by: Brutus Charisma,

************** THANK YOU PETE FOGEL AND JIM MCKAY!!!*****************

*********YOU GUYS ARE INTELLIGENT AND CARING HUMAN BEINGS!!!!!!!!

TnT: Get the fuck outta here!

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 11:10:42 ET
Posted by: raven, laptop treetop

GM / Hoops et al: Can you confirm Third World Man at Beacon? It's a help. :>

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 11:04:18 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Chiba Chiba is obviously cocaine.

Hoops, GM, and everyone else that provided setlists and show reviews thus far -- THANKS!

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 09:54:30 ET
Posted by: NJ DanFan,

TnT, what an asshole you are! We all know that that without Hoops the Blue would not exist. Obviously you don't understand what it's like to be a hard core Dan Fan. I'm wondering why you are even reading the Blue?

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 09:53:58 ET
Posted by: Upside, Looking Down

All I can say in re: DF not wanting to do Wu. Yesterday I looked to see what was available on Ticketmaster for last night's show and pondered plucking down $174 for an orchestra seat. I decided it wasn't worth it to hear Kid C, Peg, Josie and Hey 19 for the upteenth time.

I believe the reason that there is such demand for Wu live is because the curve of the song, as Fagen put it, is indeed different.

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 09:46:46 ET
Posted by: SelfishGene, His House

We may have just hit the bottom...

Sad...

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 09:39:08 ET
Posted by: TnT,

Hoops sits around all night waiting for song names so he can type them in?

Losers? IT'S HOOPS WHO IS A FUCKING LOSER!!!!!!!!

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 09:33:42 ET
Posted by: steelyfez, CT

Without Jim there is no site here, he along with Pete Fogel are
the biggest classiest of the Steely Dan fans. Kudos to Jim for keeping this site running and for all of the info.

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 09:04:34 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Not on the grid

Gloria P., I think they thanked Margaret Girl for the setlist... so they in fact did have enough class...

Not saying Jim (aka Hoops) doesnt do a lot, just that w/o Margaret Girl, we wouldnt have a setlist from the last 2 shows...

I dont know why, but a chick texting the setlist from a Steely Dan concert...pretty hot. I'm turned on, anyone else?

I bet she's smokin' too! That the kind of woman fans the Dan gets!

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 08:55:46 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Not on the grid

Rajah, great post about the WU, agree with everyword...

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 08:36:43 ET
Posted by: Gloria P., New York

I'm writing in regards to the posting of set lists.

Do the fans who call themselves Steely Dana and Steely Fez and others who have posted know how those set lists get here on this Guest List?

Jim McKay stands by at his cell phone and waits for the song names to come in. Then he enters them. It's kind for someone to text at concert what the songs are. It's another to not be at a show and wait the whole two hours entering songs on a Saturday night.

Steely Dana and Steely Fez? Can you have enough class to thank someone for doing that? Apparently not. Losers.

I admit, I'm not a Steely Dan fan. I've known Jim for three years. He spends so much time on this Guest List that no one knows about. The night before he spent two hours with this Tim Russert attacker. Other times he's left dinner so he could remove some very private, personal information about Steely Dans's members so it doesn't get out. And for this he gets hate mail from fans.

Be it fans or Steely Dan themselves, they don't appreciate him enough. Jim could write a sordid novel on what he knows from here. But he's a class act.

It's time to start respecting and appreciating that.

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 07:50:52 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

Girl Margaret:
Thanks for all the on-site set-list postings. Sounds like two truly awesome Beacon shows so far......hope they all are!!!!

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 05:28:33 ET
Posted by: Toynland, Up on that hill

Hey Raj, Drive west on Sunset and give me a call . Love you

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 05:27:15 ET
Posted by: Toynland, Up on that hill

Hey Raj, Drive west on Sunset and give me a call . Love you

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 04:07:03 ET
Posted by: Due with Buzz, here

checked out youtube for some recent clips.
mostly just a few seconds.
still long enough to get the energy of the show.
which is there in better form than last year imho.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ULnl48G4jJA

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pluLCgtj_6I

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-FxvMkqPdh0

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

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 03:12:21 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

The Lindbergh Baby is 2 years old, so whining and wetting himself is basically his whole gig and he is constructed by yours truly to represent the ultimate ignorant and insistent Dan Fan. That said, allow me to opine on Donald's coment about Dr. Wu...

He said it doesn't work dramatically in a live rendering. He doesn't want to play it and that's fine, that's his call but to say it lacks in dramatic impact is, I think, a bit of an evasion. There is something so haunting and desparate about that song. A brief tale of someone at the mercy of substance abuse who has forged a tenuous alliance with someone who ultimately, he feels, lets him down. His whole world is a sham, a rickety structure pitched upon an unstable foundation sustained only by the stuff -whatever it is- he's waiting for a taste of. The Katy lies line toward the end carried along as it is as the music modulates there so majestically driven by the piano has given me, and I suspect some of you, shivers time and time again. So don't tell me that's not dramatic, I ain't buyin that, after all these years and the hairs on the back of my neck still stand up? Tell me it's difficult, tell me it just asks too much of Donald, tell me it brings back sad memories, but don't tell me it lacks in dramatic effect. This song calls for a master piano player, the music is fraught with such emotional highs and lows, tenderness and bravura. Charlap could do it, Ted Baker. The lyrical imagery was striking enough to make this song the undisputed centerpiece of the Katy Lied album. The katydid is a master of disguise and deceit, it's true, but much more at fault is the person who is deceiving himself.

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 01:14:08 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

Chiba Chiba usually refers to a potent Columbian or Brazilian form of pot.

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 01:11:42 ET
Posted by: The Answer,

Joey had it Peg-ged. Try to keep up Deano.

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 00:44:19 ET
Posted by: Tomorrow's Girl, in your town

Hi- I ordered my tickets this morning for the Houston show . I'm so excited by the set list -thank you, Girl Margaret-and other reports, it's all I can think about now.

Date: Sun, June 15, 2008, 00:18:01 ET
Posted by: steelyfez, CT

I hope they play Glamour Profession next Saturday.
Girl Margaret thanks for the updates.
Its all good in Dan Land!!!

Date: Sat, June 14, 2008, 22:59:06 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret , texting setlists from the Beacon to hoops

Outro i still don't know it. great show but I think last nites crowd. 2nite i was surrounded by the people who don't stand and leave early

Date: Sat, June 14, 2008, 22:56:16 ET
Posted by: Tony, Buf.

Why did they drop Don't Take Me Alive!!!????

Date: Sat, June 14, 2008, 22:55:16 ET
Posted by: TZ, Buffalo

NV... saw the texts of the setlist from Girl Margret...

Date: Sat, June 14, 2008, 22:53:30 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Not on the grid

Girl Margaret... no Glam. Prof. in this one??

Date: Sat, June 14, 2008, 22:52:44 ET
Posted by: TZ, Buffalo

Okay, I have listen to C$ a few times, and I think it is probably the second best solo album behind The Nightfly, I would probably rank it in the top 10 Dan albums, solo and all...

Favs:

- Door Number Two
- Downtown Canon
- Paging Audrey
- Circus Money
- Somebody's Saturday Night
- Three Door Deal

!!!What was the setlist for the first Beacon show?!!!

July 11th, third time... can't frigging wait!!!

(BTW: I'm a new poster, this thing is great, thanks hoops! Love the digest)

Date: Sat, June 14, 2008, 22:52:26 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

The Answer is much simplier than that:

They don't play Wu in concert.

Try to keep up

Date: Sat, June 14, 2008, 22:51:13 ET
Posted by: Dr. Wu, Not on the grid

Becker for DR. WU and Gaucho? I don't know...

I would love to see King of the World or Sign in Stranger in there...

Date: Sat, June 14, 2008, 22:42:05 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret , texting setlists from the Beacon to hoops

Kid c

Date: Sat, June 14, 2008, 22:37:08 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret , texting setlists from the Beacon to hoops

Fm!
Roger is tearing this solo UP!

P log.

Date: Sat, June 14, 2008, 22:48:24 ET
Posted by: The answer,

is simple: Walt does Wu...in fact it would work nicely.

Date: Sat, June 14, 2008, 22:27:25 ET
Posted by: Craig B,

Just got back from Pala (8/5) and checked out t he site and there are no bad seats

Date: Sat, June 14, 2008, 22:24:42 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret , texting setlists from the Beacon to hoops

Peg!

Date: Sat, June 14, 2008, 22:19:27 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret , texting setlists from the Beacon to hoops

Parkers band
Black friday. the crowd is goin nuts
Josie
Supremes music

Date: Sat, June 14, 2008, 21:59:45 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret , texting setlists from the Beacon to hoops

Green earrings hell yeah!
Walt and herington r trading licks and i'm in love

Date: Sat, June 14, 2008, 21:53:47 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret , texting setlists from the Beacon to hoops

Walter doing gaucho. i'm in love and about 2 cry again

Date: Sat, June 14, 2008, 21:48:17 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret , texting setlists from the Beacon to hoops

New frontier. i almost cried again

Date: Sat, June 14, 2008, 21:41:55 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret , texting setlists from the Beacon to hoops

Hey 19. Yea that's my shit
Godwhacker
Babylon sister. shake it!

Date: Sat, June 14, 2008, 21:35:05 ET
Posted by: bikemann17, NJ

Thanks to The Dean for the info!

Date: Sat, June 14, 2008, 21:21:07 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret , texting setlists from the Beacon to hoops

I got the news
Showbiz kids
2vN

Date: Sat, June 14, 2008, 20:52:25 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret , texting setlists from the Beacon to hoops

Overture: Everyone's Gone To the Movies/Fez/Royal Scam
Royal Scam with D + W on stage
Ev u did

Date: Sat, June 14, 2008, 19:44:13 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar

bikeman,

Usually Hoops only allows ticket exchange info here if it is wihtin 72 hours of the show. Sometimes he make exceptions.

Either way, make sure you send the info to him at: digestATdandomDOTcom

That way it will likely get to more potential concert goers.

Date: Sat, June 14, 2008, 19:20:51 ET
Posted by: bikemann17, NJ

Hi All. I hope this is ok to do here. I am going to the Wednesday the 18th show at the Beacon. I have two tickets that I would like to sell. One ticket is for Wednesday. It is a little to the side in the FIRST row of the Lodge.I will be the other ticket of this pair. The other ticket is for the Friday show. It is 5th row right center Orchestra. I am letting these tickets go at a loss.The Lodge seat I would take 80 dollars. The fifth row friday seat I would like 100 dollars. If anyone is TRULY interested in either ticket please E-mail me at Bikemann17@aol.com and let me know which you are interested in.I will gladly meet up with you outside the theater Wednesday. I have left the tickets at work so right now I dont remember the seat numbers. I will bring them home Monday night so I can let anyone know the seats. Whoever lets me know first will get first crack at them. Thanks, Larry P.S. please remember,if you want either ticket,I can meet you only on Wednesday at the show. P.P.S. Both seats were 174 dollars each with service charges

Date: Sat, June 14, 2008, 19:00:47 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar

I have to say this Wu stuff has become, once again, beyond tedious. Donald explained how he felt (didn't have to, but graciously obliged the interviewer) and that should be respected.

Steely Dan is Steely Dan because the artists use THEIR expert taste, talent and judgment to compose, arrange and play the songs. If you guys are looking for a "give the people what they want" band, then I fear you choose the wrong band to follow.

"Just friggin make it a bit louder and slap on a jubilee style ending with the horns. Jesus, I'm 2 years old and can figure that out." would be one of the most ignorant post ever, on the Blue, if it wasn't also very funny. But, the truth is, that would be good enough for YOU, and probably most Dan fans. But, the bottom line is, it isn't good enough for Donald. Also, don't you love how someone, in the middle of a whine, stoops to call another a "bellyacher"? Donald wasn't complaining, at all. He was simply responding to a complaint from the interviewer.

I would love to hear Wu live, and hope to, some day, when Fagen is damn good and ready to play and sing (hopefully) it. Until then, I will revel in the unbelievable performances of the tremendous selection of songs they choose to play live.

Date: Sat, June 14, 2008, 18:28:32 ET
Posted by: CJB, YVR, CA

re: "Give the people what they want."

When I go to hear a group of master musicians play, I want to hear what *they* want to play on a particular night. Genuine artists don't take orders from the crowd. Record labels sometimes do, though, which explains the ubitquity of those greatest-hits packages we've been seeing in the last year or two.

I'd much rather hear a cover of "Love is Like an Itching in my Heart" than "Dr. Wu," if only because the guys are visibly excited about playing one and not the other.

Date: Sat, June 14, 2008, 18:03:27 ET
Posted by: CrimsonTide, Motown

I would love to hear WU as well. I hope all WU lovers will keep up the protest! Hey, we are buying the tickets! Give the people what they want and play WU.

Date: Sat, June 14, 2008, 17:37:49 ET
Posted by: Jive Miguel, Bogata

A few more observations:

My first live SD show was Irvine CA in September, 1994. Donald hid himself right side, toward the back, I would think compensation for his notorious stage fright. With each passing tour, he has become more and more comfortable as a front man and band leader, and portrays a cool, confident swagger, yet always under-stated, always sharing the stage and the accolades with his masterful cast, unselfishly. Yet, his stage command and persona are unmistakable. Mike noticed his very distinctive tribute to Ray Charles - the dark glasses, bobbing head, shoulder movements. His keyboard playing was more prominent last night as well.

I've heard some critique of Carlock at times lacking the finesse and subtlety to match such a jazz-infused orchestra. I disagree, in that with all the complex time changes and chord structures, Carlock's muscle and at times, bombast reminds us loyal Dan Fans that Steely Dan, among their many gifts, is a true Rock n Roll band that takes a back seat to none. Carlock's muscular counterpoint hightens the energy and enhances the experience. He's just perfect.

The Supreme's song was a stroke of genius. Mizelle and Agee are Motown personified.

Walter is the consumate team player. I used to think that his guitar playing was nice, but sort of aimless, limited noodling at times. He's tightened his technique, and like all the players, has become quite masterful. The Herington/Becker combo is, again, perfect.

Just can't come up with anything negative whatsoever. Sheer magic, top to bottom, start to finish.

Date: Sat, June 14, 2008, 17:19:47 ET
Posted by: Joey,

" He's also a bellyacher and won't play Dr. Wu cause he never finished the darn song or that Katy Lied album properly in the first place. Just friggin make it a bit louder and slap on a jubilee style ending with the horns. Jesus, I'm 2 years old and can figure that out. "

Christ , that is postin' on loan from God right there !!!!!

J.

Date: Sat, June 14, 2008, 16:44:10 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar

Margret/Guy/Jive

Thanks so much. Wish I couldda been there. Hopefully, the fans will show the amazing Mr Charlap and his band some respect, tonight.

Date: Sat, June 14, 2008, 16:07:49 ET
Posted by: Jive Miguel, Bogata

Guy nailed it. 6/13/08 at the Beacon.
This was our 5th SD show, and this was the very best, by leaps and bounds.
This band has honed their craft to near perfection. Actually, TRUE perfection. Each musician in their prime.

As I mentioned Thursday, my cousin copped us comp tix. Our seats were Orchestra C 22/24, 7 rows deep, right side. Cindy and Jeff Young were blocked out, but only visually. Donald was right there in all his "Steely" glory, our Master of Ceremonies.

My cousin, Mike Green, (or Mike Greenblatt), will be writing a brief review for NJ's Aquarian Magazine, still publishing after all there years.

Mike has the box set, and it is always in his rotation as "essential" listening. He's a music lover, but not easily impressed. We drove in from Easton, PA, so we missed Charlap and had a leisurely dinner at Ruby Kee's. He wanted to arrive fashinably late, at say, 9:15, because surely bands never start on time. I over-ruled him, and said we'll be there 2 minutes before 9. Sure enough, at 9 sharp, the lights went down, and the party began with Orchestral Everyone's Gone to the Movies, The Fez, blending into Royal Scam, as Walter and Donald stode onto the stage amid wild, appreciative cheers. This crowd was completely rapt.

A girlfriend of mine, who appreciates SD, told me a few years back that she thought Donald's voice was fading and thinning, and that he would ultimately cede the vocal duties to a new singer. No way, no how! As Fagan's pipes go, so goes the Dan.

Every song, every arrangement was stunning, and Mike was simply blown away. As wonderful as SD studio music is, nothing can really prepare a first time concert-goer for the spectacle that is SD live. Show Biz was absolutely epic.

I could go on for several more paragraphs, in detail; however, I am moving, and the PC will be bubble wrapped and packed up shortly.

What distinguished last night's show from every previous show going back to 1994 was Donald's voice. Solid, clear, authoritative, with range I have not heard from him since Nightfly, over 20 years ago. Has anyone else noticed this? Could be voice coaching. Could be the fact that it's early in the tour. Could be that he's healthier. Nonetheless, there is a clear, distinct, powerful improvement in Donald's voice this year.

Astounding show. Absolutely astounding.

Date: Sat, June 14, 2008, 15:02:08 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu - What a spectacular day

Wally giving away C$!!!
Donald never did that.
That is why I LOVE Walter!
Thanks for reporting in Guy.
Sorry to hear about the Charlap
lack of respect.
But then again that just enforces
why they should drop the opener
and go back to two sets.
But I doubt that is ever going to
happen again.

Date: Sat, June 14, 2008, 14:50:57 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Thanks for the report Gal Marg!
So far no surprises in NYC yet.
So glad to hear that the shouts
for C$ have started. I really
hope we can eventually wear Wally
down.
Donald has put that final nail in
the coffin as far a Fagen voiced
version of Wu goes.
Now that news makes the soundcheck
at Soboba even that much more
historic. I am so glad that I got
to watch and see it! I thought it
sounded great by the way.
Have a great second Beacon show all!
Let's hope for some surprises in
NYC this year.

Date: Sat, June 14, 2008, 14:39:51 ET
Posted by: Guy, Brooklyn

Just a quick report on the Beacon last night June 13. It was the hottest Beacon Steely Dan crowd I've seen. I saw them there in years past and although enthusiastic the crowds were rarely as animated as they were last night. The band is so slammin it's sick - I swear at this point they could do anything. I LOVE Carolyn but Tawatha and Cindy are magic let's face it. The Supremes song for the band introductions is a stroke of genius , the whole crowd up and dancing, clapping, the band grinning like crazy cats, a party atmosphere. Maybe because for this crowd, the only thing to rival the feel-good feeling of SD is the feel good feeling of Motown?

The setlist has more warmth and emotion in it now, for me anyway. Becker on Gaucho was perversely perfect, I never would have predicted this but somehow it's his kind of song after all. Happy that Donald spent very little time on the melodica thing (sorry DF). He was in great voice. The lighting set is dramatic and cool. Sound was better this year than last (or maybe it was where I was sitting -- middle of orchestra).

COOLEST THING OF THE NIGHT in my opinion was when they came back for encores, Becker said something like "on a personal note, you may know I'm selling a solo CD in the lobby. Somebody told me they're selling it for $20 dollars which is frankly a rip off, right?. So I told the management to GIVE AWAY all of the CDs they have back there tonight, first come, first serve.....power to the people!". And I'll be damned if they weren't giving away Circus Money after the show, just handing them out to whoever wanted one. How cool is that?

I've got to see this show again so I'm going next week too, to at least 1 more show. Wow. This is the sort of show when New York feels like a block party with neighbors.

Oh yeah, almost forgot -- The Charlap trio was just phenomenal, but half the crowd was talking like they were in TGI Friday's. It was embarrassing. Charlap is a star in this town and in the jazz world and it was sad to see them treated like some bar act instead of very special guests who probably only played this gig as a favor to their colleagues Donald and Walter. I hope they get more respect tonight.

Guy

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 22:25:01 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret , texting setlists from the Beacon to hoops

Josie
Peg
Pretzel Logic
Kid C

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 22:24:14 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret , texting setlists from the Beacon to hoops

Black Friday
(Someone shouts out "Do 'Paging Audrey'")
3rd Whirled Man

....

To be Continued...mmmmmaybee.

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 22:15:48 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret , texting setlists from the Beacon to hoops

Overture with Everyone's Gone, Fez, Royal Scam
(No Carolyn Leonhart)
I Got The News
Everything You Did
2vN
Ay...19- WB talks and says "forget Boston, I want to talk about Queens"
Godwhacker-Donald on Melodica
Bab Sisters
New Frontier
(GM says she has tears of joy)
Gaucho with Walter on Vox
Glam Prof
Parkers Band
....

To be Continued...

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 21:45:43 ET
Posted by: George, in Paris

Tomorrow's Girl - the Houston presale is going on now, started yesterday. It's the Dallas presale that starts tomorrow. The gold card presale code is the 800 number on the back of your gold card without the 1 prefix.

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 19:33:28 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

Brutus, Hoops - thanks.

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 19:28:32 ET
Posted by: Denise, H

Goldface, thanks for the link.

LWO: getting ready for the CirCus next weekend!

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 19:15:53 ET
Posted by: Little Wild One, working on the party favors

Well, kids, that's why you go to the circus while you can....even if you can only buy popcorn!

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 17:57:26 ET
Posted by: Tomorrow's Girl, From the reefs of Kizmar

I hardly ever post, but I just got a pre sale notice from Am EX that Steely Dan is in Houston on 8/20 at the Verizon Theater!!!!!! Tickets on sale tomorrow. I'll be 1st in line.

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 16:38:41 ET
Posted by: Rajah, Piazza dell Popolo

Indeed, yes, Key-ya, quite right.

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 15:50:54 ET
Posted by: Raji--- Jim McKay knew that all along... but, in Roma, its pronounced as the "Key-Ah" Pet, no?

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 15:42:26 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

Oy vey, it's Chia, it's the Chia Pet, Hoops, a decorative planter, not, "Chiba," and I tried that to regrow my hair a few years back and got the nastiest green rash...

Course, I never tried smoking it...hmmm...I'll be right back...

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 15:23:10 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Some of these posts...ouch!

"Chiba-Chiba"?

If you are in the USA you have no doubt seen commercials for the Chiba-Chiba Pet.

It's a clay sculpture with grooves on it. It's the same material they make clay flower pots out of. The original sculpture was shaped like a newly shorn sheep. Other figures since include some funny guy and more recently there's one of Homer Simpson.

The sculpture comes with a packet of seeds in a sort of growing medium--like mulch or peat but man-made. You soak the sculpture in water over night. The next morning you apply the moistened seeds and growing medium to the sculpture. You leave the sculpture in a tray of water. Several days later, the seeds sprout and it looks like the sheep or Homer Simpson or whatever has grown hair.

But here's what's most magical of all. Eventually the sprouts grow to about 6 feet tall. You harvest the leaves and dry them out, separating out the seeds and stems. You roll the leaves like tobacco in cigarette paper. Or put them in a pipe. You smoke it. Chiba-chiba!

Jim

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 15:01:54 ET
Posted by: Steve M, Scotland

Final NewDanFan recommendations:

The High Llamas 'Stepping in Stepping Out' from Gideon Gaye (real CBAT/CTE vibe to that one)

and of course China Crisis 'Flaunt the Imperfection' produced by Walter and I've never tired of listening to it in 20 years.

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 14:58:46 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

Yeah, spill it, Clyde. More from the tiresome, "in the know crowd." They make us walk a mile for a Camel but unlike Mr. Chesterfield, they never satisfy.

Fheh!

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 14:45:36 ET
Posted by: Eye No,

Fill us in, big boy

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 14:38:54 ET
Posted by: no one, knows

Your all hearsay and innuendo

if you all knew the real goings on...

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 14:32:58 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

To borrow a quote from the late George Burns, I'm lucky to get my cigar into the cigar holder at this point.

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 14:31:30 ET
Posted by: Cheech &, Chong

Chiba Chiba = pot, cannabis, weed, marijuana, herb, ganja, etc

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 14:24:26 ET
Posted by: hz, there you go again

rajo - there you go again with the virgins.

would you rather spend the night with maryanne or ginger?

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 14:21:29 ET
Posted by: The Lindbergh Baby,

Joey's humor is primo, a lyrical genius of the reductio ad absurdium and if you can't get it you need your diaper changed posthaste.

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 14:16:31 ET
Posted by: Rajah, Chiba Chiba

, It's either a city in eastern Japan or a brand of Cuban cigars rolled on the thighs of native virgins is all I can summon up at this moment.

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 14:09:12 ET
Posted by: billfrompgh,

NewDanFan - have fun collecting. Here's another one I don't recall if anyone mentioned: The Bliss Band's Dinner with Raoul. Might not be available on CD in the US, but I have the vinyl and might need to digitize it soon so I can play it again. This was a 1978 release by a British band produced by Skunk Baxter and featuring Michael McDonald among other SD sidemen, and it is a remarkable facsimile of the SD sound, if not quite matching the quality of the songwriting (but who does?)

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 14:08:52 ET
Posted by: zeusy, around

Hey new fan - i never saw any responses to the dan-like groups. would like to see that myself.

i'd go with tribeca - metropolis. not a perfect album (guess walter would like it) but they do steely/simon/stingish/joe jackson at a high level.

i am very happy that someone mentioned them here one time - probably the loony leader of the band. ;-)

H\z

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 14:02:20 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

NDF - That's the classiest post we've had on here in a while. Most folks around here are very decent and genuinely helpful so don't ever be put off by all the other detritus you might see.

Unless it's from me, of course.

BTW, Pete Fogel is a helluva nice man, generous and fun to hang out with. I'd do a 3 to 5 stretch in Fed stir at Sing-Sing anytime with a guy like that if we could get the San Marzano tomatoes and Steely boots smuggled in.

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 13:57:38 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, dusting empty coke cans for fingerprints

Suggestion: Place 11ToW and C$ in your favorite digital music player and hit random. Even with the 'sound' difference from one to the other, they blend surprisingly well.

KC

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 13:51:09 ET
Posted by: Gurber, baby

The only thing that really sucks around here when Steely Dan tours is that Joey comes out of the wood work with his baby talk. Go away Joey. You're not funny.

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 13:26:38 ET
Posted by: NewDanFan, Madison, WI

Thanks so very much to all who responded to my question about finding other bands and musicians that might inspire a new Steely Dan fan like myself. Your replies were incredibly generous and thoughtful. My wallet aches already, but I'm out to buy every one of your recommendations. I won't soon forget the warm welcome here, and consider part of this wonderful new musical adventure I'm on. So thanks to everyone. Next stop: The Beacon!

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 13:18:53 ET
Posted by: Dash LaRue,

Well that Fagen interview sure was something.
It feels like that old SNL scene with William Shatner at the Star
Trek convention.

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 12:52:38 ET
Posted by: Gina/Mizar5, Sun Mountain

http://www.writingaffairs.com/mizar5net/wp-content/uploads/2008/06/sticker.jpg

if you feel like promoting Walter Becker's new album or like the idea riding your car with a sticker that helps you get identified by other Beckerians, you could do what i did. was in the process of ordering some calling cards for work when this idea kind of took me hostage. it was 75% off, so even though they're not screaming that everything should go, i sure went :-)

and that is why i am gonna think of some Mizar5 contest, so perhaps some other folks will drive their car with one of these C$ bumper stickers......! i got 10. well, minus 1 for my own car of course :-)

and you can always make or order them yourselves somewhere :-)

(and if i can't think of a contest, i'll just send them to some of my dearest cyber steely pals eh?)

and yes, those reviews and interviews, it all seems very balanced and such.

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 12:29:10 ET
Posted by: Prick like you, g

Is that why Pete gets tickets and backstage passes?

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 12:29:04 ET
Posted by: Walt's Doppelgänger, super pete fan

Yeah and you'd better remain ANON, or your gonna have to deal with me.

you have no clue what form mr. fogel's fanship takes and you have no clue about his relationship with donald and walter.

if you did, you'd think that the way that they are, in someways, more open to the fans in recent years, is because of their relation with pete, and the thoroughly professional way he carries himself as our representative to them.

i petition mr hoops to refuse posts by the anon twit.

i imagine a steely reunion was probably inevitable, as they would be seeking to pad their accounts. but mr fogel showed them it was possible, that the fan base was still there.

you can thank him, in part, that we are even here today discussing SD cds and tours.

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 12:24:45 ET
Posted by: The Lindbergh Baby, Block Island

Creepy? None of that is creepy. You know what's really creepy? Coming back from the dead after 75 years to catch...the Steely Dan Show! Wheeewww! I'm so stoked I think I just wet myself. I have to be quick cause the hovercraft just pulled up...

Walter's interview was aces, yes, best ever, he's very forthcoming and isn't speaking in riddles like the Sphinx or Donald Fagen. Love his self-deprecation as to his voice, nothing is more endearing than a person who is honest with himself and others. Bravo, Walt.

Now we turn to that ultimate freak, Donald Fagen. HE lives in a "phantasmagorical," world? Try being dead for 75 years and coming into Manhattan is all I have to say. What is he doing there then? Why put up with the incongruous juxtapositions inherent in the surreal imagery of Times Square? Move to Martha's Vinyard why dontcha?

He's also a bellyacher and won't play Dr. Wu cause he never finished the darn song or that Katy Lied album properly in the first place. Just friggin make it a bit louder and slap on a jubilee style ending with the horns. Jesus, I'm 2 years old and can figure that out.

OK,

Hoops, if 40% of Danfans are Republicans, I'm tossing myself off the Chrysler Building right after the show.

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 12:08:43 ET
Posted by: Lutz, SF

Here we go with Dr. Wu again.
That might be one of the reasons why DF and WB don't go to the fan sites.
Some fans act obsessed and try to get into their heads.
The man said it, no Dr. Wu.
Sounds final to me.

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 11:52:46 ET
Posted by: anon plus, downtown canon

Donalds
sees us thru the glaze of Pete Fogel

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 11:35:09 ET
Posted by: AnonTwit, Monaco

"and then my mention that Bob said there were no dates"
But Bob Is not your Uncle Anymore.

Taking in the week at the Beacon, but looking forward to the after party on the 21st and seeing all the locals. Wonder if anyone will recognize me after the surgery from the fire.

Circus Money (C$) kicks major ass - especially when cranked on a nice system at "7" - you really hear it all - like in the studio. Enjoy!

Rajah won't be at the shows - Feds are pissed, Interpol is next.

@

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 11:32:52 ET
Posted by: Matt, Chattanooga, TN

I'd rather hang out with people who have good taste in music than people that have good taste in politicians (if such a thing is even possible). A danfest is better than a molly hatchet fest (again, if such a thing is possible), regardless of the political affiliation of the assembled throngs.

I can agree to disagree with Hey Mike (or any other right leaning poster) on issues political, so long as we agree to agree on issues musical, at least insofar as Steely Dan goes.

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 11:32:11 ET
Posted by: Joey,

" That tune feels dated to me and it’s difficult for me to sing if I feel, you know, that it’s not… There’s something about the curve of the song that doesn’t work dramatically on stage for me. "

So why can't Walter sing the song ?!

Why ?! ... WHY ?!

I remain ...... FOREVER ...... your Joey !

J. Fly !

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 10:52:23 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

I'd say easily 40% of the Danfan base is Republican.

Hey Mike is our resident Republican here. If I leave your posts up about the Republicans, he gets to get you back.

Jim

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 10:49:04 ET
Posted by: Whomever, Whatever

"slipped into her sideways." Of course! It's a lyric from one of Walter's songs. But there have been other creepy things posted, not the least of which is Joey typing with his nipples and penis.

Regarding Donald's response as to why he won't play Dr. Wu, it's an answer but not an answer. I don't think that's really what its about but its succinct and hopefully will end discussion from his point. I bet the song's lyrics givs him the creeps.

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 10:36:57 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Nicholas, you're right, it is almost always about the music here.

The creepiest thing I ever read was on the Yellow book back in 00, where some woman posted that she had a dream that walter "slipped into her sideways." Ugh.

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 10:15:38 ET
Posted by: No mas,

Ok people- It's official. Now stop yelling out for Dr. Wu!

Q -My older brother is one of the many fans always hoping to hear Dr. Wu live. Why has that become such a rarity?

DF -We tried it out in sound check a couple times last year and it sounded okay. It’s mainly that I don’t like the way it feels on stage. I think a lot of those songs have aged really well and aren’t dated at all. And if the words still seem relevant in some way or can be recast to make some kind of sense, we rearrange it – if the music seems dated. That tune feels dated to me and it’s difficult for me to sing if I feel, you know, that it’s not… There’s something about the curve of the song that doesn’t work dramatically on stage for me.

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 10:12:50 ET
Posted by: Nicholas Urfe, Phraxos

Hey, I'm as creepy as the next guy, but I don't see a lot of discussion on the blue about anybody's personal life. I thought it was about the music.

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 10:01:26 ET
Posted by: Ray, Gay

Anyone who supports those who began the murder (bush/cheney) or voted to sustain it (obama) is an accomplice to murder - mass murder.

i cannot fathom how any members of the NFP would be steely fans too. maybe it isn't to late to save their souls.

Ray Gay sux.

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 09:56:54 ET
Posted by: angel,

What totally great reviews are coming out right now. Real questions, real answers. I can't believe it!

Thanks everyone for posting them.

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 09:49:05 ET
Posted by: walt's Doppelgänger, banner 17

i disagree with walter - perfect is very good.

don't let the lazy bastard push you around donald!

AND i agree with donald. people who spend a lot of time on websites and message boards to talk about the lives of popular personalities - well, that's just creepy.

DOP

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 09:39:34 ET
Posted by: Bon Jovi, Wanted Dead or Alive

Chris, Well after all, Rajah is a bit "creepy"

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 09:32:27 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

He's probably talking about Rajah's post about waiting outside the venue after a show watching Fagen come outside with a towel over his head. That was a little creepy, I guess.

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 09:26:21 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

I was surprised to see more than one Bush/Cheney bumper sticker in the Jones Beach parking lot when you played there with Michael McDonald. I was surprised because I had a different impression of Steely Dan’s fan base. Do you have any sense of who comes to see you guys?

"But I don’t like to visit the fan sites because there’s something creepy about the whole thing to me. I remember when I was a kid I was a big jazz fan and later on there were a few popular singers and groups I liked but I was always interested in the music; I never made a fetish out of their personal lives. I never really got that, you know? I appreciate whatever they do to keep the interest in the band and all that sort of thing but it’s really not part of my world."

Oh.

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 08:50:57 ET
Posted by: goldface, nyc

Fagen interview on Gothamist:

http://gothamist.com/2008/06/13/donald_fagen_steely_dan.php

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 08:45:34 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

I've been beating myself up about not capturing Gaucho on, at least, cell phone video. I'm hoping someone was rolling and just hasn't posted it.

My two cents worth on Walt's Gaucho...although the phrasing is somewhat different, I'm hearing a lot of Junkie Girl in Tuesday night's Gaucho (for example, the pauses after each pair of vocal lines are delivered)...DF punches the downbeat-emphasized lyrics more than Walt did...but Walt has that gravel-like quality in his voice that really worked well on it (surprisingly so). There is a lot more going on rhythmically in Gaucho (with Procaro all over the punches) and the vocals have more of a march feel but the lyrics from Junkie Girl could almost (IMHO) be superimposed over the musical framework of Gaucho. I'll be honest, though, the drum machine on 11 TOW really turns me off so I have a difficult time with it and don't know the music on it like the other SD & solo offerings.

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 00:25:02 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Denise-
WOW! That as the best Walter
Becker interview ever.
As for "Gaucho" live, sung by
Wally, I think the end of the
interview had some very foretelling
thoughts -

"Do you listen to your own stuff......?
No, never, unless we’re rehearsing for the tour and I’m trying to remember how a song goes."

"Okay, one more thing, and this is just more of a fan question: Can you give any insight into what the [Steely Dan] song “Gaucho” is about?

The idea of that song was sort of the relations of commerce superimposed on the relations of the human heart, let’s put it that way. With some interesting fashion touches and local color. That’s basically what you’ve got there."

Looking forward to the reports from
the first NYC show tomorrow night!

Date: Fri, June 13, 2008, 00:01:44 ET
Posted by: oleander, afterglow

Re: C$ t-shirt: no, there are no dates on the back. It is one gorgeous shirt.

Matt-- *high five* no, high ten on your description of "Gaucho." There was no time to prepare oneself; I was still cheering the opening chords when Mr. Becker strode nonchalantly to the mic and laid into it as if he'd always sung it. Cold-cocked by magic! It didn't seem weird, it seemed, as I said, of course!! Very different from Mr. F, but just that -- different. It felt as though he owned the lyrics.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 23:43:18 ET
Posted by: HouDanFan, Houston

Have had a few listens of C$. Chris Potter solos are excellent. Herrington as well. Upside Looking Down is my fav so far. Carlock gives it a country feel. Its Walter's other version of What a Shame About Me. Instead of being about a girl, its about life.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 23:09:07 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Jive,

Scroll down and you will read great reviews from both Florida shows.

Enjoy the show at the Beacon.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 22:47:17 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

If I may get the "last shake at
the urinal" on the shirt debate -
That is a bit of stretch Gene.
I just find it sad that they
could pony up for C$ swag but
Donald gets hand-me-downs?!
I agree with hoops, Where is
the "Trilogy" swag? The set
appears on all the print ads
promo footage. Grab your
Trilogy set and look at the
spine of the box. That silhouette
of Donald IS what you go with!
Just look at the lettering and color
scheme, it would make for some killer
"Trilogy" swag.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 22:43:26 ET
Posted by: Jive Miguel, Bogata

So the call came this afternoon at 4:30.
My cousin, a publicist with 30+ years in the music industry, was able to cop 2 primo tix, gratis, from "someone involved with the tour", for the 6/13 show at the Beacon. I ask no questions and graciously accept.

Here comes show #5. '94 Irvine, 2K Irvine, 2003 Borgata AC/NJ, 2003 Nissan VA, 2006 Staples Camden, and now, 2008 Beacon in the Apple.

Anyone been to the FL or GA shows this year? The 1 minute YouTube clips aren't very high quality, but is it my imagination, or has DF's range and command improved? Has he turned back the clock? Voice coach?

Love the band, though I miss Cornie, Cynthia Calhoun and Ted Baker.

Review Saturday!

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 21:28:14 ET
Posted by: Chan, Boston

Great interview Denise. Thanks for sharing it. See ya in NYC.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 20:56:40 ET
Posted by: DimSkip, Eternal Path

Terrific interview! Thanks for posting it, Denise.

Sounds as if the interviewer has listened to C$ as much as many of us have. Some great questions, some great answers.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 20:55:26 ET
Posted by: H,

Great find Denise. Awesome interview.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 20:35:33 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Wow, Denise. Thanks

There is a lot there. I will have to reread it.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 20:15:37 ET
Posted by: Denise, Hinktown

Interesting interview with WB
http://www.timeout.com/newyork/articles/music/30260/walter-becker

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 19:43:33 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

All in the interest of accuracy, Dash. God is in the details!

Maybe Donald is going back on a repeat of the SD tour, with his band in the fall. Haha! v :#)

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 19:38:43 ET
Posted by: Dash LaRue,

Deano-
Have another one buddy. Who cares if it's "Dates" or "Cities" on the back of the shirt?
Plain & simple, The Donald Fagen Band IS NOT playing in any of those
cities OR dates this summer.
THAT IS WHAT MAKES THIS PETICULAR SWAG - "CREEPY".

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 19:29:52 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

I thought Bob's assertion that there were cities, but no dates,
...and then my mention that Bob said there were no dates...
...and then Bob's restatement that there are NO DATES on the back of the Donald Fagen Band shirts, might have gotten through.

But, alas, the discussion about the "dates" being on the back of the Fagen shirt continues.

:#)

Bartender...We need shots!

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 19:00:43 ET
Posted by: Loose Cannon, Ice Station Zebra

Well, at least he got the reggae album out of his system. I just don't have the same appreciation for reggae that I did before I cleaned up 15 years ago. The lyrics are as cryptic and clever as ever. But with Donald and Walter's songs, I have to get lost in the twists and changes of the music before I even hear the lyrics. I like 'Door Number Two' and the the 'Stephen J. Cannell' style breaks in 'Audrey'are alone almost worth the price of the CD for me. But the heavy reliance on bland reggae left me cold for the most part.

Walter's singing is fine by me. He realizes his vocal limitations and stays within them. There's nothing like hearing the lyrics from the mouth of the author.

It was goooood, but its not quite right....

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 17:59:16 ET
Posted by: Loose Cannon, Ice Station Zebra

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 17:48:14 ET
Posted by: Casual fan, orlando

Chris in nh, I would not be the least bit surprised to see members of SD in attendance at a Stevie Wonder show. One could argue all day and night about similarities and dissimilarities, but I have got to think that both respect the others' musicianship enough to want to catch a show when convenient.

Now, in the seats? Eh, I doubt it. I'd peg them for just off stage, if they go.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 16:55:38 ET
Posted by: BillfromPgh,

Well well well, a rabbit out of a hat last night. Hope there will be more in NYC.

When I heard that Walter had sung Hatian Divorce a couple tours ago I could easily hear it in my mind. Same with Everything You Did, as was suggested below. But as much as I am sure it was great, I have a little harder time hearing his voice on Gaucho. I'm glad the song has finally appeared live and that Walter got a vocal feature.

So, did the new intro omit the Jarrett-esque passage from the original? The experience of trying to place a vaguely familar intro right after a solo album had been released is just like my reaction to Reelin' 1993 - I thought it must have been a Kama track I didn't remember right until the vocal came in, then POW! The place went nuts. Donald had sworn off doing anything from the first album in an interview around that time as I recall, so it really came out of left field.

Going back a day or so, for the newbie fan looking for SD-influenced music, track down "$1.99 Romances" by God Street Wine, a NYC jamband of sorts. Two singers, both with a bit of DF's timbre, two hot guitarists, complex but funky tunes and lyrics with a wry twist. There's a track very similar to Your Gold Teeth II and another one that is very close to Black Cow, neither actually crossing the line into plagiarism but the influence is clear.

Amazon says: "After three self-released albums, God Street Wine's Geffen debut, $1.99 Romances, separates the group from the jam-band pack by using Steely Dan as its main model rather than the usual choices of the Grateful Dead or the Allman Brothers."

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 16:37:11 ET
Posted by: Super Nova,

Re: Donald Fagen Band 2008 T- Shirts:

Who cares!

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 16:33:55 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Just remembered I'll be seeing Stevie Wonder the day before Steely Dan. They have the night off ... hmm, I wonder if anyone in the band will be in the audience?

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 16:30:27 ET
Posted by: Matt, Chattanooga, TN

I don't remember if the C$ had dates or not. I kinda hope not. That would be the one flaw in my argument, though if Walter does plan on doing any shows solo, I could see it being as smart to leave them blank entirely as it is to print dates on the Fagen shirts for SD dates, but then again, I don't know if that same reasoning can be used to explain both why one shirt has dates and the other might not.

I ended up with one of the old guys shirts from 96 that for whatever reason hadn't gotten dates on it, or the red Steely Dan printed on the front, and I got more questions about that one than any shirt I've ever owned.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 16:28:48 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Could very well be overstocked fronts from 2006 as Matt says.

No I don't think it was a pro-active decision to say this is DF's band.

Perhaps this is wrong but I thought I read it said 2008 on the front or back.

Regardless, is that the DFB tour schedule on the back? No.

R I'd rather have a Nightfly Trilogy shirt.

Jim

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 16:19:37 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

Matt - that's got to be the answer and I suspect nostalgia about "being at this concert" (put finger on city on shirt) actually does play to increased sales. It seems to me that DF is gambling that the stock of shirts will sell out so as not to end up with an inventory of them that are hopelessly unrelated to ANY tour of the DF Band, past or future. My guess is, unfortunately, that won't be the case...from my quick look at what was selling at the 2 Merch booths I was close to, there are going to be a lot of unsold Morph shirts after this tour ends and the difficulty then will be what to do with them...how about a trilogy T-shirt package?

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 16:08:33 ET
Posted by: Dash LaRue,

Matt-
Could be. Do the C$ shirts have tour cities on the back?

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 16:01:29 ET
Posted by: Matt, Chattanooga, TN

Well, I don't have research to back it up, but I'm assuming that people are more willing to buy a shirt that has the dates of the current tour on than those without, or else none of the shirts would have dates so as to avoid accruing cost without adding value. I mean, if people are more likely to buy a shirt with the aja album cover on the front and nothing on the back than they are a shirt with the aja album cover on the front and a list of cities on the 08 tour on the back, then why would bands constantly print tour dates? I mean, wouldn't they just print a bunch of Aja front shirts and sell them at every show, every tour?

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 15:54:32 ET
Posted by: Dash LaRue,

Matt-
Still does not make sense. Why not just sell the left over Fagen Band shirts along with the C$ shirt? By printing 2008 tour dates on the back, which now adds a "new cost" to old merchandise????
Plain and simple, it's a scummy move.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 15:32:24 ET
Posted by: What's in a name?,

Oh yeah, I forgot.

Ha-ha, meet Joey.

Joey, meet Ha-ha.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 15:24:58 ET
Posted by: What's in a name?,

The name Ha-ha conjures up images of a 30-something guy who gets hard from having his girlfriend change his diapers.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 15:23:43 ET
Posted by: Matt, Chattanooga, TN

I think the simple truth about the Donald Fagen Band shirts is that merch didn't sell at DFB shows in 06 like they expected, and they have shirts that were screen printed front only. So they match the font, throw dates on the back, and call it a day.

Don't believe me?

http://donaldfagen.shop.musictoday.com/Product.aspx?cp=1134_6246&pc=6DCT04

Donald isn't trying to outshine Walter or anything like that, this is just a smart business move. I would image that Donald and Walter split all merch revenues, regardless of which piece of apparel happens to sell.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 15:22:53 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

The Dean is correct...no dates but instead cities/venues...I'm looking at the photo I took again in comparison to the DF Band shirt on the Merch page in sd.com...the back of the shirt has the cities and you can make out (with the power of suggestion) left to right, top to bottom Ft. Lauderdale, Clearwater, Atlanta, New York, Boston and so on...at the bottom of the cities list is "Tour 2008" in the same turquoise color as "Donald Fagen Band" at the top.

I guess a technicality could be invoked since the DF Band is a subset of SD.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 15:21:03 ET
Posted by: The Truth,

Or in the interest of drawing attention to oneself.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 15:01:20 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

In the interest of accuracy, I think Bob said the cities of this tour are on the Donald Fagen Band shirts, NOT THE DATES.

Probably not a big difference...but, again, in the interest of accuracy...

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 15:00:08 ET
Posted by: FAT ALO,

Anybody tell me what chiba chiba is....what about you there ha ha?

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 14:54:36 ET
Posted by: Ha-ha, w

Rajah, I don't like the way you can be such a jerk to me for no reason after what I wrote and be so flip about it, but I guess that's just how you handle things.

Hoops has it. It's one thing to have the Trilogy. It's another to be selling leftover t-shirts from two years ago. But DFB '08 with the same dates? Weird. Strange. If anything, I'd expect that from Azoff, but he doesn't represent Don.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 14:48:39 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Like I said, I could understand having DFB'06 shirts or "Nightfly Trilogy" t-shirts to "even things up", but the DFB'08 shirts kinda scream "more my band than Walter's". On top that, the timing is such that Walter has just pretty much blown all of us Danfans away with C$.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 14:43:58 ET
Posted by: St John, Livingston

Haven't seen the t shirts yet myself, but maybe the Donald Fagen Band t shirt is a way to even things up because they are offering a Circus Money t shirt -- one shirt for each sof their solo jobs. That still wouldn't explain why the dates on the DF shirt are from this year, instead of the actual year they toured. Very strange.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 14:41:01 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Hope this fixes the spam problem for a bit longer.

Donald Fagen "Morph the Cat"--or better yet, "Nightfly Trilogy"--T-shirts with this year's SD dates on them would be fine.

Or even sell leftover DFB 2006 T-shirts.

But "Donald Fagen Band 2008" t-shirts with the SD dates?

Maybe there's an explanation.

I rarely wear T-shirts -- the "Steely Dan Tour2K" polo shirts were awesome. I wish I bought more. I can wear them to work under a sportcoat, etc. I wish they had polo shirts again. Not crazy about the key rings from 2006, 2007 and 2008, although I purchased 2006's for $5 at Chumash '07. The subway token and CBAT logo keychains from 2000 and 2003, respectively, were great.

The shirts themselves were of great quality in 2000. The past couple of years have been really thin. I wouldn't really care except I personally look like a slob in a thin t-shirt and given the prices...

"Circus Money" is all about Songwriting, songwriting, songwriting. The production is great too and the risks are well-taken and result in some great surprises. EMG was a great performance with a live sound but I remember the first time we listened off that MSN post that one May 2003 night, over and over again I found myself accurately predicting what was going to be the next lyric or bar. C$ is a real leap.

Gotta run.

Jim

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 14:37:04 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, Still@work

Dash - scummy indeed. Maybe they had a bunch of left overs from the '06 tour and decided to use them up. One would hate to think they're just doing it for a few extra bucks. Maybe he's doing secret small club gigs after the main shows ala the artist formerly known as some crazy symbol dude who was previously known as Prince and they aren't telling anyone about it. Maybe I just have malaria.

KC

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 14:24:30 ET
Posted by: Dash LaRue,

Kid-
Yes the Karma T-Shirts had the tour dates. Which was fine.
But to say "Donald Fagen Band"???????
That's pretty scummy.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 14:19:55 ET
Posted by: FREE, WETSIDE

NOW

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 14:10:31 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, @work

Bob - This is a stretch but maybe the reason for the same cities on the shirts is due to the inclusion of New Frontier in the set. I know that's a pretty weak arguement. I don't recall for sure from the 93 & 94 tours but I think they had Kama shirts there. Anyone with a clearer memory than me could weigh in on that.

KC

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 13:47:02 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

Matt - thanks...well put about Becker and I can understand your friends opinion regarding Carlock. I can remember my disappointment when it was Ricky Lawson in 2000 instead of Erskine, Chambers or the like. Ricky's great but doesn't have the pedigree of the other two let alone a Gadd or Purdie.

On Gaucho, DF was on Rhodes...don't know if JY was on electric piano or synth...of course, there were no synthesizer sweeps during the chorus.

Can anyone shed some light on the puzzling concert sites that are on the Donald Fagen Band T-shirts. I am looking at the photo I snapped of the back of it which says "Tour 2008" below the listed concert sites (recall the sites listed on the DF Band T-shirts are the Think Fast sites...not DF Band's). I don't usually look too closely at the T-shirts to see what's listed in terms of dates/cities/venues, etc. so my knowledge about this stuff is limited (I buy the shirts for others) but isn't that kind of strange?...particularly when SD is such a detail-oriented act that seems to carefully manage its historical accuracy. I seem to remember the Heavy Rollers shirts I picked up in Atlanta didn't have all the concert sites listed as they hadn't all been booked...it would seem if they would take that level of care, they would do so on the Fagen shirts. I know I'm rambling but I just find it odd that the artwork got approved lie that.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 13:19:49 ET
Posted by: Matt, chattanooga, TN

To make up for my earlier youtube related gaffe, I'll post these guys:

What A Shame About Me:

Both versions are the same thing, from the PBS specials, but where as this is the version we have all heard:

http://youtube.com/watch?v=HhIkjk1y4y4

For some reason, in this one you can't hear the girl's vocals, which leaves Donald singing the high part of the chorus alone.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sm3QoCoPwdM

Apologies if this was discovered and discussed long ago.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 13:19:48 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

We all have an appreciation, I think, that without Walter there is no Steely Dan.

ha-ha, of course we can talk as long as you don't start having tender feelings for me. We can be friends. I'll call you ha-ha and you can call me hee-haw ;)

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 13:19:09 ET
Posted by: Gaucho Question,

Does Donald or Jeff play the grand piano on Gaucho? Or is it just Rhodes and synthesizer?

Thanks for the show recounts. Can't see them this year unless they make it to Alaska.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 13:08:17 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

The Bluebook might be unavailable for posting during the next hour. Thanks for your patience.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 13:07:07 ET
Posted by: Ha-ha, w

So you don't like my name?

Seems pretty childish, churlish, and rude. Sorry we couldn't have a discussion.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 12:56:34 ET
Posted by: warrenk,

thanks for the clips, but those are from the Hollywood show. so there's still hope!

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 12:50:57 ET
Posted by: dannyATL, Atlanta

After seeing the show last night (great - walter sang gaucho), I realized it is called the Think Fast tour not only becuase they did not do a major announcement of dates (you had to think fast to find/get tickets) but because they pulled some unusual shit out of the bag and you had to Think Fast to name that tune. Disappointed there was no My Old School.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 11:53:46 ET
Posted by: Band (man) On The Run, Wings

Rajah- Now that you've finally answered Ha Ha's question how about answering mine?

Why aren't you going to any shows this year?

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 11:38:43 ET
Posted by: matt, chattanooga, TN

He's actually not a huge Carlock fan. He likes Carlock as much as the next guy, but really appeciates Purdie and Steve Gadd and those guys. He had nothing negative to say about him, really, he's just listening to the songs from an educated drummer's perspective (which I obviouslly can't) and all of that. It's hard to translate Steely type finesse drumming into a live setting in front of that many people, so I understand where he's coming from.

Gaucho was honestly the most quasi-religious Steely experience I've had since the moment I heard them play live for the first time. I am an unashamed Walter acolyte, carrying the giant candle of heavenly light before me everywhere I travel, so you can take what I have to say with whatever number of salt grains you deem acceptable, but Walter did a great job. That being said, if Donald had sang Gaucho and Walter had done Everything You Did, I would have been just as happy. It was more hearing the song at all.

One of the reasons I've been so vocal about my Walter-love lately is that I have been saying this stuff since 11TofW came out, and at times felt like I'm fighting a fairly deeply ingrained sense that Donald is Steely Dan and Walter is just his fortunate buddy that gets to partake every night. I get pissed off every time someone carelessly says something like "What do you think Donald meant when he wrote (insert lyrics)", as if Walter's name is on the credits to all of these masterful albums by chance or luck. Not bitching about anyone or even this group, as you are all educated, informed, and intelligent enough to have long ago discerned the truth about Walter Becker's status as one of, if not the, supreme beings of the universe.

All of that being said, I would be remiss if I didn't point out that Donald is, has, and will always be totally awesome. Where as most things that "go without saying" are oft-repeated, the fact that Donald is amazing on most every song, most every night is something I guess I fail to mention, not because it isn't true, but because Donald's voice has been a reliable part of my life; in albums until 2000, and in concert ever since, that I place him on a platform alone amongst musicians, and anything I say about anyone else doesn't really even bare comparison. Walter was fucking phenomenal (IMHO, of course) last night on Gaucho, and I'd love to hear him dig into C$...but Donald was phenomenal on everything he sang, and it's total magic.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 11:34:03 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., Calvin & Hobbes miming steely Dan

Actually yesterday's classic Calvin & Hobbes was also a "Zombie see and zombie do" riff. The two strips before that were setup. Here are all four...

http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn139/dimskip/Comics/CalvinHobbes--Zombieseeandzombiedo0.gif
http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn139/dimskip/Comics/CalvinHobbes--Zombieseeandzombiedo1.gif

http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn139/dimskip/Comics/CalvinHobbes--Zombieseeandzombiedo2.gif
http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn139/dimskip/Comics/CalvinHobbes--Zombieseeandzombiedo3.gif

I know it's not all that relevant, but sometimes I just enjoy seeing something a little Steely in the comics even if it's only my uniquely Dan-warped mind that sees it.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 11:32:04 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

I normally don't like to get into all this mind-reading shit. Guessing what motivates Walt and Donald to do what they decide to do is fruitless and, usually, laughable in the pedestrian conclusions that are reached, here.

With that said, i silently wondered if there was an issue, when Walt decided to back off his statement that the band would be playing some of his and Donald's solo stuff, this tour. His most recent statement was that "they decided" it wasn't advisable to try to do solo stuff at a Dan concert. Add to that Jeff getting a vocal, New Frontier in the setlist, no mention of Circus Money on stage...I started to wonder if Walt was even a partner in this tour.

Then this.

That's what I get for trying to analyze the strange and wonderful behavior of Walt and Don. They do what they do, for whatever reasons they have. That's good enough for me. I just hope they keep doing it.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 11:29:32 ET
Posted by: Joey,

" I kid you not...Walt sang Gaucho (I was shocked ) "

I am now so excited that I am typing this with my nipples AND penis .

Word .

JJJJJJJACKY !!!!

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 11:17:22 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

Thanks Bob, seems Walter is now in control, new sleek album, he does the intros, he does the interviews, the Hey 19 rap, now Gaucho, next he'll be driving the equipment truck, all Donald has to do is show up.

Mr. ha-ha, you have your answer, scroll on back.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 11:13:59 ET
Posted by: warrenk,

i hope a Gaucho clip shows up on youtube

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 11:12:26 ET
Posted by: Jfnudeum, jshbRAQe

comment6,

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 11:02:30 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., Zombie see and zombie do...

http://www.gocomics.com/calvinandhobbes/2008/06/12/

;-)

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 10:54:21 ET
Posted by: steelymike77, philly

I hope Gaucho stays on the set list, I keep having dreams about SD coming to Philly, I cant wait!!!!!!

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 10:48:07 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

Matt - agree completely...the PA did seem under-powered but what a clean venue with potentially darn good sound.

Here's a first, someone coming thru the aisle knocked my ($8.00!) beer over...5 minutes later one of the staff appears, takes note of the spill and writes me a credit for another beer (which I quickly redeemed). I'd been reading some posts about the venue (it just opened in May) with several glowing comments about how the staff strives to make it a pleasant concert experience...I'm a believer.

What did you friend think of Carlock?...did you like Gaucho?

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 10:37:10 ET
Posted by: Matt, chattanooga, TN

The drummer friend I took to Atlanta wrote a brief summary of events from his perspective to send to the guys he plays with (all studied musicians, and all having a fair knowledge of our esteemed duo), so I thought I'd post it here. The opening comments are 100% true, and the atmosphere and ease of use at this venue (even the port-a-poties on way in were clean!) helped set the stage for a great concert.

"Hey Fellas,

I went to the show last night in Alpharetta. First off the venue was great.
They had the most organized parking system I've ever seen at a concert and it
was so easy to get to.

They had a 10 pc band. They sound and mix was ok..much better than the
opening act. Seemed to me that their front of house arrays were too small
and a little under powered for that amphitheater. The performance however
was stellar.
From what I could tell from the big screen the vocal mic's were Electro
Voice and the horn mics were a newer Shure model (guess). Everyone seemed to
be wired for in ear monitors but I did see two wedges in front of Walter.
Probably for back up or so he could feel his monitor mix. I couldn't really
see the house console, but it looked pretty big. Probably your standard 48
channel powerhouse.

Keith Carlock on drums. Freddy Washington on bass. John Herrington on
guitar. They opened with an instrumental of The Fez and went into They
Royal Scam as walter and Donald walked on stage.

Highlight songs of the night:

Josie
Glamour Profession
Gaucho with Walter singing
Peg (the black chick backup singers just smoked those Michael Mc parts)
GodWhacker from Everything Must Go.
Black Friday

The encore was Kid Charlemange and FM

It was a blast!"

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 09:53:43 ET
Posted by: CrimsonTide, Motown

Wow, the guys pulled out "Gaucho!" Maybe we might hear something like Those Back The Little Ones or how about WU! The variety is very nice and extremely pleasing after years of similiar set lists.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 09:38:17 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

Forgot to mention, both the chicks were clapping the clave pattern (in 6) on "Two Against Nature" (on 2, 5 & 6) in unison with Carlocks snare hits...they were spot on.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 09:32:37 ET
Posted by: steelyfez, CT & NYC

Gaucho and Everything You Did.
can't wait for the Beacon Shows.

I really like the setlist so far!!!

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 09:32:10 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

Gaucho seemed to be very close to the album version. I was watching DF and he exhibited very little movement during it (he's a class act...giving Walter the stage) but did sing with the girls during the chorus, of course. Someone other than me (who can write) will better describe Walt's voice but he seems to be digging real deep for the notes as he knows his voice is less expressive than DF's and the audience is comparing his vocal treatment to the standard we've all heard hundres of times...imagine Gaucho being "Slanged" is the best way I can describe how it was rendered.

Jeff Young only had the spotlight on him once or twice (Black Friday into) and late in the show. I seem to remember another flubbed intro of him by Walter in a past Atlanta concert (he forgot him or something like that...is there bad blood between the 2 of them?...it's starting to form a pattern, it seems). I am with those that want to hear just Walt or Don sing the tunes...the tunes are too few and precious to have it otherwise.

I spent a good bit of time watching Carlock and he knows the arrangements SO well now that you will be amazed at how many punch-oriented fills he jams into each crevice of opportunity but not in an overbearing way...pure tastiness...he still uses the ear piece to "clock" the tempo and then gets rid of it once the tune is simmering. Same arrangement of "Godwhacker" (bap bap, bap horn punches)..."Everything You Did" seemed to have a 6/8 feel to it (not a reggae fan and don't know jack about that genre so maybe that's what I'm hearing). My notes say "interesting ending" next to "Two Against Nature"...maybe that's the way it's always ended but it took me by surprise...gotta go listen to some boots to see if it always been arranged that way.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 09:27:21 ET
Posted by: fezo, @desk

son of a bitch

our heroes are finally doing Gaucho live and the closest the tour is coming to Virginia is Cincinnati

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 09:26:26 ET
Posted by: Ha-ha, w

I listen to Walter's "Monkey In Your Soul" more than any other live track off the 2000 tour. It was gorgeous.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 09:23:09 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Bud,

Despite your buddy's take, I LIKED Walt's version of Monkey in Your Soul. It suited him, perfectly,

Now, i admit I'm still having trouble getting my head around Walt singing Gaucho, but if the denizens of The Blue say it was good, I'm looking forward to hearing it later in the tour.

I wish they didn't drop Things I Miss the Most, though, Perhaps it will reappear later in the tour.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 09:22:25 ET
Posted by: Ha-ha, w

Rajah, what the hell?

The least you could do is answer me, or cop to it.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 09:22:17 ET
Posted by: Dotucaea, IpmnkEmKaPHFW

comment3,

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 09:21:56 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

Jeff Young's voice can indeed climb the scales. Especially, I suspect, on the major Jane street sunrise bridge which Donald cannot execute live. Just a fact, not a political statement.

I'm flattered by your attention and by your seemingly never-ending appetite for the lash. Let's see, who are you this time? Ah yes. Very sad. Seek help.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 09:11:09 ET
Posted by: Bud Freeman,

My buddy has been a big Steely Dan from way back when they started. He enjoyed the Atlanta show except: "10. Gaucho----I've been waiting to hear them do this live for years,
unbelievably Walter Becker was singing. However bad that you might
imagine this, it was worse. I would be flabbergasted if they don't
drop this from the show. I mean his rendition of "Monkey In Your
Soul" was tough enough to sit through."

I found that amusing. Maybe they SHOULD find another one for him to sing.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 09:10:08 ET
Posted by: Hutch,

I'm trying to imagine Walter singing Gaucho. They certainly would have to drop the key down to accomodate his vocal range. Even Donald can't sing Josie in the original key of E anymore. It's been dropped a step to D.

Walt's vocal range is about the same as mine and that's yet another reason I love C$... I can sing along with every track listening to it in the car!

It's funny the things you wake up in the morning thinking about:

"While the music played you worked by candle light"

and

"In the littlest hour 'tween the dusk and dawn
While the nightlight glows with the music on".

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 08:58:09 ET
Posted by: Deaconblue,

Just bought the Steely Dan cd "Steely Dan in concert". In fact it's the integral Audio size of the live DVD from 2000 they've been mixing on cd.It's mixed in Holland by Willem Hoogland.

I'm a little bit surprised because this disc isn't listed on the SD website.Are there other persons that bought or saw that cd?

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 08:33:56 ET
Posted by: Web Search, cyberspace

I guess we can expect 25 show per year at the Beacon now.

June 12, 2008 -- Cablevision's MSG Entertainment has acquired a minority stake in Front Line Management, the artist management firm headed by music biz power broker Irving Azoff.

Full story at.

http://www.nypost.com/seven/06122008/business/music_for_msg_115080.htm

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 08:29:41 ET
Posted by: John Walsh, AMW

Rajah- Jeff Young is so far up the ladder vocally that they knocked him off by taking away "What A Shame About You". Wrong again Raj.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 07:59:30 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

Couldv've meant show #3 maybe.

So tell us how Gaucho was presented, pretty much the album version and how was Walt's voice? The back-up vocalists carry a lot of the load on Gaucho so that certainly works in Walt's favor. Wow, though, what a surprise, hey, is Walter Becker taking over Steely Dan???

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 07:49:51 ET
Posted by: Steve, Atlanta

Sam Yahel Trio - sadly, no Joshua Redman although Walt covered for him very well.

Interesting side note - I picked up the set list off the sound board and it said Steely Dan Set List #3 across the top. Wonder how many variations they have?

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 07:00:14 ET
Posted by: Brain Strainer,

The most recent Strainer was:

"Tonight's Strainer involves the new Walter Becker Release CirCus Money, which was both highly anticipated and was a long time coming. Not everyone has the full recording yet although pieces have leaked out in dribs and drabs. Well, if you have the full recording you might be have a distinct advantage over those who don't but this one can be solved if you have any dribs drabs or the Mp3 and paid attention to "Door Number Two", which is the first track off of the CD.

"Door Number Two" has a very distinct intro, highly similar sonically to and existing on only one other track on the nine Steely Dan studio records. Name that tune. A 1/2 point bonus will be awarded to he or she who identifies where in the tune it occurs."

This question was not particularly a dead-on derivative, which made it a little tough. Interesting that the piano riff in the intro of "Door Number Two" does take you back to "Glamour Profession" which was pretty observant. "Green Book" was also suggested, but the tempo of that song has that "lope", a little jumpy for for a decent match. Some of the flourishes might remind some of the intro to "Negative Girl" also/

The tune we were looking for was in fact "Slang of Ages". In the intro If you delete the piano overlay, it has a similar mood, riffs and groove you will hear "Slang" in "Door Number Two", both intros being similar. First with the best answer was from an anonymous poster "My guess" from "here". No one got the 1/2 bonus point, because we were, indeed looking to focus this question on the intros of both tunes.

As an aside, it is interesting that the first track of CM, although we can't assume that it was the first recorded, picks right up where Walter left off on EMG with "Slang", which was the first song in the entire SD catalogue in which he sang lead.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 02:30:03 ET
Posted by: Little Wild One, takin' care of business

L-U-V-in' all the comments from Hot-lanta! Ole, will we see you in NYC? We have extra tix for Saturday. Just a thought....

Haven't had much time to listen to C$, but stand-outs (for me) are Door Number Two, Downtown Canon, Paging Audrey, Three Picture Deal. Maybe a debut for one of them at the Beacon?

Please, Mr. Becker.....and no quarantined tomatoes if it doesn't happen, I promise.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 02:03:20 ET
Posted by: Matt, Chattanooga, TN

It's a bit late (it's a few hours between Atlanta and Chattanooga), but wanted to drop in and say the show was great, I was way happier at the end of this one than I have been post-show since Dallas 2000. Donald sang great, the band sounded fantastic, and Walter is awesome.

Donald introduced Walter and the band started a slow building piece that I didn't recognize at all. It seemed strange that Walter had been intro'd when I knew he hadn't been singing so far this tour, but I was really trying to mentally match the key and feel the band was playing in with any of the tracks off of C$, without much luck. The horns kicked in, and my eyes got wide. It was one of those moments where reality seems so far from possible that your brains simply refuses to acknowledge it for a few moments.

I'd been taking shorthand notes of the setlist on my cell phone, and while most of them are fairly simple (Hey nteen, B Sisters, etc.) when it gets down to that, my immediate thoughts are far more obvious:

Gaucho - Walter - Holy Fuck

Man oh man. I took my little brother (he last saw the Dan back in 2000) and a drummer friend of mine who I work with, who by virtue of his vast array of drummer lore and history of working through college at a classic rock station in Birmingham, has always admired Steely, but hadn't caught them live. In the car on the long drive back, the cd changer shuffled to the Gaucho album, and when the title track came up, we all kind of stopped our conversation. As the instrumental outro played, these two guys (neither of whom is quite as biased as I) say almost in unison "That was the highlight of the show."

I have to agree. It's always something special to be the "first one" to hear songs live. This one, no matter if this is the only time it gets played this tour, or if you all hear it every night at every show, made up for the internal resentment I've been carrying around since I missed Albuquerque and Almost Gothic back in 2000. Thanks Donald and Walter. Thanks Steely Dan!

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 01:47:55 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

I hope they add "Deacon"
into the rotation. I never
tire of it. Though that version
from the 92 RnS Tour with the
late great Mindy Johnson cannot
be beat. That night at Poplar
Creek in 92 brought down the house
for the biggest sustained applause
I have ever heard at a Steely Dan show.
All us "kids" brought up on FM radio
in Chicago finally hearing this
treasure live was just amazing.
Donald just kept saying "Chicago",
the roar would just not die down.
Still gives me Goosebumps.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 01:07:49 ET
Posted by: HZ, petty winwood

ok - i might wanna see this show!! take out black friday and put in paging audrey and i'll buy stock in the company.

they chose very wisely with the deletions.

Set List - Steely Dan - Alphareatta, GA 6/11

Medley: Everyone's Gone to the Movies/The Fez/Royal Scam
Royal Scam
I Got The News
Show Biz Kids
Everything You Did
Two Against Nature
Hey Nineteen (with WB "story")
Godwhacker
Babylon Sisters
New Frontier
Gaucho (Walter Becker vocal)
Glamor Profession
Parker's Band (the girls)
Black Friday
Green Earrings
Josie
Band intros
Peg

Encore
Kid Charlemagne
FM

So the deletions are (who says they don't look at this site):
Cousin Dupree
What A Shame About Me (Jeff Young)

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 01:06:32 ET
Posted by: Gary, Atlanta

Just got back from the show and reading thru the blue, and yes, I can vouch for Bob that they did indeed play Gaucho, with Walter on lead vocals. It was fantastic! One of my all-time favorite SD songs. I've always wanted to hear it live.

One slight correction from Bob's post is that Donald did do a brief introduction of Walter before they went into it. I didn't recognize the way they played the intro, so I was thinking it was something off of C$, since I haven't quite got all those songs ingrained in my head, yet. "...but imagine my surprise" when it turned into Gaucho.

Also, during the "be very, very quiet" part of Godwhacker, Jon Herrington would drop out, giving the tune a slightly different sound than the CD. Kinda hard to explain, but by the guitar's omission, it made the tune less repetitive. Sounded great.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 01:03:05 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

Michael and Walt (Weiskopf..not Becker) opened with the SY Trio...goodnight.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 00:53:48 ET
Posted by: I love, Miss Agee!

Lurker Ray- Tony Kadleck from upstate NY was the man at Roseland that night.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 00:49:55 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Oh, one more question:

Was Joshua Redman playing with Sam Yahel?

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 00:42:18 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Thanks Uncle Bob!
Couln't agreee more about
Ms. Agee. She blew me away that
second night at Roseland in 2003!
But so did the trumpet player in
for Michael. I believe he is from
Toronto. What is his name?
Any help?
But I guess this year NYC will
not get Ms. Agee for the Beacon
run.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 00:41:07 ET
Posted by: oleander, post-alpharetta

Set list as noted. Fantastically tight. Everyone in a rockin' trance.

Yes, Mr. Becker sang "Gaucho." And all I could think was, WELL, OF COURSE!!

He also snuck a little bit of "Summertime" into the beginning of "Godwhacker."

Michael Leonhart moved between the trumpet and this giant trumpetoid called a mellophonium, new to me. Walt Weiskopf, Jim Pugh and Roger Rosenberg wailed as well.

The band intro song was the Supremes' "Love Is Like
An Itching In My Heart" done by the ladies.

Superb concert. Must have more.

oleander

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 00:37:24 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

Forgot...Walt wasn't really introduced for Gaucho...there were very few introductions of tunes...Walt introduced Jeff Young as Freddie Young.."sometimes we call him 'Freddie Young'"....introduced the singers first by saying "...in no particular order"...it was the Supremes tune during the intros...the Hey 19 didn't cover any new ground.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 00:37:19 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

Forgot...Walt wasn't really introduced for Gaucho...there were very few introductions of tunes...Walt introduced Jeff Young as Freddie Young.."sometimes we call him 'Freddie Young'"....introduced the singers first by saying "...in no particular order"...it was the Supremes tune during the intros...the Hey 19 didn't cover any new ground.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 00:32:15 ET
Posted by: KMITB, Mt. Belzoni

Circus Money

Amazon.com Sales Rank: #54 in Music

Popular in these categories:
#3 in Music > Classic Rock
#3 in Music > Pop > Soft Rock
#4 in Music > Jazz

Not too shabby!!!

Just picked it up before Barnes & Noble closed at 11!!! Got through 5 songs and WOW.....excellent stuff. In fact...I didn't feel this way about 11TOW coming out of the gate...it's just damn good!!!

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 00:31:12 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

No shout outs for C$ that I could hear...and you have to hear Ms. Agee on Godwhacker.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 00:25:52 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

This are (I swear) the cities on the "Donald Fagen Band" T-shirt (no date that I noticed)...these are the same dates that are on the olive "Steely Dan '08" T-shirt I hold before me:

Ft. Lauderdale
Clearwater
Atlanta
New York
Boston
Wallingford
Alantic City
Camden
Nontreal
Toronto
Ottawa
Bethel
Canadaigua
Cincinnati
Chicago
Denver
Albuuerque
Phoenix
Tucsn
Los Angeles
Paso Robles
Berkeley
Saratoga
Woodinville
Lake Tahoe
Anaheim
Pala
Las Vegas
Murphys

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 00:25:09 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Bob-
Any shouts for a C$ tune from
the crowd when it was announced
that Walter was going to sing?

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 00:21:29 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, in shock

Walter, Gaucho, whooda thunk.

Going over it in my head, yeah, I can hear Walter singing it. Hope it makes it to Chicago.

KC

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 00:16:52 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Bob,

Even I didn't expect anything like that.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 00:12:27 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

Walter singing Gaucho was beyond expectation in terms of a left turn (damn you, Dean)...the guy next to me said he sounded "more authentic singing it"...hmmmm...of course, it was delicious and how could it not be authentic sounding?

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 00:07:32 ET
Posted by: warrenk,

hahaha! you need more expletives!

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 00:06:52 ET
Posted by: Keith J, lll

Bob,

You better not be fucking with me because my lawyers are on this already.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 00:04:53 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

Observations:

Michael and Walt with SY Trio...PA sound is attenuated...little better with SD (I was off axis) but lacking top end.

Michael comes out front w/ mute before the duo enters.

Keith cuts loose a bit after "The Fez"...he comes to a stop with some drama (had on a black T-shirt with gold spangles on it).

Show Biz kids...different groove...maybe semi-shuffle...also, the groove on Black Friday is less menacing (noticed that in other tour renditions).

Art "screen" on front of DF's Rhodes had a Charlie Parker (with others) photo...friend said at one time it matched the display behind the band...the display showed "static" during FM...I'm not visual so there's a lot I missed.

Peg...much less Hawaiian in the guitar solo.

OK...the weird thing...I had a gal read to me (while I looked at them) the dates off the back of the Donald Fagen T-shirt (wish I would have got one)...AND THEY ARE THE SAME AS THE STEELY DAN '08 TOUR DATES!...I'll post the cities...hopefully, tonight.

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 00:02:18 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

I was just playin', warren. Notice the drunken smile:

:#)

But, if you go by The Blue, it's all about The Wu!

Date: Thurs, June 12, 2008, 00:00:48 ET
Posted by: warrenk,

haha. both are in my top 5 or 10, but i personally put gaucho over the docta.

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 23:58:06 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

warren,

Walt didn't sing Dr Wu, he sang Gaucho.

:#)

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 23:53:23 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

I speak the truth...I swear.

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 23:51:32 ET
Posted by: warrenk,

WELL FREAKING HOW WAS THE MOST HALLOWED OF ALL STEELY DAN SONGS LIVE????

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 23:50:46 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Bodacious!
I'm torn though.
Would I rather hear Walter sing
Gaucho or something from C$?
Hmmmmm.

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 23:49:54 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

Set List - Steely Dan - Alphareatta, GA 6/11

Medley: Everyone's Gone to the Movies/The Fez/Royal Scam
Royal Scam
I Got The News
Show Biz Kids
Everything You Did
Two Against Nature
Hey Nineteen (with WB "story")
Godwhacker
Babylon Sisters
New Frontier
Gaucho (Walter Becker vocal)
Glamor Profession
Parker's Band (the girls)
Black Friday
Green Earrings
Josie
Band intros
Peg

Encore
Kid Charlemagne
FM

So the deletions are (who says they don't look at this site):
Cousin Dupree
What A Shame About Me (Jeff Young)

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 23:47:39 ET
Posted by: Rajah, I've got a fresh one for you

Walter, singing Gaucho? C'mon, now.

Ha, cause you've deserved it for a while. Just for that ridiculous moniker if for nothing else which smacks of some kind of unfocused sarcasm directed at this board. Don't try to play nice after all your crap.

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 23:43:24 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Bob, don't leave us hangin'. Are you serious? If so

WOW!

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 23:42:47 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

I kid you not...Walt sang Gaucho (I was shocked)...getting the set list together...post them in a few.

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 23:35:36 ET
Posted by: warrenk,

WHATTTTTTTTTTTTTT!!!!!!!!!! BOB YOU BETTER BE EFFIN KIDDING.

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 23:35:01 ET
Posted by: Circus Money,

"There is actually nothing neither bland nor repetitive about this album."

So you're saying it *is* bland and repetitive ;).

I'll post more tomorrow. Bedtime for me.

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 23:34:37 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

Walt sang Gaucho tonight!

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 23:22:34 ET
Posted by: Uncle Bob,

"Can someone explain to me why they think C$ is so great?"

I'll give it a shot...

The songwriting as a whole on Circus Money is far more complex than either MTC or EMG and at the very least equals that on TvN. There are truly some incredibly vivid (and possibly revealing) pictures painted by these words. Have you really listened to "Paging Audrey"? "Upside Looking Down"? Have you read the lyrics?

There is actually nothing neither bland nor repetitive about this album. This record is about as diverse as anything in the SD canon. Certainly it may not be as musically lush and colorful as some SD recordings (TvN?) although some (critics) have also argued this sort of SD musical landscape to be "over-processed" and "polished within an inch of its life". Such has often been the knock against our boys. So be it.

Perhaps Circus Money is an acquired taste, something about it being just not quite right for most. I, on the other hand, have had my SD belief system slightly skewed by this offering.

This is the "Steely Dan" record that I have been waiting for since 1980. There's just somebody else singing the songs on this one.

(Not Your) Uncle Bob

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 23:21:13 ET
Posted by: Circus Funny,

yes i must admit the 70s stuff hit me pretty quick. and overall i find it much better than the new testament (i like TvN, haven't gotten in EMG yet). i'll keep listening. and while i do agree somethings take awhile for you to get - the thing is i just don't really see what is to get in C$. we'll see. to me, as for now it just sounds like background music and it puts me to sleep.

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 22:14:21 ET
Posted by: geo,

Funny how I never warmed up to 11 Tracks Of Whack. To this day I don't care for it. But on first listen I fell in love with Circus Money. And it keeps getting better!It's amazing what a difference 14 years makes.

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 21:58:57 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

C-Funny,

Assuming you are a legit poster, I find it odd that a real SD fan would dismiss a closely SD-related work, so quickly. I wonder, how many times have you listened to it? Did the SD albums of the 70's hit you instantly? I know, for me, most SD/Donald/Walter stuff takes some time for me to really start to "hear it" properly.

I'm not sure anyone can "explain" why they like this album in a way that will make you like it. You either hear it, or you don't...but, give yourself a chance to hear it. This ain't a Maroon 5 album designed for instant gratification and disposal.

I think the reviews on this site, and on Amazon, allmusic.com, Crawdaddy, etc have done a good job of "explaining" what is so good about the album. I'm not sure reading them will help you appreciate it any more, though.

I have one suggestion that may help you to finally get it:

Try good headphones. Turn them up.

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 21:22:06 ET
Posted by: Circus Funny,

Can someone explain to me why they think C$ is so great?

For the most part, I feel the songs are very bland, very repetitive. One essential part of SD that I love is the lush musical landscape and colors. Most of C$ is simple bass, drums, guitar, and a minimalistic melody that repeats the whole time. Fine, you can say there's a good groove going, but I don't think there's much more. And I don't find the minimalism necessarily good, like I would on some SD stuff. Someone said this could be the best work since Gaucho. I just don't see how one could put TvN or MTC over this (and I'm not that big a fan of MTC... much of what I wrote above I would apply to MTC, but less so).

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 20:23:15 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

As I said earlier, I'm still in the evaluation process with C$. It's certainly growing on me, but it didn't instantly blow me away (some things did, of course). I loved Morph, on my first listen.

With that said, I think Walter's voice is terrific on it. Not just OK, but really really good. I can't imagine anyone else doing a better job on some of these tunes (Upside Looking Down, for example).

Frankly, I find the vocals on this disk, lead and background, to be a strength, not a weakness.

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 20:20:25 ET
Posted by: Fife, Baltimore, eh

Hey Gang,
I thought I would post this here. Gretchen and I are hosting a dinner before the show on the 21st though it is not an official Danfest. We decided on http://thecitygrillnyc.com/index.html because of it's location and reasonable prices. So far I have 15 people and if we have more a private diningroom might be the way to go.
Please, if anyone is interested in attending e-mail me at the above address as I am planning on making reservations in the next couple of days.
Thanks
Fife

P.S. I'm totally in love with C$!

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 20:16:42 ET
Posted by: Lars,

A. Stugatz- Yes, and could you only imagine how great it would really be with Fagen singing?!

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 19:59:09 ET
Posted by: A. Stugatz,

I love DF but WB's C$ easily dwarfs MTC.

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 19:57:28 ET
Posted by: fezman, boston

Like i said,not the most computer savvy person in the room. open mouth and insert foot!!!! lol.....fezzzie

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 19:53:52 ET
Posted by: fezman, boston

jim/hoops,just for the record this is the same response i just posted and was not posted on the blue,i'll try again.As i just stated you are not talking to the most computer savvy person on the planet.I was unaware that my request for assistance was going to be forwarded to "danfests NYC" that being said i am having issues logging into that site dispite having been informed by you that i am already registered,i am sure that whatever the issue is it is my inexperience at the process that is to blame.It appears you and i seem to bump heads on alot of things and i admit most of the crap is because of my lack of understanding how things work,i admit that,but my intentions are always honorable,i look forward to seeing you in NYC on the 21st and hopefully in Boston on the 23rd,it would be wonderful to hear from you prior to that as it is always a pleasure to speak to you, fezzzie

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 19:42:02 ET
Posted by: oleander, dub monsta

hoops!-

thx for post; mission accomplished.

permasqueeze & I are in alpharetta waiting for the show. ambient dub; storm gone; nifty merch.

mo later

oleander

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 19:26:21 ET
Posted by: fezman, boston

Jim/Hoops,Thanks for your response,you are not talking to the most computer savvy person on the planet!!and i am never sure as to what is acceptible to post and what is not.As usual i was unaware of the transfer of info to the NYC danfest page,that being said i seem to be having issues getting on there also!! lol nothing new for me.forgive me for getting frustrated at times trying to figure all this crap out,i have left a message for you on your service for the third time this week,perhaps i am being a pain in the ass? So be it.it is not intentional,there is a plan behind my seeming madness that i do not wish to make public on the blue at this time....best wishes always,fezzzie

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 18:28:16 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Fezzie/Paul:

You can post your phone number here, your address, hell, your social security number. I sure wouldn't though since people have had some people play pranks or abuse one's number when it's posted publicly on the Blue.

As for NYC and Danfests: There are 159 people signed up for Saturday night's activities. I forwarded your post inquiring about 6/21 activities from the BlueBook to the list of 159 people interested in attending. That's where your post went. In the same action you were also set up so you can look at what's been already said and also get all messages about the momentous events in NYC in the upcoming ten days or so. I don't think your response to that is very kind but maybe I am missing something.

If that is rude and Big Brother to you, well I apologize.

You have my number. You have my email. I don't like the tone of your posts. I believe I've been helpful and generous, although perhaps unwisely.

Jim

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 18:06:46 ET
Posted by: Ha-ha, w

Rajah,

any reaction to why you went off on me so harshly the other day? I'd prefer that you didn't ignore it.

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 17:43:08 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

Fezzie,

Unfortunately I am likely to make only one show, this tour, and none of the NYC shows. Why must I be this poor, and this strapped for time, at this particular time? :#)

Enjoy the hell out of it!

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 17:40:19 ET
Posted by: fezman, boston

Dean,thank you for your response,it appears "big brother" is watching as my last post seeking offline help without posting an e-mail or phone # was deleted,so be it,as other inquiries have also been ignored,will you be attending pre-show danfest? if yes where will that be held?thanks fezzie

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 17:26:43 ET
Posted by: The Dean, m

Steve,

I just re-read your post. Are you saying that JR is playing sax with Yahel on this tour? If so, that is awesome! A very unexpected, and very pleasant, surprise.

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 17:23:39 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

Steve,

I really like Joshua Redman. His album, Mood Swings, is a great seduction/sex album, I have found!

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 17:13:27 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

fezman,

According to Sd.com Carolyn's only shows are 6/13-6/21

http://www.steelydan.com/2kband.html

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 17:02:02 ET
Posted by: fezman, boston

Can anyone confirm that the 6/21 show will be caroline's last show for this tour,any help will be greatful,thanks fezzie

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 16:52:33 ET
Posted by: BillfromPgh,

This guy David MacFadden-Elliott from Crawdaddy really gets it! Even mentions the unreleased stuff. I used to read the dead-tree version of this mag long ago. Oddly enough, the online version has a piece suggesting humor does not belong in rock http://crawdaddy.wolfgangsvault.com/Article.aspx?id=7708 - somebody oughta clue this writer in to SD along with Zappa, Zevon, Randy Newman, and many others.

I'll think about some suggestions for our new fan, but I'd particularly look into some modern-retro funk/jazz/jam acts along the lines of Medeski Scofield Martin & Wood, Greyboy Allstars (and its members Robert Walter and Karl Denson), Will Bernard, Charlie Hunter, etc. Mostly instrumental but funkier and harder-edged than smooth jazz and with plenty of intelligent chops. And many of these guys are young and surprisingly popular, considering that they are mining 70s sounds. Also, Little Feat's Bill Payne has drawn on a huge SD influence for years.

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 16:50:49 ET
Posted by: Steve, Atlanta

Oh, man there is nothing better than discovering a new band and throwing yourself in the deep end. Below are several bands a new Dan fan may not know about. Note - none of these "sound" like Steely Dan, but if one fan likes them you might. And all valued at just my two cents.

Sonia Dada - Chicago, they describe their music "rocket soul." What it sounds like when a rock band joins with a 4-part gospel group they found singing in a subway station in the Loop. Sadly no longer recording/touring. Go to Amazon.com and drop 99 cents to buy Planes & Satellites from "Lay Down And Love It Live" because the little clip on Amazon is not the best part of the song. This the is best album to start with if you like what you hear.

William Topley - A British blues singer now living in the Caribbean Islands. Interesting voice, writes great lyrics. Check out Someone Else from "Sea Fever" or Mannish Water from "Black River."

The Subdudes - New Orleans. A sparse sound like what you might hear if five guys were sitting out on your porch playing and singing. Check out Satisfied from "Annunciation" or It's Been Know To Touch Me from "Miracle Mule."

The Joshua Redman Elastic Band - He's a sax player, and is also part of the Sam Yahel Trio warm-up act currently on tour with SD. Crazy talented.

Steve

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 16:46:44 ET
Posted by: warrenk,

+1 to Toto. I recommend the live albums with Simon Phillips playing. If you can find Livefields, Papa was a Sexy Dancer, Dave's Gone Skiing in Sweden, get them! I think those are all unofficial, so may be hard to find.

Btw, if you guys didn't hear, Steve Lukather finally brought an end to Toto. He explains here: http://www.stevelukather.net/Article.aspx?id=55

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 16:44:53 ET
Posted by: Hutch, rva

Mike - Check out some Joe Jackson as well. He has covered a few SD songs in his concerts and he's known to be a big fan. The "Night and Day" album would be a great one to start with.

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 16:34:08 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

NewDanFan, welcome, hope you have a pair of lead-lined skivvies at the ready now that you've breached the Redoutable Blue Portal, a chaulky bourne from which few travelers return.

Definitely Boz, Van, but also Toto, Michael Franks, Alan Parsons, and ultimately if you follow this path back to its roots, absolutely, you will one day be reaching back to Duke Ellington, Charlie Parker and Miles Davis. The connections might not be readily apparent at first but underneath Steely Dan, just like digging under a Medieval cathedral to find its pagan roots, is classic jazz-age and then the bebop.

I envy you your journey and enjoy the Steely Dan shows...

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 16:13:22 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

Going to be heading out the door in a just few to go to the show.

I'll take note of the set list (try to post it tonight) and look at the dates on the Fagen T-shirt (should I photo it?)...anyone have any additional requests?

Steely Dan related listening...the first few John Tropea albums for fusion, "Famous Blue Raincoat" by Jennifer Warnes for vocal/lyric/sonic presentation and "The Shaming of the True" by Kevin Gilbert (simply scathing...just like The Dan).

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 15:46:55 ET
Posted by: Dan Belcher, Louisville, KY

Stuff that a Steely Dan fan might like... Aside from the stuff that's already been mentioned (Michael McDonald era Doobie Brothers, Ray Charles, etc.), here's a few other artists to consider. Boz Scaggs might appeal to you as well. Lots of Dan alums have played with Boz Scaggs over the years. (Recommended albums: Slow Dancer, Silk Degrees, Down Two Then Left, Middle Man, Fade Into Light. Also check out his Greatest Hits Live CD/DVD from a few years ago is amazing, the 15 minute take on Loan Me A Dime gives me goosebumps). For quality fusion jazz, look into the Crusaders. For some catchy but intricate pop jazz, consider Michael Frank's "The Art Of Tea" album. On the more pop side of fusion jazz, also consider Jeff Lorber, who considers Steely Dan a big influence (his early work with the Jeff Lorber Fusion band and his past three albums. You can probably ignore most of his 1980s/1990s work where he did a lot of R&B and smooth jazz type of stuff)

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 15:45:10 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

Five 5-star reviews on amazon.com for C$........

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 15:43:09 ET
Posted by: Casual fan, orlando

Hey Kid Clean,

Just a note that the line "She looked good, in the available light" may be my favorite of the entire CD. Sung in very slinky fashion, don't you think?

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 15:15:03 ET
Posted by: El Sup, Louisville, KY

Steelyboy - Weather Report drummer Peter Erskine was the drummer on the 1993 Steely Dan tour. He is featured on the 1995 Alive in America release (although I think it is on only 3 tracks - the rest were taken from the 1994 tour featuring Dennis Chambers in the drum chair.) Jaco and Peter were pretty solid together.

El Sup

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 14:57:57 ET
Posted by: Can't Buy an Album,

Aja? Gaucho? What are those?

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 14:56:20 ET
Posted by: Steelyboy,

First time poster here, long time Steely Dan fan.

I'm going to see them tonight in Atlanta and am so excited. I will try to post a setlist on here tomorrow.

Anyway, for Mike...have you ever listened to Weather Report? Not exactly rock but a lot of funk and complexity. Wayne Shorter, who played the solo on the title track of Aja, is the saxophone player in Weather Report. Jaco Pastorius, perhaps the most innovative bassist of all time, also was a formidable member of Weather Report at a certain point. Of course, you might already have listened to Weather Report, but if you haven't, I would definitely suggest it.

Also, you might want to try the Doobie Brothers with Michael McDonald and a Canadian singer/songwriter/keyboardist named Gino Vanelli. Can't go wrong with any of the Dan's jazz influences (i.e. Miles Davis, John Coltrane, Sonny Rollins, Thelonius Monk, Dave I remember you saying you tried jazz...I just wanted to list those artists. Bacharach/David, Lieber/Stoller, Ragavoy/Burns, motown, classic 60s soul, Chuck Berry, Little Richard are all good as well.

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 14:39:28 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, @here

Welcome Mike! We're almost neighbors, I'm down in Milwaukee.

I would suggest World Party, Charlie Parker and King Crimson.

"She looks good, in the available light" is an instant classic line.

imho - Three Picture Deal is the most commercial/accessable song on the album.

Darkling Down is getting a few extra plays now.

KC

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 13:57:43 ET
Posted by: Soul, survivor

reminder - So someone with a differing opinion is a troll? Interesting.

With that said, 2VN and EMG lacked the soul the 70's SD stuff had. I agree with the "too many white backing vocals" on their 21st century stuff. And for the record, I never said C$ lacked soul, I just disagreed that they are "the most soulful on ANY SD related recording". That statement is just utterly ridiculous!

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 13:38:41 ET
Posted by: reminder, a calm place

don't
feed
the
trolls

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 13:38:18 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Steve M,

You should check out Captain Beyond, if you haven't already:

http://www.amazon.com/Captain-Beyond/dp/B000003CMR/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1213205555&sr=8-1

Soul Survivor,

I would hardly call the backing vocals on Selfish Gene representative of anything from newer SD or Donald albums, or of the other tunes on Circus $. If you were strictly talking about that song, then I think you might have a legit argument. I haven't decided how I feel about those vocals, as of yet, but they are CLEARLY and DISTINCTLY different from the other backing vocals on the album.

Are you suggesting the vocals from Somebody's Saturday Night aren't soulful? "She looks good, in the available light" might be one of the most soulfully sung passages in the entire SD-related catalog. Easily as soulful as one of my all-time SD favs, Babylon Sisters.

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 13:37:18 ET
Posted by: angel,

Three Picture Deal - Josie.

Especially as they did it back on the 2000 tour, with the Ted Baker open.

Mu: Love reading you...always. :-)

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 13:21:09 ET
Posted by: Steve M, Scotland

Also, NewDanFan

There is/was the LA based outfit 'Jango' who cut 2 albums on the Samson label over the last 8/9 years called Dreamtown and Closer to Home. They wear their Steely Dan influences very much on their sleeves going so far as to namecheck Dan songs regularly in their own work. The single 'City of the 2nd Chance' with its references to Aimee Semple McPherson is a real standout I can't see any danfan not loving to bits.

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 13:17:41 ET
Posted by: Joey the Russian, Stalingrad

Soulful backup singers?

They sound like someone's administering them a titty-twister with vice grip pliers.

Borders on shrill. Selfish Gene for one.

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 13:15:05 ET
Posted by: Steve M, Scotland

FAO The Dean

Excellent call highlighting the first 3 Blue Oyster Cult albums as great examples of intelligent rock that a Danfan might like. There's at least a couple of BOC/Steely Dan crossover fans here on the blue (Hi Tom!) that would agree totally.

Subsequent albums have some hidden gems but are a bit patchy in comparison (although 'Monsters' from studio album # 6 'Cultosaurus Erectus' is the most overtly jazzy thing they've ever done)

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 13:05:46 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Soul Survivor,

I've been an AVID fan (putting it lightly) since just after the release of Can't Buy a Thrill. I know all of the albums, quite well.

I think the post 2000 works make excellent use of the vocals, and have not been disappointed. I was not expecting that from Walter, but have to admit they blew me away. I completely disagree they lack soul.

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 12:59:23 ET
Posted by: Soul, survivor

"I think the backing vocals on C$ are some of the most soulful ever used in ANY SD-related recording"

Dean- Have you ever heard of Aja or Gaucho? Now that's what I'm talking about when it comes to "soulful" backing vocals!

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 12:58:06 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

Mike...NewDanFan.....

Welcome to the Greater Dandom!!! Certainly, better late than never!! You will be even more awed by "our boys" after you see them in concert this summer. Be sure to get Walter Becker's new CD, "Circus Money"....it is awesome.

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 12:55:38 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Welcome to the club, NewDanFan.

You asked a great question, and I think you will get a many suggestions, here. Some will seemingly conflict with others. Some of us will dispute the recommendations of others. There is a reason, IMO:

Steely Dan is a genre of its own, and there really aren't other artists doing what Walter and Donald have been able to do so well, for so long. Still, here's an off the top of my head idea of some things you may find interesting. One thing, my list is likely to be based on excellence of performance (musicianship) interesting mix of different genres, complexity, etc. Others may offer suggestions that appeal more to the pop sensibilities of SD:

Van Morrison. Like Walter and Donald, Van makes music on his own terms. His recent output ranks with some of the best of his early career. He mixes soul, blues, jazz, folk, and more. Album recommendations: Astral Weeks, Moondance, Veedon Fleece are from his "peak" artistic period. More recently What's Wrong with this Picture and Magic Time are spectacular later examples of his work.

The 70's/80's output of Traffic, Little Feat, Blood Sweat and Tears (early stuff), Spirit and Santana might appeal to the some of the Dan's rockish sensibilities.

Some, mostly instrumental, music that might tickle your Dan-bone: early Jean-Luc Ponty, Dixie Dregs (Later, simnply The Dregs), David Grisman Quartet (or Quintet), and Larry Carlton's early electric albums.

If you have any hard-rock interest, The first three (or so) Blue Oyster Cult albums are a very interesting and complex mix of hard rock and blues/jazz. This is not to be confused with the their post "Fear the Reaper" work. The self-titled Captain Beyond album is one of the most interesting hard rock albums ever made. It still sounds fresh today, IMO.

The self-titled Eye-to-Eye is probably the closest thing you will hear to Steely Dan. It is produced by Gary Katz and has many Dan-related musicians. About half (maybe less) of their follow-up album (Shakespeare Stole My Baby) is good, too.

I think that a Dan fan will really appreciate the works of Duke Ellington, Ray Charles, early Burt Bacharach-Hal David stuff (the Dianne Warwick stuff is great), Cole Porter...all the great composers/song writers of the past.

Well, that's just the tip of the iceberg, I'm sure others will have much more to say.

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 12:25:03 ET
Posted by: NewDanFan, Madison, WI

Hi All,

I'm 45 years old. For most of my life I turned my back on Steely Dan music. As a kid raised on Top 40, it all sounded too clean and too complex. BTO was more my speed! Quietly, I envied friends who loved Steely Dan - they seemed to get much more out of their music than I did mine. As I got older, I matured into a love of the Beatles, the Jam, NRBQ, The Who. But I still never "got" Steely Dan.

Something clicked for me early this year. And in a huge way. I began listening backward in time, starting with Everything Must Go and Two Against Nature. I was absolutely floored. Stunned. Totally carried away. It was a musical revelation unlike any I've had. I could not get enough. I heard and experienced things unknown to me, took the deepest pleasure in the melodies, harmonies, vocals, lyrics, rhythms, grooves, outlook - everything. I made an equally deep connection with Becker and Fagan's solo stuff. I've purchased tickets to three shows already for this summer's tour. So, I'm hooked, and grateful for it. I just can't believe I've missed out for so long.

The question I have for this board (and I love reading the posts here): What other artists might a newer Steely Dan convert like me enjoy? The melding of jazz and rock is so appealing to me. I've been given some jazz albums and really enjoy them, but miss the rock and groove I get in Steely Dan. And, of course, I have many rock albums, but miss the complexity, harmonics, fantastic chords and chord changes, and grooves I hear in Steely Dan. So, might any of you kind souls recommend some other artists I might enjoy?

Thanks so much for slogging through this long post. I really appreciate it, and thanks in advance to anyone kind enough to reply.

Mike

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 12:14:30 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

I'm still forming my opinion of C$, but there is one thing I have no trouble saying now:

I think the backing vocals on C$ are some of the most soulful ever used in ANY SD-related recording.

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 12:03:24 ET
Posted by: Urchin with an appetite,

I'm really digging C$. Most songs I love, and only a couple I haven't warmed to. Paging Audrey comes out on top, great song, I love everything about it! The two reggae numbers "Bob" and "Do You Remember the Name" are fantastic, especially if you have some chiba on hand. Rounding out my other faves are "Somebody's Saturday Night" (probably the most commercial sounding), "Downtown Canon" and "Upside Looking Down".

Is it me or does the chorus in "Selfish Gene" sound like a Broadway musical (and that's not a good thing)? It's too bad that the chorus irks me so because I love the rest of SG. I'm really tired of the "white girl" vocals they've (SD, DF & WB) been using this century, and I'm glad WB brought back the soul for songs like God's Eye View. For this reason I'm looking forward to seeing Tawatha Agee and welcoming the much needed break from Carolyn Leonhart.

Here's a nice review http://crawdaddy.wolfgangsvault.com/Article.aspx?id=7742

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 11:59:55 ET
Posted by: Billo, Austin, TX

hoops,

As the fearless leader that I've known of from afar for years, I will be "honored" by your skillful power of delegation!

I have of course already googled and looked around, but if I find anything, I will surely report back. Sir!

(I may be a bit outta the loop being in Austin talking about a Houston based show, but I shan't give up!)

Bill

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 11:24:19 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Bill..."thinkfast" was the password for one of the Chicago pre-sales.

There are different ways to find these out and they take some detective work. Perhaps it's your turn to serve us and find it out :-) I'd help but I'm not familiar with your area all that much.

Here's my suggestions: Find out who is sponsoring the show--radio station, the venue's sponsor, credit card that might be affiliated. In Chicago, I checked out three classic rock stations before figuring part of it out. One of the pre-sales this year was only known to those who subscribed to the Madison Square Garden email newsletter--they own the Chicago Theatre. I recently participated in a Van Morrison pre-sale and it was only for certain credit card holders. I had to enter the first six digits of my Citibank MC to get the ticket search to go.

Also do a Google search.

Looking forward to a report back from you as to what you find out.

Thanks!

Jim

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 11:20:09 ET
Posted by: George, in Paris

The Dean - You can access the Amex presale through ticketbastard with the password, or you can call Amex and they will handle it through ticketbastard with their access. ticketbastard will not be denied its lucre!

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 11:17:56 ET
Posted by: Billo, Austin, TX

Ahh, cool - well that would make sense then! :^)

Figures, those swanky Dan Dudes!!!

THANK YOU!!!!!!!

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 11:14:36 ET
Posted by: George, in Paris

American Express told me that the presale code for Dallas was the toll-free number on the back of my Gold Card without the 1-prefix. You might try that, or just call American Express Events at 800-448-8457. They were not yet aware of the Dallas date - apparently they don't get their updates until Thusday. If it's not an American Express-related presale, which I won't know for sure until tomorrow, I'm no help.

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 11:10:47 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Billo,

I'm not sure about this Dan tour, but typically pre-sales are through AMEX, and not Ticket Bastard.

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 11:06:31 ET
Posted by: Billo, Austin, TX

Hey folks - first post, long time DanFan.

I am having trouble locating the presale password for the presale tomorrow for the Houston show. Can anyone give a brotha a little help?

I saw "thinkfast" listed here, but it appeared to be for access thru something other than ticketmaster? Maybe I'm wrong? Quite possibly. Forgive my ignorance.

Any help greatly appreciated.

Bill

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 10:05:42 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Jesie,

Scroll down. The set list was posted, at least twice, after the show.

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 10:01:46 ET
Posted by: Jessie,

Does anyone know how I can get the set list to June 8th's show in Hollywood, Florida??

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 09:20:59 ET
Posted by: CrimsonTide, Motown

I can not believe the guys have not shuffled their set list. The bulk of the set has remained the same since 2YK. Come guys - give the fans a little taste! I love I Got The News, Black Friday and Peg, but how can they not be bored playing those tunes every night on every tour. I wish they would please add some other tunes from your extensive catalog. Wu, The Fez(with lyrics), Rikki, King Of The World, Barrytown, Boston Rag...(insert your favorite). I am not saying they need to play all of these numbers, but put a couple per night during this tour - PLEASE!

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 09:19:15 ET
Posted by: hoops on behalf of Oleander, chicago

Bob in Atlanta:

If you click on where it says "hoops on behalf of Oleander" in the original post, you can EMAIL Oleander. Maybe you've done that. But otherwise she's not reading this but sporadically if at all. That's why I posted on her behalf.

Jim

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 08:41:27 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

oleander - may be able to move the pair of tickets for you...how do we make that happen?

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 06:39:58 ET
Posted by: Jesus Ray,

It's "trophy life" AND "trophy wife"...

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 01:40:20 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

----------------------------------------------------------------
Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 11:24:04 ET
Subject: ENTER NOW! PRIZES! C$ Review Contest
From: hoops@Dandom.com and Friends

The way albums sell these days is, of course, so different than even when EMG came out five years ago today.

These day's it's blogging and on-line store reviews that help make or break an album.

So let's organize as a community and get the word out about Walter's new album. There are several places on the web where albums are reviewed before they are sold. Moreover, there are newspaper reviews where there are places to respond.

Instead of--or at least in addition to--preaching to the choir in the Dandom Digest, let's get out there and get the top slots for these web sites and blogs.

And let's sweeten things up a bit.

Danfan pals have provided prizes for your reviews of Walter Becker's new achievement, "Circus Money". Prizes will be given to:

• A random review posted prior to Midnight, Thursday, June 12 (CT)
• A random review posted prior to Midnight, Sunday, June 15.
• The review voted as "best" by the Greater Dandom.
• One randomly selected voter.

But here's the twist to our usual Dandom Digest contests. Instead of entering the reviews to the Dandom Digest where they just serve the purpose of some sort of mutual narcissism, let's post them where they will build some buzz and support for Walter's new one-- other sites where they are selling C$ or reviewing so your review can do some good. Let's get Danfan opnions up there in the top slots on these web sites. After you post, email me the link privately and you'll be entered.

Problems with this? Just email me and I will be glad to help.

Some suggested places to post your "Circus Money" reviews?

• Amazon.com
http://www.amazon.com/Circus-Money-Walter-Becker/dp/B0016KJS3I/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1213159817&sr=8-1

• Borders.com
http://www.borders.com/online/store/SearchResults?title=%22circus+money%22&type=2&fromHeader=7

• iTunes Store

• Rolling Stone:
http://www.rollingstone.com/reviews/album/20949151/review/20961624/circus_money

• Suggest yours here.

Some of these have no reviews yet--be the first one to offer a Danfan opinion and promote C$.

Your review doesn't have to be long--often the best are the short ones. And anything that helps point out the genius of C$ is great! So just put it out there!

Prize list?

How about winners getting to select one of these or something along these lines:

• A UK version of C£ (out 7/14, it has a bonus track)
• A couple of our C$ temporary tattoos I have coming
• An enlarged and printed cover of C$ at 35" X 35" or maybe some photo of Walter.
• And always we have a prize or two that remain a mystery until after the contest is over--and then Danfans really regret not entering a review...so enter a review!
• or...

So post your reviews at these sites, then privately EMAIL me the URL but don't let'em know I sent you!

Jim
----------------------------------------------------------------

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 01:38:52 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

The latest edition of the Dandom Digest just went out, this one covering June 9 & 10, 2008.

If you are a subscriber, you should receive it within the next 8 hours. As usual, if you don't receive it, please email me. Some people have problems with delivery of the Dandom Digest, usually because of their spam filters, firewalls, etc.

The following are the subjects of the Dandom Digest for June 9 & 10, 2008

√ C$ Best SD-related Album Since Gaucho
=====================

√ ENTER NOW! PRIZES! C$ Review Contest

=====================
√ C$ now in US Stores
√ REDUX: UK Version of C£ has a bonus track
√ August Show in Saratoga, California Added
√ CORRECTION: Detroit On Sale this Saturday
√ Awaiting SD at CMAC in Canandaigua, NY

√ T I C K E T . E X C H A N G E

√ --NEW! NEEDED: ATL Tickets 6/11
√ --NEW! FS: Think fast: Alpharetta June 11, 2 tix Orch 3 Row L
√ --NEW! FS: Beacon tickets - tues 6/17
√ --NEW! FS: 2 Beacon Theater Tues 6/18
√ --FS: June 21 Orch Seat
√ --NY June 21 tix for sale
√ --FS June 20 ticket
√ --6/20: FS-Single ticket
√ --6/18: FS-Beacon Tix Center Row A

√ REDUX: Individual Items Version of Dandom Digest
√ ReMiNdEr: DANDOM DIGEST: The Fans' Newsletter...Your Newsletter
√ REDUX, REDUX, REDUX: Don't Miss out! Get these E-newsletters

SPOILER
SPOILER
SPOILER

√ SPOILER: Hollywood, FLA setlist 6/8/08
√ SPOILER: Clearwater Setlist, 6/9/08
√ SPOILER: set list 6/9/08 Eckerd Hall

If you are not currently a subscriber but would like to receive the free Dandom Digest email newsletter—definitely not to be confused or affilliated with the glorious (and much more glamorous) Official steelydan.com, walterbecker.com and donaldfagen.com newsletters/mail lists—please email me or see http://dandom.com/dandomdigest

Thanks as always for your support, especially Mark, Bill and John.

Jim

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 01:28:53 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Jesus Doc Mu,
It's "Trophy wife".

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 00:56:39 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu ,

BS: Green Book

Even in Lo-Fi Dr. Fagen's voice is as strong as it has been since the early 90s and possibly before.

angel, KMt... No other song can touch Paging Audrey...in the same class as The Night Belongs to Mona, Pixeleen, Black Cow, Dr. Wu. Downtown Canon is just a notch below, and slow grooves. Certainly, PA is the most like 70s SD. The production, mix, and crack musicianship carries a lot of the album. Door Number Two slinks along. Upside Looking Down emotes very nicely. Just in case, there's fear Walt's gotten softa at all, Selfish Gene and God's Eye View stick in the brain to the point of annoyance. Sick, sick grooves. Three Picture Groove bops along in a very Fagen-esque fashion

They could have possibly done a bit more with Bob's Not Your Uncle Anymore, but the space and groove delve into the blue eyed reggae of Police's Regatta de Blanc. Carlock's laying out an the pocket Stewart Copeland thing. Walter's cleaner than Sting. The guitar reverb and percussion are layed down nicely. Do You Remember mines this rasta groove heavily. Righteous organ. "Don't you take no chance with your trophy life." Carlock starting to enjoy the fills and offbeats. Reggae can be such an open pallete...there are a lot more possibilities than rock.

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 00:27:37 ET
Posted by: Gus Winterbottom, Behind the Curve

As Dan Hicks might say, "Where's the 'Money'?" Well, not yet at the Walmart in Torrance, CA if Hoops is collecting data. On my way back up the road, I stopped in at the Best Buy in Hawthorne, and eventually the crew located the two copies of Circus Money in stock; they were in the "incoming stock" cart. I bought both copies, so as to preclude custody battles with Mrs. GW during our initial evaluation period. I'm guessing that this particular Best Buy is not planning on featuring this CD in their "New Arrival" section, but perhaps this could be twisted into a promotional item, such as: "ENTIRE STOCK sold out on first day before it even hit the shelves!"

GW

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 00:18:18 ET
Posted by: Mind Meld, Cement

Brain Strainer-

Without giving it any thought, I'd say the bridge to "Glamour Profession," if only because of the timbre of the piano. Harmonically, it's not very similar.

Yours,
Mind Meld

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 00:01:14 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Matt -
To be completely honest with you
I wish that you hadn't posted to
the Rolling Stone review with the
name, "KidCharlem". I'm worried
that people will mistake you as an
angry uber Steely Dan Fan instead
of actually digesting your great
counter-point. Stick with "Matt
from Chattanooga". It caries a lot
more "honest weight".
Let's not forget that "Kevin the
40 year old intern O'Donnel" also
called "Downtown Canon", one of the
best, if not 'THE' best tracks,
simply a, "paean to coked-up nights".
Before they made this genius an assistant
editor at Rolling Stone who also contributes
pop music reviews to The Washington Post,
he was the Rolling Stone internship
coordinator as of October 2007.
But hey, the word "cocaine" does appear
in the song. I think Wally put that in
for Chris in New Hamp. ;^)
So others are also hear the C$ "voices" in
there heads during the day.
"C$ OCD"
Don't try and fight it people.
You can't.

Date: Wed, June 11, 2008, 00:00:14 ET
Posted by: fpe, Boston

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 23:22:02 ET
Posted by: Matt, Chattanooga, TN

Wanted to say a few things about the review.

1) I may be as far off base as that guy was in my understanding of Door Number Two. Mostly I like to reserve judgement on what I think a song is about until way later. I mean, there's songs on Pretzel Logic on which my internal jury is still out.

2) A lot of the things I did say were inspired by things I have read here. I'm certainly not trying to pretend otherwise.

3) One of my friends in Knoxville got his copy of Circus Money today, and started a new website just because of it. I'll post when it's fully activated, but essentially it will be a site of albums reviewed in three words. The opening album will be Circus Money and the review will be "Now That's Smooth."

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 23:09:09 ET
Posted by: Persona Non Grata, Texas

Hoops writes, "Besides Amazon.com and Borders.com where else should we spread the word about C$?"

A good place would be the worlds largest online music store (iTunes.). [As of this moment, there's only one review there and it's lukewarm.]

Cordially,
PNG

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 23:04:13 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Outstanding, Matt!

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 22:57:31 ET
Posted by: Matt, Chattanooga, TN

I set up an account at rollingstone.com and posted a review in response to the official one, which I had dismissed entirely as uninformed the moment I read it. Now that I have had a chance to listen to the album a bunch more, it really pisses me off that the reviewer dismissing much of the album as "reggae-lite jams". Anyway, before I post it, I'd like to first say that apparently this guy is big for calling obvious jackass Kevin Federline's rap album "reprehensible" and a "tragicomedy", and while I kinda agree with him, it's easy to turn that around. Also, the Peter Sellers thing I quoted him on is from a Washington Post article about an unauthorized biography of Sacha Baron Cohen (Borat). Again, I'm kinda twisting it back on him, but he's gonna feel the wrath of not appreciating awesomeness.

[Check out Matt's respnse at http://www.rollingstone.com/reviews/album/20949151/review/20961624/circus_money and leave your own there too. Also keep in mind such sites are prone to request exclusivity or they will may pull it from their site. Please leave links but do not cross-post full reviews here.]

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 22:34:50 ET
Posted by: sd, one day at at time

To Walter, or Walter's people, or whoever - thanks millions for sending me C$ ahead of the release date! While worth the wait, it sounds better and better every day I listen.

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 22:27:45 ET
Posted by: KMITB, Mt. Belzoni

How's it feel to not be the Uncle anymore?

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 22:25:08 ET
Posted by: Uncle Bob,

Circus Money is the best work that either of them has released, individually or collectively, since Gaucho.

Discuss.

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 22:14:04 ET
Posted by: My guess, nowhere

The intro to D#2 reminds me of Slang of Ages.

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 22:00:49 ET
Posted by: Brain Strainer,

Tonight's Strainer involves the new Walter Becker Release CirCus Money, which was both highly anticipated and was a long time coming. Not everyone has the full recording yet although pieces have leaked out in dribs and drabs. Well, if you have the full recording you might be have a distinct advantage over those who don't but this one can be solved if you have any dribs drabs or the Mp3 and paid attention to "Door Number Two", which is the first track off of the CD.

"Door Number Two" has a very distinct intro, highly similar sonically to and existing on only one other track on the nine Steely Dan studio records. Name that tune. A 1/2 point bonus will be awarded to he or she who identifies where in the tune it occurs.

Difficulty level is about a 5 out of 10.

The first correct answer could possibly, but not necessarily win a pair of tickets to see the Montreal Expos baseball game in a day contest prior to the July 2nd Dan show at L'Estade Olympique in Montreal, P.Q.

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 20:23:57 ET
Posted by: Steely Fan, NJ

I pre-ordered C$ through Barnes and Noble online because their warehouse(exit 8A) is 5 minutes from me (exit 9-ish). But I have yet to get a shipment notification so I picked up a copy on the way home. I wasn't too happy about him using "the band" because it was all getting a little too interchangeable for me with them recording Morph and doing the Fagen solo tour as well as the SD dates. But I completely forgot about it while listening which is a good thing.

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 20:11:30 ET
Posted by: Chan, Half way to #17, Boston

Picked up my copy of C$ after work today. Borders on the North Shore of Boston had my copy waiting for me. Listened to it on my way home and my first thought is that the audio clips did not come close to doing it justice. I am looking forward to getting familiar with it and having it grow on me like all other Dan / Donald / Walter music.

So whats the plan for before the show Saturday night 6/21 in NYC?

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 19:47:43 ET
Posted by: Jaydubz, Laurel Canyon

Working my way through the first listen of C$ ~ in a word, stunning! Becker & Klein are like chocolate & peanut butter...

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 19:43:54 ET
Posted by: tom, in texas

NO CIRCUS MONEY.
No physical cd exists here in Lubbock texas (home of buddy holly).
Darn it, I should have preordered. I hope some will come to town somewhere. I've tried ALL the retailers. I did get the free download of "paging audrey" from amazon and I'm loving it.

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 19:24:41 ET
Posted by: D, H

Angel, the bass is hypnotic: I found myself playing it over & over on the way to work. I tried recording it on my phone tonight for the ringtone, but the sound is tinny and the bass drops right out. Will have to try something else.

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 19:01:12 ET
Posted by: St John, RS Online

Does anyone have a login account at rollingstone.com? It might be nice to put a comment in that dope's review , the one by the guy who said Door # 2 was about a game show host boinking an underage contestant.

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 18:44:40 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Nice review, Matt.

At the rate we're going, Matt's going to win the essay contest too ;-)

Besides Amazon.com and Borders.com where else should we spread the word about C$?

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 18:43:10 ET
Posted by: hoops on behalf of Oleander, Atlanta Show within 72 hours, Tickets For Sale

Hey there--

I have two too many tix for the 6/11 show in Alpharetta (aka north greater Atlanta): Orch 3 (Becker side), row L, 9 & 10, for face ($95), i.e. without the additional Ticketbastard bloodletting fees. E me quick.

oleander

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 17:49:24 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

Congrats, Matt. I, too, wondered if that was your review at Amazon.

It tells you something when the best entry, from a number of big SD fans, ended up being only 8 songs. Yet, there are already complaints (at least one, anyway) about this setlist.

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 17:46:44 ET
Posted by: heymike, near some mall

Hoops,

Just got mine at lunch and did exactly that(cheapskate that I am), my first listen will be on my deck with a cold one!

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 17:07:08 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana, sizzling like an isotope

Congratulations, Matt !!! And, is that your review of C$ on amazon.com ?? Excellent review; right on the money (no pun intended...) and I couldn't agree with you more. Good job.!!
Here's hoping tons of people buy Walter's awesome new CD.....

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 17:03:43 ET
Posted by: angel,

Denise: That's what happened to me this morning, Bob's baseline in my head. Now why is it that the songs I like the best (Downtown Canon, Darkling Down, Paging Audrey) weren't there...but Bob was? Funny how our brain works. Must be that baseline.

There are outrageously cool basslines going on C$. :-)

Hey Matt, great review on Amazon!!!!!
You did good by Dandom. :-)

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 16:51:22 ET
Posted by: TJ, DK

Todays favorite: "Upside Looking Down"

And O the hero in disguise
Believing his own alibis
You run so scared you’re standing
I know you are — I know you will

So so so beautiful!

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 16:48:39 ET
Posted by: Announcing the winner..., Matt Kearns!

Our little List-15-songs-that-you-think-will-be-played-on-the-first-evening-of-the-tour was won by Matt Kearns, who managed to get 8 songs correct on his list.

Thanks to all who played.

After seeing the setlists and reading the reports so far it looks like all who got a ticket to any of the Think Fast shows are winners.

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 16:26:23 ET
Posted by: Denise, Hinktown cubicle

Dean, enjoy! I have the bass from Bob's Not You're Uncle Anymore stuck in my mind...must find out how to download it as a ringtone.
Darkling Down is is another I am liking very much.

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 16:12:20 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

Well,

I went to pick up my C$ at the local record shop, and was surprised to hear they didn't get their C$ stock yet, either. I was relieved to see they had ONE copy, set aside, that they had special ordered for me.

I guess is should come as no surprise that Jimmy Buffett's distribution company is less than efficient. Have another margarita and a fatty, boys.

Just hearing it for the first time, now.

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 15:17:33 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, @work

Just listening to C$ while doing some paperwork and remembered that at a birthday party on Saturday I used the phrase "in for a penny, in for a pound" which I am certain I'd never used before. Like many others here, C$ seems to have spun its web through my brain already.

KC

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 14:37:26 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

You can get C$ for $8.99 at Borders TODAY only.

They have it for $14.99 but on sale for $12.99.

If you have a "Borders Rewards" card, you can get it for $8.99. You need to use a coupon they have or give the cashier code "JUNE9" with your Rewards card. If you lost your card, they can look you up by email address. There's a limit of three. I've promised them as various gifts.

As mentioned in the last Dandom Digest, Target appears to be carrying it only on-line. Kmart appears not to have it at all. Circuit City can have it waiting for you at store pickup, assuming the store has it. The online sites Borders and B&N retail stores can tell you which stores should have it, although there is some lag between when someone buys the last copy and when it is reflected online. There's 3 less copies than listed at the State & Randolph Chicago Borders. ;-)

Enjoy!

BTW: It was also five years ago today that EMG came out.

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 13:46:50 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

Dean - not a biggie so I didn't look back to find it and not even sure it was intended toward me as there was another poster in the discussion...anatomical reference as I recall (IMHO not in keeping with your or Rajah's interesting & enlightening posts).

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 13:41:47 ET
Posted by: angel,

I love Paging Audrey...I really love it. Great choice for download.

After living with C$ for a week and a half, I wake up in the morning with tracks running through my head. A cool thing.

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 13:29:40 ET
Posted by: KMITB, Mt. Belzoni

Wow...just downloaded Paging Audrey off Amazon....whew...if the rest of the album is like this, we have ourselves a smooth winner...very good indeed!!!

Now to see if I can track the CD down...looks like it's hard to find at the usual retailers!!! All the Best buys in my area show up as unavailable.....unless they sold out......nahhhhh!!!

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 13:16:31 ET
Posted by: Web Search, NorthSouth

If you call up C$ on barnesandnoble.com it will show availability at local stores provides you're registered.

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 13:05:38 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Tom, that sucks.

You also scared the crap out of me, as I am about to head to my local record shop to pick up my copy...I was very worried. I called and it has arrived (thank God and Jimmy Buffett.)

I hope you get yours today or tomorrow.

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 12:49:52 ET
Posted by: tom, in texas

NO CIRCUS MONEY HERE
I have contacted walmart, circuit city, target, best buy, hastings etc. No physical copies are here in Lubbock texas. Perhaps Walter hasn't mentioned it yet because it's not out yet.

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 12:19:04 ET
Posted by: TampaDan, Tampa

"w/lyrics" simply makes reference to the transition when the Royal Scam portion of the instrumental medley gives way to the moment when DF strolls onstage, parks it behind the Rhodes and begins to sing RS.

Great comments from Casual; I was in the sixth row on the DF side and clearly saw him mouth "It's not my birthday". Absolutely hilarious was correct. All involved just seemed to be in a great mood last night; a little unusual for so early in a tour? Whatever, just glad I got to see/hear it. You know it's a great night when even the band introductions are a highlight!

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 12:13:30 ET
Posted by: Matt, chattanooga, TN

Actually, a further look shows that one can download Paging Audrey as a free track from amazon.com. Awesome, awesome, awesome. I am as excited that there seems to be word of mouth building for this album as I am to listen to it myself.

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 12:07:36 ET
Posted by: Casual fan, orlando

At the risk of overstaying my welcome by commenting too much on the Clearwater show, let me add two other things.

First, I was disappointed that we heard nothing from C$. I really think the band could do a lot with Somebody's Saturday Night, which is my personal favorite and I think would be a crowd pleaser, if only because its probably one of the most generic tunes on the CD. Given that the release date of the CD was yesterday or today I was sort of surprised that they didn't even mention it.

I could speculate that they are working on something. They did play New Frontier (which was superb, by the way) and so it may be that they will slide something from WB direclty into the line-up. What would make sense is to do it for the band intros. I, too cannot name that tune they used last night for it. Would be an easy place to insert a WB solo song.

Second, WB at one point remarked to the crowd that if we knew Santa we should tell him what his wish is, which was that every night they could play Ruth Eckerd Hall and that every night we could be there. Now, it sure seemed genuine to me, though on its face the words themselves could be used over and over, at different venues. Its just that they really seemed to be enjoying themselves last night and the sound in that place is so good, I wonder if the technician in Becker really does like that particular place.

I discussed that with my date, who has travelled many times to see various bands, among them Widespread Panic. She said that in her experience she could tell when Panic was really enjoying themselves versus when they did their jobs. Says that they were always pros, but that in smaller places she could pick up on a different level of energy.

I honestly feel like we got that last night from SD. Tell you what --I got a feeling that those of you going to the Beacon, or to Red Rocks or places of that nature -- you are in for something special.

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 11:59:12 ET
Posted by: Rajah, amen hoops

Dean, here in this highly-polished hell I've come to know and love as The Blue, you have to put up with a lot to get your opinion, however humbly couched, out there. Cause as someone once said to me, "you can't tell people anything."

A big sense of humour is a requisite round here, some folks just don't get that. And it seems to me we're losing what we do have very fast, devolving into some very hurtful and personal attacks. Those people will always be with us but they always fade over time, the true fans of this music remain over years and years.

Corse? And here I went to all the trouble to replace "shit," with, "fecal material,"...what a waste. Golly, I've really lost some vinegar over time, it's not all the gags and giggles it seems, and it appears that Bob's sure ain't my Uncle anymore.

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 11:55:47 ET
Posted by: Matt, Chattanooga, TN

Circus Money is in the promo area on mp3.amazon.com...awesome publicity.

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 11:51:56 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Thanks,

Looking forward to hearing the re-arranged Showbiz.

Oh, and I think you are right about what Tampa meant with the "lyrics" thing...makes sense.

Thanks

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 11:48:44 ET
Posted by: Casual fan, orlando

Dean, I think I can answer exactly none of your questions.

As to RS, I honestly am not familiar with the lyrics enough to say one way or t'other whether DF changed them. I may be wrong, but I will speculate that what Tampa meant by that was that Fagen was singing because at that point he and WB had sauntered on stage. I think Tampa was just indicating that.

As to the Yahel trio, my date and I (and about 200 other people) were sitting outside the seating area enjoying a beer or two prior to SD. I actually missed them altogether! Now that I know that some of the band came out and jammed with them, I guess I have to say "oops."

I'll add something I forgot (your query about RS reminded me). They did a completely different arrangement on Showbiz Kids than I've heard them do before. I recollect during '06 when McDonald was with them, it was much truer to the original version. But this version was ... different. I won't say better or worse. Just different. Don't get me wrong, it was excellent. And my personal favorite part of it was that they twice sang the refrain on "Show business kids making movies of themselves you know they don't ..." What can I say? Even at 44 its still pretty hip to me that the Dan can curse when its called for!

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 11:38:19 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, @work

Last time there was a formal drum solo was on the '03 tour. What a shame for Keith.

KC

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 11:28:55 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Thanks for the additions, CF.

A couple of quick questions. Tampa had this in his set list: "Royal Scam (w/lyrics by DF)". So, I wanted to ask you, or Tampa, what that means. Were there new or different lyrics in RS, last night?

And, did Yahel's band make a better impression on you, last night? According to Tampa they were really smoking when Weiskopf and Leonhart joined in.

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 11:24:04 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Good reminder about the reviews, Chris.

Let's sweeten things up a bit.

Off and on, the Dandom Digest would sponsor album review contests where Danfans would submit their reviews to Dandom Digest and then we'd all vote on the best one. The author would get a prize as would another author selected randomly--just to give a chance to those who tried but can't necessarily write as well. Finally a prize to a voter selected at random.

So here's how I will sweeten things up.

Instead of entering the reviews to the Dandom Digest where they just serve the purpose of some sort of mutual narcissim, let's post them where they will build some buzz and support for Walter's new one. So instead, post your review to Amazon.com, Borders.com, and other sites where they are selling C$ so your review can do some good. Then email me the link privately and you'll be entered.

Prize list?

How about winners getting to select one of these or something:

• I will throw in a UK version of C£
• I'll mail you a couple of our C$ temporary tattoos I have coming
• I'll enlarge and print the cover of C$ at 35" X 35" or maybe some photo of Walter.

So post your reviews at these sites, then privately EMAIL me the URL but don't let'em know I sent you!

Deadline? Sure we need one or you won't do it. Let's say this Sunday at Midnight, Chicago time or when I get up the next morning.

Jim

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 11:17:01 ET
Posted by: Casual fan, Orlando

Let me add a few observations to Tampa's review of the show last night in Clearwater.

First, Fagen was an absolute maniac up there. He looked like a mad scientist, all hunched over and bopping along, like he was mixing some potion or another in his beakers. Tons of facial expression, nodding to the crowd at many points. Animated is a good word, if not an understatement. I turned to my date (she is also a big fan) and I said he looked possessed. She said -- as she did in 2000 -- "I love that little man."

His voice was stronger than I've ever heard it.

WB was also as high energy as I've seen. I saw them in 2000, 2006, and 2007, and he always seemed almost along for the ride to me in those other shows. But last night he took a lot of lead, mixing it up from time to time with Herrington. WB and DF seemed to realy appreciate both the warm reception they were getting and the fact that the band was tight as hell, especially for only the second tour stop. Both of them often looked back approvingly at Herrington and the horn section. Of note to me, Becker did not once move over to the stool they had put there for him in case his back acted up. He was just out there groovin and chatting away from time to time.

Next, the venue was really tremendous. The seating slopes up gently from the stage. It would take a Wilt or a Shaq sitting in front of you to cause a problem and I didn't see either of them there. The place was jam packed and I hereby officially withdraw my earlier comment about them maybe letting things cool down before going out again. If they come back, its none to soon for me!

Tampa gave you the setlist, I'll give you what may be, but I hope is not, A SPOILER.

During the band intros, Becker said it was a special night and as he introduced Fagen, he said that it was Fagen's birthday. The crowd stood and gave a thunderous cheer and Fagen looked at Becker, shook his head, looked back at the audience and mouthed the words "It's not my birthday" to the delight of everyone who caught it. Later, before the encores, Becker said that he was wrong and that Fagen's b-day is in January. Fagen kind of shot him a fake pissed look.

I hope that exchange wasn't scripted. If it wasn't, it was just one more nugget of fun in a night filled with them. If it was, well, they are consumate professionals in making the audience feel like they shared a giggle with the legendary duo.

Just a tremendous show. Don't miss it.

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 11:05:29 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Bob,

Where did I use course language? I simply posted:

"And, Bob, I guess the guarantee that NO solo songs would be played this tour, is out the window as of show #1!"

Is Bob's skin THAT thin?

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 10:58:56 ET
Posted by: tiny fan,

Chris - Re: "worst Circus Money review?"

I wouldn't say

"he (Becker) has smoothly incorporated the rhythm into some very attractive tunes"

is a bad review.

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 10:51:17 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

The Dean - yes, I will concede you were right...there is solo material and they picked an excellent one. (BTW, I must say the course language does you and Rajah no favors, IMHO).

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 10:46:01 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

AR - thanks for the update on the Carlock solo...I'm very surprised there wasn't one.

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 10:40:11 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

No customer reviews of Circus Money yet in Amazon...you could be the first.

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 09:09:44 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Worst Circus Money review?
http://www.audaud.com/article.php?ArticleID=4259

Key excerpt: "The title tune, however, is not sardonic - it’s about a little kid saving up pennies to go see the circus." Someone should tell this guy Little Walter is not who he thinks it is.

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 08:55:51 ET
Posted by: OH, MY

God bless 'em for trying. Didn't sound too bad until the singing.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=uI89XQs9o7w

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 06:54:12 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

TampaDan:
Sounds like a truly awesome show last night!!! Thanks for the comments and set list. Can't wait to see them......

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 06:22:19 ET
Posted by: Lutz, SF

Jeff Young is cool, but how many people here have bought his cd?
That's right. He sings and plays good.
He does well for himself and has a niche.
Baker was a standout however, a musician you think about on the way home after the show. There is a reason why he on Walter's cd.
Maybe I am also wondering why Young sings on this tour and Walter hasn't??
Can't wait for July and August though...

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 01:04:36 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Oops, missed one:

http://youtube.com/watch?v=pluLCgtj_6I

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 01:00:08 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

There are some low-quality clips from opening night, on youtube:

http://youtube.com/watch?v=ULnl48G4jJA

http://youtube.com/watch?v=-FxvMkqPdh0

http://youtube.com/watch?v=NTdoyfGytPw

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 00:20:11 ET
Posted by: TampaDan, Tampa

No mentions of, or shouts for, C$, but I've got to say that tonight were the longest and most inventive solos I have ever been fortunate enough to hear from Walter. And when he and Jon traded solo passages in Kid Charlemagne, Oh Christ, I thought I was going to need a rabies shot. OK, enough bullshit from me, back to that beer...

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 00:12:01 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, Troposphere

Thanks for the update.

COME ON JULY 15th!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 00:10:07 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Thanks. I will know better next time (if there is one) and won't pass on that spot. That's exactly the kind of venue I think The Dan belongs in, all the time (or when possible).

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 00:08:20 ET
Posted by: TampaDan, Tampa

2,000 seats, literally "not a bad seat in the house", but it's never more true than in Ruth Eckerd. No balconies, loges or overhangs so incredibly clean sound, better even than Morsani Hall at Tampa Bay PAC. So good that Walter remarked about it at one point, in fact. Lots of parking, easy to get to, a gem really. If there was one empty seat anywhere it wasn't near me. Even the crowd was great; no fucking talkers, but amazingly appreciative at the appropriate times. Just a perfect night in the perfect place in Tampa Bay to see a show.

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 00:05:24 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Thanks TampaDan!
Sounds like the are setting the
bar high and early this year.
Now if we can only coax Walter
to do something from C$!
Any shouts from the crowd for
C$?

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 00:02:30 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Tampa Dan,

Tell us a little about the venue, Ruth Eckerd Hall, if you don't mind.

Date: Tues, June 10, 2008, 00:00:10 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Tampa Dan,

Thanks. That was worth the wait.

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 23:54:27 ET
Posted by: TampaDan, Tampa

Wow, still decompressing just a bit here: easily the greatest of the eight times I've seen the Dan since 2000, a bit of a harder-edged sound this year that's a little difficult to describe until you hear it. Set list:

Medley: Everyone's Gone to the Movies/The Fez/Royal Scam
Royal Scam (w/lyrics by DF)
I Got The News
Show Biz Kids
Everything You Did
Two Against Nature
Hey Nineteen
Godwhacker
Bablyon Sisters
New Frontier
What a Shame About Me (Jeff Young)
Glamour Profession
Parker's Band (the lovely ladies)
Black Friday
Green Earrings
Josie
Band Intros
Peg

Kid Charlemagne
FM

I guess the first indication that it was going to be a special night came when Walt and Michael sat in with Sam Yahel. Walt positively blew his freaking brains out with Sam, a sound remarkably like that of Joe Henderson on McCoy Tyner's The Real McCoy. I've never seen DF so animated and seemingly enjoying himself. Walter took some fabulous solos himself. And so much for any thought of a shorter show with an opening act! Break out the superlatives, it was that kind of a night! Show Biz, Everything, and Frontier were major highlights and did so much to liven up the set. Wow, time for a cold beer or two and the box set on the CD player. Don't miss it if you get the chance; it was religion tonight.

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 23:40:04 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Hey Clearwater -
Any word?

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 23:37:47 ET
Posted by: AR,

Bob, no real length Carlock solo surprisingly. Although in the opening medley he was able to stretch out alone for a bit.

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 23:02:16 ET
Posted by: gauchoamigo, North Hollywood

Yeah, jamminjoe. I'm going to Nokia and Honda Center, and also to Chicago on July 15, and I was thinking about going back to Chicago in August but probably won't. Don't know about the weather in the Valley. I've been in West LA all weekend. Can't wait to see SD again.

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 22:46:55 ET
Posted by: Jamminjoe, Hollywood

gauchoamigo- Hi neighbor! Are you going to the NOKIA in downtown LA on 7/23? Hows the weather in "The Valley"?

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 22:28:25 ET
Posted by: For all of Dandom, This Bud's for YOU!

Kingpin: The Scam is potent shit. Enough to get out to a show. Maybe a couple. Or four?

At LONG fuggin last, we got the the fuggin setlist that we all bitched for, which is a solo DF Band sort of list.

New Frontier was played on the DF Band 2006 solo jaunt.

LEARN from this set list and SOBOBA! SOBOBA! SOBOBA!. Go to a show with NO opening act, like those shows and you won't be disappointed. You shoyuld get 19 to 22 songs.

That was a nice touch for them to crank in a few more tunes as a medley.

This setlist is prima facie evidence, if there ever was any that The Two, or someone is reading this stuff, the bitching and whining of the past three years. Praise be to the Blue Bitchers that brought about change!

Finally, speaking of change, OBAMA in '08!

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 21:47:21 ET
Posted by: saramara, ptkmSnHMowVUwIkPz

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Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 21:11:02 ET
Posted by: Jeff B, Tamarac, FL

The T-shirts were marked $35 and $40 and the long sleeve ones were marked $60 & $65. The key chains were $15 as were the mugs. The CDs ('Circus Money' and 'Morph') were twenty each. Caps were $25. Hope that helps...

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 21:07:51 ET
Posted by: kzkzkz, nynyny

Great set list. Can't wait for the weekend...and then next week...and then next weekend!

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 20:23:21 ET
Posted by: tarheeldanfan, Raleigh

On the way to Georgia, sweet peaches. Look for me in the Carolina Blue shirt. THDF

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 20:04:38 ET
Posted by: gauchoamigo, North Hollywood

Could somebody please post the prices of the swag here? Thanks.

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 19:14:43 ET
Posted by: Asian Man,

I sure miss the outdoor arena venues.

you could stand and rock out

i dont like sitting in my seat 4 the entire show

great set-list though

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 18:11:23 ET
Posted by: Cary,

The only thing I can make out on the Donald Fagen Band shirt is the last line which reads "Anaheim Pala Las Vegas - Tour 2008"

I certainly hope this (tour) isn't what Fagen meant when he said he was going to tour (solo) again...

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 18:01:34 ET
Posted by: steelydoc, near the Tower

just curious: if anyone can report what is written on the back of the DF Band shirt...thanks

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 17:49:05 ET
Posted by: angel,

The light bulb shirt looks kind of cream colored, to me. Sort of like the EMG shirt from '03.

Nice merch! Should I buy another key chain? lol

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 17:38:03 ET
Posted by: St John, squinting

Kid Clean, maybe it's my old man's eyes, but the light bulb shirt looks tan on my monitor. I also like the khaki design, looks like an art deco treatment . I wonder how non-Beacon goers will ever get that Beacon shirt. Sigh -- where's that old eBay account login?

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 17:37:52 ET
Posted by: Clutch Cargo, and his dog Paddlefoot

The whole Sugartooth thing sucked. Moreover, it was their weakest tour.

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 17:24:57 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, @here

I like the light bulb shirt, awful that it's white, worst color for a tshirt.

Beacon only shirt looks very cool. If anyone would be willing to pick one up for a non-traveling to new york danfan please email me.

KC

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 17:14:55 ET
Posted by: Clutch Cargo, and his dog Paddlefoot

Oh. Maybe they will bring back Shep?

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 17:13:06 ET
Posted by: Boston Rag, Think Fast Dandom

Does anyone know why this tour is being called "Think Fast"?
When I was a kid we used to throw a baseball or some other object at each other and yell "Think Fast!". I guess it makes as much sense as "Art Crimes" or "Sugartooth McDan".

Mark in Boston

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 17:07:36 ET
Posted by: Ummmmm,

Ummm Clutch,
Have you checked SD.com for tour dates lately?

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 17:03:32 ET
Posted by: Clutch Cargo, and his dog Paddlefoot

Between August 21 and August 25 he flies to Israel? Why not?

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 16:56:02 ET
Posted by: Maybe, replacing Walt

Ari Ambrose?

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 16:53:51 ET
Posted by: Dash LaRue,

Walt Weiskopf?
I wonder who will be replacing Walt Weiskopf for the last leg of the tour? His website only lists dates up to the 9th of August and he is in Israel as of the 25th of August.
Any ideas.

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 16:50:41 ET
Posted by: Just askin, anywhere Martha isn't

How, exactly, was DF "brought aboard" for Martha's latest?

http://radaronline.com/radar-reviews/2008/06/i_know_youre_married_but_ive_got_feelings_too_martha_wainwri.php

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 16:42:11 ET
Posted by: TampaDan, Tampa

If you're heading for St. Petersburg, it's going to be a Dan-free evening for you, since the show is in Clearwater...

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 16:31:31 ET
Posted by: hayduke, on 75 heading for St Pete

Anyone heading to the St. Pete show?

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 16:30:26 ET
Posted by: hayduke, on 75 heading for St Pete

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 16:01:50 ET
Posted by: Do It, Again

Glad to see My Old School & FM weren't the encores again this year!

What kind of swag was available?

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 15:53:42 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

AR (or SteelyDana, David P or anyone in attendance last night) - did Carlock take a solo?...if so, on Josie?...impressions?

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 15:49:44 ET
Posted by: AR,

SteelyDana: Ohhh- got it. I thought you had been at the concert, and I had missed something that happened.

I think the audience was a bit more vocal during that part, and many smiles were elicited.

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 15:46:14 ET
Posted by: g&r, highway ticket

Point well taken..

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 15:41:46 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar

So, G & R, what IS the reality of the situation? I agree it is all speculation, but how do you know none of the conclusions "come close to reality"?

Without more than that, you post is as specious as all the others.

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 15:37:36 ET
Posted by: gossip and rumor, not there

Your speculation of Ted Baker being on tour or not is all baseless and rumors.

Not even a single item posted has come close to reality.

I can understand being caught up in the tour hysteria,but please

p.s. including bathroom idle chatter and look at who I can say I know

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 15:16:17 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., NJ

Even though I already have my Borgata ticket I periodically go back and check to see what single seat location is being offered---just out of curiosity, no intention to upgrade or anything. Well, I tried last night and just now with the same non-result. I forget the exact phrase (I closed the window), but it told me something to the effect of "Nothing in that price range available." That's despite the fact that I checked off "Best available."

So the show is not listed as sold out and yet there doesn't seem to be one single ticket available. I have to assume that very good tickets have been held back (for whatever various and usual reasons) and very probably will become suddenly available as the show date nears, perhaps only a day or two ahead. That's how I scored a great seat to the 2006 Camden show.

Just thought I'd mention it for anyone who might be interested in the Borgata show in particular. (Though the same general routine probably applies to just about any of the shows.)

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 15:13:44 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

AR:
Wasn't asking if DF sang "is there gas in the car".....was only wondering what the audience response might have been...
Not really an earth-shattering question.

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 15:09:53 ET
Posted by: Dan Belcher, Louisville, KY

In a perfect world, I would like to have Jeff Young on Hammond B3 organ and a Wurlitzer electric piano AND Ted Baker on a Steinway grand piano at the same time. That is, unfortunately, very cost prohibitive.

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 15:08:36 ET
Posted by: MC Maxxed Out, workin' in a coal mine

Bonus points if you can read the cities on the back of the Aja and DF shirts.

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 15:08:09 ET
Posted by: John Walsh, AMW

Rajah- Funny story. I was in the mens room in AC during intermission for the 2006 Steely Dan show. As I'm washing my hands I hear these two guys talking. One of the says that he's friends with Ted Baker. The other guy said "how come Ted isn't on the tour this year. His friend said "I don't know, but Ted was pissed that he didn't get asked back".

I remember this conversation like it was yesterday. And by the way Raj, Herington gets just as many session gigs as Baker,probably more. Funny how he can tour every year.

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 14:57:26 ET
Posted by: geo,

BillfromPgh,Jeff Young was not the MD for the NYR&SR. It was his backing band but he wasn't "the guy".

I like Young's fills but I prefer Baker. And I'm very happy to hear that Miss Agee is in the band. Soul baby soul!

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 14:55:47 ET
Posted by: Josey, St. Simons Island

Why not make the merchandise available for purchase from SD's site?

Was impressed to see the setlist from last night and am now seriously considering last minute tix to Atlanta. For the first time since I can remember, SD's tour this summer wasn't as enticing as has been before. That list from last night may have changed my mind!

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 14:53:11 ET
Posted by: Dan Historian, cyberspace

Fagen was quoted in a 1981 Rolling Stone piece that they asked each musician what they wanted (monetarily) and gave it to them. When they found out what the others were making there was a socialist revolt and they scrapped it.

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 14:41:37 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

Wasn't the tour of Aja cancelled due to Don and Walt refusing to pay Raney, Purdie, Griffin (and maybe Carlton) what they thought their services were worth? (I'm using Don and Walt to include their managment at the time)...can anyone confirm that?

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 14:30:40 ET
Posted by: Casual fan, Orlando

The Dean:

That's the beauty of being a casual fan. Even if everyone else likes it (i.e. Yahel) I can say I don't and am easily dismissed!

There is something very liberating about having an uninformed opinion. Guess it takes the pressure off, y' know?

I'm about 45 minutes out from hitting the road. Dinner at 6, show at 8. Got a change of clothes, a toothbrush, and there's gas in the car. This will be my fourth SD show and usually I'm in a bit of a tizzy trying to entertain friends or new acquaintances. This one I plan to just sit back and soak in. Maybe the Monday night thing will work to my advantage after all.

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 14:30:22 ET
Posted by: ed_beatty, @the beacon soon

Mark,
E-mail me about the shirts

Ed

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 14:25:17 ET
Posted by: Boston Rag, .

Wow! That Beacon shirt design looks remarkably similar to the design our own Denise did for the Boston Danfest poster last summer. Still got plenty of those babies left over by the way, if folks are interested.

Mark in Boston

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 14:24:48 ET
Posted by: George, in Paris

I'm thinking "Coal Mine" for the WB signature cologne. A fragrance that stays with you.

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 13:36:31 ET
Posted by: matt, chattanooga, TN

A Beacon exclusive shirt, huh? Man, those shows should be something special.

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 13:33:12 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar

Beat me to the punch, Doc.

The Dan has destroyed that bold statement made by one poster a while back: A band never leaves an area of the country and then returns to it later! Tours just aren't done that way, he/she stated.

I guess they are, sometimes.

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 13:28:44 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar

Merchandise page added to Steelydan.com:

http://www.steelydan.com/tour08merch.html

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 13:25:37 ET
Posted by: steelydoc, near thee Tower

steelydan.com has been updated with a new CA date, and also a page of SD merch...

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 13:25:22 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar

Chris,

You hit the nail on the head "we don't know" the reason why the boys have Young, and not Baker, on tour. I'm guessing nobody here is privy to the inside truth. If Fogel or Hoops posted it, I might think otherwise.

People actually turn down jobs that pay a lot of money for various reasons...I know I have. So, the idea that Baker chose not to tour isn't totally out of the question...though I doubt that happened.

I think Bill's analysis makes the most sense. Young brings more versatility and helps the band save the cost of an extra body, in the process.

I will miss Baker's keyboard embellishments, but I will dig what Young brings to the vocals. They both play the music very well, of course.

Casual Lawgator, enjoy the show. I wish I could make it tonight, Had I known I was playing a little hooky today, I would have sucked it up and spent the money, despite not having it. I'll have to wait until July. This waiting for C$, and now for the concert, is killing me. :#)

Oh, Casual...I thought Yahel was pretty good last year. I particularly like what they did with Norwegian Wood (that was the Beatles tune they did, right?).

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 13:11:45 ET
Posted by: BillfromPgh,

Jeff Young has deeper history with DF (and WB) than any other touring keyboardist - he was on NYRSR, and I believe he was musical director of those tours.

I liked Ted's piano, but Jeff brings more B3 and layers to songs that benefit from them. I know the purists are not fond of the digital piano but amplified in a shed it works fine, and can be MIDI'd to synth patches when needed, for I Got The News in particular (which I think is a great live song and should not be dropped). I also believe he was selected as a double threat, and a male backing voice is good to have on hand.

I would also say we oughta quit our collective bitching now that the boys have constructed a set list unusualy light on the warhorses and overplayed hits. I've been waiting to hear Herrington try out that great crackling Carlton intro on Everything You Did for a few tours now, and I'll bet it's hot. And 4 tunes from the post 20th century repertoire plus one DF solo ain't bad for us hardcore fans considering the all-70s tour of two years ago. I also wouldn't be shocked if more hits and less deep cuts creep in as the tour progresses to cater to the typical shed audience. And with a new CD out they really oughta let Walter sing one, even if it's just a SD oldie like Haitian, Monkey, Daddy or (my fave) Midnight Cruiser.

It's probably too much to hope that they have rehearsed enough material to mix it up during the tour, at least the Beacon run. We can wish, though.

Did the arrangement of Show Biz Kids mirror the James Brown-influenced 2006 version with McDonald or have they tinkered with it again?

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 13:11:44 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar

I wonder if Mary J. Blige will come out with "Eau de Mary J", for the ladies.

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 13:10:58 ET
Posted by: Casual fan, Like it matters

Several random thoughts.

First, I like the setlist from Hollywood. I'm headed to the Clearwater show tonight. Yahel is back as an opener and so I am guessing we aren't going to get 19 songs from SD. Hoping for 15. I especially hope they keep on New Frontier and TvN. Saw Yahel and his band last year -- I am sure they are world class and highly thought of by folks in the know -- but honestly I just thought they sounded way too free form for my own tastes.

Second, over the weekend listened more and more to C$. I am focused in on Somebody's Saturday Night. I realize that the CD is highly unlikely to get much if any real air play, but as a casual fan who is admittedly not as technically proficient as the rest of you (as in I have literally none), that song seems to me to have the most potential for people on their way home from work to think to themselves "That was gitchy" before tuning in NPR. If they throw in a tune from the CD tonight, I hope its that one.

Third, somewhat depressing but nonetheless of note, there are still tickets on sale tonight on TM for the Clearwater show. Last year, when the band came to Orlando, they sold out in 20 minutes. They did two Clearwater shows in '07, so I am assuming that the first sold out and justified another, and I know people were excited about them coming through. But now here we are in '08 with one show in Central Florida instead of three and it appears it may not sell out. I like to think its because its a Monday night in the sauna of Florida mid-June. But in all candor I think this might be the last tour for a little while, at least. Let the appetitie build up again.

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 13:10:46 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

We don't know why Baker isn't touring with Steely Dan anymore.

What we do know is that Fagen's tour, the 06, 07, and 08 tours were low budget, and that a lot of money was probably saved eliminating a backup singer and hiring a keyboard player who can sing, and plays Nord Electros instead of grand pianos.

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 13:05:14 ET
Posted by: Jimmy The Nose,

I think Walter's cologne should be Ultra Dank Super Fine.

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 13:01:15 ET
Posted by: Ha-ha, w

Rajah,

still trying to figure out how this:

"Rajah -- knowing the sort of money Baker and Bernhardt were getting and the venues they were playing on the Art Garfunkel tour, I sincerely doubt that he chose the Lion King over the Fagen solo tour based off of finances or prestige alone.

In spite of Fagen's bigger band, there was much, much, much more money to be made going on the road with Donald in the early spring of 2006 than there was in the late summer/fall of 2002 with Art. And yet, he chose choosing against Lion King for Art, but didn't for Donald.

Why?"

Equaled this response:

"Now put this in your snoots, pauly and hah-hah, and BTW, hah, if I may call you by your first name, hah, everytime you post I'm reminded of an hyena, baying at the moon and throwing your fecal material around. Ted Baker makes more dough doing studio sessions in NYC than he could ever on a Steely Dan tour. Hmm, let's see, when was the last time Hugh McCracken packed up his trunk and hit the road? If you knew your shit as well as you like to throw it around, you'd know this has been the case with oh-so-many players throughout the years. But hey, back to your dung-heap, huh, don't let me drag you away from that very important work."

Seems pretty tactless and unnecessary.

I wanted to pick your brain and wonder aloud as to why Baker would choose the less lucrative tour where fewer people would hear him (in the fall, with more competing shows going on) over the Fagen tour for more cash, more faces, with less competition. That's why I ended with "Why?"

You, apparently, got up on the wrong side of the bed today.

Nevermind.

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 12:59:05 ET
Posted by: AR,

SteelyDana, does DF usually not sing "Is/Yes there's gas in the car?" What was the big deal?

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 12:58:41 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

And of course for the commericial, they could play "Do You Remember The Name?"

And the conundrum, give the fragrance's name, is that you don't.

But you ALWAYS remember that scent.

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 12:45:51 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Heading Toward the Manatee Bar

Hoops,

That's a good idea (Walter's own scent). As I am taking the afternoon off, I think I may dab a little of that on myself, today.

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 12:40:53 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

I was just reading how Tim McGraw will be promoting his upcoming album--a Wal-Mart exclusive--by also introducing a new fragrance for men.

With WB.com looking for new promotion ideas, clearly Walter could do the same.

It would be called...

"Chiba… . . . …chiba..."

...the scent whose name you must whisper...

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 12:37:12 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

The latest edition of the Dandom Digest went out last night around 11:00 pm, Bluebook Time, this one covering June 1-8, 2008.

If you are a subscriber, you should have it already. As usual, if you didn't receive it, please email me. Some people have problems with delivery of the Dandom Digest, usually because of their spam filters, firewalls, etc.

The following are the subjects of the Dandom Digest for June 1-8, 2008

√ DANDOM DIGEST: The Fans' Newsletter...Your Newsletter
√ Early Reviews: Bet Your Last Piaster on C$!
√ Walterbecker.com: Early Reviews, clips and more
√ REDUX: Early Orders of C$ Now Shipping
√ C$ in US Stores This Tuesday, 6/10
√ UK Version of C£ has a bonus track
√ About SPOILERS, Dandom Digest Reviews & C$
√ UK Rhythm Magazine: Drummers of SD, 2
√ August Shows in Detroit, Chicago, Houston & Dallas Added

√ T I C K E T E X C H A N G E

√--NEW! FS: June 21 Orch Seat
√--NEW! NY June 21 tix for sale
√--NEW! FS June 20 ticket
√--6/20: FS-Single ticket
√--6/18: FS-Beacon Tix Center Row A

√ REDUX: Individual Items Version of Dandom Digest
√ REDUX, REDUX, REDUX: Don't Miss out! Get these E-newsletters
√ SPOILER: 6/8 Hollywood, Florida Setlist

If you are not currently a subscriber but would like to receive the free Dandom Digest email newsletter—definitely not to be confused or affilliated with the glorious (and much more glamorous) Official steelydan.com, walterbecker.com and donaldfagen.com newsletters/mail lists—please email me or see http://dandom.com/dandomdigest

OF SPECIAL NOTE: You can now get most of the content of the Dandom Digest emailed to you close to real-time as individual email messages. Please see the most recent Dandom Digest for more details or email me direct. Because of content differences, those receiving individual messages will also get the Digest.

Thanks as always for your support, especially Mark, Bill and John.

Jim

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 12:13:09 ET
Posted by: Shake and Bake, us

Let's see...

Fagen rode the bus on the Morph to help keep it out of the red and bitched on his website about the profit margins being slim to none. There's no chance Baker simply said "no thanks?"

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 11:59:04 ET
Posted by: Rajah, keep it coming

Donald and Walter sure must like Ted Baker cause he's the main piano player on their last four records. Jeff Young does occupy two slots for them, true, but the loss of Baker on grand really thins out the texture of the sound on the live shows. Ted Baker is far and away superior to Jeff on any keyboard, there is no doubt. See, but Ted is kind of a large guy and takes up way too much space behind Donald with that piano and stuff. Cramps his style see so, yeah, Jeff is cheaper to keep, true.

Now put this in your snoots, pauly and hah-hah, and BTW, hah, if I may call you by your first name, hah, everytime you post I'm reminded of an hyena, baying at the moon and throwing your fecal material around. Ted Baker makes more dough doing studio sessions in NYC than he could ever on a Steely Dan tour. Hmm, let's see, when was the last time Hugh McCracken packed up his trunk and hit the road? If you knew your shit as well as you like to throw it around, you'd know this has been the case with oh-so-many players throughout the years. But hey, back to your dung-heap, huh, don't let me drag you away from that very important work.

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 11:46:55 ET
Posted by: Lonnie THE Kingpin, Lexington

Adding EYD to the set list now proves the point I have been making here and on the Digest for 10 years at least: The Royal Scam album is their overall best, deepest and most diverse recording. Everything has now been played live (with the Fez only in medley format this year and in 1994). This album must get its due -- not a red-headed step-child to AJA. What is better than Green Earrings live??

Lonnie

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 11:33:50 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana, loving the set list.....

What....no comments from the audience last night when The Big Guy (aka DF) sang......"is there gas in the car"???

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 11:29:24 ET
Posted by: Kevin, Orlando

Is there any Danfest planned for the June 9 performance in Tampa? If so, what are the details?

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 11:16:58 ET
Posted by: Lars,

HouDanFan- The reason SD hired Jeff Young was not so he could sing lead on one song to save DF's voice. It was strictly because he could play keyboards and sing back up.

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 11:16:30 ET
Posted by: Ha-ha, w

Rajah -- knowing the sort of money Baker and Bernhardt were getting and the venues they were playing on the Art Garfunkel tour, I sincerely doubt that he chose the Lion King over the Fagen solo tour based off of finances or prestige alone.

In spite of Fagen's bigger band, there was much, much, much more money to be made going on the road with Donald in the early spring of 2006 than there was in the late summer/fall of 2002 with Art. And yet, he chose choosing against Lion King for Art, but didn't for Donald.

Why?

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 11:14:04 ET
Posted by: Hutch, rva

This is not a complaint, just an observation. The average SD fan would probably not be real happy with that setlist. Those folks may be a little perplexed as to why they don't really recognize much of it until they get to the seventh song (Hey 19). Don't be surprised if you hear people bitching about it as they leave the venue. Putting most of the hits toward the end of the show was a good move.

I think it's a good list. Glad to see stuff from 2vN on there.
New Frontier was unexpected.

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 11:12:15 ET
Posted by: HouDanFan, Houston

Does Jeff Young singing one song in a 20 song setlist really save Donald's voice over the course of a tour? That's hardly two for the price for the one. Maybe two for the price of 1/20th. Both guys are very talented. I happen to like Baker more, but he's not here and Young is more than capable. Hardly worth getting in a pissing match over.

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 11:05:07 ET
Posted by: pauly, red

Rajah- "Telling it like it is"? Sorry to say that you don't know Jack shit! What does Ted being a assistant conductor have to do with him not being on the tour(s)? Assistant conductor or not, these guys have a ton of subs when they get an offer to go out on the road with a band like Steely Dan. Ask Tom Barney and Jon Herington. Do you really think that Baker turned down the Steely Dan tour for the Lion King gig? You got to be out of your mind! Those Broadway show jobs are union gigs. These guys could split for as long as they want as long as they have suitable replacements that are approved by the show and the union. From what I hear, Ted was extremely disappointed when he was passed up for Jeff Young in 2006. But Ted knew the reason way himself and Cynthia Calhoun were dropped. Jeff Young could play keys and sing back up. That saves Donald and Walter a good amount of money. Two for the price of one if you will.

Jeff Young is a very mediocre soul singer. Have you heard his CD? BORING! And he can't touch DF when it comes to singing. He's on the bottom of the ladder and his keyboard playing is nothing to brag about. Baker is a 100 times better piano player!

"Telling it like it is" my ass!

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 11:03:30 ET
Posted by: Hutch, rva

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 10:43:11 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Crimson Tide,

I think this set list is as "mixed up" as any Dan fan can expect. Looking back on their set lists of the past 5 or 6 tours, do you see one that is more diverse than this?

As for "This All Too Mobile Home", it is probably unrealistic to expect the boys to play a song from the early 70's that they never bothered to record, and don't even bother to acknowledge on their website. Mobile Home is a song that, for whatever reason, The Dan has discarded.

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 10:33:14 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

Ted Baker has had the Lion King gig on and off on Broadway since 1997. Now it's not my cup of tea but it's still running after about 5000 shows. He is Assistant Conductor on one the steadiest gigs in Broadway history. And he's done 2 Steely Dan tours including the 2YK Tour, the best tour this band has ever mounted.

Jeff Young has a very fine voice, at this point better technically than either Donald and certainly Walter, both of whose voices must be categorized as acquired tastes. He has the instrument, the know-how and recording experience is another matter entirely. No, he's no Donald fagen but at this point he climbs the ladder better. Just tellin it like it is...

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 10:12:01 ET
Posted by: super duper, dan fan

they shoul;d have called it "what a shame we wrote this song"

http://www.unknowncountry.com/news/?id=6013

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 10:08:59 ET
Posted by: matt, chattanooga, TN

Looks like had 9 right on the guess the setlist competition...of course I emailed it and forgot to post, so none of you can revel in my perceptive powers.

Awesome set, excited for Atlanta.

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 10:00:08 ET
Posted by: pauly, red

Ted Baker passed on the Morph tour? That is the funniest thing that I've ever heard! Who in the hell told you that? And what was the reason Ted passed? Oh, I think I know. Was it for the off Broadway production of the Lion King gig in Tulsa? Or maybe it was the Art Garfunkle tour. Ted would have paid SD to that tour. You got to be kidding!

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 09:55:55 ET
Posted by: Bobbo, without a voice

Wow.

I've had to cancel a few (the little "Summer cold" has turned into a bit of the old chronic bronchitis, and I can't sing!), but I'm hoping the voice comes back in time for the big show at Kay Yaeger in July....

In the meantime, is anyone considering a Texas Danfest II? That'd be a blast, for sure...back on board the Happy Day (II?!), for good or ill...oh, Chrissakes, let's! Let me know.

DATES IN TEXAS, YAY!!!!

Okay,
Bobbo

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 09:48:36 ET
Posted by: Why no Baker, here

Ted Baker passed on the Morph tour, and Jeff Young was brought in.

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 09:21:13 ET
Posted by: Jeff B, Tamarac, FL

Actually, 'What a Shame About Me' was probably the weakest song in the whole set. Jeff has a good enough voice, but it just didn't seem necessary. I don't think it's because I'm being a DF/WB snob or anything; when the had the backing chorus do 'Dirty Work' a few years back I thought it was an excellent arrangement- this just seemed kinda half-hearted. I'd be surprised if this one lasts through the tour...

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 09:20:01 ET
Posted by: Marceau,

BRING BACK TED BAKER!

Jeff's got a good voice but it's pretty generic in terms of soul. Ted can't sing.

I don't want to hear Jeff sing Steely Dan's songs.

Bring back Ted, get a third girl for the choir. Miss Agee is awesome too!

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 09:19:36 ET
Posted by: AR,

Nope, no opening act. Still really cool they played that many songs though.

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 09:17:07 ET
Posted by: HouDanFan, Houston

Setlist of 19 to 20 songs as opposed to the usual 14 or 15 over the last two tours. It's not been since 2003 since they played that many songs. I guess it depends on if there is an opening act. I assume there was not one last night.

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 09:13:10 ET
Posted by: AR,

Jeff took lead on What A Shame About Me... not EYD.

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 09:12:19 ET
Posted by: CrimsonTide, Motown

I thought the boys would mix up the setlist more this tour. I know most everyone wants WU, but This All Too Mobile Home would be a wonderful surprise. I am glad to see New Frontier and Shame About Me in the set. Hopefully, the will replace I Got The News very soon.

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 09:09:07 ET
Posted by: CrimsonTide, Motown

I have played guitar for almost 30 years and I love Steely Dan.

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 09:08:15 ET
Posted by: Larry,

Rajah- It never would be a "great decision" to let Jeff Young take Everything You Did. Actually, I think that would be the worst thing that they could ever do.

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 08:52:52 ET
Posted by: bassicinstinct, Nottingham UK

Just received this email from Amazon regarding my pre-order for Circus Money:

"Dear Customer,

We are contacting you regarding your Amazon.co.uk order which included the following:

Circus Money [Us Import]

This item has been removed from sale for legal reasons.

We have cancelled your order for this item and can confirm that you have not been charged for it.

We apologise for the inconvenience caused.

We look forward to serving you again in the future.

Warmest regards,

Customer Service Department
Amazon.co.uk"

Anyone know what the problem is? I was expecting it to drop through the letterbox this week!!

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 08:27:54 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

David P...thanks and hope you catch up on your sleep.

Aja deleted, now that's a headline...any Carlock solos?

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 08:23:36 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Pretty nice setlist. Can't wait to finally hear Everything You Did. Also, great call giving Jeff Young a lead. Donald needs the break and Young's voice is too good not to use.

Carl - The change is subtle, but you can hear it in Downtown Canon. A tell-tale sign of AutoTune is how the voice sounds when it slides down at the end of a word. Walter does this a lot, and it sound natural almost everywhere, but there are a few spots in Downtown Canon where it sounds a little unnatural; instead of a liquid slide there are 3 or 4 defined notes. I'll have to listen to it to find the spots.

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 08:10:03 ET
Posted by: steelyfez, CT

I like the setlist. I hope they keep Glamour Profession in the set.

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 07:35:39 ET
Posted by: George, in Paris

That was a fan's setlist, by golly, and I'm looking forward to the permutations between now and the Dallas show at the end of the summer.

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 05:32:48 ET
Posted by: Lonnie, Here

The FEZ has only been done in medley format in 19 and 94. Never a full performance with vocals. Thus, the only truly NEW tune this year (thus far) is EYD. Great call on that (BTW). Now, how about WU, Pearl of the Quarter and YGT II!!!!

Lonnie the Kingpin

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 05:04:39 ET
Posted by: SS, HK

Better yet - from the SD.com website.

Re: 1994 tour.

'Added to the mix were "Sign in Stranger", "Aja", and "Kid Charlemagne". "The Fez" was added to the instrumental overture to replace "Aja", and the warmup for the second set was a funked-up instrumental version of "Chain Lightning".'

The overture included Parker's Band, The Fez, The Royal Scam..and for all I know might have changed as the tour went on.

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 02:44:49 ET
Posted by: SS, HK

Check the '94 tour opener - you'll find The Fez was part of the mix.

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 02:20:02 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

Or did he do WASAM?

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 02:17:07 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

The Fez, I don't think, has ever been presented live in any form, they did do a sort of medley-intro like this in the 90s but I don't recall Fez being in there.

Great decision to let Jeff take Everything You Did. Was there the classic guitar break in there or did Donald insert a little horn chart instead? How much did Jeff help out on the new arrangement of Show-Biz Kids?

Please chime in...

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 01:36:01 ET
Posted by: Lonnie, Lexington Ave.

After seeing the set list, it appears that our boys have only added ONE tune -- Everything You Did -- that has not been played live before. With many songs to choose from, this is a bit disappointing considering other comments from WB. If DF has a solo tune in there, then please tell me we will get WB's "Three Picture Deal" (a masterpiece) and so is "God's Eye View." Three Picture Deal is the perfect tune to follow the Hollywood mocking Glamour Profession!!!

Lonnie

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 01:35:02 ET
Posted by: suedave, Seattle

I like the new set list! I hope they continue to adjust few bits and pieces as the summer rolls forward. Have they ever thrown The Fez into the set list in any incarnation before?

I'm listening to C$ for the munteenth time - its a pretty sweet album. Door # 2 is as cool as they come, Walter sounds great on Downtown Canon. I love the way the bass pops on Bob and the other reggae forward tunes - the dub effect. The title track is a bit rowdy - sounds like a combination of uncomfortable diminished chords and awkward background harmonies creating an edginess to make you do a double take. Selfish Gene so good and funky. Darkling Down - one of my favorites exhibits that enblematic Steely upbeat sound united with disturbing lyrics. The beck and call between Walter and the background singers in God's Eye View produces an interesting effect - I'm not sure I've heard anything like it before. 3 Picture Deal is the one that grooves, intertwining the sax with the chorus and full piano and everything - wow, killer tune. Herington, Carlock, Baker/Beard are outstanding throughout.

Certain sounds on sounds on this record are reminiscent of various newer SD records. I suspect Larry Klein had a hand in crafting and coaching all the singers. Walter's voice, which I've always liked and appreciated, sounds comfortable, like he's in his living room surrounded by friends and is singing for grins, but better. The background singers on this CD sound better than ever - from simple like in Do You Remember to the complex, like on Audrey and 3PD with lots of background singers for a luscious and full sound.

I laugh at myself when one of the C$ songs is looping inside my head when the music isn't playing. Hooked!

Date: Mon, June 09, 2008, 01:15:29 ET
Posted by: Lonnie THE Kingpin, Everywhere

Where is the WU???

Date: Sun, June 08, 2008, 23:51:57 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, Here at the royal scam

Dean - I went pretty safe myself, but even my last minute changes (taking out the songs I KNEW wouldn't get played) didn't show up. Pleased as punch that What a Shame About Me is in there, hope it lasts.

KC

Date: Sun, June 08, 2008, 23:18:59 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

KC,

I only got 5 right. This set list is WAY better than the very safe 15 I picked.

Date: Sun, June 08, 2008, 23:17:38 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, @home

That is a great set list, 3 from TvN, Royal Scam, Parkers Band. Very promising.

I only hit 4 songs for the contest.

KC

Date: Sun, June 08, 2008, 23:04:36 ET
Posted by: AR,

Some more details about the show... Show Biz Kids was a bit slowed down and funked out- a definite arrangement change. Everything You Did was in a reggae style with a some interspersed Babylon Sisters half-time feel.

Date: Sun, June 08, 2008, 22:46:59 ET
Posted by: Jeff B., Tamarac, FL

A GRAET Show- the song the previous poster was trying to come up with that the Band Intros were built around was "Love Is Like an Itching In My Heart" by The Supremes- done beautifully by the band. My wife is a casual fan and I thought the straying away from familiar material (Like 'Everything You Did' or 'Godwhacker') would be a turn-off but she thoroughly enjoyed it. She squealed when they went into 'New Frontier', which was a nice surprise. You can always hope that they do a song that they end up passing over (obvious stuff like 'Reelin' In The Years' or 'Do It Again') or personal favorites (like "Pixeleen') but what they did they did TIGHT...

One more observation- where was the love for Walter? Great appreciative intros for all the guys and gals in the band (and Keith got intor-ed TWICE!), but nothing pointing out WB?...

Date: Sun, June 08, 2008, 22:25:42 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Excellent set list, IMO.

And, Bob, I guess the guarantee that NO solo songs would be played this tour, is out the window as of show #1!

The Dean is no fool.

Date: Sun, June 08, 2008, 22:16:56 ET
Posted by: David P, florida

1. Opener: Instrumental medley of Everyone's Gone to the Movies, The Fez, Royal Scam (without DF and WB)
2. Continuation (with vocals, when DF and WB come on stage) of Royal Scam
3. I Got The News
4. Show Biz Kids
5. Everything You Did
6. Two Against Nature
7. Hey Nineteen (with WB "story")
8. Godwhacker
9. Babylon Sisters
10. Cousin Dupree
11. What A Shame About Me (sung by Jeff Young)
12. Glamor Profession
13. Parker's Band (sung by the girls)
14. Black Friday
15. Green Earrings
16. New Frontier (!!!!!!!)
17. Don't Take Me Alive
---WB intros, over a song I don't know---
18. Peg

Encore
19. Josie
20. Kid Charlemagne

AMAZING AMAZING show. We got some different stuff. DF's voice was the best I've heard. A Circus Money shirt as well as a Morph the Cat-styled shirt that said "Donald Fagen Band 2008," I found that interesting. No mention in concert about C$. No Becker lead songs. Tawatha Agee was a suitable replacement for Carolyn Leonhart but not the same. Incredible show though, one of the best SD shows I'ev seen. Ran approx. 2 hours

Date: Sun, June 08, 2008, 21:53:52 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

I haven't heard anything from Florida about the first show's set list; however, when I woke up this morning, I started thinking how great it would be if they brought back "Green Earrings" as an opener. Vee Shahl See!

Jim

Date: Sun, June 08, 2008, 20:55:50 ET
Posted by: Elsie , Out Back

And Martha was dressed up like a cow.

Date: Sun, June 08, 2008, 20:50:55 ET
Posted by: Oh, No!

I just got a text message from the first show. The band opened up with Black Cow with Martha Wainwright doing lead vocals!

Date: Sun, June 08, 2008, 20:41:18 ET
Posted by: Boston Rag, tonight we have a really big shoe for you...

Break a leg Don & Walt!

Mark in Boston

Go Celtics!

Date: Sun, June 08, 2008, 20:37:04 ET
Posted by: TampaDan, Tampa

I shall be in Clearwater for tomorrow evening's festivities, and do humbly volunteer to post a set list at the conclusion of the procedings. Three years in a row now playing this area; amazing and most welcome!

Date: Sun, June 08, 2008, 20:36:15 ET
Posted by: mnorman, chapel hill

Anybody heard anything?

Date: Sun, June 08, 2008, 20:35:04 ET
Posted by: ed_beatty, here we again

Here we go..

HFS

ED_BEATTY

Date: Sun, June 08, 2008, 19:49:20 ET
Posted by: Walt's Doppelgänger, heaven

that IS a set you could dream about!!

might be a little too intimate for the big summer tour, but when i win the mega millions, i'm hiring that scenario for my living room!

hey martha and the vendellas - you are correct!

DOP

Date: Sun, June 08, 2008, 19:31:56 ET
Posted by: NEW , development

they made last minute drastic changes; it will be walt on bass, donald, keith, and weiskof.

1. paging audrey
2. mary shut
3, brooklyn
4. charlie freek
5. home at last
6. doc wuu
7. gaucho
8. igy
9. surf die
10. thing i miss the most
11. night by night
12. rose darling
13 confide in me
14. slang of ages
15 tomorrow's girls

classiest steely set ever. wonderful.

Date: Sun, June 08, 2008, 18:09:41 ET
Posted by: Just waiting,

The band should be taking the stage in about an hour. Let the 2008 tour begin!

Date: Sun, June 08, 2008, 17:50:27 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

I know the answer!!!

?? = Musical fucking genius!

Date: Sun, June 08, 2008, 17:15:12 ET
Posted by: ,

1. Larry Klein
2. Calliope
3. ??
4. Profit!

Date: Sun, June 08, 2008, 15:13:58 ET
Posted by: warrenk,

I'll be hitting up the Hollywood show tonight. Set list will be posted when I get home. I'm actually hoping more for an intermission style show like in 2003 than a specific set list. The more the merrier (and the more the more likely we get the deep cuts). But considering the length of this tour and our aging superheros... unlikely :).

Date: Sun, June 08, 2008, 15:08:02 ET
Posted by: DimSkip, Eternal Path

I just sent in my contest entry to the Radio Dupree guys and thought I'd toss it in here as well just as a backup record in case the email vaporizes somewhere along the way.

I threw in some absolute longshots just so it'll seem somewhat impressive if by some miracle I'm right on just one of them. This isn't my dream set list (except for one obvious tune), just my entry for the contest.

In album order so as to ensure a decent representative mix and numbering them only so I know I have 15...

1. Reelin' In The Years—CBAT
2. Turn That Heartbeat Over Again (by the Babe Choir?)—CBAT
3. Your Gold Teeth (I, not II)—CTE
4. My Old School—CTE
5. Rikki Don't Lose That Number—PL
6. Black Friday—KL
7. Doctor Wu (Wu-Hoo!)—KL
8. Kid Charlemagne (Is there gas in the car? No, there's none in the car)—RS
9. Don't Take Me Alive—RS
10. Haitian Divorce (Donald for a change)—RS
11. Peg—Aja
12. Josie—Aja
13. Third World Man—Gaucho
14. Jack Of Speed (Walter)—2vN
15. Slang of Ages (Walter)—EMG

Order may vary, of course. Not a chance in heck I'll even be close, but so what...

Just like Betsy Button I'm hoping for a winner.

Date: Sun, June 08, 2008, 14:33:53 ET
Posted by: Little Wild One, an inside venue in Houston in August...what a concept!

Hard to believe the start of the shows is here already! As we have seen in the past, the first few shows are warm-ups (read: a tried and true setlist) Hopefully, some nuggets for we multi-show day glow freaks will be added as we go along.

Here is my list, not in any particular order:

HATTWW
Godwhacker
TVN
Sign in Stranger
Any World
Josie
Peg
Jack of Speed
Glamour Profession
Deacon Blues
EMG
Reelin'
Kid C
Time Out of Mind
FM

Solo (IF ANY) from these:
New Frontier
IGY
The Nightfly
What I Do
Somebody's Saturday Night
Three Picture Deal

Date: Sun, June 08, 2008, 13:30:28 ET
Posted by: Hit The Ashtray, Carl,

Chris -

Funny that you don't really listen to MTC anymore either - And I'm a HUGH DF fan.

For me, DF "missed it" on MTC (both main cut and reprise - nothing really "happens"), "H Bomb", "What I Do". "BN","SJ" and "MSGD" go on waaaaay too long.

1 question though: How can the auto Tuning be noticeable in a few places (on WB's CD)? How can you tell?

Date: Sun, June 08, 2008, 12:00:53 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

First of all, many thanks to those who provided me with the opportunity to hear the Japanese album version of Medical Science. I always loved the demo, but the full track is something special, and I can't believe it was left off the album.

I'm loving Circus Money so far. Bob Is Not Your Uncle Anymore is the standout track for me. One thing I really like is the instrumental dub section. Old dub tracks were just remixed reggae singles that showed up on B sides of singles, and almost all of them have a moment where every instrument drops out except for the bass and drums ... only you could always hear the rest of the rhythm section faintly in the background because of the bleeding into the bass and drum mics. So the guitar and keys in the very back of the left channel are a really nice production touch.

I think Walter's voice sounds fantastic on the album, and not just because of the AutoTuning (which is only noticeable in a few places, and not all over the record as I had feared). Sure, he's got a limited range, but his interpretation is perfect, and songs like Bob and Door Number Two just wouldn't work with anyone else -- including Donald.

It's way too early to rank this among the rest of the Dan albums, but at this very point and time, after maybe 4 full listens, I like it just as much as I like Gaucho and 2vN. Of course, I probably said the same thing about MTC, which I almost never listen to these days ,,, something tells me that Circus Money will hold up a little better though. I guess I'll find out in a few years.

Date: Sun, June 08, 2008, 11:31:52 ET
Posted by: HouDanFan, Houston

I'm glad the Houston date is at Verizon instead of Woodlands Pav. Verizon is downtown and not in the burbs. Plus, its indoors. The venue has no charm and only average acoustics, but it is smaller and more personable.

Date: Sun, June 08, 2008, 09:24:58 ET
Posted by: angel,

LA Times review. Not too bad at all. Nice picture of Walter and he gives C$ three stars. If it wasn't for the difference between Walter's voice and Donald's, I bet it would have gotten a 3 1/2.

Go Walter!

Dr. Mu: Great first impressions. You always say what's in my head. :-)

You know you finally have listened to a CD enough, when you can change the song in your head, just by title. :-)

Date: Sun, June 08, 2008, 03:42:59 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

I can't say I'm happy about the Skip Gildersleeve exemption (the Rush connection doesn't thrill me), but what the hell.

:#)

In no particular order, of course, here are my 15:

1. Josie
2. Peg
3. FM
4. My Old School
5. Deacon Blues
6. Rikki Don't Lose That Number
7. Bad Sneakers
8. Kid Charlemagne
9. Black Friday
10.Two Against Nature
11.Everything Must Go
12.Black Cow
13.Hey 19
14.Bodhisattva
15.Dr Wu

Date: Sun, June 08, 2008, 03:30:13 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

As usual, Dr. Mu, and excellent analysis of the latest, perhaps Mr. Cromelin could learn a thing or two from your very scholarly approach. If good music, theatre and movie critics are known by the number of people who detest them, them Richard Cromelin has got a damn good thing going. Frank Rich, theatre critic of the Times was also a guy I loved to hate. Only the grande dame of film critics, Pauline Kael of the New Yorker, was above it all.

"Any World," as sung by Jeff Young was a highlight at Soboba, and even more so his small gigs at a Jewish/Chinese eatery, Ghengis Cohen on La Cienega Blvd., think of it, Kosher eggrolls. Jeff has just a great voice, an athletic tenor, and I feel he's so underused on tour with Steely Dan. Remember what Donald did with, "Do It Again," on the Sugartooth Tour? He let McMike take the first two verses then came roaring in with his own after the solos. That worked for me and I think he should explore other opportunities like that with the marvelous Cindy and Jeff.

Date: Sun, June 08, 2008, 03:23:46 ET
Posted by: El Sup, Louisville, KY

These lists represent what I love about Steely Dan - nobody has the same opinion.

While Katy Lied ranked number 12 on a previous list, I rank it numero uno.

Never has there been such a perfect blend of alienation, alcoholism, financial loss, skullduggery, pedophilia, masturbation and nazi rememberance than what appears on this album. A classic!

And Circus Money is just delicious!!

El Sup

Date: Sun, June 08, 2008, 02:36:25 ET
Posted by: µ ,

a few typos but hey olé

"Dean Parks absolutely hits the spot in an understated link to an emotional **bridge**."

Date: Sun, June 08, 2008, 02:24:22 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu , ancient history

"The duo was in their late 20's, early 30's which is the peak of creativity and ability for the vast majority of artists, athletes and scientists."

Scientists peak in there 40s and early 50s with their exception of theoretical physicists. The average age for the first BIG NIH grant is age 43...the same age Francis Crick discovered the 3-D structure of DNA. It's rare a biological scientist has a really good idea as a PI before age 35. Stuff's too damn complicated nowadays.

Finally a chance for a spin of C$.

First, let me say what a fab. organic soundscape Larry Klein conjured with Walter. A beautiful balance and clear instrument instrumentation. Never muddy, but never polished above the stellar abilities of the musicians for a groove-aceous live feel. Use of space is masterful like Katy and CTE with some of the sweetness of Aja. The mix has better clarity and balance than TvN and most of EMG. Mroph was a step up, but still was ever so lightly off in the mix. Bass pumpin' but not too high in the mix. one hell of a groove album. IF there is ever another Dan album, Klein should produce it!

Potter, Rosenberg, Beard are absolutely masterful. Ted Baker and Herington never sounded better. The Babe choir playful and sassy. Walter nails some nice in the pocket solos, particularly. The album sounds quite a bit less that 11 ToW than expected. Not quite as much bite and pop, but considerably fuller.

While Walter is not the tunesmith Donald is, there are some excellent songs sprinkled throughout the album...there quite a few neat ideas and turns, but Walter doesn't detail and dazzle us with moments, it's a holistic approach...and lyrics follow the downhill slide of Gaucho as we are voyeurs to a corner of loserdom hanging onto their souls for dear life.

Impressions:

Door Number Two - probably sounds the most like 11Tow in the verse...really sets up Potter's sax...Klein really lets Beard in on the whole conversation. A real grower. Sounds a bit like the songs Walter Michael Franks produced for Blue Pacific with a touch of Greenbook.

*Downtown Canon: One of the finest songs on not only this album, but among the Dan discography. Baker lays down some nice Rhodes under the melody. Nice switcheroo and change of key for the chorus...kind of a 70s sound. Sweet! Indeed the sweet goes well with the sour that envelops the lyrics and mood of the song. We're hearing how well the rhythm guitars work with Carlock who has never sound more relaxed and loose.

Bob's Not Your Uncle Anymore: A very sad song. Walter let's the dub bass fly. Subtle verse melodies are challenging for Walter, but he responds with nice phrasing...ocean full of midnight. The chorus has a hint of Paul Simon. The mix is spare-ish before the reverb guitar and keys. Damn, Klein deserves back to back Grammys. The song needs another idea or two, maybe a solo to break up the stark melancholy above the groove.

*Upside Looking Down - One of the best recordings Rickie Lee Jones never released. Walter's keepin' it real. His voice has never been recorded so well and lively...and slips nicely into a falsetto doubled with the babe choir. Dean parks absolutely hits the spot in an understated link to an emotional chorus. Ted Baker really has a Floyd Cramer/Norah Jones (who is a much better pianist than vocalist) counter melody going.

*Paging Audrey: Probably as close to an Aja-like recording we've heard...not in the same league...just has that nice balance and chord progression underneath. A very nice composition...with a bit more sympathy than Walter usually confers. A very humanizing moment...Herrington sounds great...maybe the best stuff on his Dan pop recordings. Potter just nails the solo over beard's chords...and the outtro is to die for. Nice to hear the piano up in the mix again! Walter in sync with the Babe choir. I expected maybe just a tad more embellishment, but the song has outstanding flow, and is elegant in getting the hell out of the way without excess. Near or at the top of this album certainly.

Circus $: Typical Walter nasty altered blues. Sassy. Smart. Potter and the band flex their muscles. Beard is really enjoying himself

*Selfish Gene: This song turned out better even than I thought it would. Snarky as hell. Walt, you devil! Vanity on parade. Beard grinning on caliope. Walt's guitar licks groove this mutha down. Babe Choir counter point hilarious and saucy.

Do You Remember the Name? Very nice soundscape and the Babes used to perfection yet again. A little fuller than I thought...like a beefed up 11ToW song. Jim Beard is just enjoying himself way too damn much! Herington is a Rasta Reverb Man!

*Somebody's Saturday Night. Walt enters a warped reggae/jazzy take on Warren Zevon's LA. Walt front and center on the solo. Very, very tasty bridge. Babe choir hits the groove. Bake does his best Donald imitation on keys. Guess this sounds like a single kidz! Klein can do no wrong at the controls.

Darkling Down: I thought this was going to be a letdown, but Larry Goldings puts us somewhere in the ionosphere looking down on this pathetic mess. Walter digging deep into altered blues. A downward chord progression reminds me of Babylon Sisters. At this point you realize how good Carlock is in carrying the album without being noticed. Walter just kills on this solo. Very lively. Just schnasty. The song begs for a stop time at the end. Oh well.

God's Eye View: Prepare to be b**ch-slapped. Bad-ass bass under some serious attitude. Human embarrassment revealed. This game is just settin' up Rosenburg's solo. Deal with it. Nothin' left but a...

*Three Picture Deal: Where the hell did this come from? A full composition and recording to finish up the album...Walt has to leave the human race with some kind of twisted hope. Rosenberg sexes it up a bit.

Nothing to be ashamed of...and certainly blows away the vast majority of post-post-modern pop.

I can't agree this recording indicates a real slide...then again it's really the team of Walter and Larry with crack musicians with particular kudos to all particularly Beard and Potter. Very, very, very solid stuff.

Katy
Nightfly
Aja
Scam
Morph
Gaucho
TvN
C$
CTE
Kamakiriad
EMG
CBAT
Pretzel
11ToW

Date: Sun, June 08, 2008, 01:42:52 ET
Posted by: saluting , my memory

i forgot a big one:

1 & 2. Nightfly
3. Aja
4. Gaucho
5. EMG
6. Katy Lied
7. CBAT
8. Pretzel
9. Royal Scam
9.5 toronto/westbury fagen live
10. manassas
11. CTE
12. Two Against Nature
13. Kama
14. 11 TOW
15. gauchouts
16. Morph
17. CirCus Money! (i still love waltah!)

Date: Sun, June 08, 2008, 01:35:31 ET
Posted by: saluting , all the dropped prom gowns

i beg to differ: what else is new?

1 & 2. Nightfly
3. Aja
4. Gaucho
5. EMG
6. Katy Lied
7. CBAT
8. Pretzel
9. Royal Scam
10. manassas
11. CTE
12. Two Against Nature
13. Kama
14. 11 TOW
15. gauchouts
16. Morph
17. CirCus Money! (i still love waltah!)

Date: Sun, June 08, 2008, 01:14:02 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Too Early...

Your list blows!

:#)

Seriously though, there aren't "4 or five weak songs" on all of the Dan studio albums combined, let alone on one album.

Date: Sun, June 08, 2008, 00:20:41 ET
Posted by: Gus Winterbottom, Torrance, CA

Tom from Texas,

Assuming you mean 2006, I believe that "Any World" was played at the first or second show of the tour, before the Texas dates. They also played it at Soboba, with Jeff Young taking over lead vocals from DF after the first verse. I was not at the San Diego show but I think that it was played there as well.

GW

Date: Sun, June 08, 2008, 00:16:26 ET
Posted by: Too early for CM, but....,

This list is the definitive, representative, composite, ranking by the Danfans who have been there from the beginning. The 70's stuff is tough to beat. The duo was in their late 20's, early 30's which is the peak of creativity and ability for the vast majority of artists, athletes and scientists. A theory is is that at that age range you still have the curiosity of a child, are not yet jaded, have a hunger for success, and have enough experience under your belt to master your craft.

As far as the details of the list, and why they are ranked as such:

There are NO weak songs on Scam. Aja was the biggest seller and really put the Dan on the map in the 70's. I think TAN sold more, but there are 4 or five weak songs on it. Some of these "original" Danfans might raise TAN into the Top 5 based on their comeback and the strong songs such as the title track, JOS and Almost Gothic. An early Dan purist cannot and will not rank TAN that highly.

Gaucho is up there, not only for what it was but for what it might have been. They were really cookin, till Walt had his problems. Nightfly is a classic and was an extension of the peaking of the Dan's performance around 1980, it sort of redeemed the failure of what Gaucho potentially could have been.

Katy has the Dr. Wu title track, Gone to the Movies, TBTLO and not much else.

CTE was experimental and jazzy, some might rank it in the Top 5.

Pretzel and CBAT have lots of different songs and styles that make them interesting, particularly the Country and Western type stuff on Pretzel.

Of the new stuff, EMG has lots of punch, and from tracks 5-9 gets stronger and stronger. Lunch with Gina might be of the best Dan tunes ever. Morph has 3 or 4 strong songs, but others are weakened such as Brite Nitegown that get dragged out too long--like WOH on TAN.

CM, which harkens back to those 70's days in quite a few places but with the reggae twist is indoubtably on the rise. But I don't think it will ever crack the Top 5:

1. Royal Scam
2. Aja
3. Gaucho
4. Nightfly
5. EMG
6. Pretzel
7. Kama
8. CTE

9. CirCus Money!

10. CBAT
11. Morph
12. Katy Lied
13. Two Against Nature
14. 11 TOW

Date: Sat, June 07, 2008, 20:54:32 ET
Posted by: D, H

Zero dust???

Date: Sat, June 07, 2008, 19:41:59 ET
Posted by: ,

In the article he called WB a "baby-faced sadist"; LOL.

Date: Sat, June 07, 2008, 19:34:03 ET
Posted by: Donald Rumsfeld-Fagen, media hell

Re the LA Times review: I'm surprised that WB gave an interview to Cromelin, considering the bad blood from the semi-hatchet job he pulled back in 1991 in a piece about DF's re-emergence as a performer.

Here's the letter he wrote in response to the article, published in the LA Times:

Congrats to Richard Cromelin for his incisive coverage of the drugs-and-depression angle of the Steely Dan story ("Return Of 'Me Nightfly," Nov. 3).

What a pleasure it is to have the sordid facts surrounding the (un)timely demise of our "cerebral rock duo" dredged up after 12 or so years. Leave it to a past master like Cromelin to realize that it would be possible to leave the first mention of the word drugs until almost the end of the first paragraph without in any way compromising the integrity of his piece.

I would also like to thank Cromelin for his generous offer to help in ghostwriting an autobiography of me, tentatively titled "Down and Out With the Dan: Drug-Crazed Guitarist Tells All," which would, he tells me, be published (initially) in weekly installments in that distinguished Australian newspaper the Outback Tattler, and for which I would be remunerated in U.S. dollars or controlled substances, whichever I prefer.

Kudos also to your photographer, whose portrait of Donald Fagen in his favorite easy chair truly captures the stately mood of part of an afternoon spent with him in his heavily armed compound hidden deep in a lush jungle valley somewhere in Paraguay.

Walter Becker
Maui, Hawaii

Date: Sat, June 07, 2008, 19:24:28 ET
Posted by: tom, in texas

Does anyone remember in 2005 tour; SD performed "any world" reggae style? It was reported here on the blue but they had weeded it out by the time I travelled to dallas for the show. That would be a good choice for the guess list. Tom

Date: Sat, June 07, 2008, 19:07:33 ET
Posted by: betsy button, soboba

http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/news/music/la-ca-becker8-2008jun08,0,1033798.story

Date: Sat, June 07, 2008, 19:00:21 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

I don't completely agree DRF, but I think the new stuff belongs in the same breath as the classic 70's material. It is still REAL Steely Dan (and not Steely Dan lite, as many seem to think, IMO)...which, given your list, seems to be what you think, too.

Also, I think it's far too early to rank Circus Money. Talk to be in a year, or so. Also, will we still like 2vN as much in 20+ years, as we do now? I think the answer is, "yes"...but we will have to see.

As for the rankings, my rank regularly changes. More times than not, Countdown tops my list, but sometimes it's Katy Lied, other times it's EMG.

I think their songwriting is as good, or better, than ever. But, I can't say I don't miss the chops of Larry Carlton, the taste of Denny Dias or the everything of Victor Feldman, on occasion. Still the new compositions are extremly tight, and Fagen's (recorded) singing, is better than ever, and the use of horns and background vocals has never been better.

How about the Belmont!

Date: Sat, June 07, 2008, 18:58:12 ET
Posted by: Tom, in Texas

Does anyone remember in 2003 tour; SD performed "any world" reggae style? It was reported here on the blue but they had weeded it out by the time I travelled to dallas for the show. That would be a good choice for the guess list. Tom

Date: Sat, June 07, 2008, 18:01:54 ET
Posted by: Donald Rumsfeld-Fagen, Washington/Passaic

I was thinking today that, even in their pre-geriatric phase, D+W are really at the top of their game. I think that their post-2000 output is the best of their careers.--significantly better than their 70s catalog. Agree? Disagree?

If I had to rank the albums, here's where I'd start:

1. Royal Scam
2. Circus Money
3. Morph the Cat
4. Katy Lied
5. Two Against Nature

Date: Sat, June 07, 2008, 16:36:31 ET
Posted by: Mer,, Boston

Woo-hoooo- Hoops is still with us!!! ; )

Date: Sat, June 07, 2008, 16:08:28 ET
Posted by: Matt, Chattanooga, TN

I agree that it makes sense to put out the dub track in the UK, wasn't Haitian Divorce (which I always assumed was more a Walter than Donald song, especially after hearing Walter's awesome reworking live in 2003) their biggest hit across the pond? I'm actually kinda happy to be buying another copy of C$ at this point. As happy as I am to buy a couple of extra tickets to the Atlanta show so I can take some recent SD converts. Honestly, there are so many times when I feel like I get so much more out of this music than anything else I listen to, I want to send the guys a check just to "pay it down".

And I'm with you St. John, I feel like I've posted more in the last few days than I have in a long time, but I am honestly as excited about Circus Money as I was about Two Against Nature, and in listening to it, I think the payoff is equal. I mean, Upside Looking Down is staying with me in the same way Almost Gothic and Negative Girl were back in 2000, and I love it.

Date: Sat, June 07, 2008, 15:19:20 ET
Posted by: El Sup, Louisville, KY

Here is my guess for the International Circus Money contest:

The Boston Rag
Godwhacker
Dr. Wu
Josie
Peg
Sign in Stranger
Midnight Cruiser
Chain Lightning
Your Gold Teeth (w/ Band Intros)
Babylon Sisters
Rikki Don't Lose That Number
Cousin Dupree
Deacon Blues
Kid Charlemagne
My Old School

Next?

El Sup

Date: Sat, June 07, 2008, 14:52:31 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

After the time I had last night, I also thought the headline was about me.

Date: Sat, June 07, 2008, 14:46:14 ET
Posted by: Scandinavian fan too far away this time, Think Fast ... and win!

OK. So the Think Fast tour will start Sunday evening in Florida. And the speculation has started. What songs will be played? Dr Wu? Solo stuff?

At the same time I've seen a few posts from people interested in getting the international version of Walter's Circus Money with the bonus track Dark Horse Dub. People unsure if they can safely submit their credit card info.

As I'll order a copy of the international version for myself I thought why not order two copies and make the wait a little more fun by combining the two things above into a friendly competition? The first show is just a day away so here's the link to the competition:

http://radiodupree.blogspot.com/2008/06/competition-time-think-fast-and-win.html

The idea: Post your list of 15 songs you think will be performed on the premiere evening June 8, and the person with most correct songs will win a copy of Circus Money (international version with bonus track). Post the lists here or mail them to me.

And here are my 15 songs for Florida:

Babylon Sisters
Cousin Dupree
Two Against Nature
Deacon Blues
FM
Here At The Western World
Rikki Don't Lose That Number
Dirty Work
Chain Lightning
Josie
Haitian Divorce
Kid Charlemagne
Hey Nineteen
My Old School
Black Friday

(A bit on the safe side ... but I that's the way it'll be this time around.)

/PGE

P.S.
I really can't check this, but the competition is of course closed to all involved in the Steely Dan Think Fast tour with one exception: Skip Gildersleeve may enter the competition just because he has a cool name!

Date: Sat, June 07, 2008, 14:17:30 ET
Posted by: Obituary--OMG!,

I just heard a radio report, there was lots of static but I could make out that JIM MC KAY was reported to have just died of natural causes. Still looking for further details.

This could be a major blow to the Blue.

Date: Sat, June 07, 2008, 13:31:20 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

Soul Monkey:
Man....would I love to be at the show with the set list you have proposed!!!! More wishful thinking.....

Date: Sat, June 07, 2008, 13:02:37 ET
Posted by: Brutus: More informative than funny, Pandeiro-curious

I had to look up the "pandeiro"-reference myself as I had a vague memory of hearing the word but not actually what it stands for.

Luciana plays pandeiro (looks like but is not a tmbourine) on Somebody's Saturday Night.
That's meant to be informative, not funny.

;)

Date: Sat, June 07, 2008, 12:15:16 ET
Posted by: Soul Monkey, Louisville, Ky

Who is reporting from the show tomorrow? Any live updates? I'm still thinking that the boys bring back Bad Sneaks, debut Dr. Wu, the original Western World, and a funky version of King of The World. I'd love to hear Walt dig into Circus Money, but also doubt it will happen. I'd imagine that he'd get at least a song.

What I could see happening:

Babylon Sisters
Bad Sneakers
Any Major Dude
Sign In Stranger
Two Against Nature
Deacon Blues
New Frontier
Pixeleen
Mary Shut The Garden Door
Dr. Wu
Sombody's Saturday Night

Here At The Western World
Rikki, Don't Lose That Number
Dirty Work
IGY
Chain Lightning
Josie
Gaucho
King Of The World

Kid C
Hey Nineteen
My Old School

Far fetched? Yes. Possible? Maybe

Date: Sat, June 07, 2008, 12:02:34 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

For thos e folks that do not have the out-of-production official CDs with some of these o bscure SD and related tracks that are being discussed of late, excerpts of many can be heard here:

http://www.broberg.pp.se/sd_sound.htm

Date: Sat, June 07, 2008, 11:19:28 ET
Posted by: Frank Figurative,

El Sup RE: Hoops - "We all hang together or we all hang together."
Maybe you meant: "We all "hang" together or we all hang together."

Date: Sat, June 07, 2008, 10:52:46 ET
Posted by: Matt, Chattanooga, TN

There is a clear line of difference between different types of collectors...those that want the cd that the songs were on originally and those that just want the songs themselves. Personally, I fall into the later category. There are a lot of SD songs that fall outside the category of "official releases", songs like Kulee Baba or I Can't Write Home About You or Mister Sam or The Ghost of Hipness Past. And of course there are other songs that are talked about, but seldom seen on the internets, etc. For many reasons, nothing is traded or distributed here. At time in the past we have had sites like Andy Metzger's, and the fact that SD asked that certain tracks be removed and didn't request the same for the others means that there are things that SD doesn't mind being distributed (or in the case of pre-SD demos, that they would rather you get it for free than pay for a cd of which they will never see a cent).

Personally, I have a lot of random tracks (less after a house fire several years ago that managed to ruin several cassettes), but I listen to those songs sparsely, most likely when they come up on a random shuffle. They're nice, but not essential.

Date: Sat, June 07, 2008, 00:18:39 ET
Posted by: Little Wild One, Do you remember the name?

What a lovely summer sojourn. The invitation stands. Come to Houston and/or Dallas.

Date: Fri, June 06, 2008, 23:57:17 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

El Sup - Playing it right now.
Thanks for reminding me! Always
loved the vibes & sax.
Walter's first use of "p$ssy"
in a song. The "George Bush" outro
could actually apply even harder today!
I also dragged out "Medical Science".
The "horns" are synth Hoops. Killer
track. Why it didn't close out the US
version of 11TOW is beyond me. I also
am very fond of the Cousin Dupree EUROCD
Single. You are so right about the
difficulty of tracking this stuff down
today. I got a lot of my stuff back in
the day through "Goldmine". The web is
great but it has also made it easier for
more people to track stuff down.

Date: Fri, June 06, 2008, 22:35:42 ET
Posted by: El Sup, Louisville, KY

Also, if you think trying to dig up that Japanese pressing of 11TOW with Medical Science is tough, try to find the Book of Liars promo CD that includes the studio version of Fall of '92. That one has vanished!

El Sup

Date: Fri, June 06, 2008, 22:25:54 ET
Posted by: St John, Eagle Rock Reservation

El Sup - Thanks, I guess that's good to know about the Credit Card code. I may take the plunge.

I wager any "Dub" bonus for the UK release is a smart move , as it seems reggae was always more popular in the UK than the US.

Date: Fri, June 06, 2008, 22:19:18 ET
Posted by: El Sup, Louisville, KY

Hoops - I ordered as soon as I posted the message. We all hang together or we all hang together ...

One note about ordering - sonic360 did NOT, at least in my case, ask for the 3 digit sig # on the back of my card. At least that isn't floating around out there ...

And who wants to take a stab at how Jamaican flavored Dark Horse Dub will be? On a 1 to 10 scale, I'd guess about a 13. But you never know ...

El Sup

Date: Fri, June 06, 2008, 21:46:31 ET
Posted by: uemlxfmag, cBKcryDAg

C1FDfs <a href="http://mvpzkorexnac.com/">mvpzkorexnac</a>, [url=http://xevunhqfjajr.com/]xevunhqfjajr[/url], [link=http://zpmnprecxspw.com/]zpmnprecxspw[/link], http://rodwlzyugtsf.com/

Date: Fri, June 06, 2008, 20:57:20 ET
Posted by: Brutus Charisma,

lklein:

??? Is that supposed to be funny???

Date: Fri, June 06, 2008, 20:26:35 ET
Posted by: Hutch,

And kudos to Larry Klein as well. Based on what Walter has said recently, this album wouldn't have happened without Klein's production talents. I believe that Larry may have sat down with Walter and actually helped him get his vocals sounding like they should. And by that I don't necessarily mean digital pitch correction (although that wouldn't bother me) but I mean talking to him about pronunciation of consonants, especially on the ends of words, and sustaining notes in phrases. Walter's voice sounds great. A very comfortable laid-back sound.

I really like this album. It only takes two or three listens to get those choruses and hooks stuck in your head.

Thanks Walter and Larry!

Date: Fri, June 06, 2008, 19:58:16 ET
Posted by: Casual fan, orlando

Gee whiz, buying presale tix for the new Chicago gig is going to be tough. They go on sale June 56th.

Date: Fri, June 06, 2008, 19:23:31 ET
Posted by: lklein, west of joni

http://www.pandeiro.com/products.php?cat=7

Date: Fri, June 06, 2008, 19:15:27 ET
Posted by: ,

Anyone have any idea why the Carey recording was never released?

I assume it was originally for this album:

http://www.amazon.com/A-Tribute-to-Joni-Mitchell/dp/B0011ZTVX0/ref=pd_sim_dmusic_img_3

and didn't make the cut. But why???

Date: Fri, June 06, 2008, 19:09:40 ET
Posted by: Mer., Boston

Hoops in Boston--- woo-hoooo!!! Hope we have a good weather night!

Date: Fri, June 06, 2008, 18:32:14 ET
Posted by: Dash LaRue,

Steely Dan Coming To Texas!

Aug 20 - Verizon Wireless Theater - Houston TX | on sale TBA
Aug 21 - Nokia Theatre - Dallas TX | on sale TBA

sd.com

Date: Fri, June 06, 2008, 17:53:10 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

I ordered as soon as I saw El-Sup's post and missed the secure part. Here's hoping...

"Medical Science" is a must have! I forget--are those real horns or synths on that?

I pretty much have all the tracks off of C$ on my mental turntable this afternoon, but especially "Paging Audrey", "Somebody's Saturday Night" and, well , now "Medical Science" as a retro bonus track.

I'm going to add the Boston show to my itinerary. Boston has the best Steely Dan audiences.

Jim

Date: Fri, June 06, 2008, 16:12:02 ET
Posted by: St John, Livingston NJ

Chris - I found the Japanese 11 tracks of whack with Medical Science on ebay...but that was about 1998.

Wow - I've posted more in the last 4 days than in the last 6 years. I'm exhausted! I'm also loving C$. Walter's voice still hits a clunker here or there but the plusses are so numerous as to overcome even that minor complaint. Songs aside (and I REALLY like 10 out of the 12) the FEEL is so in the pocket. Who would have thought that Becker/Carlock would be such a good team? And in general the musicianship is incredible. The ladies and THE PIANO feel like characters in this CD, they have a real and consistent presence. Kudos to Walter and all the fine people who helped make it. I will not tire of this one soon, and using the headphones for the first time today has opened up a whole new world as well. Cheers everybody, see you at the Borgata :-) - St John

Date: Fri, June 06, 2008, 16:02:30 ET
Posted by: St John, again

Dash, your question about sonic security bugged me, I'm a paranoid about online purchases too. As mentioned, in Firefox I get a https address as soon as I enter my name and address.

But this time I clicked on the padlock icon in Firefox and got this security page info: the website supports authentication and the identity of the site has been verified by DigiCert (so the site has a digital certificate, and the https indicates SSL).

But I also read this: "Parts of the page you are viewing were not encrypted before being transmitted over the internet". I'm not sure why this is or what it means, except MAYBE the store part of the page in frames might be encrypted, but the frames along top and bottom come from the regular unsecured website? Just a guess. I Hope an expert can help with this soon, because I do want to get the import but won't submit the order until I'm more certain about this

Date: Fri, June 06, 2008, 15:39:13 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Is there any legit way of getting "Medical Science"? All I have is the demo version, pretty poor sound quality.

Date: Fri, June 06, 2008, 14:33:31 ET
Posted by: St John, L'ton

Hi Dash - Im no expert but I think EXPLORER is security poison p one reason I buy only with Firefox. Checked for a digital certificate on the sonic store and it looked legit, but again Im not expert so maybe someone who is can weigh in and tell us if we're "safe" ...

Date: Fri, June 06, 2008, 14:25:32 ET
Posted by: El Sup, Louisville, KY

Sonic 360 has announced the title of the bonus track with the international version of Circus Money:

Dark Horse Dub

Sounds interesting.
http://www.sonic360.com/walterbecker/

El Sup

Date: Fri, June 06, 2008, 14:24:09 ET
Posted by: Dash LaRue,

Hi St John!
Here in southern California, using Explorer we are not getting the secure checkout little "Golden Padlock" image at the bottom of the page.
Any thoughts?

Date: Fri, June 06, 2008, 14:13:26 ET
Posted by: St John, L'ton

Hey Dash --

I just tried the sonic store on Firefox, got an https://id291.securedata.net address on the first check-out page. What am I missing? Thanks, j&b

Date: Fri, June 06, 2008, 14:07:51 ET
Posted by: angel,

DR-F: Very good analysis and it seems to be right on.

Still going with the title meaning that the narrator just doesn't have "it" anymore. A verbal play on You can't go home again, perhaps?

Date: Fri, June 06, 2008, 14:05:25 ET
Posted by: Dash LaRue,

WARNING - BE CAREFUL BEFORE ORDERING THE EURO C$!!!!!!!!!!!

You can order the Euro version of C$ and it will ship to the US for $4.32. PayPal, MC or VISA.

I was about to put in my VISA Card info, but the Checkout site at Sonic360 IS UNPROTECTED AND NOT SECURE!!!!!!
Be very careful. I have decided to wait until they secure the checkout process. Hope this has been helpful.

Date: Fri, June 06, 2008, 13:50:25 ET
Posted by: Dash LaRue,

Yeah matt, I hear you. "Medical Science" is one of the best WB tracks ever and it wasn't even on the US release!. I think I paid
$20 back in 94 just to buy the Japanese version of 11TOW. You can't even find that CD used these days. I don't see why people in the states won't be able buy the Euro version of C$. After all, Down Under was able to purchase the US release.
Thanks for making me buy the CD twice again Walter just like 11TOW.
Oh well. Nothing you can do about it.

Date: Fri, June 06, 2008, 13:42:13 ET
Posted by: matt, chattanooga, TN

Sonic360.com is listing the exclusive for international orders of Circus Money as a track called Dark Horse Dub.

I could rant (and have spent the last five minutes at work doing so) about international tracks, etc. I just hope that there is a legit way for me to get this track.

Date: Fri, June 06, 2008, 12:43:02 ET
Posted by: BillfromPgh,

Rummy:

Excellent analysis. I don't think "Bob" is all that different from SD or solo songs that address similar topics from slightly different perspectives. Junkie Girl, for instance. Even Midnight Cruiser (I always thought those two songs were distantly related). On difference that makes "Bob" a little colder is the third-party narrator, apparently not a participant in the drama, just an observer (but maybe not - he might even be "Bob" himself addressing an ex-lover ...) Yes, I know, there probably is no real "Bob" (Twin Peaks, anyone?), that's just a twist on the British expression.

Date: Fri, June 06, 2008, 12:02:27 ET
Posted by: What?,

Hey New York City, New York City,
Are you familiar with the term "post"? Or is that just a cereal company to you?
What an uneducated douche bag.

Date: Fri, June 06, 2008, 11:54:39 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

You're an asshole.

Date: Fri, June 06, 2008, 11:50:14 ET
Posted by: web search, cyberspace

Rajah,

I found nobody by that name having died on 9/11.

Date: Fri, June 06, 2008, 10:55:03 ET
Posted by: Donald Rumsfeld-Fagen, Not Avuncular

After listening to C€ for a few days, the absolute stunner for me is "Bob Is Not Your Uncle Anymore." My favorite SD/DF/WB tracks are the ones that stray furthest away from the expected ("Almost Gothic," "Medical Science"), and "Bob" may be the best yet.

"Bob" has to be the most emotionally wrenching song in the SD/DF/WB canon. It's certainly the saddest. But it's written from such a cold perspective, and the music and arrangement are so eerie that it has an almost haunting, terrorizing vibe to it. The song's basic lyrical theme is "things will never be what they used to be," but it's the music that lets the listener know that the situation is final, inescapable, and irreversible.

The song isn't about any situation in particular. It seems to be more about the sudden realization that some dearly important thing is just a shell of what it once was--and that it is impossible to ever change it back. The absolute helplessness of the situation is paralyzing, and the lyrics used to describe it are chilling:

//An ocean full of midnight rolling right up to the door

The first lines of the song leave no doubt about what the song is about:

//This old house looks just the way it was
//Just a tumbledown of pine and riverstone
//But it’s only just a shadow of the place you knew before
//Because Bob’s just not your uncle anymore

Is the house a metaphor or is it literal? It almost doesn't matter. The concept of home in the song is perhaps the saddest feeling I've heard expressed in any song. I think every adult can relate to revisiting a house that he once lived in––his childhood house, a house shared with an ex-lover––and instantly coming to the heartbreaking realization that while the edifice is the same, the place is gone forever. You can go home, but you can never go home again:

//So we see that you can find your way back home
//And that maybe when you get there, there’s a lock on every door

The lyric "now you know for certain" is so chilling, so final, that it elicits in me the feeling of clarity--helpless clarity--that you get when faced with soul-crushingly bad news. "Certain" is the key word here. It's an inevitability, it's set in stone, it cannot be changed:

//Now you know for certain what the big wide world is good for
//And that Bob’s just not your uncle anymore

So after 35+ years we finally see a SD/DF/WB song express some human emotion not wrapped up in a tangle of irony and wordplay. But it's played typically SD-style second-person cool: No sympathy for the aggrieved party, just a concrete-cold delivery of the facts from an indifferent narrator. But in absolutely atypical SD fashion, this doesn't make the song any less heart-wrenching.

Date: Fri, June 06, 2008, 10:52:30 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

FYI, I am a citizen of the US and the EU and I can very easily travel back to LA and place a well-deserved cap in your punk-ass any ole time I care to.

Date: Fri, June 06, 2008, 10:47:46 ET
Posted by: BillfromPgh,

Listened to C$ on a plane yesterday via my iPod and it reveals details you may not always hear on the CD. This album is deceptively simple but has more layers than you'd think. Also more hooks that you'd guess from the first few listenings, all of which are now firmly imbedded in my brain.

Not to accuse Walter and Larry of doing a George Harrison, but doesn't the verse of "Upside Looking Down" bear a little similarity to "Queen Jane Approximately"? We know that Dylan was an important early influence on WB. Might just be the general meter and flow of the melody, not a direct cop.

When your mother sends back all your invitations
And your father to your sister he explains
That you're tired of yourself and all of your creations ...

And from the self-plagiarism file (see, for instance, Saul Zaentz v. John Fogarty), the verses to "Three Picture Deal" sound a little like "Blues Beach," but with cooler accompanyment, in my opinion.

Date: Fri, June 06, 2008, 10:42:40 ET
Posted by: You can run..., but you can't hide

Rajah- Yes, considering you're not allowed back in LA that was careless remark.

Date: Fri, June 06, 2008, 10:42:14 ET
Posted by: Matt, chattanooga, TN

Boston Rag, the backing vocals for Selfish Gene (including the solo section) are performed by Luciana Souza, who you might remember covered "Were You Blind That Day" and performed a song called "Love is For Strangers" by Becker and Klein on her last album (The New Bossa Nova). Coincidentaly or not, she is married to Larry Klein. I actually kinda liked her last one, no just for the WB connection, but for a good cover of Aguas de MArco, which ranks up in my top ten songs of all time.

Date: Fri, June 06, 2008, 10:40:46 ET
Posted by: Casual fan, orlando

Boston R --

Really? I thought they complimented Becker well in that song, but I will go back and listen again and maybe I'll agree with you. Was it the lyric or the sound that you didn't like? Or both?

Date: Fri, June 06, 2008, 10:38:47 ET
Posted by: Yeah!,

Carolyn Leonhart-Escoffery who?

http://sistersofsoul.blogspot.com/2007/06/tawatha-agee.html

Date: Fri, June 06, 2008, 10:36:31 ET
Posted by: Boston Rag, glad it's Friday

Casual Fan - I think Selfish Gene is a good tune. The only thing I don't like about it is the back up vocals. Not sure what Walter was going for there. It's the only thing I don't like on the CD.

Mark in Boston

Date: Fri, June 06, 2008, 10:34:41 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

Jesus, NYC, there were quite few folks traveling back from Boston to LA on 9-11. Like the guy in my office, Derek Wright, who lost his life at 42 years old.

Shame on you, mister...that was a careless remark.

Date: Fri, June 06, 2008, 09:48:19 ET
Posted by: Casual fan, orlando

My take:

Best tunes for me are Selfish Gene and Somebody's Saturday Night.

I will say that some of the lyrics on the CD as a whole seem to me to be a little forced in terms of irony. I would not go so far as to say that they are contrived, but there are some bad puns in there.

Overall, I give the CD as a whole a B.

Incidentally, its about 72 hours out now for the Clearwater show on Monday night (close enough for government work). If anyone has a pair of tix they want to put on the block, give me a shout. I've decided to kill my Tuesday.

Date: Fri, June 06, 2008, 09:45:04 ET
Posted by: New York City, New York City

Lurker Ray- I don't remember anybody dying in LA from the events of 9/11.

Date: Fri, June 06, 2008, 09:43:31 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana, wishful thinking

No new dates.....just wishful thinking and technical difficulties on my part, I guess .....

Date: Fri, June 06, 2008, 09:41:46 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

Unable to open SD.com at this time.....??maybe they are adding more dates???

Date: Fri, June 06, 2008, 09:17:18 ET
Posted by: Nicholas Urfe, Phraxos

I haven't listened while reading the lyrics yet, but history would suggest that if Bob's not just your uncle any more, it's because the you have now, ahem, "known" Bob in the Biblical sense.

Date: Fri, June 06, 2008, 01:49:01 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

I have been enjoying everyone's
take on C$. I realized tonight
that C$ & Morph are indeed "Bookends".
They could easily be packaged as a
Steely Dan double solo package.
Poor example - Like when KISS all
did solo albums, only these two
solo albums are in fact joined at
the hip.
They were both recorded around the
same time. Walter's just took longer
to be released. Morph is Donald's take
on post 9-11 New York and C$ is Wally's
take on post 9-11 Los Angeles.
Classic Steely Dan. It's almost like they
agreed, "Okay you take New York and I'll take
Los Angeles and we will report back in."

Date: Fri, June 06, 2008, 01:15:08 ET
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Date: Fri, June 06, 2008, 00:25:20 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

Matt, if I had chords and-or tabs for C €, hah, I'd be in hog heaven. All I've got here is a dented old pitch pipe and a Hohner in D.

Well you can
Best believe
I'm the only girl
In your life.

and

Tell me real
Tell me true
Tell me more
About door #2

If there's a connection, it's unconscious, certainly, but it's there.

Date: Thurs, June 05, 2008, 22:55:11 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Disc came today, finally ... haven't made it through the full thing yet. Love what I'm hearing.

Paging Audrey is the biggest surprise for me so far ... those chord changes, the ones that come right after the clip on the website cut off, caught me off guard in the best way possible ... it was like a nighttime emission, in a way (sorry). The other big surprise based on the clips was Do You Remember The Name. Really thought that clip was the intro, but it works real well as the bridge.

I love reggae and dub so I'm digging all of those tracks ... the instrumental breaks, the delay and reverb, all that shit. Can't get enough. Someone asked me once why I like Steely Dan so much, and I told them it was because they incorporate just about everything I like in music into their sound -- memorable melodies, incredible lyrics, tight arrangements, jazz blowing, and grooves ... all that's left now to tackle is hip hop and I'll never need to buy music from another artist again.

Date: Thurs, June 05, 2008, 22:09:07 ET
Posted by: Immigration Man, Block Island

Calling all Lindburgh baby wannabees: don't get any cute ideas. And leave innocent Terriers out of this.

Date: Thurs, June 05, 2008, 20:32:11 ET
Posted by: Matt, Chattanooga, TN

So maybe it means "now that you aren't guaranteed success", or "now that you have to work for it". But there's also the supposition that bob once was your uncle" so maybe this person had everything made, but when that fell apart, so did everything else, up to and including how much the dog cared about you. Reagan, the dopey Irish setter dog reminds me of Foxy, "that funny little dog we found, out romping on the beach that day". I think in both cases, we are shown how the human feels by the dog. Very Walter.

Date: Thurs, June 05, 2008, 20:19:47 ET
Posted by: ,

From Wikipedia:

In 1887, British Prime Minister Robert Gascoyne-Cecil, 3rd Marquess of Salisbury, appointed his nephew Arthur James Balfour as Minister for Ireland. The press had a field day when he referred to the Prime Minister as “Uncle Bob”.[1] Balfour later went on to become Prime Minister himself. This theory claims that to have "Bob" as one's uncle is a guarantee of success, hence the implied meaning, "and if you do this, you cannot fail."

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bob%27s_your_uncle

Date: Thurs, June 05, 2008, 19:52:59 ET
Posted by: Matt, Chattanooga, TN

One of the things I really wish Walter would do (actually, I wish more musicians would do it anyway) with this album release is put out chords and tabs or whatnot on the website. I know that sheet music books can be lucrative, etc. but there was no sheet music book for 11 Tracks of Whack, and so it seems fairly easy to predict that there won't be one for this.

I guess I could sit down with the album and hash it out, but I just wonder why artists don't share that kind of stuff in general.

Also, I would absultely love it if Walter and Larry decided to release files of each track so that users could edit them and "remix" them, etc. I mean, I guess that kind of thing opens you up to a world of potential internet problems, but again, it seems like in the brave new world of music in the 21st century it's something that can't hurt.

Every day lately I check what.cd (I know torrent, etc. are a bit taboo in these parts, but I'm not advocating anything, etc.) to see if Circus Money is there. In one way, I am relieved that its not, and that so far, purchases are legitimate (seemingly), and in another way I want to know that people who are only casual fans of SD have a chance to be exposed to an album that I have anticipated more than any other album since Two Against Nature. I want people to listen and be surprised and amazed at how good this shit is...people that maybe don't go into it thinking about how it would sound if Donald were singing it. The "not we's".

Also (and at this point I realize I am rambling on a bit) I keep listening to Bob Is Not Your Uncle Anymore, and wondering what that line means. The line is (some variation of) Bob's just not your uncle anymore. Should I be reading that like Bob's not just your uncle anymore, as in Bob is more now than he was previously, and his relation to you doesn't carry the weight it used to? Or is it more like "That's just not it", where Bob is no longer "your" uncle? Or (and I guess I think this most likely, just wanting to verbalize my inner questioning that goes on anytime I get fresh music) are we to take the statement "Bob's your uncle" to mean "That's it" or "There you have it" and inversely presume that Bob not being one's uncle anymore would mean that whatever one presupposed to be true is no longer? So maybe "Bob's just not your uncle anymore" means something like "thing's ain't what they used to be" or just a vernacular take off on saying that whatever should have been isn't? I know I not phrasing that quite as susinctly as I might like. Just wondering what's striking everyone else.

So far Downtown Canon, Upside Looking Down, and Paging Audrey are sticking with me, and I guess they are the easiest for me to assimilate, being seemingly the most Steely Danesque. Absolutely love the guitar solo on Upside Looking Down. Dean Parks turns in what I think is the most memorable solo of 20th century Dandom, more memorable and reminiscent of Golden Age SD than anything on Kamakiriad, 11 Tracks, 2VN, EMG, or Morph. Great stuff.

Date: Thurs, June 05, 2008, 18:05:30 ET
Posted by: oleander , money shot

YESSS!!

Took longer for C$ to get to NC than to NZ....

But no matter...

mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm...

yummy©ú

o

Date: Thurs, June 05, 2008, 15:10:27 ET
Posted by: Lutz, SF

Walter revealed in that interview who that hilarious announcer was 1973 on Bodhisatva of the "Gold" album.
"Mr. magnificient one, the one and only one - Mr. Steely Dan..."
Their own truck driver!
It becomes more obvious to me that both writers of CM are bass/guitar players.
Different harmonies/chords than keyboard players usually write, especially on Audrey.
Of course having Beard and Baker execute them helps a lot.
Related somewhat to CM is Jim Beard's "Lost at the Carnival", a real gem imo.

Date: Thurs, June 05, 2008, 15:03:27 ET
Posted by: Hutch, rva

SB - Yes, I remember talking to you at Tower records! That was at least two years ago. Good to hear from you.
I'm still bewildered as to why Sonny's name comes up on the Outlook Express screen when I click on "SB" but no matter.
Sonny is a premier keyboard player here in Richmond. His old band Nick Jazzy did a reunion show in March at the Canal Club. They're known for doing tons of SD stuff. In fact they opened with Green Earrings!

Date: Thurs, June 05, 2008, 14:57:57 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar

Chris,

That question belongs in the list of: "The worst questions ever asked anywhere, by anyone."

Did he suspect that the character was DRINKING an actual cow?

But, as I said, it turned out to be fairly interesting because Walter made it so.

Date: Thurs, June 05, 2008, 14:47:29 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

That DJ was terrible. "Was the big black cow an actual black cow or a drink?" I wonder if he's ever heard the song.

Hoping Circus Money gets delivered today. It's been torture reading about how great (or mediocre, depending on who you are) it is for days and not hearing it.

Date: Thurs, June 05, 2008, 14:34:09 ET
Posted by: Lyrical Empress, On top of old smokey

I believe the MJ girls sang:

Well you can just BEST believe
I'm the only girl in your life

Have to keep the rhythm.

Date: Thurs, June 05, 2008, 13:47:04 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Lutz, thanks for the link. AFAIK, that's the first time that was posted.

At first I thought it would be a disaster, as the host sounded totally clueless. It actually turned out to be a half-way interesting interview, as Becker gave a little different take on touring than I have heard from him, or Don, in the past. Walter sounded VERY relaxed.

Still, the host was pretty clueless, and forgot to mention Walt's new album. Walt got it in, though.

Raj (and SS), I just went and found In My House on youtube. I believe I have heard the song once or twice (I'm guessing I must have)...it sounds vaguely familiar. I had pretty much abandoned listening to the radio (for music) by the late 70's, or so. Certainly I wasn't listening to any pop radio, by then. I guess I heard it somewhere along the way, though.

Does anyone have any more info about C$ streaming live, starting today, at walterbecker.com? So far, all that's there are the same short clips. This waiting 'til Tuesday has not been easy.

Date: Thurs, June 05, 2008, 12:49:41 ET
Posted by: Rajah, dead or alive

WANTED - while I'm flattered to know I am the source of any rumours, however scurrilous, however one-sided, howevermuch omitting several salient facts, and whether you believe them or not, please note this simple request, my poisoned-pen panderer, and I sincerely hope you will heed it if you consider yourself at all a Steely Dan fan, cause if we’ve learned nothing else but this from Them, we haven’t learned a gol-dern thing, if it’s not to respect another person's privacy. So just, please, do that for the Be-Turbaned One and for everybody else here. And please be ever-aware that the Rajah will at all times certainly respect yours. There, you made me split an infinitive so you know I must be pissed.

BTW, FYI, I’ll be departing some hours previous to Beacon One from my Ice-castle stronghold just west of Rejiaveck, I'm being dropped off-shore at O-300 on 11 Jun 08, 4.5 clicks SSW of Block Island. Then, I'll be heading to Riker's Island disguised as the Lindberg Baby or Bernard Kerack, haven’t decided which yet, by hovercraft that very dawn and from thence onto the Plaza Hotel where I will be populating the Dutch Schultz suite on the 11th floor. I heard they opened the Oak Room again and I need a haircut and a sloe gin fizz. Guest will please leave any firearms with Jilly at the elevator. Clips must be empty and any rounds left in chamber will be confiscated. No cellphone cameras, natch. You have no idea what life is like when every move is being watched

Look for me at the Beacon disguised as Kitty Carlisle, West Highland terrier in tow.

Now, all seriousness aside, to all my old mates, friends and foes alike:

on with the Steely Dan Show.

Date: Thurs, June 05, 2008, 12:34:39 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Regarding the second Chicago Show in August:

There is a pre-sale RIGHT NOW for American Express card holders.

The password is 18005253355 and you have to pay with an American Express card

This is in addition to the pre-sale on Friday at 10 AM which has a password of thinkfast.

Jim

Date: Thurs, June 05, 2008, 12:29:30 ET
Posted by: SS, HK

The Dean...The MaryJane Girls' In My House is on nano second recall in my head. Summer - 1985.

Date: Thurs, June 05, 2008, 11:42:50 ET
Posted by: Lutz, SF

5/28 Walter interview,that might have been posted already:
http://www.wmgk.com/Audio/tabid/209/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/636/Walter-Becker-Interview.aspx

Date: Thurs, June 05, 2008, 11:33:38 ET
Posted by: Walter's spell checker, !

I see Walter's going to appear on Radio Margaratiaville. Wonder if that's anything like Radio Margaritaville...

http://www.walterbecker.com/cmpress.html

(If they fix it, it must mean Walter's "people" check in here, right?)

;-)

Date: Thurs, June 05, 2008, 11:25:04 ET
Posted by: SB, RVa

Don't know who Sonny Baharloo is, but it's not me !

Hutch, I bumped into you at Tower Records at Willow Lawn several years ago where we were both looking at the Marian McPartland's Piano Jazz with Steely Dan CD.

SB

Date: Thurs, June 05, 2008, 11:16:55 ET
Posted by: angel,

Dan: Thanks! :-)

I keep thinking about Little Wild One using the open for Downtown Canon as a ringtone, as I run it at full blast, over and over (no easy feat and whatever you do, don't take you hand off the volume control.) :-)

LWO, how did your son do that? lol

If I had one question to ask Walter, it would be where that little piece of music came from. Just an outstanding fun thing to listen to.

Date: Thurs, June 05, 2008, 11:12:07 ET
Posted by: Hutch, rva

SB - They play Reelin' quite a lot on Morning Joe. Somebody must be a fan.

Is this the real Sonny Baharloo or the fake Sonny Baharloo?

Hutch

Date: Thurs, June 05, 2008, 10:59:53 ET
Posted by: WANTED, DEAD OR ALIVE

Raj- How come you're not going to any show this year. I've been hearing rumors but I don't believe them.

Date: Thurs, June 05, 2008, 10:44:19 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Raj,

If "In My House" by the Maryjane Girls, was somehow in my head, I'd give it a try. Alas...

(Is "In My House" by the Maryjane Girls something that is in many Danfans' heads? This question is serious and not as sarcastic as it may initially appear.)

Date: Thurs, June 05, 2008, 10:36:50 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

Sing these two passages in your head:

from "In My House" by the Maryjane Girls:

Well you can just believe
I'm the only girl in your life

and-or

I'll be your sugar in the morning
And the sweet stuff you need at night.

...and...

Tell me real,
Tell me true,
Tell me more,
About door number two

Date: Thurs, June 05, 2008, 10:08:56 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Pre-Sale for second Chicago show, Saturday, August 16, is tomorrow at 10 AM, CDT

Password is ---> thinkfast

Date: Thurs, June 05, 2008, 09:52:56 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

Don't know if this has been posted already......
On WB.com, "Becker DJs on Sirius Radio in coming weeks".....

Date: Thurs, June 05, 2008, 09:00:03 ET
Posted by: SB, RVa

A Steely Dan moment today --- the MSNBC program, "Morning Joe", just closed out the show today with "Reelin' In the Years".

A great way to start the day !

Date: Thurs, June 05, 2008, 08:26:45 ET
Posted by: Dan Belcher, Louisville, KY

"Anyone know what instrument plays those 4 notes starting at 2:16 in? God I just love the sound!"

Angel, if I'm thinking of the same notes you are, that's more than one instrument. The two loudest sounds in it are an acoustic piano doubled by a Fender Rhodes electric piano (the Rhodes is run through a phaser to get the sweeping sound).

And random related thought -- I'm pretty sure they didn't actually use a real Rhodes on C$. It sounds like a Rhodes patch on a Motif/Nord/etc. to me. It sounds fine on softer notes, but gets an odd tone on louder notes, the tell-tale of a fake Rhodes. Kinda disappointing after being spoiled by Donald Fagen's gorgeous Mark I suitcase Rhodes for years. I guess it's good though when that's one of my only complaints about the album!

Date: Thurs, June 05, 2008, 07:09:59 ET
Posted by: alan, Shellharbour AU

Well C$ has touched down in Australia even though it's the downloaded version.

Immediate favourites for me are Downtown Canon ( is that a bit of a China Crisis riff at the start ?) and Upside Looking Down.

Paging Audrey.... Ajaish ???

Circus Money overall, ffffing LOVE IT !!! but you know the current favourites will change as each listen goes by.

Looking forward to catching up with all the usual suspects at the Beacon Shows.

Bwaysteve WHERE ARE YOU !!!

Date: Thurs, June 05, 2008, 05:03:18 ET
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Date: Thurs, June 05, 2008, 01:13:29 ET
Posted by: angel,

Really in love with "Paging Audrey" today.

Anyone know what instrument plays those 4 notes starting at 2:16 in? God I just love the sound!

Date: Thurs, June 05, 2008, 00:07:51 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

After listening to the Hotlanta
interview, I would also concur
that Walter does not want to do
any solo stuff this summer. That
is too bad. I really hope he
changes his mind. Nightly requests
from the crowd might wear him down
eventually. What was really
encouraging that he said he might
put together a little group and
perhaps do a little tour in some
slinky dives.
Pistol Dawn late show? Walter solo
shows would be a treat.
I have a sneaking feeling that when
Donald sings, "Is there gas in the car?"
this summer, the crowd will shout back,
"NO!"

Looking forward to the reports from
the first shows later this week.
In the meantime -
"Swang up get a little circus money"

Date: Wed, June 04, 2008, 23:19:21 ET
Posted by: ,

All right, I stand corrected.

Date: Wed, June 04, 2008, 23:18:29 ET
Posted by: SD, in SD

Geoff,Geoff, Geoff, Geoff, Geoff, Geoff,........

Caling people miserable fuckers?

Settle down.

Jack is right on. Nothing he says contradicts 4 of the 6 things you mention from happening. There won't be another Steely Dan album nor a Walter album. Probably not a Walter tour either, but I will give you that one.

And do they like to tour?

Probably so.

But as for Steely Dan touring for money. Well, Walter pretty much has said they are touring because it is so lucrative. Nothing wrong with that. They deserve it. Why are you offended? Why the name calling?

Peace out, Geoff.

Date: Wed, June 04, 2008, 23:09:15 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Well, that makes sense. Don and Walt have never produced any albums when they weren't actively touring.

Um...what?

With posts like that, it is no wonder you refuse to identify yourself.

Date: Wed, June 04, 2008, 22:48:19 ET
Posted by: ,

"This summer's tour has little bearing on their ability to finance new recordings."

I disagree. Circus Money was recorded in 3 days with the touring band. If they weren't touring consistently, Circus Money likely wouldn't exist.

Date: Wed, June 04, 2008, 22:27:52 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

I'm watching Zappa Plays Zappa, as I type. It is a new PBS special of Dweezil's concert, where very fine musicians play some of the immortal Frank's tunes.

So far, it smokes! It just started being distributed a few days ago, so you can probably catch it in your area, soon. Here's the skinny:

http://www.aptonline.org/catalog.nsf/d99467fb7768584f85256db10052d22c/f652ef4e3c4d0b46852574440055a9c3/$FILE/ZAPPA%20PLAYS%20ZAPPA_final.pdf

Date: Wed, June 04, 2008, 21:24:30 ET
Posted by: suedave, brand new music in high fidelity

Heymike thanks for posting that sparkling clip - great find. Not only did C$ get delivered via snail mail, but the SD Newsletter #37 showed up in my email today. Today must be my day!

Date: Wed, June 04, 2008, 21:01:17 ET
Posted by: saramara, rMzzfNxBmRI

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Date: Wed, June 04, 2008, 20:05:07 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

Date: Wed, June 04, 2008, 19:50:05 ET
Posted by: D, H

SD.com shows an update for today. Looks like presale for Chicago tix tomorrow.

Aug 15 - DTE Energy Music Theatre - Detroit MI | on sale TBA < new

Aug 16 - Chicago Theatre - Chicago IL | presale 6/5| gen on sale 6/7 < new

Date: Wed, June 04, 2008, 19:41:52 ET
Posted by: Geoff, Houston

Jack,

you miserable fucker.

I suspect there's a lot more to Don and Walt touring that making money. I think they like performing live.

I think that out of these things

Walt solo tour, DF Solo tour, SD tour, new SD album, new DF album,
new WB album -

We'll see at least 4/6 in the next five years.

And what are you going to do for us?

Start enjoying yourself mate!

Geoff

Date: Wed, June 04, 2008, 18:48:19 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

Jack

(very) well-stated

Wondering aloud now...

Just noticed this is being(re)/(re)released ALSO on 6/10. "Dharma for One"..."We often cut his fingernails off and smoke them".

http://j-tull.com/news/thiswascollectors.html

Agree with "Kid Clean"...yeah, the contemporary references cheapen the timelessness of the lyrics...one of the reasons I lean toward instrumental music.

Date: Wed, June 04, 2008, 18:42:17 ET
Posted by: The Facts, Jack

This summer's tour will feature no Walter Becker or Donald Fagen solo songs. What a shame.

This summer's tour has little bearing on their ability to finance new recordings.

They tour to make money.

We'll be lucky if there is ever is another Steely Dan or Walter Becker album.

A new Donald Fagen album is not as much of a stretch. Give it a few years.

Date: Wed, June 04, 2008, 18:38:35 ET
Posted by: The Wicked Librarian, Left Coast

Darkling down is stuck in my head to the tune of...
Darkling down... la, la, la... la, la, la, la...laaaa...

Life is good, so good, so fuckin' good!!!

Hey, why don't SD or WB albums get Parental Advisory stickers...? Don't get me wrong, I am not advocatin'. This album is quite nasty in a good way, of course. I mean "pussy-print" notwithstanding... And I do think it would boost sales especially with youngins.

Just musin' to the music,

The Wicked Librarian

Date: Wed, June 04, 2008, 18:27:36 ET
Posted by: angel,

Yep, with you, Dean. Gonna hear Peg, Gonna hear Josie and gonna hear complaints. Gonna enjoy it anyway. :-)

Date: Wed, June 04, 2008, 18:26:35 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

Dean

Wowsers!...that "peg"ged the meter.

Date: Wed, June 04, 2008, 18:18:27 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

My point is quite clear, I think, I try not to pre-suppose or jump to conclusions based on some dream I had...or simply to be an asshole on a forum.

When Walt said they would make changes and do solo stuff, I took it at face value. (The Dan has played some solo tunes in concerts past and has made changes, some minor and some more substantial, on every tour.) When he backed off it a little, I took it at face value. Now, when he says he won't do solos stuff, I'll believe him. But, as I said, I won't be shocked if they change their minds and play Door #2 one night (or more).

I am reasonably certain they will make changes to the setlist as they do every concert and make some adjustments to some of their regular standbys, as they often do. I'm also going to guess that won't be enough change for some to notice it as such.

I also expect to hear Josie and Peg.

But, mostly I expect Steely Dan to have a great tour and kick ass on the songs they choose to play. No matter how good it is, I expect to read the comments of those who, instead of judging the quality of what was presented, complain about what wasn't played; instead of evaluating the musicians who performed, complain that different musicians didn't perform, etc.

Date: Wed, June 04, 2008, 18:08:40 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

","

'sactly.

Date: Wed, June 04, 2008, 18:01:56 ET
Posted by: ,

"But, I won't be surprised if they slip a song or two in, on some shows. It would be a marketing mistake to not play one of the more Dan-like tunes. Of course, music is far more impt to Walt and Don than is marketing."

I think you have it backwards. The tours are their cash cow, and allow them to afford to record albums. Better to make the tours as crowd-pleasing as possible, IMHO, to allow them to continue to be able to record. That's probably the conclusion they've come to as well.

Date: Wed, June 04, 2008, 17:53:32 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

Dean

Well-stated.

Your point?

Date: Wed, June 04, 2008, 17:25:52 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Cortlandt Manor, NY

Ladies and gentleman, Walter has come to the Manor! C$ arrived at long last!

Date: Wed, June 04, 2008, 16:25:40 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

Dash,

re: the Interview you posted.

That's the first thing I've read or heard that makes me believe they won't play any solo stuff on the tour. Straight from the horses mouth, hard to get better than that.

But, I won't be surprised if they slip a song or two in, on some shows. It would be a marketing mistake to not play one of the more Dan-like tunes. Of course, music is far more impt to Walt and Don than is marketing.

Date: Wed, June 04, 2008, 14:17:25 ET
Posted by: George, in Paris

Circus Money has made it to rural Northeast Texas. Life is good.

Hey, I never said it was Paris, France!

Date: Wed, June 04, 2008, 14:12:18 ET
Posted by: Dash LaRue,

There is a new interview with Walter from Atlanta's 97.1 "The River"
posted at WB.com

Date: Wed, June 04, 2008, 13:56:11 ET
Posted by: Boston Rag, Wating for the NBA Finals....

I got an e-mail today from Amazon.com highlighting upcoming music releases. Not a mention of Walter’s CD on the official June 10 release date. They were however, pushing the release of Martha Wainwright’s new CD, also to be released on June 10. There she goes, getting in the way again! Just kidding, I’ve heard some good buzz about the CD.

A couple of weeks ago, the complete season 3 of Saturday Night Live was released on DVD. The 3rd show of that season was hosted by Hugh Hefner and had Libby Titus as the musical guest. Has anyone seen this? I know Libby’s performance was cut out of the syndicated version of the show and hasn’t been seen for 30 years.

Mark in Boston

Date: Wed, June 04, 2008, 13:53:40 ET
Posted by: New York City, NYC

Still haven't received the cd either

Date: Wed, June 04, 2008, 13:38:01 ET
Posted by: Denise, H cubicle

LRay, you cracked the code: thanks for the translation.

Date: Wed, June 04, 2008, 13:30:43 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

The opinions of Chris do not necessarily reflect those of Chris in NH. (I'm still waiting for the CD, can you believe it?)

Also wanted to point out that according to that article I posted, the album is streaming on walterbecker.com tomorrow.

Date: Wed, June 04, 2008, 13:17:51 ET
Posted by: El Sup, Louisville, KY

Door Number Two , Downtown Canon, Upside Looking Down and Darkling Down are my favorites so far. The line about the Barbados makes me smile every time I hear it.

El Sup

Date: Wed, June 04, 2008, 13:08:28 ET
Posted by: Chris,

Upside Looking Down is sweet. Very little like a Steely Dan track.

Others have intolerable hooks.

The refrains from Do You Remember the Name, Selfish Gene + Three Picture Deal. I'm thinking them all the time like bad TV commercials. They are absolutely annoying. ANNOYING! ANNOYING!!!!!!!

This page has some good remedies.

http://deadrooster.com/music/how-to-get-rid-of-the-annoying-song-thats-stuck-in-your-head

Date: Wed, June 04, 2008, 12:08:38 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

u no Keene

A reference that this ain't no Emo album?

Date: Wed, June 04, 2008, 12:05:26 ET
Posted by: Dash LaRue,

4 Stars - UNCUT
3 and a half Stars - Buffalo News!
Hello Buffalo

Date: Wed, June 04, 2008, 11:29:25 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, MANA RAG

u keen one - is all I can come up with for an anagram.

3 picture deal is really gettin' to me, Do you remember is still my fave cut. The title cut is drawing me in, yet refuses to divulge it's real secrects, same with Bob.

Does anyone other than me find it, I guess disturbing is the word I'm coming up with, about their use of modern vernacular in their lyrics in this century? Sure, some of them evoke a chuckle, but after reading through the lyrics of C$ last night, it seems almost distracting. Slang me.

KC

Date: Wed, June 04, 2008, 10:53:27 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., NJ

Thanks BR for clarifying the Dan time continuum on that clip. I didn't see how it could be 1978 since I was assuming that was David Palmer on stage as the extraneous vocalist you hardly see and can't hear. I've always heard he was kicked out circa '74, so '78 didn't make any sense to me.

Date: Wed, June 04, 2008, 10:42:54 ET
Posted by: Boston Rag, Time Warp

heymike - Thanks for posting that clip. However, that was 1973, not 1978. In 1978, Donald & Walter were basking in the afterglow of Aja, not appearing on Midnight Special with David Palmer.

Lovin' C$. Have a few faves - Three Picture Deal, Paging Audrey and Updside Looking Down I like a lot. I think the CD works great when listened to from start to end. Nice flow and different moods.

Mark in Boston

Date: Wed, June 04, 2008, 10:21:19 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

heymike,

That clip was a trip. Thanks. The chorus with the all-ball singers was BRUTAL, though.

Date: Wed, June 04, 2008, 10:18:53 ET
Posted by: Matt, Chattanooga, TN

Holy shit, the Cosby thing is worth it, totally worth it.

Date: Wed, June 04, 2008, 09:52:48 ET
Posted by: St John , L'ton NJ

Got our Circus Money in the mail yesterday afternoon, (june 3!) North Jersey. We are both loving it although with different songs as top personal favorites.

Chris, thanks to that link to the el paso article. I found some interesting things in it giving new information about the making of Circus Money. One that caught my eye is

Circus Money" was recorded over 18 months. Becker wrote the songs with Klein, then took them to the musicians.
"I did something I don't normally do, which is I sort of took each one of them completely into my confidence and showed them the songs and lyrics and, you know, some of the Jamaican music that inspired it," he said. "We talked technically about what to do, how to do it and they just rose to the occasion."

Date: Wed, June 04, 2008, 08:56:26 ET
Posted by: heymike, this was in my mailbox-the cleanest copy I have seen with Coz no less

http://spangley.tumblr.com/post/37094803/steely-dan-reelin-in-the-years-1978-midnight

Date: Wed, June 04, 2008, 01:42:01 ET
Posted by: Geoff, San Jose

John,

Regarding 5, 4, and 3 star ratings in RS, and C$ getting three and that's good:

No it's not. A lot of total shit gets 3.5 and 4 star review in RS.

Watch Barton Fink again, then read RS, and you'll get the picture.

Geoff

Date: Wed, June 04, 2008, 00:17:50 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Interestingly (or not) Erlewine did NOT write the review for 11 TOW.

Both albums got 4 stars (out of 5) on allmusic.com...for you star watchers!

Date: Wed, June 04, 2008, 00:15:03 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

KMITB,

Wow, that must have just gone up. I checked a few hours ago, and it wasn't there.

And you are correct, Stephen Thomas Erlewine has done most of the Dan reviews for allmusic. I like to read reviews from someone who is very familiar with the artist being evaluated. You can almost always tell when the reviewer simply doesn't get the material he/she is attempting to review. While i don't always agree with Erlewine's reviews, I can tell he understands The Dan, and I respect his view.

(If I'm not mistaken, Stephen is the son (or related to, somehow) of the founder of allmusic.com.)

I use allmusic a lot, and really like it, for the most part. I'm not sure the reviewer is the one dolling out the stars, though. I have read great reviews of albums with three stars, and lukewarm reviews of albums with more stars.

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 23:48:10 ET
Posted by: KMITB, Mt. Belzoni

allmusic.com gave C$ 4 stars...it's from the same reviewer that reviewed pretty much all Steely material.

http://www.allmusic.com/cg/amg.dll?p=amg&sql=10:gvfrxzujldse

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 22:48:49 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Nice to see that others agree
that this sweet CD will become
part of their soundtrack this
summer. Though I liked 11TOW
and when Walter sings during
live shows, I can't rememeber
a past Steely Dan tour when I
was really jazzed about Walter
singing night after night.
I will be definitely checking
in night after night to see
what tunes Walter did. I know
I have never done that in years
past. I really hope he mixes
it up and is willing to do a lot
of stuff off of this great CD.
Denise, yes the packaging is
very nice. I also like the
simplicity.
I believe,
"E N N O K U E E E A K Y E "
is Yup'ik for "Labor Of Love".

LvC - Just like old times -
Go Lakers!

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 20:57:18 ET
Posted by: Chan, Boston

Happy birthday Mark!

Margaret, as you know I have the same sticker on my car and have had the same questions asked. It is very topical these days.

Looking forward to seeing everyone Sat nite the 21st in NYC. It should be quite a night.

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 20:43:53 ET
Posted by: Boston Rag, Grooovin

Hey – thanks everybody for the birthday wishes. Was thrilled that my present from Mr. Becker was in my mailbox when I got home from work. Just completed my first complete listen. This is a CD which will dominate play time for me this summer. Awesome grooves, solid production, and some sassy lyrics:

“Mind Meld: Like a permanent picture of your pussyprint in cement”

Wow! Toto, I get the feeling we’re not in Kansas anymore.

What a week this will be! The Circus is in town, Jack Nicholson and The Lakers are coming to town and Friday is supposed to be 90 degrees.

Life is good folks!

Mark in Boston

P.S. Denise – I think the packaging is elegant too. Slick and smart. With a lyric sheet I can read – black on white/with on black. Easy on these old eyes!

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 20:09:47 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., NJ

Angel, once again we're on that same continent-spanning wavelength. I looked at those light letters from the full-book credits and noted them myself, but couldn't come up with any anagrams via my usual anagrammatical sites. The word yankee is in there, or nuke, but nothing which makes sense using all the letters.

My thinking now is that they may not be scrambled at all, but may be a Hawaiian word or phrase, possibly for "Circus Money."

;-)

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 20:06:49 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

John,

I think that the reaction was two-fold (or more-fold). Some see the 3-star as, basically average (or just a step above), others noticed that Madonna's latest got 4 stars. Now, c'mon. Alanis Morisette's latest got a 3.5...I could go on.

I consider 11 TOW a 3-3.5 -star effort. I think it had the potential to be a 4-star product with a little more work and production. I don't think any SD Studio album rates below a 4 or 4.5...and I think Countdown might be the best of the bunch...but, that's me.

But back to the three stars. Is it a good rating? Dunno, but probably not. First of all, how do you rate an album like this in one or two hearings? (It seems this reviewer didn't spend a lot of time with the disc.) A Steely Dan album takes MONTHS, at least, to really reveal itself, IMO. In fact the more I hear 11 TOW, the better I think it is. When I first heard it I may have given it a 2 star rating, if that.

Next, are you rating it compared to other SD efforts (as you seem to be doing)? Well, on their worst day, the Dan puts out music at a far higher level than most artist dare dream of approaching.

So, a 3-star rating may not be insulting in a vacuum, but take a look at what ratings are being given to far lesser efforts, and you will see some serious grade inflation.

I would ditch the stars, altogether, and concentrate on the discussion of the album, it's highlights, surprises, disappointments, etc. Recommend or not. Call it a classic, or don't.

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 19:36:11 ET
Posted by: angel,

Denise: As a painter, I too was looking at that red line behind the CD and thinking, well isn't that interesting, something unexpected. Love the back design on the CD, as you probably already know. ;-)

OK Ladies and Gentlemen, Boys and Girls, if I didn't miss any, here are the "different" letters.

E N N O K U E E E A K Y E

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 19:27:57 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

I think you make a point worth considering, john.

That said, I can only say at this point that "Door Number Two" rates five stars. It's remarkable.

Jim

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 19:18:07 ET
Posted by: john, nyc

Got c$, I like it however everyone being bummed out by the rolling stone review being 3 stars I dont think it is 5 star material.

I think it is 3 star material. Good. but not classic, cmon AJA is 5.

Very few albums as we know should be given 5 stars.

4 should be reserved for countdown/ gaucho etc.

but 3 I think is perfect. Its very good but not great and certainly not remarkable.

what does everyone else think?

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 19:13:35 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Yeow, to the other graphic designer person.

Yes, it is simple. That is Denise' point.

The "Circus Money" and 'Walter Becker" logos are both some of the best logos since the CBAT "Steely Dan" logo.

I doubt Walter's folks will do this so I looked into this myself this afternoon: I'm going to have "Walter Becker/Circus Money" logos printed up as temporary dry transfer henna tattoos to give away free at Danfests.

What part of your body will your "Circus Money" tattoo be applied to?

We can even apply them to each other.

Won't that be fun!?!

=========

Give a listen to the title tracks of C$ and 2vN. Both are distinctive tracks, but clearly there's some of the same mastermind involved.

Jim

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 18:48:45 ET
Posted by: Denise, H

Dear killjoy designer,
Yes, I think the cover is quite stunning. Sorry you don't agree. My apologies for for exhibiting excitement over a piece of work I admire. Not being a musician, I can't really say much about the music in depth, but I can voice an opinion abour the design. Jesus, just suck the joy out of th whole experience, why don't you.

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 18:34:53 ET
Posted by: Another Graphic Designer, here

There's not much to the artwork to Circus Money.

There's a mask.

A photo of Walter on the back.

A photo of Walter and Larry Klein inside.

One song per page of lyrics.

There's the logo.

Every now and then a letter is left lighter than usual.

It's not bad, but it's not amazing either.

The real message of Denise's post is to flaunt, "See? I'm graphic designer too!"

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 18:28:24 ET
Posted by: Kalvin, Portsmouth, England

Apologies in advance to the rest of the world for this little Portsmouth/Cortlandt Manor love in, but...firstly my dear, let me just confirm that while you have a breath in your body, you'll never owe me anything ! I'm afraid though that any Steely dates are beyond me this summer, with regards to a stateside appearance tho...never say never...x.

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 18:28:08 ET
Posted by: Denise, Hinktown kitchen

Bopping around to C$ and cooking, really loving it! My only complaint is that the title track doesn't go on for a bit longer! This CD does have a great groove. Walter's vocal very smooth and strong.

Kudos to A. Denovo, Carol Bobolts, and Coco Costigan Daniels. Very fine design. I love it when an item is well designed and excites you as you open it. Do you remember when you first got Aja? Holding that album looking at the stunning design and fine deep black double-coat gloss print? You knew you were holding an item of quality even before you put it on the turntable. I felt a bit the same tonight, looking at the cover, thinking "this is interesting" and then when you lift the CD out of the case you see the design florish underneath and think "well, somebody put some thought into this" and the design reflect the interesting and thought-provoking lyrics within. It is a total package.

Fine job, Walt and all.

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 18:18:12 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

Thanks Hoops...complete agreement (the Deanster will listen to reason from you, me thinks).

The only new tune will be the opener...same band/soloists playing the same arrangements. Well worth seeing but lacking artistic reach (in terms of live performance, that is...no quibble with the studio efforts).

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 18:01:16 ET
Posted by: scurvy, Mpls

Any rumors re: a Minneapolis show?? Would love to see it, might fit in with new midwest dates!

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 17:39:34 ET
Posted by: geo,

Where's my C$? I live in New York State and still nothing!

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 17:39:01 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar. It's Happy Hour!

Casual,

I didn't realize you were lawgator.

I went to the designated site for the meetup, but it was a big place and didn't know where you guys were (also, I was proably a little early). I met my ticket hookup there (1st row right-center...right in front of Fagen), had a drink and then left for the Cigar bar upstairs to smoke a nice cigar.

I talked to a couple of people looking for the party...waiting for you, I think. It was a little bit crowded, fairly hot (if I remember correctly) and I was antsy, for some reason.

I missed the "striking brunette"? DAMN! I hate when that happens.

I would have gone to either Hollywood or Clearwater, but things really fell into place for me with the Finger Lakes show. I'm pretty strapped for cash, right now, and I am driving to South Beach on the 14th of this month.

I'm sure we will meet in the near future.

And, Marceau, from what I have heard so far, I completely disagree with you. I am blown away by the soulful sound of the backup singers on what I have heard from C$.

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 17:02:02 ET
Posted by: Casual fan, orlando

Just came across this clip on youtube of Mick Jagger and Keith Richards being asked about songwriting, and which comes first, the lyric or the tune. Its short, but interesting and kind of intuitive: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GY-sgPD7M3U&feature=dir

I wonder what DF and WB would say in response to the question. Do they write the music first, or do they write the lyrics first? Which is derived from the other? Which is made to fit the prior?

As a non-musician, I would think it varies, but more often the tune first (as Richards says, "the hook"), lyrics second.

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 16:47:12 ET
Posted by: Greg, Dunedin, NZ

C$ was in my post box this morning, here on the other side of the world (New Zealand).

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 16:16:41 ET
Posted by: Marceau,

RE: CM:

All the back-up singers sing like high-pitched white chicks. It's grating. Let them sing like black girls.

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 15:59:06 ET
Posted by: Casual fan, orlando

Dean --

You know, if it were on a Wed, Thurs, Fri, or Sat, it would be a given that I'd go. I too hear that Ruth Eckerd is a great venue and has tremendous acoustics. But a Monday night all the way over there? I-4 the whole way? Man that just sucks for those of us with regular office-hour gigs.

Did you come to the meager Danfest last year over at Buffet's? If you did, I was the organizer (a/k/a lawgator). I had the striking brunette with me. Though it wasn't lunch, she could have passed for a Gina. If you were there, you remember her.

She's in Thailand right now but she might go with me to the Clearwater show. If I go. Which as previously stated is iffy.

One thing I struggle with on it, by the way, is tickets. There are still some left on TM way in the back, but I'm sick of that. If I go, I want to be within tomato-throwing distance. I keep checking Ebay and craigslist, but I guess the diehards who bought tix early are actually motivated enough to go on a Monday night.

I'm wodnering what kind of deal I can strike with the people who get caught up in daily life at the last second and can't make it. I am tempted to wing it and see what I can get at about 7 or so at the venue. Whaddaya think?

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 15:49:53 ET
Posted by: Dan Belcher, Louisville, KY

Hoops, I'd actually say C$ is much closer to the Steely Dan feel than 11TOW, mostly because of the arrangements. I actually have never really warmed up to 11TOW. There's a few songs I like (Junkie Girl, the live version of Book of Liars, Cringemaker, Girlfriend), and a few songs I really can't get into at all -- My Waterloo, Hat Too Flat, Little Kawai, and Surf And/Or Die all gets on my nerves). They are just too "out there" for me.

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 15:41:12 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Heading Toward the Manatee Bar

By the way, Cas,

I think I posted a set list from last year's Orlando show, but I don't remember any Hollywood reports. That's not to say there weren't any.

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 15:39:31 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Heading Toward the Manatee Bar

Casual,

Unfortunately I have to miss both Florida shows (I really wanted to see the Clearwater venue, though). The only show I will be able to make, it seems, is the July 11th show in the Finger Lakes. By, then, I'm guessing C$ will be etched pretty well into my brain.

I'm looking forward to the set lists...so make sure you do your best. :#)

-b

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 15:27:02 ET
Posted by: Casual fan, Flori-duh

Dean -- I may or may not go to the Clearwater show (which is a scant six days away). I'm as yet undecided. You going?

They start in Hollywood Sunday night then on to Clearwater. My recollection from last year is that set list reports were pretty minimal from '07 Hollywood. If I go to Clearwater, I'll try to post a set list ASAP, bearing in mind of course that I'm not as good at remembering some of the deeper cuts, especially if they have arranged them differently for the live shows.

Plus, unless they announce by title song by Becker I don't already know, i.e. its from C$, I'll be at a loss because I literally just ordered mine today and probably won't have it until after the show.

In other words, and having re-read the above, I'll post an incomplete setlist that will probably be wrong anyway.

So you got that going for you, which is nice.

(But if they play Dr. Wu, I'll for sure let everyone know since it seems to me that it would cause a collective orgasm on the board.)

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 15:25:38 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Workin'

Kalvin, my love! So nice to hear from you! Are you coming stateside this summer? I believe I still owe a debt of gratitude from last summer's voicemails!

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 15:21:33 ET
Posted by: prez logic, 25143

C$ in the house, or shall I say the PO Box today...

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 14:20:24 ET
Posted by: Kalvin, Portsmouth, England

Penblwydd Hapus Boston Rag !

(Mags - humble apologies for the grotesque train spotterness of it all...but high gas prices ? Working with today's exchange rate, try running $11.50 a gallon up the flag pole and see who salutes ... who says size does'nt matter eh ???)

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 14:05:25 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Work

True story:

I've just finished lunch, walking back to my car, about to head back to work, there's two women and a man standing near my car, talking (I kept wondering if they'd hit my car and were pow-wowing, trying to figure out what to do). One of the women comes up to me and says "Excuse me, we were just wondering, those bumper stickers about "Is there gas in the car?" Well, what do they mean?" When I explained it was a Steely Dan lyric, she laughed and replied "Oh, I thought it had something to do with the high gas prices!"

Uh, no, but thanks.

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 13:18:43 ET
Posted by: El Sup, Louisville, KY

Quick trivia answer - The song Darkling Down lifts the lyric "getting down on the cellular level just in case I got to call someone" from the early (and well crafted) Becker track Our Lawn. It was perfromed live a handful of times early in the 1993 tour and then it faded away. I would have loved for this song to be on 11TOW. Oh well.

El Sup

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 12:50:49 ET
Posted by: Uncle Bob, Amerika

Somebody's Saturday Night sounds like it fell off a Jimmy Buffet album.

Date: Tuesday, June 3, 2008, 00:00:00 ET

Happy Birthday, Boston Rag!

******|||||********* *~~~~~~~* * * ***************** * * *~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~* * *

***************** -------------------------------

Happy Birthday...and many more!

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 12:35:21 ET
Posted by: Connie, In the vineyard

Happy Birthday Mark!

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 12:30:17 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Daddy G,

That crack wouldn't bother me, either. But, does anyone really like jewel cases? I despise them. I can hardly believe they are still the packaging of choice, for CDs.

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 12:25:04 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

More Pistol Dawn:

http://209.85.215.104/search?q=cache:HRnBeDQ0vIsJ:motownsports.com/forums/archive/index.php/t-20153.html+%22Pistol+Dawn%22&hl=en&ct=clnk&cd=51&gl=us&client=firefox-a

Apparently, there is also a band with the name Pistol Dawn

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 12:20:15 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

http://209.85.215.104/search?q=cache:R4MlbuL1dTIJ:www.familyfriendsfirearms.com/forum/archive/index.php/t-15071.html+%22Pistol+Dawn%22&hl=en&ct=clnk&cd=37&gl=us&client=firefox-a

"An all-night bar in Beverly Hills is called "Pistol Dawn."

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 12:19:46 ET
Posted by: El Sup, Louisville, KY

Quick Trivia - A track on Circus Money borrows a couple of lyrics from a much earlier 11TOW session (and early 1993 tour) song. Name the new track and then name the old one.

El Sup

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 12:19:23 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

When I read that interview from May 6, I assumed it meant that we'd probably hear some solo stuff. Especially after falling in love with "Door Number Two", I figured that and some Fagen solo track would be The Bomb of this tour.

Now that I re-read the comments posted from both interviews by "The Dean", I have to say I'm doubtful that there will be any solo tracks. In fact, it sounds like a similar show with some tweaks. As I've probably said here too often, last year Walter breathed new life into the "Hey Nineteen" chit-chat bit. I now expect it might be tweaks of that scale.

=============

I received C$ last night. I've listened through three times so far. There was an interview recently where WB said something like the album is more placed in Southern California. That's really the case here. While most Steely Dan is kinda dark in my book, so far this strikes me as a relatively sunny and breezy album, at least on the surface, save for "Door Number Two". "Door Number Two" so far sounds the closest to a Steely Dan track; the others have hints and bits that remind me of Steely Dan. Someone above called C$ a middle ground between SD and 11TOW. So far C$ is striking me as more different that 11TOW: if 11TOW was one step away from SD, C$ is at least two.

Aside from "Door Number 2", "Paging Audrey" is another one that is surfacing for me as a masterpiece. I still need more listens of the whole album. I instantly loved 11TOW, EMG and MTC when they came out; Kama and 2vN took me some time to get to know. I'd put C$ along side the latter.

Somehow, a certain quality of C$ reminds me of a late 1970s or early 80s sound. From my library, I'm thinking Joe Walsh's "...But Seriously Folks..." (his best, IMHO) or the late 70s/early 80s albums by the Grateful Dead--side one of "Terrapin Station", "Shakedown Street" and "Go To Heaven". And of course some Joni Mitchell like her 1974 Court and Spark" album.

More listens required on my part.

Jim

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 12:19:13 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., NJ

...back of the jewel case has a 2.5" crack which slants down left to right from over top the "Door Number Two" text to just below Walter's neckline.

No big deal. Jewel case is still very much usable since the tabs that actually hold the CD are intact. Would be easy enough to replace if the crack bothered me, but it doesn't. It would bother a friend of mine, but not me. CD itself and the booklet look pristine and those are all that matter to me.

Time to check this puppy out...

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 12:12:22 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., NJ

Haven't pulled off the shrink wrap yet, but just found some C$ in the mail here in NJ. So it has officially reached the East coast...

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 12:12:08 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana, loving C$

Has anyone else noticed that the lyrics for SSN in the booklet says:...."slouched in a booth at Pamela's Pistol Dawn", instead of "slouched in a booth at Pamela's pissed till dawn"???
Wonder which is accurate? Have listened closely numerous times and I can't tell for sure; could go either way....IMHO.
Nothing earth-shattering, just interesting....IMHO.

Beaucoups thanks, Walter!!!!! C$ is awesome!!!!!!

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 12:10:50 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, @lunch

CM in the mail box last night. Court is still out on the overall, love, love, love Do You Remember the Name. Great production, sound, performances, it'll take a few spins to really get a grip on it.

Thanks Walter!!!

KC

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 11:51:58 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Keith,

Tell us what you know!

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 11:48:51 ET
Posted by: Keith,

Dean- Well in that case you're going to be very surprised!

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 11:32:07 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Bob,

Not sure what your point is. Walter did make statements that they would include some solo stuff and change some stuff up in the arrangements and stuff.

Apparently, based on the 5/23 interview, he also said "people who come to Steely Dan shows really want to hear Steely Dan songs.."

So, what's your point?

This is from the interview with Rolling Stone on 5/6:

RS: And the Steely Dan tour ? What have you guys thought up for that?

WB: Well, we're revamping our show to change the pace and the flow of the show and to include songs that we haven't been doing as much recently. We haven't really started rehearsing yet, so I don't really know how it's gonna turn out. We just want to make sure it has a fresh energy for people that have come in previous years, even though they'll still get to hear basically what they wanna hear: the Steely Dan songs played more or less how they were recorded. In some cases, we'll do rewrites, segues and stuff, make it a different live experience. There's a couple songs that I'd like to do that we'll maybe get to do this year. But I hate to say in advance, in case it doesn't happen. And then fans are coming to the shows with signs and stuff, throwing rotten tomatoes at us if we don't do certain songs.

They have yet to play Note #1 on this tour. My recommendation is to wait a couple of weeks and see what they are doing in the shows early in the tour.

I will be surprised if they play nothing from any of the five solo albums, this tour.

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 10:29:36 ET
Posted by: hz, valhalla

hey big fan - enough with the bad characterization of my coast.

¿ how about the far correct coast or the soon to be strawberry coast? or the CELTICS coast!

CELTICS RULE, baby!

hz

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 10:26:14 ET
Posted by: Hutch, rva

C$ was in the mailbox yesterday. Put it in the changer last night and heard a funny raspy noise coming out of the left speaker of my system. What a time to discover you have a blown speaker!
So I got out the headphones.

This is everything I expected it to be. Walt certainly has a lot to say lyrically and musically. I really dig the dub sound. Dub was something I had absolutely no exposure to until a couple of years ago. Some friends and I spent July 4th weekend at a beach house and we listened to dub the whole time we were there. Get a few drinks in ya and visit the bong a few times and that stuff becomes hypnotic!

Walt's vocals and guitar solos sound great. Of course his bass lines alone are worth the price of admission. Jon's guitar is sublime and perfect. Great to see Dean Parks on board (a great solo on Upside Looking Down). Roger Rosenberg and Chris Potter absolutely KILL!

I think Walter has found a beautiful middle ground between the experimental sound of 11TOW and the Steely Dan sound. There are parts of songs that sound to me just like SD. On Paging Audrey the instrumental part with the piano chords and guitar line right after the first chorus sounds exactly like something they would have written back in the Countdown or Pretzel days.

I like this album a lot.

As I write I'm up to Do You Remember the Name on my second listen to the CD.
Time to stop typing and just listen.

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 10:19:14 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

Dean -

On 5/17 you wrote...

"Walter has assured us that they will be mixing in some solo stuff as well as different cuts and arrangements."

Oh really?

Walter Becker, on 5/23 in the interview on "The River" (link on walterbecker.com), stated the following:

QUESTION: Are you going to do any of the Circus Money stuff at the Steely Dan show...or is that taboo?

WALTER BECKER: ...it's not taboo but it is the case that people who come to Steely Dan shows really want to hear Steely Dan songs...and I think the size and type of show and the type of venues that we do work the best, by far, with somewhat familiar material...it just isn't really conceived the best for that.

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 09:30:29 ET
Posted by: Hutch, rva

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 09:14:14 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Workin'

Thanks Geoff, I thought so!

No C$ in New York yet, either. It's coming, it's coming!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MARK!

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 09:13:45 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

More C$ press: http://www.elpasotimes.com/living/ci_9458016

Still waiting for the CD as well.

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 09:13:22 ET
Posted by: BillfromPgh,

Got mine yesterday, still taking it all in. It will take a few listens, probably with the lyric sheet, to fully appreciate. One thing I am struck by is the memorable melodic passages - the chorus of Paging Audrey with the unison bass line, and especially the bridge to Upside Looking Down with Walt doing a very Donald-like falsetto supported by the choir. The subject matter is rather somber, lots of tales of failed relationships and loss. Production is excellent, immediately recognizable as a SD-related effort (maybe it's the trademark phased Rhodes piano that appears often). Nothing quite as musically quirky as Hat Too Flat, Surf and or Die or Lucky Henry. The reggae pulse of the basslines is subtle and tasty but the tempos are mostly fairly similar. Over all, it looks like Walter and Larry delivered what was missing most from 11TOW - a live rhythm section and full backing vocals. Put C$ and Morph on random play and they'd fit quite nicely together, ironically since there was no cross-polination on either project. D&W have worked together so long that they just naturally sound "steely" even on their own.

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 08:36:55 ET
Posted by: Big Fan, waiting

No C$ on the far right coast yet. I was really expecting it yesterday. But we did get a letter in the mail yesterday from the IRS stating that our economic stimulus package check will be here by the end of the week.

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 08:21:20 ET
Posted by: Denise, Hinktown cubicle

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MARK!

And thanks for the heads up, I just got Orch row A at the Beacon and am so jazzed for this.

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 08:08:43 ET
Posted by: Gretchen, Thank You Walter!!

Paging Audrey and Somebody's Saturday night are especially delicious. I've been spinning it constantly, what a great summer soundtrack!

G

Date: Tues, June 03, 2008, 00:20:47 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., NJ

Another piece on the state of sound quality...

Musicians push for better sound online and on disc
http://www.usatoday.com/tech/products/2008-06-02-better-sound-formats_N.htm

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 23:53:36 ET
Posted by: Web Search, US

Another C$ piece.

http://home.nestor.minsk.by/jazz/news/2008/05/3106.html

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 22:46:19 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., NJ

No C$ in southern NJ yet either, but I'm patiently waiting. It'll come eventually and in the meantime I'm enjoying the enthusiastic "first listen" reports.

I hadn't checked the promotional images page at walterbecker.com in quite a while, but I see there's a 468x62 (220KB) banner for promoting the July 14th UK release date. If you hover the mouse pointer over it the pop-up comment reads "ircus Money UK Release July14", but that's OK---we know what they mean and you can always fix that in the HTML when you post your own.

http://www.walterbecker.com/cmelements.html

As previously requested, no direct linking please... just grab it and use your own copy.

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 22:11:05 ET
Posted by: Lutz, SF

Wow ,this sounds big!
Beautiful and organic.

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 21:46:16 ET
Posted by: St John, hi and dry

Damn , no Circus Money today in northern NJ either. waaaa!

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 21:38:10 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu , damn, it's hot

LWO...anything? Maybe the jewel cases melted in the record temps 'round El Paso...

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 21:02:48 ET
Posted by: Boston Rag, home at last

Well, just got home from work and no Circus in the mailbox. Bummer!
Oh well, tomorrow's my Bday and that would be a great present!!!

By the way, there are AMAZING seats showing up on TM for the Beacon shows. I've seen 1st row center and 4th row center for the June 21st show popping up in the last few days.

Mark in Boston

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 19:06:48 ET
Posted by: angel,

Snakehips!!!!!!

I thought the same thing, when I read that they added DTE. Love the venue! lol

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 18:55:26 ET
Posted by: Dan Belcher, Louisville, KY

I am not a big fan of reggae, but I thoroughly enjoyed the album. Just listened to it all and didn't find a bad track in there. There were a couple I wasn't as fond of as others (Bob Is Not Your Uncle Anymore for example) simply because the more straight up reggae gets a little repetitive, but they're still good songs. Downtown Canon, Upside Looking Down, Paging Audrey, Selfish Gene, and Three Picture Deal are all just fantastic.

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 18:46:56 ET
Posted by: What?,

I can understand if someone does not like reggae. But to just pronounce that all reggae "sucks", obviously let's us know that you are an uninformed tool. You then go on and beg Walter to tour. You do know that the evening would be 2/3 reggae.
At least you were consistent in your ignorance - The CD is already being released in FLAC putz.
Vinyl FLAC? What a jamoke.

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 18:30:26 ET
Posted by: Nicholas Urfe, Phraxos

Those Lords are a picky, the lot of them.

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 18:17:51 ET
Posted by: Geoff, Same place

Sorry GM I did mean to say Roseland not Beacon. NYC is all a blur to me.

Who's going to see Squeeze? I just got some tickets. I just need to know whether we think they suck or not. They are a bit too close to Joe Jackson for my liking, who, according to the Lords of Dandom, sucks. Mind you, according to those same Lords, Steely Dan, DF and especially WB all suck too.

geoff

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 18:11:19 ET
Posted by: Geoff, San Jose CA

GM - Yes Tawatha Agee did stand in for Carolyn at the Beacon.

Who stood in for Michael?

Geoff

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 17:32:24 ET
Posted by: Big Walt fan, still

ok. i've listened to CM a LOT.

at the end of the day, reggae still sucks. and the lyrics aren't up to the high standard we hold for WB.

so, i'll put the brilliant audrey - maybe sat. nite and downtown on a disc with down in the bottom, junkie, surf, fall of 92, jack o speed, slang, and some of his live vocals and have a wonderful walt fest.

im certain that CM will sound a lot better live, however.

TOUR WALT TOUR!!!

ps. i'm all for vinyl and hi-res flac

pps. ¿ if someone says they are going to send you something, shouldn't they send it???

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 17:14:07 ET
Posted by: snakehips, on the side of the road

yay

Angel - want to come on over again for SD at the DTE?

sh

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 16:16:17 ET
Posted by: Fife, Baltimore, eh

WhooHoo the postman left us a wonderful present, now I have to wait for Mr.Sam to get home and open it. It's a birthday present!

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 14:54:25 ET
Posted by: Dan Belcher, Louisville, KY

Another two hours before I get to leave work, drive home, and check the mailbox. Damn.

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 14:53:06 ET
Posted by: SB, rva

C$ arrived with today's mail here in Central Virginia --- Hooray !

Now, on with the music !

Thanks, Walter .

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 14:39:25 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana, also in VA

Hutch, Hoops......
Sorry for the double-post. Was so excited about receiving C$, I hit the send button twice.....oops!
Hutch, I keep hoping for a VA tour date too. Would be awesome.

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 14:31:01 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana, hooked on C$

Hutch,
I take that back....didn't receive any email notification but sure enough did receive the C$ CD in the mail just 5 minutes ago !!!!
Hope yours arrived today too.

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 14:30:29 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana, hooked on C$

Hutch,
I take that back....didn't receive any email notification but sure enough did receive the C$ CD in the mail just 5 minutes ago !!!!
Hope yours arrived today too.

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 13:12:55 ET
Posted by: Dash LaRue,

I was in Vegas this weekend and was surprised to find it in my mailbox Sunday night when I got back.
I did not receive any kind of shipping confirmation. It just arrived.
So keep checking those mailboxes!
Gave it a quick spin last night and can't really add anything new from Lurker Ray's fine first spin reports.

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 12:42:24 ET
Posted by: angel,

I don't remember getting an email saying that the CD shipped.
Of course I am at work and can't check, but I think I would have remembered that.
I believe I just got the CD in the mail.

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 12:36:03 ET
Posted by: Fife, Baltimore, eh

R.I.P Bo Diddley

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 12:09:47 ET
Posted by: Ha-ha, w3

Beacon, you're a real cheerful sort. Nice guy.

I've ticket stubs from the 70s. They were called "special guests" back then, too.

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 11:57:04 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, @work

No email on CM shipping yet.

Ari played in Japan in '00.

Another Chicago show!!!! Sweet! But not as nice as a Milwaukee appearance.

any rumours on what's being rehearsed?????????

KC

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 11:31:55 ET
Posted by: Hutch, rva

Sonny - Some folks on the west coast got their cd on Saturday.

Good to "see" you on here.

Hutch

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 11:30:27 ET
Posted by: Hutch, rva

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 11:22:38 ET
Posted by: lol , liverpool uk

that is correct

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 11:14:15 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Having the best Monday ever

Is Tawatha Agee the woman who replaced Carolyn at the Saturday Roseland show in 2003?

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 10:30:49 ET
Posted by: SB, rva

Hutch and SteelyDana,

I have not received an email notice from the WB store that my CD has shipped either ---- who/where are the folks who have received the email saying their CD has shipped?

SB

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 10:27:45 ET
Posted by: SB, rva

Hutch,

I'm with you --- VA Beach or northern Virginia, I hope too.

SB

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 10:13:25 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

I noticed that there are only two babes in the choir this tour, at least according to the sd.com listing.

Carolyn is only doing the NYC shows (Tawatha Agee is handling the other shows).

Cindy Mizelle certainly provides an added boost of sex appeal (and a great voice). Too bad Victoria Cave isn't with them, too.

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 10:06:22 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Chris,

Bill Charlap was one of my "dream list" opening acts I posted a few months ago. I, too like Sam Y...but as you said, he is no Charlap (who has become one of my favorite jazz pianists).

The Special Guests (get over it, BB) list is not complete. I wonder who I will see July 11th in the Finger Lakes.

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 10:03:35 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Bill - Kids these days and their different terminology for opening acts. (Also, who cares?)

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 09:56:36 ET
Posted by: Hutch, rva

SteelyDana - Yeah, I'm still holding out hope for Va. Beach or Manassas in late August. They've played at both of those venues at every tour they've done so far so it would be a disappointment if they don't this time around.

I guess the days of a two set Steely Dan show are over.

But hearing Dr.Wu this time out will make up for it!

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 09:46:41 ET
Posted by: Beacon Bill,

Chris - using the term "special guest" for an opening act is "standard practice"? I guess it is for the MTV generation. But for us old farts that grew up in the 60's/70's a special guest at a Steely Dan concert means that Boz Scaggs or Bonnie Rait will step on stage. Calling the Sam Yahel Organ Trio special guests is pretty lame.

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 09:29:18 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

Steely Dan newsletter that was emailed this morning states, regarding new dates added for Detroit and Chicago:
"...making it 38 dates, and counting. Yes..."and counting" means that additional new dates WILL follow."

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 09:21:47 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana, also in VA

Hutch:
Nope....have not received any email notification of C$ shipping to me either.....may start camping-out at our post office to grab the cd as soon as it comes in!!

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 08:43:38 ET
Posted by: Special Guests, not the opener

Bill,

It's akin to saying a "pre-owned" car vs. a used one.

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 08:26:49 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Beacon Bill, it's standard practice pretty much. Headliner with special guest Opening Act.

Very jealous of those of you going to the Beacon shows and getting Bill Charlap. Saw him last year at the Iron Horse, one of the most intense jazz shows I've ever seen. The audience was hanging on every note. Charlap is one of those players who uses every note for a specific purpose and it's thrilling to see him play.

We're getting Yahel again in Boston ... I did like him, but he's no Bill Charlap.

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 08:23:26 ET
Posted by: licorice, man

i ain't getting CM until walt offers a vinyl/flac option!
like:

http://www.boston.com/ae/music/articles/2008/06/02/vinyl_goes_from_throwback_to_comeback/?page=3

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 08:14:37 ET
Posted by: Beacon Bill, .

Why are the "opening acts" being billed as the "special guests"? I don't get that one.

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 08:10:49 ET
Posted by: pauly,

Re: Ari Ambrose- I believe that he was a fill in on the 2000 tour for the first few shows. Not positive, but I think so. That might explain why he's listed as playing in 2000.

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 07:54:04 ET
Posted by: Aerial View, ...

...and "pund" was supposed to be "pound." Sorry. It's early.

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 07:52:53 ET
Posted by: Aerial View, :-)

Well, whattayaknow... It worked!

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 07:51:51 ET
Posted by: Aerial View, Let's see if this translates

I have no problem with C$. It's a simple shorthand which is applicable to no doubt the largest market for the album. I always preferred 2vN rather than TAN---v for "versus," i.e. "Against."

But if the UK folks (or anyone referring to the UK release) want to use C£, I got no problem with that.

(That's supposed to be a British pund symbol---you know, the curly L with a small horizontal line... Don't know if the symbol will survive the transition to the post, but that was my attempt. If it doesn't make it... oh well, I tried to be slightly "clever" and that's usually when I get into trouble.)

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 07:48:42 ET
Posted by: Scheduling Notes, 323

Walt Weiskopf is scheduled to perform in Israel on Aug 25 according to his website. It stands to reason that the tour won't be extended by too many more dates.

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 07:46:19 ET
Posted by: Hutch, rva

You are correct Doc.

Have you (or anyone else on the east coast) received an email notification that their C$ CD has shipped?

I haven't heard anything yet.

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 07:34:41 ET
Posted by: steelydoc, near the Tower

I believe WB was the originator of C$

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 05:59:19 ET
Posted by: steelydoc, near the Tower

steelydan.com has been updated, new dates added, band lineup announced, openers listed, etc.!

and a Steely Dan newsletter was emailed this morning...wow!

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 05:41:33 ET
Posted by: mambashokolad, oUjfoXlS

Ëó÷øèé âèäåî ïîðòàë. Ïîðíî ãååâ, Ëåçáèÿíêè, ìîëîäûå, â âîçðàñòå, äîìàøíåå âèäåî, ÷àñòíîå ïîðíî. Âñå ýòè è ìíîãèå ïðî÷èå êàòåãîðèè âèäåî äëÿ âàñ íà ñàéòå , <a href="http://landus.land.ru/1098.html">ýêñêîðò äîñóã</a> , http://landus.land.ru/1098.html ýêñêîðò äîñóã , 6784 , <a href="http://landus.land.ru/508.html">öåõ ôîòî</a> , http://landus.land.ru/508.html öåõ ôîòî , epaixz ,

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 04:41:29 ET
Posted by: dtjlmmz, snYBMmfDFg

wipCc7 <a href="http://wesafiuuaaav.com/">wesafiuuaaav</a>, [url=http://omfycuvdmtaj.com/]omfycuvdmtaj[/url], [link=http://uiysdyzytdwo.com/]uiysdyzytdwo[/link], http://vgrxksnjvbmw.com/

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 01:58:52 ET
Posted by: Why fix the unbroken ?,

'To be technically correct we need to move to CM before this C$ gets too entrenched in the Steely vernacular.'

Entrench away. Where is the harm in C$ ?

People like it and have adopted it because it works. Is there some kind of need to be 'technically correct' ?

Technically correct to which standard ?

Technically correct for what purpose ?

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 00:42:17 ET
Posted by: angel,

Wasn't my abbreviation. I think it's cute though. :-)

Good luck to those waiting. Tomorrow's another day. Make sure you check your mailboxes.

Date: Mon, June 02, 2008, 00:04:59 ET
Posted by: suedave, home at last

Once I have C$ in my hands, I'm pretty sure I'll be accompanying you in that OCD phase! Thanks for the early reports, I'll keep my fingers crossed that it gets delivered to me mañana.

Date: Sun, June 01, 2008, 15:09:40 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu - Still spinning C$!

Someone should tell me to stop
listening. Could that be "OCD"
kicking in! I feel very privileged
to have been one of the first to get
this amazing new CD and report in.
I was also suprised to read than not
one note of this CD was recorded in
Hawaii - NYC & Santa Monica baby.
After listening for two days now I
could go into even more details, but
I think it is only fair to let others
get their CDs and give them a chance
to report in. I'm really looking forward
to reading what everyone else thinks.
I can't wait for the 200 gram vinyl!
(Hint, hint, nudge, nudge Walter!)
Angel -
Yes I can hear what you mean!
LWO -
My only regret is that because of the strike
earlier this year, I will be working deep
into June, and will not be able to make it
to NYC. Actually it worked out really
well for me that the shows out here aren't
until late July & August or I would have been
burned this tour. I will be doing the "Double-
Double" this year - LA & Paso Robles and
Anaheim & Pala. I don't know why people
were bagging on Paso Robles. I got third row
dead center for $65 a ticket and that includes
charges. I'd say that is the best Steely Dan
bargain in the last two years!
Excuse me now, my C$ OCD is kicking in again.

You watch some hobo take a nasty spill
Laugh like a bastard you know you will
Circus Money for the late late show

Says here - in the downtown canon
Keep it real it'll be okay
Right here - the downtown canon
Could it be any other way

Darkling down - this is god's good man
On his hand's and knees
livin god's good plan
Darkling down - and we don't know still
when he'll come around
if he ever will
Darkling down - in a seven-G turn
Glowing like a coal in the afterburn

Date: Sun, June 01, 2008, 13:24:06 ET
Posted by: ESP,

This is indeedan exciting time for us Grand Dan Fans!

Thanks to you, Hoops, for giving us the opportunity to share our enthusiasm!

3 cheers for that fresh Hoopsmon!!!!!!!!!!

Date: Sun, June 01, 2008, 11:54:53 ET
Posted by: Little Wild One, the deep south

Wow, you lucky bastards! I'm so jealous. Downtown Canon was my early fav from the clips and the kid recorded it for my ring tone. Can't wait to hear it in living audio, plus the rest of the cd.

Damm...Lurker Ray, you coming to NYC?

Date: Sun, June 01, 2008, 01:34:30 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

The latest edition of the Dandom Digest went out, this one covering May 24-31, 2008.

If you are a subscriber, you should receive it within the next 8 hours. As usual, if you don't receive it, please email me. Some people have problems with delivery of the Dandom Digest, usually because of their spam filters, firewalls, etc.

The following are the subjects of the Dandom Digest for May 24-31, 2008

About SPOILERS, Dandom Digest Reviews & C$

√ WCSX says Detroit Area Show 8/15
√ About SPOILERS, Dandom Digest Reviews & C$
√ Early Orders of C$ Now Shipping
√ PRESS RELEASE: UK RELEASE Set for Walter's C$ on 14/7
√ Walter's track-by-track comments on C$
√ COMMENTARY: Walter Becker, Humorist
√ "Danlines"

√ T I C K E T E X C H A N G E

√ ---NEW! 6/20: FS-Single ticket
√ ---NEW! 6/18: FS-Beacon Tix Center Row A

√ REDUX: Individual Items Version of Dandom Digest
√ REDUX, REDUX, REDUX: Don't Miss out! Get these E-newsletters

Thanks as always for your support, especially Mark, Bill and John.

Jim

Date: Sun, June 01, 2008, 01:26:17 ET
Posted by: Lutz, SF

Thanks for the lowdown Lurker,
I know it's not easy to type with sweaty chops.
Got 2 amazing cd's today - McLauglhin 08 and Bill Stewart 08 but have a hard time focusing and ended up going back to go back to the Walter clips.
Can't wait for monday!

Date: Sun, June 01, 2008, 01:13:03 ET
Posted by: angel,

Got more to say, but I think I will do the big first thoughts over on my blog. One thing I really wanted to mention is that I am definitely hearing little hints of You got the Bear on the title track, Circus Money.
Lurker Ray, do you catch any of that?

Early favorite for me is Definitely Downtown Canon. Who knew? :-)

Selfish Gene has, of all things, a calliope playing on the cut. Very circus sounding, more so then Circus Money itself.

Couple of real nice Walter guitar solos in Selfish Gene, Somebody's Saturday Night and Darkling Down.

I wish I had the time to really sit down and listen, been traveling with it as I did my errands tonight. I prefer sitting down and just listening with the lyrics. Maybe tomorrow.

Date: Sat, May 31, 2008, 22:19:42 ET
Posted by: abevigoda, its my band

its not about me..its about my band

abevigoda band

Date: Sat, May 31, 2008, 22:02:20 ET
Posted by: Luker Ray, Malibu

Caption for the only picture in the
booklet of Larry & Walter sitting
at the console -
"Not Shown: Skip Gildersleeve and Abe Vigoda"
Funny bastard. Can't wait for this summer.
Downtown Canon & Darkling Down this summer please.

Date: Sat, May 31, 2008, 21:44:10 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray , Malibu

Three Picture Deal - Look out "FM"
you might get replaced this summer.
Very rarely do you find an album with
no clunkers or "duffers" like my Scotish
friends like to say. This collection is
a grand slam Walter. You should be beeming.

Downtown Cabon is my early favorite but Darkling
Down is an amazing song. I was wrong
about an earlier post about "SSN", Darkling
Down should be played this summer Walter. Please.
So sweet.

That's enough from me. I hope you all will enjoy
this CD when you get it as much as I have.
Happy weekend all.

Date: Sat, May 31, 2008, 21:38:47 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

You bastards are killing me (but, excellent stuff, keep it coming). I have it ordered from the local, independent record shop and will have to wait until the 10th to get mine.

I'm not sure how much more of this I can take!

Date: Sat, May 31, 2008, 21:31:12 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Darkling Down - Trippy intro - Reggae launch.
This is how the party gets started. Larry Goldings
Hammond maskes you want to grab a cup of Joe and
a Vicks inhaler. Some smokin work by the ladies.

God's Eye View - These two tracks really show the
amazing work by the gals. Reminded me of the work
of the Raylettes. And that is major compliment.
If this sh*t isn't burning a hole in your CD player
this summer, you got no soul. Roger Rosenburg of all people
kicking ass and taking names.
She says: After all that's happened and I ended up with a prick like you.

Date: Sat, May 31, 2008, 21:27:20 ET
Posted by: Doc mu,

Too bad I'll have to wait til Monday.

Date: Sat, May 31, 2008, 21:26:47 ET
Posted by: Doc mu,

Very good news about Canon, Upside, and Audrey...the clips gave the impression they could be the heart of the order.

Date: Sat, May 31, 2008, 21:16:29 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Do You Remeber the Name -
Deep dub. Carlock, Becker on bass
and Jon are Monsters! Man I'm sweaty.
Can I get a vespa back to the resort?
Some of Herington's best work. Ever.

Somebody's Saturday Night, all we expected.

Date: Sat, May 31, 2008, 21:10:22 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

They bang the hammer and pitch the tents
Take it easy baby nice and slow
Little Walter got a ways to go
Circus Money For the early show
Circus Money for the late show
You watch some hope take a nasty spill
Circus Money fopr the late late show

Then Selfish Gene starts off as yet another
circus song. The reminds me of Cousin Dupree

You will see that Jim Bear plays the calliope
quite a bit on the CD.

Date: Sat, May 31, 2008, 21:03:34 ET
Posted by: angel,

Only got through 4 cuts, but I am totally NOT disappointed. GREAT STUFF coming out here! The piano/keyboard reminds me of how I feel listening to the Katy Lied album.

Off to dinner. You will not be disappointed. :-)

Date: Sat, May 31, 2008, 21:00:07 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Man has dinner been put on hold.
Yes another libation. Sorry for any
typos but I'm reporting in quicky,
Upside Looking Down is quickly emerging
as such a amazing surprise. It's like door
after door another amazing turn. Just
sublime Waler. Sung with his heart on his
sleeve. Dean Parks solo.

Paging Audrey - Just slip away. Jon smokes
along with Chris potter on tenor sax.

Date: Sat, May 31, 2008, 20:59:24 ET
Posted by: Dan Belcher, Louisville, KY

Damn left coast people getting their CD early. Gonna be a few days before it makes its way to Kentucky. I haven't even gotten any kind of confirmation that it shipped (neither through e-mail or on my account on WB's store website), so that isn't making me feel any better.

Date: Sat, May 31, 2008, 20:48:59 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Downtown Canon - Wet you pants drop-dead gorgious.
We will wear out this CD this summer folks.

Bob Is Not Your Uncle - The reggae starts folks
Steeped in deep Dub. Bob is whacking me right now.

Date: Sat, May 31, 2008, 20:44:58 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., NJ

As a joisey guy I gots to wait a bits longer for my Soycus Money. But I hope to see it before humpday now. Happy listening, you lucky left coasters!

Date: Sat, May 31, 2008, 20:40:21 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

F#UCK DOES THIS SOUND AMAZING!
The clips didn't even do it justice.
So far - Door #2 - Wow.

Downtown Canon - Drop dead bad ass.
Sorry to slow the report but, I going to
have to hit repeat!

More from your roving reporter in a minute.

Many more back-up singers than we thought!

Date: Sat, May 31, 2008, 20:33:45 ET
Posted by: angel,

Sorry, so excited. It's shipping from Los Angeles, CA.

Date: Sat, May 31, 2008, 20:32:31 ET
Posted by: angel,

Me too!!!!! OMG!

Haven't even gotten it out of it's case yet.

Shipping from Glendale, California, folks.

Date: Sat, May 31, 2008, 20:28:34 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

HOLY SH$T MY CD IS HERE!!!!!!
CRANKING IT ON THE VERANDA NOW.
Report in in a bit!!!!

Date: Sat, May 31, 2008, 19:29:41 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu ,

Ponys express is slow here in Texas. BTW, Walter's vocals are stronger and more expressive than 11 Tow. Blends well with babe choir just as Slang of Ages.

Date: Sat, May 31, 2008, 19:10:54 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

I have not heard the complete WB album yet...but can comment on Door Number Two and SSN. With a full, organic band this time, I expect the album to continue to sound like a cross between slang of ages and Walter's tracks for Michael Franks' Blue Pacific. Verses on DN2 are a little dry, a little icy, not compelling melodically. Fuller and lusher chorus with the Babe choir filling tight harmonies. That's nice! Wry lyrics with a little edge and humor. Contrapuntal instrumental breaks where Potter and Beard/Baker take the place of Sheppard and Beasley from the 90s. Potter lays it on in Door Number Two. There's a little film noir and 40s Ellington sneaking into.

Somebody's Saturday Night is a little fuller in the melody dept, but less in done with the song. I hold out greater hope for Downtown Canon, Upside Looking Down, Paging Audrey...tasty stuff going down on Selfish Gene. By himself or w/ Klein, Walter is a good, but possibly not a great tunesmith...we'll see. He'll certainly take more chances with production and soundscape than The Donald, which sounds great. It's interesting that Morph and Circus $ sound in better balance than the first half of EMG. Excellent use of spacing, even better than Morph was a big improvement over TvN and EMG in that department. You can step into it. Lots of little details and tracks (use of echo in Do You Remember the Name. As always, a clever lyricist.

The best reason for optimism is the idiots at Rolling Stone rate Madonna's new one a full star higher... [shakes head]

Did I mention Potter is kicking @$$?

Date: Sat, May 31, 2008, 18:18:08 ET
Posted by: CHECK YOUR MAIL TODAY, FOR THOSE WHO ORDERED

EARLY CIRCUS MONEY PEOPLE..ITS IN THE MAIL

CHECK YOUR MAILBOX

Date: Sat, May 31, 2008, 15:10:00 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

It's good to hear from you Mark and Marie;

The Ticket Exchange has been part of the Dandom Digest all the way back to 1993. You simply email your ticket info (for sale or request) to the Dandom Digest (digest AT dandom DOT com or DandomDigest AT dandom DOT com. The ticket requests are included near the botton of the latest Digest. If you send one it will appear in the next Dandom Digest. There's nothing to wait for. In fact, there is one coming out later this evening. The Dandom/Danfest lists are also great because you can target a certain audience who will be more likely to attend a show. Sorry these have been disorganized so far this year.

For the past several tours, Pat Beemer has also added a Ticket Exchange section to his Forum at http://www.banyantrees.net You simply need to set up an account and password. for his forum to post your ticket requests.

I see Ticketmaster has added a similar feature to their site. I'm not that familiar with it.

Just a reminder that ticket offerings or requests shouldn't be posted here unless it is right before a show. Please see the page where you enter your BlueBook posts for the complete details--and of course, I'm always open to exceptions or variations so email me with any such requests.

Finally with regards to ticket prices, the Dandom Digest Ticket Exchange will not feature ads offering tickets greater than the standard box office price including fees. If you paid more to a scalper or broker, too bad. The exchanges were started, in part, in response to scalping, etc. There is an exception on the price limit for those offering tickets for legitimate charitable fundraising. Proof may be requested.

Feel free to contact me via email with any other unusual requests or considerations in regards to this. I believe this is the same with the Ticket Exchange that Beemer operates.

=========

A couple of you have contacted me with the perennial question of why we use the guestlist CGI script we do rather than some other forum software. I'm always open to other scripts--let's face it, the script for the BlueBook is archaic and holey. In fact, I run forums using php's forum, etc. However, for various cultural reasons, this is the format people prefer. There's both good and bad about having an open forum. If you have suggestions, please EMAIL them to me first, rather than just first posting them. Often these have been previously discussed. We can take it from there.

=========

Thanks to those with the various reads on "Door Number Two". It's been decades since I have watched "Let's Make a Deal". Thanks to those with fresher memories and the sharp interpretations provided.

Jim

Date: Sat, May 31, 2008, 13:39:25 ET
Posted by: Mark&Marie, NJ

Hi - we've been off the blue for quite a while, but anyone know when Hoops is likley to release the next Dandom Ticket Exchange announcement? We have great seats, way, way up front that we can't use regrettably on Wednesday June 18th. If it'll be a while before the next release..... may try to use ebay but hate that site.
Regards,
Mark&Marie

Date: Sat, May 31, 2008, 10:26:20 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Spam Forecast for Blue:

I'm working on something. They may be more spam than usual today. Thanks for your patience.
Jim

Date: Fri, May 30, 2008, 17:05:17 ET
Posted by: My view, here

All I know is that if someone in Luxembourg winds up with a Becker bobble-head in the mail this argument will be settled.

Date: Fri, May 30, 2008, 16:29:03 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Perhaps you're correct about Soboba...I don't remember what I said about that for sure.

I sure didn't predict that they would come out west last year; I said it would be like '93 and '94 where they covered the US over two years, revisiting some of the first year's places and moving on to the west the second. That's what's happened.

Date: Fri, May 30, 2008, 16:22:01 ET
Posted by: Dash LaRue,

Okay, I must be wrong. I stand corrected. It was just a hunch I had. Especially since those YouTube links were also quickly linked
after they were posted here. I just feel that marketing people are much more hyper-sensetive to viral web info in this day & age. Especially when it comes to entertainment.

Do you have any stock tips or the lottery numbers for this weekend?
It is very rarely that I find someone who only deals in absolutes.
But then again you were also pretty sure that Steely Dan would swing by the West Coast last year after the Aussie Leg. I also recall you betting that the 06 Soboba & San Diego shows were only going to be ONE set like the rest of the tour.

Date: Fri, May 30, 2008, 16:01:45 ET
Posted by: worker B, the hive

Hey Dash -- I don't know what line of work you are in, but let me ask you a question. Once you do something, do you ever discover errors or things that need a touch-up or changing, and then do them?

Do you think other people doing a job discover errors they have made, one way or another, and then fix them? Do you think text on a website is ever edited or changed or somebody makes a different decision, all on their own without the help of you and me?

I just don't get the attitude that thinks anyone actually relies on a fan board to change or fix their work a world away. Just my tuppence.

Date: Fri, May 30, 2008, 16:00:54 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Uhhh...

I was speaking of both Walter *and* anyone who runs their sites not having much interest in sites like this.

Too quickly? So someone goes to Walter's website and they ask what's the deal with these things and emails them. I've been doing this for years...what you are saying is not what's happening.

Date: Fri, May 30, 2008, 15:56:21 ET
Posted by: Dash LaRue,

hoops,
Of course Walter is not monitoring. He could care less.
But a webdrone from Sonic360 is checking in. Things are getting fixed and clips are getting "clipped" too quickly for coincidence.

Date: Fri, May 30, 2008, 15:42:08 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Dash, I doubt they are monitoring. It's been years since they have taken an interest in fan sites like they used to circa 1996-2001.

It's more like if we're asking questions about the MP3s, press kit here, then it's very likely other Danfans elsewhere are asking the same questions directly to the webmasters of the official sites in question (sd.com, 360's site, etc). We're just a small segment of the Danfan population.

Jim

Date: Fri, May 30, 2008, 15:14:24 ET
Posted by: Dash LaRue,

Well it definitely looks like someone from Wally's Camp is monitoring. The Press Kit was fixed today, clips have been shortened and now MP3 has been removed.

Date: Fri, May 30, 2008, 15:13:04 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

A WB bobble-head would be very cool !!!

Date: Fri, May 30, 2008, 15:12:27 ET
Posted by: Soul Monkey, Louisville, Ky

El Sup, if we have to wait for the Becker Box until 2018, then how in the hell are you ever going to finish the ever infamous "Black Box" that I've been hearing about for 15 years?

I would still love to hear Uncle Waltie cover "Parent's Just Don't Understand". DJ Jazzy Walt & The Fresh Buzz.

Let's get the word out about Libo's in Cincinnati, and have a great party.

-EverInSearchOfCrustyPittsburghMonkey

Date: Fri, May 30, 2008, 15:06:06 ET
Posted by: El Sup, Louisville, KY

Great. Now that means it can be anything from an extra track, a words & music disc, bonus sleve pics or a WB bobble-head.

But I'll still buy one ...

Date: Fri, May 30, 2008, 15:01:17 ET
Posted by: Dan Belcher, Louisville, KY

And Sonic360 has revised that previous entry on their website and removed "mp3" from it. http://www.sonic360.com/walterbecker/

"Special material with International Release
MAY/30/2008
Special material with International Release of 'Circus Money': more details and pre-orders coming soon, please check back"

Date: Fri, May 30, 2008, 14:29:29 ET
Posted by: El Sup, Louisville, KY

Medical Science was a great track.

As for the bonus .mp3, I'm sure we'll get the non-lossy version on the Walter Becker box set in 2018.

Date: Fri, May 30, 2008, 14:12:21 ET
Posted by: Matt, chattanooga, TN

Do you think Walter is aware of the Monty Hall Problem, which essentially states that if you choose one of three doors (one containing a car, the other two containing goats), and the game's host (Monty Hall) opens one of the two you didn't choose, revealing a goat, and then asks if you would like to change your choice, you have a 2 out of 3 chance of winning if you change, and only a 1 out of 3 chance of winning if you stay with what you've got.

Always thought that was interesting.

Date: Fri, May 30, 2008, 13:55:58 ET
Posted by: Dash LaRue,

Let's not forget the Japanese release of 11TOW had a huge bonus track- "Medical Science". Just try tracking that CD down.

But why release Bonus Material in sh*tty MP3 format? Walter has already embraced FLAC, so why not use this lossless format????

Date: Fri, May 30, 2008, 13:41:39 ET
Posted by: El Sup, Louisville, KY

Re: "Free exclusive bonus mp3 to come with ex-US release"

Who knows. On the Euro-version of the Cousin Dupree single we had those two AIA outtakes (Fall of '92 and the Insturmental Overture) so it could be a live track or something like Fagen did with "Rhymes" for Morph the Cat. Maybe we'll get to hear a studio version of Girl Next Door to the Methodone clinic ;-)

Either way, I'll have to pick it up now.

El Sup

Date: Fri, May 30, 2008, 13:39:53 ET
Posted by: BillfromPgh,

Walter may have mixed up the game show hosts but quasi-label mate Jimmy Buffett got it right years ago:

http://www.seeklyrics.com/lyrics/Jimmy-Buffett/Door-Number-Three.html

Oh Monty, Monty, Monty, I am walking down your hall
God be, I lost my seat but I'm not a man to crawl
No I didn't get rich you son of a bitch
I'll be back just wait and see
Cause my whole world lies waiting behind door number three
Yes my whole world lies waiting behind door number three

Date: Fri, May 30, 2008, 12:51:59 ET
Posted by: angel,

Wow, the best part of a new release. Fever dreaming.

Thanks for running with Door Number 2. Made my morning... :-)

The height and weight thing was bugging me, cause I KNEW we had heard that used before. Thanks for pointing out that it's on the liner notes to Nightfly.

Date: Fri, May 30, 2008, 12:41:20 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

Oh, you guys are all over it, yes Monte, yes, door number two...bravo commrades on Blue!

Date: Fri, May 30, 2008, 12:14:22 ET
Posted by: Josey, St. Simons Island

And the lovely Carol Marol (sp?) was the Vanna White of her time. She was the one who would reveal whatever was behind door number two...or one or three.

Date: Fri, May 30, 2008, 11:31:08 ET
Posted by: SS, HK

Wasn't door number two from Let's Make a Deal with Monty Hall ?

I mean I just suffered through I can't tell you how much horror in reviewing Price is Right archival programs looking for a game with doors...and there well might be a game...but for sure there was a door number two on Let's make a Deal.

Go to about 3:45..and see what was behind door number two in 1975.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=SlNCbxWKMQE&feature=related

Date: Fri, May 30, 2008, 11:28:07 ET
Posted by: Matt, chattanooga, TN

Of course, Bob Barker was the host of The Price is Right, not Let's Make a Deal, whose host Monty Hall would ask contestants if they would like to trade their winnings for a chance to see what was behind Door Number One, Door Number Two, or Door Number Three.

Date: Fri, May 30, 2008, 11:24:37 ET
Posted by: Matt, chattanooga, TN

I'm hearing the "please Mr. Barker" as asking a circus barker (maybe I'm stretching here for thematic links). The picture that came to my mind was of the old Norman Rockwell "The Circus Barker and Strongman" Saturday Evening Post cover.

Wikipedia (Wikipedia is the best thing ever. Anyone in the world can write anything they want about any subject. So you know you are getting the best possible information.) says:

A barker is a person who attempts to attract patrons to entertainment events, such as a circus or funfair, by exhorting passing public, describing attractions of show and emphasizing variety, novelty, beauty, or some other feature believed to incite listeners to attend entertainment. A barker may conduct a brief free show, introducing performers and describing acts to be given at the feature performance.

Date: Fri, May 30, 2008, 11:03:21 ET
Posted by: lfyrvu, ujonOCGrhJhAKxKYfC

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Date: Fri, May 30, 2008, 10:00:00 ET
Posted by: Dan Belcher, Louisville, KY

So what's this all about then? From the Sonic360 page, http://www.sonic360.com/walterbecker/

"Free exclusive bonus mp3 to come with ex-US release
MAY/30/2008
Check back soon for an update on this exclusive bonus song from Walter Becker, only available with purchase of the ex-US release! Pre-order available soon on the Sonic360 store."

Date: Fri, May 30, 2008, 09:33:50 ET
Posted by: BillfromPgh,

Hey "MY READ", I think you've nailed it! In the old game show when you're offered door #2 you already have won something that many of the audience would like, but you're given the chance to throw it away for a longshot which might be the big jackpot or a gag gift unveiled with a comic foghorn sound effect. Only people who aren't satisfied with what they have pick door #2.

I also think the host of the Late Late Show may well be the fellow in the bright nightgown. Good catch!

By the way, did anyone else pick up a little Beach Boys reference in verse 3:
The Bahamas
The Bermudas
The Barbados

Just looked it up and despite my faulty memory, "Kokomo" does not mention Barbados.

Trivia - I gave up my first chance to see SD live in 1974 because they were opening for the Beach Boys, who I had no desire to see. This was before I recognized the impressive studio achievements of Brian Wilson and I just thought of them as a dull nostalgia act.

Date: Fri, May 30, 2008, 09:17:12 ET
Posted by: my read, vegas with a kid or two

firm appointment with the late late show I see as the unavoidable meeting with the grim reaper.

People my age and walter's age may know "I'll take Door Number Two, Bob" as what contestants said when they didn't want the prize that was offered in front of them. They wanted to go with the hopefully better but unknown prizes that were behind one of the doors. They were rolling the dice for something other than what they already had before them and could go home with right now. "Let's see what you've won!" Barker would say.

So I think both characters (Betsy, and narrator in verse 2 ) are sort of looking for a do-over of a kind. I know what life I have now (is right before me) -- can I try again for another prize (life, hairline, love etc) by picking door number 2?

Verse 3 is just narrator sort of elaborating; life as it is has sort of run out, gotten old, there's the good things but "I don't know", they don't satisfy, and one thing he knows is that is in store is a FIRM appointment with the End.

So that's my fever dream. It's like "Hey Bob Barker, do I get a second chance to see what "I've won" ?

Date: Fri, May 30, 2008, 09:05:39 ET
Posted by: BillfromPgh,

Hoops, I'm glad we're on the same page, or at least in the same chapter.

To clarify, "desperate" was a poor choice of words for the gambling mom in verse 1. Delusional, maybe. Stuck in a rut, wanting the quick payoff.

I didn't think the second verse referred to Donald, but did use a technique Donald used to annotate Nightfly, i.e. these weren't his own fantasies, just those of a guy like him (uh, yeah, that's the ticket). I like your take that it's a guy asking for a "friend," too embarassed to admit it's himself.

In the third verse, the official lyrics emailed with the download read "A firm appointment WITH the late late show" which to me sounds like the appointment is as a habitual viewer, not as a D-list guest. That fits in with the first two verses' portraits of wildly unrelastic fantasies - this guy wants the lifestyle of the rich and famous but knows he'll only be watching it at home, a lonely loser not unlike the narrator of Things I Miss The Most (or Girlfriend, for that matter). And these archtypes have been turning up in SD songs since at least Brooklyn which predated CBAT. Prufrock or Walter Mitty are not far removed from these guys (and yes, they are usually guys. The delusional women in SD lore are less into fantasy and more into reckless, potentially destructive behavior a la Mona or the Negative Girl, I'd say).

Date: Fri, May 30, 2008, 07:18:11 ET
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Date: Fri, May 30, 2008, 06:05:14 ET
Posted by: Lutz, SF

Thanks, Walter.

Date: Fri, May 30, 2008, 05:58:25 ET
Posted by: Lutz, SF

The rhythm tracks alone make this record of the year for me.
It's wonderful to see it all come together like this.

Date: Thurs, May 29, 2008, 22:02:58 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Hoops,

You are at the top of your game, tonight.

Tell me, though, why haven't you heard the full version of Somebody's Saturday Night?

It's right here:

http://download.rbn.com/rstone/rstone/download/smokingsection/walterbecker.mp3

Date: Thurs, May 29, 2008, 21:49:21 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

>
> It's a song about the American Dream.
>

Well done!! I love it when people are concise!

Date: Thurs, May 29, 2008, 21:32:27 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Bill:

I don't think there is a linear narrative. It's three portraits in my book. I haven't heard "Somebody's Saturday Night "but the short clip back last month. I have no opinion about that one right now.

IMHO, I think you're connecting a few dots that aren't connected. While the mom in the first verse is clearly working something like paycheck to paycheck I don't see her as completely desperate out on the street. I really doubt the character in the second verse is a reference to Donald.

Rather, I think all three of these people are unhappy with what they have and instead they try to look for to some external quick fix to their feelings of inadequacy and mediocrity in life. With the fantasy mindset of all the game shows and reality TV, people don't want to work through these things...they just want something to quickly fix what's bugging them inside.

The lady in the first verse might save up for something but instead she takes a long-shot risk. The "date with Elvis" suggests how absurd her fantasies can get.

In the case of the second verse, I'm thinking Mr. BOB Barker…the character says of similar "height and weight" because he doesn't want to appear that he's asking for himself since this guy sounds pretty insecure about his looks and is wishful about getting to bed a college girl. In certain ways, this guy's like Alfred Prufrock. Pretty amusing and common.

The third character comes across to me as past-his-prime celeb--and I have to recheck the lyrics to be sure this is definitely a guy. Could it be a woman too? This person has lots of money and they sound bored but maybe acquiring another pad would make them look and feel hip. The list of possible locations would sound great to most of us but the "I don't know" says to me this guy like the others isn't happy with what he has. He's blasé about all he has and still has a void to fill. For me the real key is a "a firm appointment on the late, late show". If this person was at their prime, they'd be on the "late show" but they apparently would be happy to just get on the second tier of late night. In other words, this person's happy to get on Craig Ferguson or Conan--Letterman or Leno is out of reach. He's past his prime in terms of career. Probably that's the void the new tropical digs are supposed to fill.

While I don't think it was a re-take on "Things I Miss the Most", to me I find this to be similar in certain ways but much more clever and powerful in its concise imagery.

Anyhow, looking forward to more comments and figuring out more about this song in the years to come.

What I think is really brilliant about Walter's interviews is that he never tells people what a song is exactly about line for line. He leaves it vague enough for us to fill in our own blanks. I think that leaves mystery and a certain open-endedness that leaves us to rethink these songs again and again. There was something disappointing about Fagen getting into too much detail about his songs during some of the MTC interviews. It's better when we're left guessing and having fever dreams.

My two piasters.

Jim

Date: Thurs, May 29, 2008, 21:17:05 ET
Posted by: ,

It's a song about the American Dream.

Date: Thurs, May 29, 2008, 21:05:05 ET
Posted by: BillfromPgh,

Hoops, am I just being denser than usual or is there a linear narrative in "Door Number Two" that I am missing here? RS sees it as just sexual reference (echoes of the "where no man has gone before" line from "Somebody's Saturday Night.") That I can see if you isolate the chorus, but what else is there?

Verse 1 is a desperate mom trying to hit the slots. Verse 2 is our narrator fantasizing about a similar longshot strike of good fortune, whether literally on a game show or symbolically (reminiscent of what Donald's Brooklyn neighbor dreamed about decades ago, isn't it?) Also, the "height and weight" bit echoes Donald's Nightfly liner notes. Verse 3 sounds like a character out of 11TOW, dreaming big but stuck on the couch in front of the TV.

Sonically, I love it, Walter's voice and all. He is the master of the smartass wisecrack wrapped in just enough vulnerability to keep it from being mean-spirited.

Date: Thurs, May 29, 2008, 20:37:25 ET
Posted by: Dash LaRue,

That's funny Jim! I always wanted to hear Walt sing, "Lunch With Gina". There is that one interview recently where Walter said he might do some solo shows. We can only hope. Here's an idea -
Don & Walt Combined Solo Tour - Two Sets with Intermission.
Walter opens then Donald after the intermission with some Steely songs for an encore.
I konw, I know. But I can dream can't I.

Date: Thurs, May 29, 2008, 20:24:35 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

LaRue; Moreso, I can hear Walter singing about every track on EMG, save for "Pixeleen". Between two albums of solo tracks plus some Steely tracks, (maybe "Josie", "Daddy...", "Hatian..." and some others), a Becker solo tour would be great.

It's interesting to compare Walter's vocals with his lead on "Mock Turtle Song".

Jim

Date: Thurs, May 29, 2008, 20:18:37 ET
Posted by: Dash LaRue,

The downloadable Circus Money Press Pack at the Sonic360 site does not work. I was able to edit the link myself and got it to work,
so here it is if anyone wants it-

Circus Money .pdf Press Pack

http://www.sonic360.com/presspacks/Walter%20Becker%20Circus%20Money.pdf

BTW - I totally agree Lurker Ray. Downtown Canon is the sh*t!
I also love that this is a "Walter" album but I can also easily hear
Donald singing these songs. Now the "daily mailbox check" starts. I hate this part.

Date: Thurs, May 29, 2008, 13:32:03 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

The "Rolling Stone" review reminds me of why I let my subscription lapse at some point that I can't even remember. The last time I really kept up with it was during the excitement of "Two Against Nature".

In a lot of my work these days, I have to deal with the media and I never cease to be amazed at just how much is already decided by many "journalists" before I'm interviewed.

I suppose the "Rolling Stone" writer did listen once or twice to C$, but really, he could have pretty much written the same thing after spending five minutes at Walter's web site.

It's no wonder people don't keep their subscriptions to such publications. Other than making my mail box smell pretty with its cologne sample inserts, I really don't have any purpose for "Rolling Stone" . OK, Austin Skaggs' column and the seemingly annual Bob Dylan interview are worthwhile, but I look on-line or at the magazine counter at Borders.

I keep starting on writing *everything* that's so great about "Door Number Two" and I never get it finished.

I have like about 20 notes on this but what says it all for me is this: I had to go on a five hour drive for a business meeting about two weeks ago. It was the first time I listened to "Door Number Two" in its entirety. Of the ten hours I spent driving that day, I probably listened to "Door Number Two" for about six hours of that. It gave me exactly that feeling I had when I was a kid or teen when I'd get a 45 RPM or hear a song on the radio for the first time and I'd want to hear it again and again and again and...

I have to explain that the clip at WB.com didn't do the song any service. To be honest, I didn't expect to like "Door Number Two" that much based on the clip. Hearing the full track has really raised my expectations for the album, not to mention the chills in my spine.

And the voice bit. Now in one of the new interviews with Walter he even says something along the lines that he wishes he had Steely Dan's vocalist for this album. I have to emphatically disagree.

Objectively, Donald doesn't have a beautiful voice either. It's an acquired taste. After 35 years of listening to Steely Dan albums he's what we "know" as Steely Dan's singing voice.

God help me, I am required to have those in my personal and professional life who don't like Steely Dan. What most frequently don't they like? Donald "sings like our nasally relatives from Brooklyn". Yet, some of those people love "Eleven Tracks of Whack".

While Donald has that "Attitude" which has become the trademark Steely Dan sound. More than a couple of people have pointed out that Walter is storyteller. I'll go further: Walter's a joke teller and a humorist.

The first few times I played Door 2, I hadn't seen the lyrics and I simply had the pre-conceived notion that it was going to be a takeoff on the game show "Let's Make A Deal". (Hey, in 2006 it was the "Price is Right", you know?) I really hadn't figured out what was going on in the song. For the first 30 seconds it was like, "OK. Why is everyone singing quietly so as not to wake the baby?" But then I realized I'm driving along and I have a big grin on my face. I was ready to crack up-—like you know someone's pulling your leg or is telling a joke and you're waiting for the punch line.

By the time Walter sings, "...three pigs" or the bit about "...my height and weight", I'm cracking up!

To appropriate part of one of my favorite comments about Steely Dan: when listening to Walter's songs, you're never completely sure what these characters in his songs are doing, but you're very certain they shouldn't be doing it --and it sure is funny!

I bet the reason the album took a couple of years was that the whole studio was cracking up during the sessions.

Sooo... if Donald sings with a almost perpetual sneer, Walter sings as if he's telling a joke and we're all about to crack up laughing.

Like Steve Martin or even Mark Twain, Walter could be a stand-up comedian--but is best as humorist. As I've said many times, he is truly a great American humorist. To dismiss his work because of the tonal qualities of his voice, vocal range or because it's not what one is used to is to miss out on his genius delivery. Put him on the spectrum between Mark Twain and the Leonard Cohen material of the past twenty years.

Jim

Date: Thurs, May 29, 2008, 12:24:42 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Thanks for the heads up about the "spam". It's been going on for the past eight hours. I'm aware but I can't recode to stop it for a couple of more hours. Just bear with it. And if you see five or more spams with an hour, thanks for emailing me to let me know.

Thanks.

Jim

Date: Thurs, May 29, 2008, 12:10:00 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

Brotha Dean, Walter sounds just great on this here record, relaxed and really actually singing. OK, it's within his half octave range but he sounds just, really, just reat nd I couldn't be more pleased as a fan and happy for him. He's arrived. It's not your limitations that define you in the end, it's what you do with your gifts.

Donald Fagen has been a truly great singer because he really has had an idea, and still does on record I agree, of what to do with the human voice. He places it, he shapes it to the song. It remains ever in character with the musical piece. Mr. Steely Dan is a bit of a whiny adolescent and Donald is the voice of Steely Dan: tortured, frought with pain but ever ever so brave, willing to explore new undefined territory and yet afraid of what he might find there. As Steve Gadd said to the effect that you have to kiss a lot of frogs in this business before you find a voice like Donald's. "This guy really knows how to sing." Exactly, and he sings from a very personal and specific place, we've all witnessed where he's taken us with that special voice all these years.

End of rant.

Date: Thurs, May 29, 2008, 11:57:28 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Raj,

while Don's voice is certainly weakening with age, it is most apparant in concert. His more recent recorded vocals are as good (and as challenging) as anything he did earlier in his career, IMO. If anything he sounds more confident singing now, than he did earlier in his career.

With that said, I think Walt's voice sounds really good, in what I have heard so far from CM. He, too, seems to sound more comfortable singing...more confident.

Date: Thurs, May 29, 2008, 11:26:05 ET
Posted by: Dr Hoo, Detroit

CDN Dan, while not officially blessed by SD or Ticketbastard, it is on WCSX's website (http://www.wcsx.com/concerts), so it appears the venue has been booked & promotion is already underway.
We were going to drive down to Cincinatti until I heard about this on Monday.
Great news! My wallet couldn't be happier.

Date: Thurs, May 29, 2008, 11:12:19 ET
Posted by: Rajah, he's not what he used to be

Donald's unrestrained vocals? Yeah, maybe 25 years ago but as of 2008, everything is very restrained.

Another underinformed commentary.

C+

Date: Thurs, May 29, 2008, 10:17:37 ET
Posted by: Web Search, USA

http://www.heraldtribune.com/article/20080529/FEATURES/428575416/-1/newssitemap

“Circus Money,” Walter Becker — In his first solo album in 14 years, Becker offers the same kind of musical eclecticism that helped make Steely Dan one of the best bands ever. His songs here, which he co-wrote, are great jazz/rock tunes, with touches of reggae. They feature wonderful sax solos, clever backing harmonies, whimsical yet intelligent lyrics and tasteful arrangements that sound simple but really aren’t. One problem, though: Becker just doesn’t sing very well. You can’t help imagining how much better they would sound on a Steely Dan album, with Donald Fagen’s unrestrained vocals out in front.

Date: Thurs, May 29, 2008, 06:40:47 ET
Posted by: CDN DAN, Windsor

I just heard a radiostation in Detroit say Steely Dan Aug.15 at DTE .There wasn't a Detroit show listed yet on .Steely Dan.com.DTE is one of the better sounding venues around.YAAHOOO!!!!

Date: Thurs, May 29, 2008, 00:56:22 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

Lutz, there have been erudite music reviewers, can't think of a one right now, maybe Robert Palmer of the Times in the 70s and 80s. There was a guy at the Wash Post but he was mainly classical. Most of these guys are pretty good at depicting the goings-on at live events but a serious analysis of the music? Fahgettabout, the number of folks who care for that stuff is very small. But the consensus of the true fans is a much better barometer, the listeners really do listen and then they speak.

Date: Thurs, May 29, 2008, 00:30:28 ET
Posted by: Lutz, SF

Reviews:
SF Chronicle in 03 gave EMG a very mediocre review, claiming every song sounded the same and SD was are washed up. It made me angry how little these writers know and how little attention they pay.
Then they get free tickets to the shows of the artists they just trashed
NY Times Bill Watrous -a musician- came down hard on Wayne Shorter's "High Life" - an absolute classic now-
McLaughlin put it in words recently telling how full of S..it most of these guys are, especially from the NY Times.
I never put much credence in critics, hope not too many people do.
The star ratings at Amazon are more reliable in many cases.
Would prefer for newspaper reviews to be written by aspiring music students instead of these career nitwits.

Date: Thurs, May 29, 2008, 00:20:07 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

Walter's music is anything but easy listening. That RS reviewer ain't listening hard enough. With The Steely Dans, you must be predisposed to working for it or your experience is disenhanced at best and in the "I just don't get it," camp. Tsk, tsk.

Mer, I've been floating that idea around in my head for years. Think of Austen or Bronte, witness how these exquisite writers differ in their treatment of love from a Dickens or a guy I consider the master of it all, Thomas Hardy. A brief cruise through the 4 great Romantic poets, Shelley, Keats, Coleridge and the other guy I always forget will reveal a depth of feeling quite diverse from the great female writers. Biologically, maybe genetically, women are focused on marriage, home and children. This is theie encoded imperative. Hold on now, there are countless women out there for whom life holds quite a different focus, and thank goodness for them, but your everyday Betty or Audrey...no.

Date: Wed, May 28, 2008, 23:40:28 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu - Gin & Tonics On the Veranda

I cracked the code.
"Door Number Two", "Downtown
Canon", "Paging Audrey" &
"Somebody's Saturday Night"
have been in heavy rotation
here at the house and in the
car. Thanks for the heads-up
about 'Canon & Audrey' yesterday
Dash. I was able to grab them
both when the clips were still
over 2 minutes each. I saved them
to the hard drive and burned them
as WAV files. One thing the Rolling
Stone review got right was -

"But tracks that hew closer to signature Dan style reveal dazzling sonic touches: "Downtown Canon" couches textured electric piano underneath his paean to coked-up nights."

Man are 'Canon & Audrey' just two
slinky and sublime tunes! Unlike
11TOW it is amazing how often I can
hear Donald easily singing any of
these songs on a Steely Dan record.
Especially 'Canon & Audrey'.
I can't get enough of "Downtown Canon".
Top of my list so far. The sedate programmed
beginning sounds as if Donald progammed it,
then whack! The tune smokes. Man does this
CD uses the "ladies well". Hopefully since
the WB Store ships out of LA, I will get
the new CD as soon as possible.
I can't wait. Kuddos to Walter & Larry.

No lie, the Downtown Canon
So wild, so fresh, so free
Stand by the Downtown Canon
I say yeah, it's got to be

Date: Wed, May 28, 2008, 22:52:04 ET
Posted by: Searching, for the CD

Anyone who mail ordered their CD should have it shipped out today or tomorrow.

The watch is on.

Date: Wed, May 28, 2008, 22:18:38 ET
Posted by: hah!, ...

Was just reading the specs on the WB Signature Guitar and the last item listed is: Special Walter Becker Mojo included.

Can't imagine what that might be:)

Date: Wed, May 28, 2008, 21:12:01 ET
Posted by: Matt Nevans, Medina, Ohio

I know I'm new here, and I don't like to bash things, but it seems like there could be a forum for the dan fans.... Does one exist? If not, I'd be happy to make one!

Date: Wed, May 28, 2008, 20:16:41 ET
Posted by: Danny Hutton,

Now there are 4 tracks available to hear @ 360M - the exact same clips at Fat Walter's site.

Date: Wed, May 28, 2008, 18:50:38 ET
Posted by: hz, 'll take care of youio

can't ya put the direct link on or are ya working for the stone?

http://www.rollingstone.com/reviews/album/20949151/review/20961624/circus_money

Date: Wed, May 28, 2008, 17:28:50 ET
Posted by: Mer., Boston

Re: Rajah's floating idea : men are "truly romantic" and women are "merely sentimental"... geezz,,, I can't believe more people haven't jumped all over this.
Interesting thought though--- and translating over into Becker vs. Fagan perspective--- I would speculate that if this is true, that Fagan 's romantic nature has been thwarted too many times (hence the darker lyrics about women), but man, can he do romantic ballads...

And Walter has probably had his romantic gestures received more positively. It totally makes sense to me that he could be married to a psychologist. How analytical of him...
OK- this is all speculation on my part- just continuing to float the idea.

Date: Wed, May 28, 2008, 17:13:19 ET
Posted by: Now They Are,

But yesterday the clips were 2 minutes long! Should of grabbed them then.

Date: Wed, May 28, 2008, 17:05:34 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., NJ

Just as an FYI so folks know, those Sonic360 sample clips ARE the exact same ones that have been available at walterbecker.com.

Date: Wed, May 28, 2008, 16:32:55 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

Normally, I would find any reference to Bukowski complimentary. But, the "easy listening" quailfer slapped all the goodness out of it.

Date: Wed, May 28, 2008, 16:27:26 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Wow, a 3 star review from Rolling Stone, what a surprise.

Date: Wed, May 28, 2008, 16:22:03 ET
Posted by: wondering, behind door number three

Well then, someone please enlighten the dense among us. Door Number Two seems a little more opaque than Somebody's Saturday Night.

Date: Wed, May 28, 2008, 15:51:10 ET
Posted by: poor walt 2, online

Yes I agree. Or maybe he's just that Verbal SAT challenged. Heck I'm a community college dropout, and I got it.

Date: Wed, May 28, 2008, 15:09:18 ET
Posted by: Dan Belcher, Louisville, KY

It's doubtful the reviewer even made it past the first chorus if he got that interpretation from the song.

Date: Wed, May 28, 2008, 14:32:04 ET
Posted by: poor walty, music media these days

there's a review of Circus Mon ey at Rolling Stone online. The reviewer is so dense, the metaphor of "Door Number Two" went right over his head. sigh.

http://www.rollingstone.com/reviews/album

Date: Wed, May 28, 2008, 14:24:59 ET
Posted by: Dash LaRue,

Well the clips are back up at Sonic360 - But they are now only 1 minute long! Glad I grabbed them yesterday! A new clip has been added - "Selfish Gene".

Date: Wed, May 28, 2008, 14:19:19 ET
Posted by: Sledge,

Walter's gay? Bummer

Date: Wed, May 28, 2008, 14:18:13 ET
Posted by: FAT ALO,

Just heard Aja done by old Beasley...some of it was good the rest cheesy

Date: Wed, May 28, 2008, 14:16:56 ET
Posted by: quqwhhkch, WxXVBvEbD

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Date: Wed, May 28, 2008, 13:59:34 ET
Posted by: hoops, breezing through on the quick

Good catch, "didn't know that". Thanks!

Date: Wed, May 28, 2008, 13:02:13 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

Jesu, you missed the whole point...

Date: Wed, May 28, 2008, 12:46:01 ET
Posted by: Larry,

Surprised that Walter has a wife?

Did you think he was gay?

Probably some groupie.

Date: Wed, May 28, 2008, 12:32:49 ET
Posted by: Rajah, in Roma

Caro Giorgio, sometimes a fictional character is much more preferable and palatable than a real character, n-est se pas?

Walter has always been a master at devising and fashioning fictional girls. He, for me, is a real romantic. And it is my firm position that of the two sexes, men are the truly romantic.

Women...well, women are merely sentimental.

Just an idea I'm floating...

Date: Wed, May 28, 2008, 12:16:03 ET
Posted by: George, in Paris

Perhaps Walter's love of fictional characters isn't limited to his song lyrics.

Date: Wed, May 28, 2008, 12:14:02 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana,

Bill from Pgh:
I, too, was surprised by Walter's reference to his "experimental psychologist wife" !!
Tried googling Mrs Walter C. Becker , but ....nada.
That would have been way too easy.
Hmmmmm......

Date: Wed, May 28, 2008, 03:22:12 ET
Posted by: Gina/Mizar5, Sun Mountain

hi Hoops, i agree with ya, even i don't understand the words that escaped from the tip of me fingers there :-)

but i was gonna say something about the DF/Morph the Cat album stuff, who also worked with Noble PR. i didn't get an email from Peter Noble, but from Radio Dupree and i know PGE is a googlemaniac, he's got some alert going, i am sure, that whenever something new is posted on the net, he receives a notification of some sort.

and alerting others, who are not always online or scavenging the fan sites etc, well, that is just exercising community sense.

and yes, i agree also that the way the press release may be written and such, is old news to the die hards who are on top of things. but NOT everyone is. and for those people, Noble PR and such are doing their job. for him to have included the fan sites in the links last time, whe Morph the Cat was released, that is very courteous. that is why i felt it a little bit off track if he and his company were under negative scrutiny in here.

that is not fair.

i repeat, not every music lover has time or energy or lust to be online all the time or hunt down every single bit there is to be found about music or new releases of their interest.

i know people in the UK who don't like to come here in Blue. they dislike the attitude of some posters. and same goes for the other sites like Mizar5, Radio Dupree, the Yellow.

and yes it may be a paying job, which it isn't for fans who maintain sites.
still, this is our own choice, right?
and if i email a radio station to ask about a radio interview with WB and if it is possible i can hear it or post it on a fan site, and those radio folks send it over just like that, well, that is 'payment' enough for me, the thrill that can't be bought :-)

same goes for Radio Dupree, whatever there is out there to be shared with the rest, they post it.

hi Dean, you're welcome :-)

Date: Wed, May 28, 2008, 02:47:08 ET
Posted by: SS, HK

'Bob's your uncle' = 'there you go'

Date: Wed, May 28, 2008, 00:53:45 ET
Posted by: irish, and livin it

let's just face it - the english are fucked up.

i thought that title was some ominous invention by walter carl.

Date: Tues, May 27, 2008, 23:14:48 ET
Posted by: didn't know that -,

It's just that the title of the third track of Circus Money makes a lot more sense to me now, is all.

Date: Tues, May 27, 2008, 23:13:28 ET
Posted by: didn't know that -,

Didn't know that "Bob's Your Uncle" was an expression ... apologies for wasting Bluebook space professing my ignorance....

Date: Tues, May 27, 2008, 23:03:12 ET
Posted by: didn't know what, ?

Date: Tues, May 27, 2008, 22:59:27 ET
Posted by: didn't know that -,

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bob's_your_uncle

Date: Tues, May 27, 2008, 22:10:41 ET
Posted by: Bill,

Bugger! The page is still there but the three links are no longer hot. Guess I gotta wait.

Date: Tues, May 27, 2008, 21:19:01 ET
Posted by: nope,

Webdrone strikes again. No fun allowed.

Date: Tues, May 27, 2008, 21:05:42 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

The links to the clips on the Sonic site seem to be gone. Can anyone else still access them?

Date: Tues, May 27, 2008, 18:54:57 ET
Posted by: moray eel, steely

After listening to a little bit more of Steely Shodan got to say I'm pretty impressed. The more ambitious stuff seems to give them some trouble, but overall they went at it 100%.

They even do the outro solo to Aja... not easy... and they do a pretty good job with it.

m.e.

Date: Tues, May 27, 2008, 18:23:40 ET
Posted by: Dash LaRue,

Apparently 'Circus Money' for the UK will be available for purchase July 14, 2008. According to Sonic360.
It looks like they might also be the UK distributor perhaps.
Nice over two minute clips of 'Paging' & 'Canon'.
They are of nice quility and 'Real' files. Hunt around the Real Player, they can be saved and burned to MP3.

Date: Tues, May 27, 2008, 17:49:21 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

Nice catch, Bill

But, I can't seem to get the damn things to play on IE or Firefox, though. They keep "Communicating" and "Loading"...but so far, no playing.

Date: Tues, May 27, 2008, 17:42:26 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Bill, they're 2 minute (I think) clips.

Date: Tues, May 27, 2008, 17:35:29 ET
Posted by: BillfromPgh,

More streaming songs?
http://www.sonic360.com/walterbecker/
There are links to Door Number Two, Downtown Canon and Paging Audrey here, but I can't access them from work due to the usual firewall junk. Are these just the same clips from WB.com or are they full songs?

I preordered, so I already have the Door Number Two mp3. Very catchy song, it's been stuck in my head today.

Date: Tues, May 27, 2008, 17:29:20 ET
Posted by: BillfromPgh,

from the UK press release:

>>Door Number Two
It’s the only song I’ve ever written with a title that came to me in a dream. I woke up in the middle of the night and asked my wife, ‘Can you tell me what’s behind door number two?’ I don’t remember the story up to that point.
* * *
>>God’s Eye View
My wife is an experimental psychologist and this is a term that is used to describe something that you could know if you knew everything. But of course, you don’t.

Wife? Walter remarried?

Date: Tues, May 27, 2008, 17:29:19 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

I don't think I saw the email that set you off. I thought you were referring to the posts that let us know something is new at Walt's site, or turned us on to the scapegrace vids. i assume those are from PR people, and they serve a purpose, IMO. And I HATE forum spamming.

Date: Tues, May 27, 2008, 16:52:53 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Uhhh, Dean.

I personally don't mind some newbie, "for real" Danfan coming on here, all excited and exclaiming there's a new album coming out.

But I do think anybody who's getting paid to hang out or jump around the sites had better get in touch with what the fans are up to.

There's a banner across the top of these pages that say Walter's album is coming. The email was like this guy could care less except that he's getting paid. A stroke.

We went through this with NoblePR when Fagen's album came out.

Date: Tues, May 27, 2008, 16:36:56 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

Great work, Gina. Thanks for the updates.

And basicinstinct, I'm shoglad you finally got to that site!

Hmmm, if Walt's PR people WEREN'T stopping by places like this, then they don't deserve to be paid. It's guerrilla marketing 101.

Date: Tues, May 27, 2008, 16:11:52 ET
Posted by: looking, no more

Oh, thanks Hoops. It's hard to follow the posts sometimes without the help of some interpretation..

Date: Tues, May 27, 2008, 16:07:39 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Gina: I don't understand your last post. To me it's somewhere between ancient curses and a human anatomy lecture.

Lookin: Like with DF's MTC, it looks like Noble PR was brought on to promote Walter's new one. A rep has been emailing the webmasters of all the sites run by Steely Dan fans, asking them to let UK Steely Dan fans know Walter's album is coming.

Date: Tues, May 27, 2008, 15:53:55 ET
Posted by: Gina/Mizar5, Sun Mountain

funny, how something can evoke evil streaks in folks :-)
o just sit on it, you mean jealous bitches of a brew blistered by the foreskin of a circumstancial circumceasure in the brain! if there is one, of course.

Date: Tues, May 27, 2008, 15:44:22 ET
Posted by: looking, everywhere

Hey Hmmm...where did the PR firm go to the fans? Did you get an email?

Date: Tues, May 27, 2008, 15:05:42 ET
Posted by: Hmmm,

Looks like Walter hired a PR firm to go to the fan sites and tell us what we have been following every motion of for the past several years.

"Did you know there's a Walter Becker album coming out?"

Geezus.

Why can't they spend their time actually contacting the media. Let's hope Walter isn't paying for this.

Date: Tues, May 27, 2008, 14:43:24 ET
Posted by: Gina/Mizar5, KFOG Radio Mountain

a little while ago a danfan from the san francisco area mentioned there was a Walter Becker radio interview on KFOG radio, the Morning Show.
along with the UK release, we posted this audio clip in Mizar5, so a little Double Dutch danwise, perhaps :-)

http://www.writingaffairs.com/mizar5net/index.php?cat=1

very generous and royal courtesy of mr. Greg McQuaid
Producer, KFOG Morning Show
Cumulus San Francisco

off to myspace to check out that shodan :-)

Date: Tues, May 27, 2008, 14:34:58 ET
Posted by: john, nyc

UPDAte at becker .com with UK release date and walter explains every song on album. Great interview....

Date: Tues, May 27, 2008, 14:13:53 ET
Posted by: bassicinstinct, Nottingham UK

Cheers.

I thought I was losing it there for a moment.

Date: Tues, May 27, 2008, 13:37:11 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., NJ

Ok. Never mind. Glad you got there.

Date: Tues, May 27, 2008, 13:36:14 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., NJ

Nor me. And I had not tried until just now. I did the ol' cut'n'paste of the link from here to my browser address window. If you did that as well, Bassic, and still can't get there from where you are, then I don't know what the issue could be. Maybe you have to close your eyes when you try entering the link address because, well, you know: "Close your eyes and you'll be there..."

Date: Tues, May 27, 2008, 13:35:41 ET
Posted by: bassicinstinct, Nottingham UK

Abraham:

Now THAT takes me straight there.

Thank you for that.

Hoops:

Have emailed you as requested.

Date: Tues, May 27, 2008, 13:31:13 ET
Posted by: Abraham, in a fishbowl

I have no problem getting to their myspace either

http://www.myspace.com/steelyshodan

Date: Tues, May 27, 2008, 13:20:45 ET
Posted by: bassicinstinct, Nottingham UK

The Dean:

If I put that into my browser, I get this message:

Invalid Friend ID
Invalid Friend ID. This user has either cancelled their membership, or their account has been ... ©2003-2008 MySpace.com. All Rights Reserved. ...

That's what I'm talking about. :-)

Date: Tues, May 27, 2008, 13:18:00 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

What you talkin' bout, basic instinct?

The Shodan myspace page shodoes exist. I just looked at it

http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=1001081069

Date: Tues, May 27, 2008, 11:54:22 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Bassicinstinct:

Could you email me? hoops AT dandom DOT com

THANK YOU!

Date: Tues, May 27, 2008, 11:51:20 ET
Posted by: bassicinstinct, Nottingham UK

The Steely Shodan MySpace page no longer exists.

Date: Tues, May 27, 2008, 01:24:52 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu, it's gonna be a Shodan

The keytar prop is priceless...soaked through a noodle shop.

Date: Mon, May 26, 2008, 21:31:25 ET
Posted by: moray eel, steely

Steely Shodan Myspace:

http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=1001081069

I like the friends list.

m.e.

Date: Mon, May 26, 2008, 21:15:19 ET
Posted by: moray eel, Steely

I forgot about "Anthony Jackson" on bass.

I think he also tries to introduce "Bumpus" on tenor, but it sounds like "Pappas".

Date: Mon, May 26, 2008, 21:07:01 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Re: Steely Shodan

I have to believe Walt and Don find these guys hysterical.

Date: Mon, May 26, 2008, 20:45:10 ET
Posted by: moray eel, steely

The best song by Steely Shodan is Bodhisattva.

The song is a mess, but the introductions are great. He introduces the horn players as "Shorter" and "Brecker". On drums is "Porcaro". "Becker" on guitar (he even kinda looks like a young Walter).

It looks like they done some homework.

m.e.

Date: Mon, May 26, 2008, 19:40:16 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, @home

Looks like a little Joe Cocker thrown in as well..

kc

Date: Mon, May 26, 2008, 17:38:56 ET
Posted by: zkeygtsad, vsKgxshIGXprrGLhJY

PTn65q <a href="http://gweybhdxpchv.com/">gweybhdxpchv</a>, [url=http://ommjmgjxbaos.com/]ommjmgjxbaos[/url], [link=http://zgobrkgmrzwr.com/]zgobrkgmrzwr[/link], http://zafmokgslhxr.com/

Date: Mon, May 26, 2008, 15:26:42 ET
Posted by: Dr Hoo, Detroit

I hope our local radio station is right...
They said they're giving away tickets for Steely Dan, here August 15, "before you can buy them" on June 2.

Date: Mon, May 26, 2008, 14:32:47 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., C$ special offer now extended

walterbecker.com now lists the early order and download offer as having been extended...

On the main page it says:

Early Digital Delivery Extended
Download 'Circus Money' on June 5
And Get a Full Track Now

Then if you click the link to go to the mailboat store you'll see:

Circus Money Fast Track
• MP3 or FLAC orders available for download starting June 5
• Physical CD orders processed and mailed without delay
• All orders placed before June 5 include an immediate full track download.

Date: Mon, May 26, 2008, 13:36:04 ET
Posted by: SS,

That's weird, and funny, Ed (man).

Date: Mon, May 26, 2008, 12:56:25 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Thanks for posting that, Ed. I must have missed that the first time around.

And after seeing that...well...OK. Hmmmm. Explains a little more.

Jim

Date: Mon, May 26, 2008, 12:50:40 ET
Posted by: Been there, done that

a bit late with that one Ed

Date: Mon, May 26, 2008, 12:09:09 ET
Posted by: ed_beatty, somewhere with whales

this is funny..

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WGObQs7JNr4

Date: Mon, May 26, 2008, 11:32:05 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Now THAT was funny.

Ludy's? Lemedies?

I can hardly wait for "Likki".

He really does have Donald down physically, though

Date: Mon, May 26, 2008, 11:15:28 ET
Posted by: I saw you at Ludy's, you were very high

SS, that clip is hysterical! That guy has DF down pat, the way he walks, the timing head bob thing. Hilarious!

Date: Mon, May 26, 2008, 10:49:32 ET
Posted by: SS, HK

Trust the Japanese to find someone to do a good DF.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=POZugjArO8o&feature=related

Date: Mon, May 26, 2008, 00:39:31 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

This kid's pretty darn good:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u_M3yDiW8dQ&feature=related

Date: Sun, May 25, 2008, 22:30:28 ET
Posted by: S, This location

A late happy birthday wish for our mate Alan.
Best wishes to you and Jeri.

Date: Sun, May 25, 2008, 22:24:24 ET
Posted by: me, here

Anything happening in the Green lately?

Date: Sat, May 24, 2008, 17:53:34 ET
Posted by: Dan Belcher, Louisville, KY

You assume correctly. I haven't actually bought my ticket yet, I need to do that I guess tomorrow (gotta head out in a second), but I do plan on going. I'll have to get directions to the meet-up, but I'll be there.

Date: Sat, May 24, 2008, 16:13:48 ET
Posted by: Soul Monkey, The Ville

I'm assuming that the pre party for Cincinnati will be held at Libo's bar and grill. They are located approx one mile from the venue, and in previous years, this is where everyone has gathered. The new National City Pavilion looks to be rather nice. Only 4,100 seats, and we're covered from the elements. I've heard that the sound system is second to none. I can't wait. I know that El Supremo is going and I'm assuming that Dan B is going. Is anyone else attending?

Date: Sat, May 24, 2008, 15:50:54 ET
Posted by: steelyfez---Mark, CT

Hey Ken thanks for the info on the after party.
I would like to attend and just emailed Pete.
I will be bring my 7 months pregnant wife with me.
By the way I am having a girl and we are naming her Rikki.

Date: Sat, May 24, 2008, 15:39:06 ET
Posted by: Stop, Complaining

“We’ve been fighting the limitations of digital audio since it first came out,” says Burnett, the veteran musician and producer. “The artists lost control of the process, and it just got to the point where the Dude could not abide.”

I never knew "artists" had control over the recording processes throughout the years ie; vynal (lps, 33s, 45s), tape, reel to reel, etc. I thought that stuff was invented by the scientist/engineer types. And the "artists" made the music. Duke wrote a 17 minute version of 'Mood Indigo' in response to the lp being invented. Not the other way around.

Date: Sat, May 24, 2008, 10:01:22 ET
Posted by: coreyrad, north jersey

Hey guys, big heads up! Ticketmaster has apparently released a number of really great seats in orchestra and loge for ALL upcoming Dan shows at the Beacon. I just "upgraded" for Row A 6/14 and Row B on 6/20. I even noticed tickets available in Row CC. (but a little towards the side, for another night)

GO FOR IT!

Date: Sat, May 24, 2008, 09:40:31 ET
Posted by: Gretchen, the beach

Happy birthday, Alan!! Cheers, mate!

G

Date: Sat, May 24, 2008, 09:30:18 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Thanks, B-Rag

I thought it might be from the new one. As I had already ordered the disk from the local music shop (the day before Walt's newsletter announcement), I decided not to go the website route. I regret it, but you gotta support the local biz.

I may have to avoid this place for a week once you bastards get your CDs and I'm stuck waiting for mine. :#)

Date: Sat, May 24, 2008, 07:32:42 ET
Posted by: Boston Rag, Door Number Three

Dean - "A date with Elvis" is one of the things Betsy Button needs in Door Number Two. I've had the tune in a continuous loop in my car this week. Great stuff!

Mark in Boston

Date: Sat, May 24, 2008, 07:18:22 ET
Posted by: Fife, Baltimore, eh

Happy Birthday Alan!!!! Have a brew on us and a hug and kiss to your lovely bride!
Fife and Sam

Date: Sat, May 24, 2008, 05:15:30 ET
Posted by: It's Global,

http://youtube.com/watch?v=Hzt6Q2cY4gY

Date: Sat, May 24, 2008, 00:59:23 ET
Posted by: Though Marley fired the first shot, Clapton notoriously Shot the Sheriff,

Date: Sat, May 24, 2008, 00:34:52 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

OK, Hoops...

I'm officially confused.

"A date with Elvis" is this issue's Pretzel Logic.

Color me intrigued.

Date: Fri, May 23, 2008, 22:59:56 ET
Posted by: Rag-ay Rasta Mon,

Yo mon! I gots me reggae in me soul from Johnny Nash, waaaay before Marley. Do ye "See Clearly Now" when he be "Stirrin' It Up"?

An Shabba Ranks, Shaggy an Maxi still be doin it wit Dancehall an Hip-Hop House dubs.

Date: Fri, May 23, 2008, 20:57:58 ET
Posted by: Fdertaminas, hwGYxPCFzwVm

comment2 http://www.ebay.co.uk

Date: Fri, May 23, 2008, 18:24:58 ET
Posted by: Fdertasos, TLyPbmCfsvC

comment1 http://www.ebay.co.uk

Date: Fri, May 23, 2008, 15:33:44 ET
Posted by: all, ears

EVERYONE MUST SUPPORT THIS. EVERYONE MUST CONTACT THEIR FAVORITE BAND AND DEMAND THEY RECORD THIS WAY AND SUPPORT THIS.

Artists Fight for New Hi-Fi Formats

High-fidelity audio may be endangered in the age of MP3, but a growing number of artists are refusing to see it die without a fight: Neil Young, Trent Reznor, John Mellencamp and T Bone Burnett have all joined the battle recently, embracing sound formats that are superior to both MP3s and CDs.

“We’ve been fighting the limitations of digital audio since it first came out,” says Burnett, the veteran musician and producer. “The artists lost control of the process, and it just got to the point where the Dude could not abide.”

(Also see: “The Death of High Fidelity: In the Age of MP3s, Sound Quality Is Worse Than Ever”)

Burnett has started a new venture called Code, which aims to do for music what THX did for
movie-theater sound: set standards that ensure the best possible quality. The first Code album, John Mellencamp’s Life, Death, Love and Freedom (which Burnett produced), will be released July 15th in a two-disc package: a standard CD and an audio-only DVD with superior sound quality that will play on any standard DVD player. The package will also include iPod-playable AAC files ripped straight from the masters, which Burnett says results in better sound. He expects Elvis Costello to release his next album with Code and is talking to numerous
other artists.

At the same time, Young, a longtime critic of digital sound, is embracing Blu-ray discs, which can store vastly more audio information than even DVDs. “CD quality is very low-resolution, just a step above MP3s,” says Young. “That was a crime, to make that a standard for so many years.” Young recently announced that he’s releasing the first volume of his full archive on 10 Blu-rays. The same week, when Reznor released a new NIN album for free online, he offered the unusual option of downloading it in better-than-CD quality.

Burnett says that, despite the popularity of iPods and the seeming failure of previous better-than-CD formats such as SACD, consumers want better sound — he cites the growing niche popularity of vinyl. “Nobody knew they wanted high-definition television until they saw it,” Burnett says. “We need musicians to stand up for pure sound. It’s unthinkable that we’re still hung up on this 25-year-old technology of CDs.”

Date: Fri, May 23, 2008, 14:17:16 ET
Posted by: Fife, Baltimore ,eh

Well I guess the ticket gods took mercy on my soul and I received the Camden tickets in the mail today. Thanks for all the advice everyone. Can't wait to see all you heading to NYC on the 20th and 21st of June. Whoohoo!!!!

Date: Fri, May 23, 2008, 12:53:58 ET
Posted by: Ken, NYC

Steelyfez- I copied and pasted this:

Attending the After Beacon Party at the Bitter End on 6/21?
We are compiling a priority list for people who will be attending the party at the Bitter End after the Steely Dan Beacon Theater show on June 21st in New York City.

If you will be attending the After Party and want to be on a list that will give you priority admission (you'll have a better chance of getting in), email pfogelATnyc.rr.com with the subject "After Party", send us your name and the number of people who will be arriving to the Bitter End with you (i.e. Warren Kruger + 1). Only one email from your party.

This is a priority list and will not guarantee admission. However, you will have priority over those not on the list.

The Bitter End is a small club, and for those of you who have attended any of these parties in the past, you will see it is not like Le Bar Bat. We are expecting a busy night as it is, so I want to do what I can to make sure people here and those traveling in will be able to get in after the Beacon show.

Even those of you that I know will be attending, please email me again so I don't forget to include you.

Email - pfogelATnyc.rr.com (replace "AT" with "@")
Subject - After Party

Date: Fri, May 23, 2008, 12:04:54 ET
Posted by: steelyfez-- Mark, CT

Haven't posted in a while.
Tore my achilles tendon and am on crutches.
Just scored two orchestra row B seats to the June 21st show at the Beacon through Ticketbastard.
I was looking to see if anybody knows how I can get on the list for the after party or if there will be any pre dan parties that nigtht?

Date: Fri, May 23, 2008, 11:05:50 ET
Posted by: Larry,

NYB- Hop on you motorcycle and go drive into a tree.

Date: Fri, May 23, 2008, 10:48:40 ET
Posted by: REAL, music fan

Reggae? Yeah, I like that song!

Date: Fri, May 23, 2008, 10:45:28 ET
Posted by: Rajah, L'Aquila

He'd never last a minute in my cell block.

Date: Fri, May 23, 2008, 10:09:27 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

NYB,

We can't all be like you, who likely found reggae beats through the wimpy faux-ska sounds of the English Beat, the light reggae of UB40 and/or the vile noise of The Clash.

I admit to being a relative latecomer to reggae. I got the bug in the mid-70's through the music of Bob Marley and Jimmy Cliff (of course) as well as the sounds of artists like Burning Spear and The Mighty Diamonds.

Of course, I'm guessing that all here have been exposed to reggae through the works of the Marley family. And, I'm not sure I read any posters suggest Walter as their first exposure to the genre.

So, as usual, your post simply points out that your are a miserable and clueless excuse for a human. I certainly haven't missed your pointless posts.

Date: Fri, May 23, 2008, 02:39:11 ET
Posted by: NYB, Long Island

Figures youze fucken disphitz get your first expozure to reggae from Walter Becker. What a bunch of dorks!

Date: Thurs, May 22, 2008, 22:16:52 ET
Posted by: TicketMistress Frequent Buyer,

FYI, if you used a credit card to get your ticket from TB or LN, you can have them look up the info at the box office.

I have done this several times when me and my tix got separated.....

Date: Thurs, May 22, 2008, 21:25:57 ET
Posted by: Fife, Baltimore, eh

Thanks Daddy G for your words of comfort and I'm sure they'll show up soon.
Chan I may be a temptress, mind you I can't change my husbands mind no matter what I do, but evil?
Sure looks like one hell of a wing ding gearing up. I wonder if I can convince Mr.Sam I need a new dress and sandals?? Haven't had much luck with anything else!

Date: Thurs, May 22, 2008, 20:41:03 ET
Posted by: Chan, Boston

After some prodding from the evil temptress Fife, I will be attending the 6/21 Beacon Theater show in NYC. I purchased great seats today on Ticketmaster, Orchestra Row F just right of center. I am hoping we can plan a pre show fest as well as attending the after party.

Thanks for talking some sense into me Fife. I am psyched!!!!

Date: Thurs, May 22, 2008, 17:05:59 ET
Posted by: new rhodes piano,

Yeah, Chris - be thrilled about your Mark I. Donald uses 5 after all! Keep your piano tweaked and you'll be happy at every moment except for when you have to move it.

Dan- did you check all the live performance videos with George Duke, Jeff Lorber and the one other guy? I thought the new pianos sounded pretty good, but you are correct that they use Mark V parts since there is no new tooling happening yet.

Anyway, any real Rhodes is good. I bought a Wurlitzer after hearing early Dan, but the Rhodes on Aja and Gaucho made for true Rhodes love. I have a perfect 54 and a troublesome 73.

Date: Thurs, May 22, 2008, 16:43:39 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., NJ

Yeah, I know what SteelyDoc is saying. Mostly plain nondescript white envelope with lettering saying "After 5 days return to:" and then listing an obscure address nowhere near A.C. There's also a black box area with white lettering proclaiming "IMPORTANT: DATED MATERIAL ENCLOSED."

In other words, it may as well have the words "junk mail" written all over it. But as I recall, I'm pretty sure TM tix came in similar packaging. I assume that if they put anything too identifiable on there, the tix would be more susceptible to theft---or at least the prying of curious eyes. So I understand why they do that.

Anyway, I hope you get your tix soon, Fife. I understand how worrisome it can be when you just don't know. The money's gone from the account, but you have nothing in hand yet. But I'm fairly confident you will get them in time. And I'm sure there are ways of working it out if anything should happen and you don't get them...

Date: Thurs, May 22, 2008, 15:45:28 ET
Posted by: Fife, Baltimore, eh

Thanks for all the info gang. Doc your freaking me out! Honestly though they will be in my name and I check everything even the junk so no worries there, it's just when you spend to close to 500 bucks you worry.
Fife

Date: Thurs, May 22, 2008, 14:39:18 ET
Posted by: steelydoc, near the Tower

I received my Borgata tix from Comcast Tix in the mail, and almost tossed them out, because the envelope looked like junk mail!

Date: Thurs, May 22, 2008, 13:48:20 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Work

Fife, I used LN once a few years back to buy Jones Beach tickets and it took weeks - I mean WEEKS - for them to arrive. Luckily they arrived in time for the concert, but I was in such a panic waiting for them. I haven't used LN since. But that was just my experience, not necessarily applicable to everyone else.

Date: Thurs, May 22, 2008, 13:00:40 ET
Posted by: Big Fan, when is summer coming?

Got a nice email from Live Nation today - yahoo!
"Dear Live Nation Tickets Customer,

At the time you purchased tickets for Steely Dan on 6/25 at the Chevrolet
Theatre, you were quoted an incorrect price of $125 per ticket. The correct
price for your tickets is $85. The adjustment of $40 + $2.05 in wrongfully
overcharged fees per ticket will be applied to the credit card used during the
transaction. Your refund will be $42.05 per ticket purchased and should show up
on your credit card statement within 3-5 business days.

If you have any questions, please contact Customer Support by replying to this
email."

Date: Thurs, May 22, 2008, 12:45:35 ET
Posted by: CB, NCA

Walter did an interview this am on KFOG / promoting new album and bay area appearances - funny as usual. Said main difference between his album and Steely Dan is they have a really good singer - and he has.... well, just him.
BTW - "Skunk" Baxter used to work here at the Livermore Lab as a defense contractor back in the days. Don't know how he kept his security clearance playing for the Doobie Bros.??!!

Date: Thurs, May 22, 2008, 11:28:00 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., NJ

Fife, I can't really answer your question as I've never ordered through LN...

However, I can say that when I've ordered tix for Camden through TM I recall getting a little nervous wondering as the weeks went by if I'd get the tix. Then about 2-3 weeks prior to the show date they'd show up in my mailbox. The one obvious exception was 2006 when up-front seats became available the day before the show and I scarfed one up last minute with the printable emailed ticket delivery option. I like that concept even if it's not the day before the show. It eliminates the worry about the US postal service.

This time, I chose the Borgata show instead and they sell tix through their own website. I'd never ordered from them before and was surprised to get the ticket quickly. I ordered it April 26th and the envelope it was delivered in was postmarked May 1 so I probably received it in about a week and a half.

Sounds like LN will be more akin to TM. Perhaps LN just sort of works with TM behind the scenes? I don't know. I wouldn't worry too much, but understand some unease on your part.

Date: Thurs, May 22, 2008, 10:11:39 ET
Posted by: Fife, Baltimore, eh

I was just wondering if anyone had any idea of when Live Nation sends out its tickets. I bought tickets for the Camden show through them on the day they went on sale which seems ages ago. Any info would be appreciated.
Fife

Date: Thurs, May 22, 2008, 09:15:13 ET
Posted by: Dan Belcher, Louisville, KY

Chris, don't feel too bad about getting an old Rhodes Mark I.

1) The new pianos still aren't out yet, and it may be awhile before they are available to the public. They announced them a couple years ago, and even took preorders last year, but we still haven't heard anything from Joe Brandstetter on when they'll be released to the public.

2) It also sounds like the tines are basically leftover stock from the old Mark V pianos, since the companies that made tines in the 70s and early 80s no longer are in business and the equipment to make them is very, very expensive.

3) The cost on these pianos hasn't been officially announced, but the word is they're going to be *expensive.* Around $2000 for a passive electonics stage model (no preamp), $3500+ for a suitcase with a preamp and large amp. Ouch!

4) The sound from the Mark VII pianos at the NAMM show last year (there's video and MP3s from it on the new Rhodes piano website) was actually a little unimpressive in my opinion. Kind of boomy and muddy. However, I'm confident that's just the result of bad acoustics and a poor recording mixed with bad EQ settings on the preamp of the piano.

However, I am excited that Jeff Lorber used a Mark VII on his new album that's coming out shortly. (Rumored date is June 10th, same day as Walter's new album!) Lorber's always been one of the Rhodes piano masters, and his last album was the best one he's done since the late 1970s.

Date: Thurs, May 22, 2008, 08:22:21 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Re: New Rhodes pianos: Goddamn! I just bought a MK I. Got the piano for 650 but the shipping ran be $300. Ah well.

Date: Thurs, May 22, 2008, 04:24:08 ET
Posted by: Fagen Signature Rhodes Piano,

Now that Rhodes is back making electric pianos again
http://www.rhodespiano.com/rhodes_products.htm
maybe Donald can get a signature version for himself.

Maybe the red one with a Coke holder and Phase 90 built in.

Date: Thurs, May 22, 2008, 04:07:36 ET
Posted by: SS, HK

BillfromPgh...thanks for that post on DF's electric pianos. Interesting stuff.

Date: Thurs, May 22, 2008, 01:48:29 ET
Posted by: Rajah, Verona

I spent the day watching my friend Fabbrizio in a rebuild of a great old Steinway grand. He's a 4th generation piano man. The care and artistry with which he tends to these instruments was awesome, all the little tools, the washers and felt stops, the tiny screws and bushings, wow what a labor of love. His Dad was a master craftsman, reknown and much sought after in Europe in the last century. Fabbrizio never wanted to follow in his footsteps while in his youth but now to watch him work, well, I guess some people are born to ply this special craft, and he's so great at it. It took him a while to accept it but, at 48, he IS the piano man of north Italy. So when he says Keith Jarrett is a major ball-buster, he says it with a touch of admiration. I hope you all got that...

Date: Wed, May 21, 2008, 20:04:53 ET
Posted by: Mer., Boston

Hi Denise- the Westin sounds great---anywhere to have a pre-show gathering would be great and a chance to meet everyone. Thanks- Mer.

Date: Wed, May 21, 2008, 19:34:37 ET
Posted by: Denise, Hinktown

Hi Mer,

How would you (and other Boston fans) feel about meeting at the Westin before the show? There's one near the BOA pavillion and we went there last year before the first concert: it was very nice. There's a large bar area called the Birch Bar.

We can toast to Bill.

Date: Wed, May 21, 2008, 19:14:14 ET
Posted by: Mer., Boston

Thanks Mark re: your recent post about a Danfest in Boston this year, and I'm so sorry we're celebrating a tour of the Dan this year without "Sponge-Bill." I missed meeting him.
I was hoping to attend any informal gathering this year pre-concert,and I hope someone in the Boston area will be able to pick up the ball. It would be great to hear a first-hand report or two about the Beacon shows and after-party.
I'm SO looking forward again to the BOA concert- and hope for good weather, etc. Hope to meet fellow Boston fans, as well as another public showing of the Fez-man (OMG- that was TOO great last year!!)
Peace---

Date: Wed, May 21, 2008, 17:22:36 ET
Posted by: alan, Shellharbour AU

Hey Doc

Thanks for the heads up on the Beacon shows.

I just scored orch Row CC for Wednesday night and orch AA for the Saturday show. WHO-HOOOOO !!!!!!

Babylon Sista's, SHAKE IT !!!

Date: Wed, May 21, 2008, 15:11:25 ET
Posted by: Paging Alan,

Check your e-mail!

Date: Wed, May 21, 2008, 15:04:07 ET
Posted by: steelydoc, near the Tower

row D, left orchestra seats for the Saturday 6/21 Beacon show just popped up on Ticketmaster!

Date: Wed, May 21, 2008, 14:43:11 ET
Posted by: Lutz, SF

Dean, good point.
I was referring to the pianos,
I suppose Jarrett likes flowers as much as Elton John.
Always troubles me when guys act like Divas.

Date: Wed, May 21, 2008, 14:00:21 ET
Posted by: BillfromPgh,

So Keith Jarrett demands three pianos and picks the one he likes the most, huh?

Our own Donald is almost as picky, but he carries his own collection of Rhodes pianos with him, according to one source:

(Amazingly, I was able to track down this December 2007 post from the Fender Rhodes Yahoo group archive)

* * * * *

Frederik "Freddan" Adlers schrieb:
>
> Hey billmaruca ( or whatever your name is )!
> You're both right and wrong!

> 1. It turned out Don travels with 5 ( five! ) of his own Rhodes, and for each particular event he picks one of them. On stage with him in Stockholm on the 17th of July was the piano named "Selma". An all
black MkI pre-77 Suitcase 88. He specifically picked that piano out
that day.

>2. He had his trademark MXR Phase90 taped to the left cheek-block,
played Rhodes a lot ( approx. 90% of the show ), and in general
showed some seriuos jazz-chops when ad libbing. His used the MXR as a
Leslie, with adjustments for each song and during songs too.

Date: Wed, May 21, 2008, 13:59:53 ET
Posted by: Mule, Philly USA

The venues pay a flat fee to BMI/ASCAP based on the capacity of the room. Venues must also pay for the broadcast of any "recorded" music in their establishment. So if any songs written BMI/ASCAP artists are played, even by a jukebox, a payment must be made. I would think this would even cover Muzak.

Date: Wed, May 21, 2008, 13:08:29 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

I think that's the deal, Chris.

The royalties get paid by the venue...but there are royalties involved. And, I believe SD playing Gaucho, in concert in large venues, would help the coffers of Mr. Jarrett.

I'm not suggesting that's the reason they don't play it, but I won't discount it as BS, either. Obviously, the idea that there are no royalties paid for live performance is incorrect, though.

Date: Wed, May 21, 2008, 12:25:15 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Dean, as I understand it, the venue pays a fee to ASCAP, BMI, and the other publishing company, and the publishing companies distribute the fee to the artists they represent. So the literal act of Don and Walt writing out a 2 cent check to Jarrett every time they play Gaucho doesn't really take place. The situation kind of sucks for small, local venues that are more likely to book cover bands, as they either have to pay the fee (which I gather is often large enough to discount any profit the establishment makes by booking live music), or get rid of it all together, because who wants to hear originals from a no name band? I had a regular gig playing jazz standards at a bar for a few months in high school that ended when, after paying off two publishing companies, a third came after them. Now they have a Muzak system.

Date: Wed, May 21, 2008, 12:07:43 ET
Posted by: Ann, Borneo

Thanks Neil. All's Ok here thanks, except work is a killer. Will be back in Manchester on 11 July for the month. Know of any exciting gigs I should go and see?

Anyone else out there got any theories?

Ann

Date: Wed, May 21, 2008, 11:00:13 ET
Posted by: bassicinstinct, Nottingham UK

Hi Ann:

Hope all is well with you and yours?

That sound is, I think, produced by a cymbal although, knowing D&W's fondness for utilising the sound of garbage can lids way back in the mix (see The Making of Aja), it wouldn't surprise me if that was the explanation.

Anyone else?

Date: Wed, May 21, 2008, 10:59:49 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu ,

Dean: That's one of 2 reasons elevator music was invented.

Extracting royalties from funeral homes. Oh My!

Date: Wed, May 21, 2008, 10:22:03 ET
Posted by: Ann, Borneo and roasting

A digression:

The Off-Spring is back here in Head Hunter Land next month for a quick hol before her graduation and I want to impress her with my knowledge of sound - in which she has ambitions to specialize - just to prove to her that our brain cells don't automatically expire after the age of 50. Anyway, I've always been fascinated by one of the sounds in Tomorrow's Girls and always wondered how it's produced. Like others in here, I am a dedicated fan (as those who know me will testify), but I know nothing about the technicalities of music - I just know what I like to hear. So is there a chance that one of you out there can explain to me how this particular sound is produced, so that I can play the song to Off-Spring, then impress her with my savvy?? It's the sort of metallic sound that comes just after "in the cool of the evening, in the last light of the triple sun". Help me out Dandom!!

Peace to all,

Ann

Date: Wed, May 21, 2008, 10:20:25 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Um, since when have royalties not extended to live performances? AFAIK, they have, and still do apply.

http://www.nytimes.com/2004/01/26/business/media/26tune.html?ei=5007&en=934fcbb939d52a31&ex=1390539600&partner=TECHDIRT&pagewanted=all&position=

Excerpt:

"Despite the travails of the music industry, with CD sales still slumping and record executives still suing suspected Internet pirates, one part of the business is thriving. Royalties paid to songwriters and music publishers from radio and television broadcasts of their songs, and from live performances, are at record highs..."

"...Senior executives of the three organizations credited their revenue growth mainly to royalties collected from two relatively robust media: radio and cable television. They also said there were more public performance outlets now than ever: live concerts, restaurants, nightclubs, taverns, amusement parks, shopping malls, health clubs, cruise ships, even telephone on-hold music.

The organizations have expanded their coverage in recent years to more businesses, some of which had once been considered inconsequential or not worth the expense of pursuing for license fees.

"If you had told me 20 years ago that we would get around to licensing funeral homes, I would never have believed it," Mr. Velez said."

http://entertainment.howstuffworks.com/music-royalties7.htm

Excerpt:
"For live performances, ASCAP reviews set lists provided by concert promoters, performing artists, and others. In the case of symphony performance information, the printed programs are submitted."

And, if that's not enough to convince you, or if you don't like to read, here's a short video with some info:

http://www.artistshousemusic.org/videos/understanding+performance+royalties

The question, I believe is WHO pays the royalties, and how they are collected.

Date: Wed, May 21, 2008, 10:05:04 ET
Posted by: Casual fan, Neither here nor there, really

Folks, my apologies for getting my back up. Like I said, even us casual fans still want to feel like we're special (in a good way, not the short bus kind of way) for being fans of the Dan enough to go to multiple shows or post here, etc., etc.

So, my ego got in the way, as is its want. Translation: never mind.

Date: Wed, May 21, 2008, 09:16:53 ET
Posted by: Judge Larry Seidlin, Boca

Ha-ha, Don't you know that "the Raj" knows everything. That's why he ran away it Europe. I think he's featured on 'Americas Most Wanted' this Saturday!

Date: Wed, May 21, 2008, 08:00:59 ET
Posted by: bassicinstinct, Nottingham UK

Yep - aint the PRS a truly wonderful thing? LOL

Date: Wed, May 21, 2008, 06:27:21 ET
Posted by: Darling, This side

Actually Ha Ha, in Europe, royalties are paid out for live performances. It's the good 'ol US of A that's behind in that department.

Date: Wed, May 21, 2008, 02:21:45 ET
Posted by: Ha-ha, w

Rajah is once again believing that Don and Walt have to scribble off a royalty check to Jarrett every time they play Gaucho live, which is of course, untrue.

Do you think they were writing checks to publishing companies for every play of Cubano Chant?

People: there is a difference between live performance, and the selling/playing of a record. One demands royalties, one does not.

Date: Wed, May 21, 2008, 00:33:32 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Lutz,

I have no problem with KJ wanting three pianos at the ready, either.

But, I'd say that needing a dressing room filled with white roses is getting close to the Barbara Streisand towel thing. I guess the deciding factor would be, what defines "filled" with white roses.

:#)

Date: Tues, May 20, 2008, 23:56:49 ET
Posted by: Lutz, SF

Herbie Hancock plays the house piano in clubs sometimes.
As Scofield said before 'I have never heard him sound and play anything less than great'
I have no problem with KJ doing this however,
it's not like Barbra S. requesting 120 white towels each time she has to spend the night in a hotel.

Date: Tues, May 20, 2008, 23:52:34 ET
Posted by: Reading Is Fundamental, Parked in the RIF Bus

Reading Is Fundamental -

For the record, Casual Fan is just that, he has seen only 4 shows.
Kid Clean has seen 18 shows.

Lay off the vino.

Who was named Best All Around Drummer - Vinnie?

Date: Tues, May 20, 2008, 23:46:55 ET
Posted by: SS, HK

Not sure three pianos at the ready is too far out there.

I saw four being tuned and retuned for a major piano competition. If you can play like Jarrett, you probably hear and feel things other people don't.

Date: Tues, May 20, 2008, 23:27:39 ET
Posted by: Rajah, Verona, Italia

Casual Fan, anybody whose been to 18 shows sure ain't no casual fan. Sounds more like a serious fan in denial to me. Who says you have to be a musician to be a serious Steely Dan fan? The fact that you love this music that much places you within this here music community. Musicianship begins with appreciation and generally leads to being a student of the music and finally to performance, on whatever level, be it on a kazoo in your living room or in front of a paying audience. I enjoy myself equally in a room with a radio or record player as I did in my youth playing the battery and singing in all those dingy NYC clubs in the 80s. And while I wouldn't trade those experiences for anything, still, after all these years, listening to music remains my single greatest joy, no exaggeration. So, anyway, yeah, all that.

By virtue of their absence in any live concert through the years, the three most conspicuous Steely Dan songs for my money have been the Dr. Wu, Gaucho and Your Gold Teeth. Negative Girl and a classic rendering of Rikki Don't Lose That Number would be neat to hear as well.

BTW, appropos of Gaucho, I know a guy here in Verona who restores, rebuilds and sells grand pianos, what a great craft and I was at his shop today hangin’ and shootin’ the breeze. He also rents out and delivers pianos to artists who play Verona. He had a Keith Jarrett story for me. Seems he's just as well-known a a ball-buster over here in Europe. Jarret lives in Nice and when he comes to play the Arena here, he requests three, count em, three Steinway grands tuned and ready backstage at soundcheck. He then selects one, my buddy Fabbrizio wheels it out and KJ returns to his dressing room, which must be filled with white roses. Of course, he gets charged for the full rental of three Steinway grands, which ain’t cheap, so, well, he is and incredible artist so, ballbuster or not, he pays for what he wants and gets it.

I don't think Donald wants to give Jarrett the satisfaction of receiving a mechanical royalty check for performances of the Becker, Fagen and Jarret classic, Gaucho.

Just speculating, Dandom...don't hit.

Date: Tues, May 20, 2008, 18:46:27 ET
Posted by: Schedule update, home

The Ironstone date is no longer listed "with special guest."

Date: Tues, May 20, 2008, 17:55:31 ET
Posted by: Moi, Here I Am!

Congratulations to Keith Carlock who was just named #1 Best Pop Drummer by the readers of Modern Drummer Magazine. Keith was also named #3 Best All Around Drummer.

This year's Modern Drummer's Readers poll was the most popular ever, with tens of thousands of votes cast for dozens of drummers.

Congrats Keith!

Date: Tues, May 20, 2008, 16:49:40 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, @work

Matt - I'm jealous, there's nothing like that first live Dan high. Regardless of what gets played, you will most certainly be treated to some of the best muscianship in the biz.

casual fan - I'm not a musician either, and although certainly interesting, I usually pass right by most of the highly detailed musical posts. I'm also more inclined to get involved here when there's some action going on in the Dan world and only occassionally post something during off peak times. I'd say that's pretty casual, even though I would consider myself more than a casual fan as I'll be seeing them for show #18 in Chicago and my licence plate is DR WU. I don't take much that I read here seriously, unless I happen to personally know the poster.

KC

Date: Tues, May 20, 2008, 16:12:41 ET
Posted by: Casual fan, homosayswhat?

Hey tiny, why I feel compelled to reply to you I don't exactly know. Guess its a macho thing. Its not like we'll ever meet. I think. But if we do, I hope your name is descriptive because I can't run very fast.

Anyway, I reject out of hand the notion that one must be obsessed with Dr. Wu in order to be "higher" in class of fan than my moniker. I chose to go with Casual Fan because I'm not a musician. Seems like so many on here are and that's great and all, and I don't understand 90 pct. of what the musician posters are yakking about, but I don't think it should qualify you for super double secret probation status or anything.

I mean, I've hosted two Danfests, been to four shows, can recite all the usual lore about Chevy Chase, Burroughs, etc. Plus I listen to stuff from EMG and TvN almost as much as I do cuts from Aja. I'm no SD neophyte. Just not able to carry a tune on anything.

So, in sum, to the extent that your comment was a veiled insult tossed in my direction (and as I read it again it sure seems that way) then screw you and your Dr. Wu obsession. But, if I misunderstood your comment and you are just being clever, ha ha ha, I don't get it but will pretend I do just to play along.

P.S. I have SD swag I bought in person and on Ebay so doesn't that give me at least single secret probation status? After all, all of us we just want to belong.

Date: Tues, May 20, 2008, 15:35:09 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

"You can tell it's a 50s Duo-Sonic because it has a maple neck, which was changed to rosewood in the 60s.

I think there was an interview with Walter in one of the old Metal Leg magazines where he talks about that guitar - said it had rusty strings when he did the solos and was stolen some time after.

They are great guitars, but the 22.5" scale and cheap bridge makes it difficult to stay in tune and hard to play if you have big hands."

The guitar with the rusty strings was used specifically for Black Friday, to get that schnasty sound.

Date: Tues, May 20, 2008, 14:56:42 ET
Posted by: tiny fan,

Casual fan - Of course you're not obsessed with Dr. Wu. That's why you're a "casual fan"

Date: Tues, May 20, 2008, 12:39:01 ET
Posted by: Casual fan, Here and there

Matt, of course no one knows for sure what the setlist will be, but I think we can make a few predictions based on the recent past tours and some comments made by Becker (well, we've been promised before and lied to, but hope springs eternal).

My prediction is that the setlist will include a couple of the old standards that still get a loud cheer when they start 'em up, including Peg and My Old School, maybe Kid Charlemagne. These guys are still mindful of the need to please the majority of the folks in the seats and that often times calls for the hits.

I think Fagen is particularly fond of Time Out of Mind and perhaps Aja, too. I am going to predict that most setlists on this tour will include two songs from Circus Money, plus one from Fagen's solo repertoire, probably Morph.

If you think about it, that's eight right there and they haven't been doing much more than a dozen, so add in Bhodisattva, maybe something off of EMG (I wouldn't mind Blues Beach or Pixeleen or Lunch with Gina, myself) and there isn't much room for anything else.

Dr. Wu? Like everyone else, I like the song. I'm not obsessed with it, as some on here seem to be. But I will say I hope the Wu-crazy fans get their way this time. I think its gitchy!

Date: Tues, May 20, 2008, 12:21:57 ET
Posted by: Matt Nevans, Cleveland, Ohio

Does anyone know what the set-list might be for the tour? I'm flying into NYC and heading to The Beacon show on the 14th, it'll be my first Dan show. I'm really really excited!

Date: Tues, May 20, 2008, 01:56:19 ET
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Date: Mon, May 19, 2008, 17:50:49 ET
Posted by: walter's duo-sonic,

You can tell it's a 50s Duo-Sonic because it has a maple neck, which was changed to rosewood in the 60s.

I think there was an interview with Walter in one of the old Metal Leg magazines where he talks about that guitar - said it had rusty strings when he did the solos and was stolen some time after.

They are great guitars, but the 22.5" scale and cheap bridge makes it difficult to stay in tune and hard to play if you have big hands.

Date: Mon, May 19, 2008, 17:48:52 ET
Posted by: billfrompgh, sorry

Sorry about the double post.

Date: Mon, May 19, 2008, 17:40:18 ET
Posted by: BillfromPgh,

More on the Duo-Sonic:

http://www.marcelroy.com/

Alas, no mention of WB:

http://www.marcelroy.com/intro.html#who

Who cares about a student guitar?

Sure, few famous guitar players are regularly seen with a Musicmaster or a Duo-Sonic; even the pawnshop trash-slinging Kurt Cobain favored Mustangs and Jaguars (although I don't think Fender made lefty MM/DS guitars). However, several people of note have used them:

Jimi Hendrix [far right] backing up the Isley Brothers with his early '60s tan Duo-Sonic, in 1964. [photo credit: Caesar Glebbeek Collection; scan c/o T. Pershing]

It's really difficult for me to imagine Jimi Hendrix ever being a "guitar student," but he used a Duo-Sonic when he backed up the Isley Brothers in the early 1960s (Guitar Player, Sept. 1995), and also used one to record with in the mid-'60s. While gigging with Curtis Knight & the Squires (New York, late 1965), Jimi [far left] played a "shaded sunburst" Duo-Sonic. [photo credit: Caesar Glebbeek Collection; scan c/o T. Pershing] Of course, he subsequently moved on to a Strat and much greater fame while fronting his own band.

Larry was always my favorite Stooge! [source: '60s Fender ad copy]

The late Rory Gallagher took advantage of his Musicmaster/Duo-Sonic hybrid's short scale by tuning it up a half-step to "F".

The late Stevie Ray Vaughan used to warm up on an old Musicmaster prior to gigs.

In the punk arena, Richard Lloyd and Tom Verlaine of Television reportedly used Duo-Sonics ("the obscure .22 Magnum Derringer of the pre-CBS line"), as did Patti Smith.

Adrian Belew has recorded with a fretless Musicmaster.

John Oates (of Hall and ...) used an early '60s Duo-Sonic in at least one of their videos.

Mickey Melchiondo (a.k.a. Dean Ween) used and abused a pair of Musicmasters as his main guitars on every Ween recording and live appearance from 1987-1995, including the first 4 Ween albums. His well-worn 1960 Musicmaster conversion is featured in the mods gallery. (thanks, James!)

Dweezil Zappa has endorsed Seymour Duncan while playing a '50s Duo-Sonic [source: SD ad copy]

Indie goddess Liz Phair's two main guitars are a now-faded white '60s Duo-Sonic (also featured on the cover of her current album) and a red '60s Musicmaster [source: hurlburt.net]

During her tenure on the show, former "Saturday Night Live" band guitarist Yoshiko Hirashige used a vintage Duo-Sonic as well as her Gibson SG.

Aside from Hendrix and SRV, the common denominator might be relatively small hands. Personally speaking, my hands like the feel of guitars with skinny necks (although I prefer the 24" scale length over the 22.5" scale). Plus, the short scale enables me to grab Andy Summers-esque jazz chords without breaking my hand

Date: Mon, May 19, 2008, 17:39:52 ET
Posted by: BillfromPgh,

More on the Duo-Sonic:

http://www.marcelroy.com/

Alas, no mention of WB:

http://www.marcelroy.com/intro.html#who

Who cares about a student guitar?

Sure, few famous guitar players are regularly seen with a Musicmaster or a Duo-Sonic; even the pawnshop trash-slinging Kurt Cobain favored Mustangs and Jaguars (although I don't think Fender made lefty MM/DS guitars). However, several people of note have used them:

Jimi Hendrix [far right] backing up the Isley Brothers with his early '60s tan Duo-Sonic, in 1964. [photo credit: Caesar Glebbeek Collection; scan c/o T. Pershing]

It's really difficult for me to imagine Jimi Hendrix ever being a "guitar student," but he used a Duo-Sonic when he backed up the Isley Brothers in the early 1960s (Guitar Player, Sept. 1995), and also used one to record with in the mid-'60s. While gigging with Curtis Knight & the Squires (New York, late 1965), Jimi [far left] played a "shaded sunburst" Duo-Sonic. [photo credit: Caesar Glebbeek Collection; scan c/o T. Pershing] Of course, he subsequently moved on to a Strat and much greater fame while fronting his own band.

Larry was always my favorite Stooge! [source: '60s Fender ad copy]

The late Rory Gallagher took advantage of his Musicmaster/Duo-Sonic hybrid's short scale by tuning it up a half-step to "F".

The late Stevie Ray Vaughan used to warm up on an old Musicmaster prior to gigs.

In the punk arena, Richard Lloyd and Tom Verlaine of Television reportedly used Duo-Sonics ("the obscure .22 Magnum Derringer of the pre-CBS line"), as did Patti Smith.

Adrian Belew has recorded with a fretless Musicmaster.

John Oates (of Hall and ...) used an early '60s Duo-Sonic in at least one of their videos.

Mickey Melchiondo (a.k.a. Dean Ween) used and abused a pair of Musicmasters as his main guitars on every Ween recording and live appearance from 1987-1995, including the first 4 Ween albums. His well-worn 1960 Musicmaster conversion is featured in the mods gallery. (thanks, James!)

Dweezil Zappa has endorsed Seymour Duncan while playing a '50s Duo-Sonic [source: SD ad copy]

Indie goddess Liz Phair's two main guitars are a now-faded white '60s Duo-Sonic (also featured on the cover of her current album) and a red '60s Musicmaster [source: hurlburt.net]

During her tenure on the show, former "Saturday Night Live" band guitarist Yoshiko Hirashige used a vintage Duo-Sonic as well as her Gibson SG.

Aside from Hendrix and SRV, the common denominator might be relatively small hands. Personally speaking, my hands like the feel of guitars with skinny necks (although I prefer the 24" scale length over the 22.5" scale). Plus, the short scale enables me to grab Andy Summers-esque jazz chords without breaking my hand

Date: Mon, May 19, 2008, 17:35:15 ET
Posted by: BillfromPgh,

According to an authoritative source, the Aja guitar is a late 1950s Fender Duo-Sonic. That source is no other than Carl Grefensette of Pittsburgh Guitars, a dealer and collector of vintage guitars from back in the day when they were just old guitars. Check out his web site for hours of entertainment: www.pittsburghguitars.com.

Date: Mon, May 19, 2008, 17:27:33 ET
Posted by: Ha-ha, w

Some of you guys need your eyes checked, sorry.

The photo on the Sadowsky site with Walter is from the Guitar mag interview from 2000, and that's the humbucker/Floyd Rose Sadowsky.

The guitar introduced as the WB Signature looks nothing like a Fender Mustang:

http://www.sadowsky.com/stock/stock_images/nyc/lg/WB_sig_full_lg.jpg

http://www.jag-stang.com/MrMaxima/gpphotos/f3mustang.jpg

Date: Mon, May 19, 2008, 17:21:01 ET
Posted by: Ha-ha, w

The Aja guitar is a Fender Mustang. It has a nice, loudish, raunchy tone and would make sense that it would be played on FM, Becker's bends on the Aja title track, Josie, etc.

Kurt Cobain played them in the early 90s, and they've gone off in price since then.

I'd rather have the P-90 times trey then the bland as sand Strat sound. Anytime a Strat sounds brilliant, it's because of the player, not the axe. It's like sending a good driver out in Top Gear's "Star In a Reasonably-Priced Car" bit.

Date: Mon, May 19, 2008, 17:04:36 ET
Posted by: BillfromPgh,

Don't think WB was playing Sadowsky guitars circa Aja. Wiki sez he started the company in 1979 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sadowsky but Wiki is never particularly authoritative.

You can see him holding one of these new signature models on the Sadowsky web site http://www.sadowsky.com/artists/index.html scroll down. Looks like the photo was taken for the endorsement.

The Aja guitar is a bit of a mystery, doesn't look like a genuine Fender Strat, only two knobs, not three, the neck pickup is angled oddly, might be a custom from some other luthier. Or it might be some other oddball Fender model I don't recognize. I know a guy with a guitar shop here in Pittsburgh who will probably be able to identify it in no time. I'll find out.

Date: Mon, May 19, 2008, 15:07:32 ET
Posted by: Rajah, Munich, Germany

Hutch, I couldn't agree more, the WB Signature looks maah-velous but a more modest design at a more modest price would not have gone amiss. It's an objet d'arte surely but, apart from that, really, to what end? Ars gratia artis, I suppose.

I was in a cab here going to the famous Augustiner Keller in the Arnulfstrasse. So I asked the cabbie I asks him why I hear all sorts of languages spoken on the streets, English, Italian, Swisse, Belge, Espaniol but, strangely, no French. His response, "they don't seem to like us all that much."

Ah ja, verstehe ich.

Date: Mon, May 19, 2008, 13:52:14 ET
Posted by: steelydoc, near the Tower

I think the WB signature guitar looks like the one WB has on the inside of the Aja album....

Date: Mon, May 19, 2008, 13:20:40 ET
Posted by: Casual fan, Here and there

You know, as cover bands go, this sounds pretty good.

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

Date: Mon, May 19, 2008, 10:27:17 ET
Posted by: Hutch, rva

Ha-Ha - Not surprising to me that the Sadowsky "signature" Becker guitar is what it is. These guitar companies (even the boutique ones)feel that there's a need to make things like this "different" and "unique". I like P-90s too but THREE of 'em? A Brazilian board is always nice but really more show than function. Spalted maple is cool looking.
But you know, he could have come out with a lovely blue Strat with some great sounding single-coils and Walty's signature on the headstock, sold it for about $2500 instead of $4000 and I think a lot of people would be real happy about that.

Date: Mon, May 19, 2008, 09:28:02 ET
Posted by: Ha-ha, `w

Anyone else surprised that the WB signature guitar looks nothing like anything we've ever seen him play live?

I'm a huge fan of P-90s, but would have never expected Becker's "signature" axe to have three P-90s, and be nothing like the other three Sadowsky guitars we've seen him play. He's gone from that Tele, to the Floyd Rose w/ humbucker, to the blue Strat Sadowskys ... but nothing like this. Surprised, and intrigued.

Date: Mon, May 19, 2008, 01:10:01 ET
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Date: Mon, May 19, 2008, 01:09:23 ET
Posted by: AAthIzrlNdn|||uRgTQIpBOkFfqppFKE, xOMhXosYNkCHX|||hyNHDyOrW

SjuCRV |||SjuCRV

Date: Mon, May 19, 2008, 01:09:20 ET
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Date: Sun, May 18, 2008, 23:52:19 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., NJ

The cmpress page (http://www.walterbecker.com/cmpress.html) also has links to the YouTube vids, the Rolling Stone piece and the store.

At the bottom of the faq page now is...

W H A T E L S E C A N Y O U T E L L U S ?
Avanti, avanti — sempre avanti

I hadn't seen that before. "Forward, forward — ever forward."

Googling on "sempre avanti" yields a music ref and a wine ref...

http://www.patrickburnsmusic.com/index.php?/archives/24-Sempre-Avanti.html

http://www.cellartracker.com/wine.asp?iWine=34576

Date: Sun, May 18, 2008, 23:39:27 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., NJ

walterbecker.com has now "outed" the C$ store with links on the front page and the faq page and the May 26th deadline is noted.

The Rolling Stone article link has shifted to the faq page where you can also find links to those two YouTube vids.

Date: Sun, May 18, 2008, 15:38:07 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

Thanks, William.

Well put, Bob.

:#)

Date: Sun, May 18, 2008, 14:54:17 ET
Posted by: William, &

The Dean & Brutus Charisma- 100% that's the Gorge. I've been there a hundred times. I picked it off right away.

Date: Sun, May 18, 2008, 14:00:45 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

Date: Sun, May 18, 2008, 12:07:21 ET
Posted by: hey bobby, want some choudah?

checked out that cobham vid.

can't believe that amazingly talented people are still playing that soulless headache "music."

and the gal does rock - but tal . . . i wanna have happy time with tal.

the sound system in hell plays only reggae, fusion and toby keith and deano singing in the shower.

tip of the day: place cold spoons over your eyes in the morning to reduce swelling.

Date: Sun, May 18, 2008, 11:24:40 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

The Rajah will be attending all NYC shows. However, I will be disguised as Haywood Hale Broun. I'll be wearing an orange checkered sportsjacket.

Yes, it's all very Gehry here in Dusseldorf. Nice folks, bad food.

Steely Dan has one last chance to mix it up here on this tour. Let's hope they don't blow it.

Date: Sun, May 18, 2008, 11:17:12 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Bob,

The set lists have NOT been the same, from year to year. At the concert I saw last year, at least half of the tunes played were different from the show I saw the year before. The "same set list" is a myth, unless you're talking about concert-to-concert on the same tour.

Yes, there are a handful of songs that get played at just about every concert on every tour. I don't consider the inclusion of those songs the totality of the concert. And, for what it's worth, the really kick the shit our of those songs. They sure don't seem bored playing them.

Same musicians doesn't = same songs, same musicians doesn't = same arrangements.

You are jumping the gun and rushing to judgment before they have played note #1, this year.

The big question here, IMO, is: Is Rajah making it stateside for this year's tour? (Or hasn't the heat died down enough yet?)

Date: Sun, May 18, 2008, 11:03:40 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

Mom, I asked you nicely to never contact me here on the Blue.

Date: Sun, May 18, 2008, 11:02:15 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

Dean,

The same personnel and same set list = sameness (set being singular and the arrangements showing little evolution).

Date: Sun, May 18, 2008, 07:10:14 ET
Posted by: Agent 86, Immigration Hall JFK

Hey Rajah

Glad to hear your having a great time il mio amico.

Enjoy your travels while your can, remember there is no escape, just
keep run run running, cause GodWhacker's on your case.

Your room at LA County Jail awaits.

Date: Sun, May 18, 2008, 06:00:23 ET
Posted by: Lutz, SF

Rajah,
while there, go to the Bar at K21, they even play Steely Dan at times.
did you check out the Harbor area with all the wild Gehry buildings?
happy travels!

Date: Sun, May 18, 2008, 05:21:41 ET
Posted by: Rajah, Dusseldorf, Germany

Love that YouTube clip of Walty spazz-dancing. What a lovable ultra-maroon. Never too old to boogie, huh?

This town reminds me a lot of Steely Dan. Destroyed down to the last wall standing 60+ years ago, now rebuilt into a livable metro area, good water pressure. And now the beer doesn't have bits of slag floating about. The steak we ate was from Argentina. I guess that was a kind of cultural exchange...

Go Gene, on to Bavaria...

Date: Sat, May 17, 2008, 20:14:34 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Bob,

I don't pretend to know what's in the minds of Walt and Don, but I hardly think they are averse to comfort. After all, they were looking to be song writers in the Leiber and Stoller tradition.

Also, wasn't a big reason they stopped touring due, in large part, to areas that one might label "comfort" reasons?

If they have a group of musicians that work well together, are particularly proficient in what they are asked to do, and are reliable, good to travel with, etc, I image that is the sort of comfort that allows Don and Walt to put their energies into creativity.

You seem to think that comfort = sameness...I don't buy into that.

As for the tour being the same, because the band is the same, I'm not sure I buy that, either. They have yet to play ONE date on this tour. Walter has assured us that they will be mixing in some solo stuff as well as different cuts and arrangements. Why call him a liar until the evidence is in?

I have attended at least one concert from all of the tours from 1993-on. I have never thought I got the same concert as the previous year. I trust this year's outing will bring more pleasant surprises and will be great, as always.

Date: Sat, May 17, 2008, 19:55:13 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

Dean,

You're in the Manatee Bar so you know sad...and that's what it is, sad...there's just less and less that diffentiates the concerts from year to year. Comfortable yes...but was that in their minds way back when.

Date: Sat, May 17, 2008, 19:01:50 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

I would have no problem with Barney as the bass player, or the substitution of any number of the present line up, with a suitable alternative (of which there are a limited number...but they are around).

As Barney has played with the boys on MANY occasions, I also don't consider it much of a shake-up. With that said, the band sounded as tight and inspired as ever, the past two tours. I see no need for substitution simply to make them. If Don and Walt are happy with the sound with this group, who am I to complain?

And Don and Walt seem to be very happy with these guys, as they have played on most of the past two SD albums (and many of them have been on Don's and Walt's solo projects).

The only REACH here, IMO, is to take the use of these musicians as "selling out"...I have NO idea how those two go together. Perhaps you can explain the "sell out" comment.

The biggest conclusion one can draw is, Walt and Don have grown "comfortable" with these guys.

Date: Sat, May 17, 2008, 15:32:24 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

Dean,

With all due respect, that's a reach. I believe you are confusing "perfection" with selling out. I just don't see where a little tinkering with the musicians/tunes will upset this perfect balance you are suggesting.

If I understand you correctly, substituting another musician would have a devastating artistic impact...really?...so Tom Barney made the ensemble imperfect?...or Ted Baker?...preposterous.

Date: Sat, May 17, 2008, 13:31:18 ET
Posted by: Steely Fan, NJ

I was driving along in the middle of nowhere today and saw a sign for South Brunswick High School. So I just had to make a detour and check out the place where DF was a jazz enthusiast/ping pong whiz. (Hey, it's more eventful than posting that I heard Deacon Blues while eating breakfast at Perkins.)

http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd46/djs495/777/IMG_0083.jpg

Date: Sat, May 17, 2008, 12:48:42 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar

Bob,

Regarding your comment,

"I broke the code: "Think Fast" really means "Do It Again and Again and Again the Same Way with the Same People Year in and Year Out""

Well, seeing as how they have yet to play ONE show on this tour, you must be psychic to know they are playing the same things, the same way. But, if using the same personnel as last time is an indication, then you may be on to something:

Why mess with perfection?

Date: Sat, May 17, 2008, 12:36:11 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Regarding my comment about Morph sounding derivative, I can't really make a persuasive argument about it, other than talking about the arrangements (Opening keyboard riff, bass drums and guitar come in, lackluster post-Gaucho melody over one chord). I remember playing H-Gang for my dad, who introduced me to Steely Dan, and he asked if he had already heard it. Morph is still a solid album, obviously lightyears ahead of most artists, but compared to Fagen's own body of work it doesn't really hold up in my opinion. This review from the onion's AV club (who are without a doubt Steely Dan fans) pretty much sums it up for me: http://www.avclub.com/content/node/46795

From the clips and songs I've heard of Circus Money, I'm having a hard time finding the TvN similarities (this is probably a better topic for discussion a few weeks from now, but .. oh well). I hear a lot more of 11TOW, especially in the odd keyboard voicings, melodies, and sparse arrangements.

and regarding younger kids and Steely Dan, there's a lot of appreciation for the Steely Dan among college students, especially the musicians I know. When Steely Dan comes up in conversation, I often have to restrain myself.

Date: Sat, May 17, 2008, 12:32:54 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

Anyone heard of Rossana Nicolosi, bass player for Novecento?...make way Tal Wilkenfeld

http://youtube.com/watch?v=ydKmmFZXvAc (check her at 2:57 mark

I broke the code: "Think Fast" really means "Do It Again and Again and Again the Same Way with the Same People Year in and Year Out"

Date: Sat, May 17, 2008, 12:10:37 ET
Posted by: Gretchen, Old Saybrook

Alan, mate, I'll call you tonight!!

G

Date: Sat, May 17, 2008, 12:01:44 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Heading Toward the Manatee Bar

Brutus,

According to one of the comments, the video used on the Selfish Gene piece was shot at The Gorge. Dunno if that is true, though.

Date: Sat, May 17, 2008, 11:34:32 ET
Posted by: Brutus Charisma,

Thanks Dean.

Where was the "Selfish Gene" segment filmed?

Date: Sat, May 17, 2008, 11:14:47 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Correction on that last post, Brutus.

The original link posted by Scapegrace has "Selfish Gene" ready to play. It is labeled Circus Money (both vids are). The song Circus Money is not available on Youtube (at least not yet).

Sorry for any confusion.

Date: Sat, May 17, 2008, 11:09:18 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Brutus,

Friend of Scapegrace99 posted them a couple of days ago. Actually, he/she posted this:

http://www.youtube.com/user/scapegrace99

Circus Money is loaded to play, but both vids are there. Not realizing this (because I'm stupid), I posted the Door Number 2 link an hour later.

Hey, it's better to have this posted several times, than not at all.

Date: Sat, May 17, 2008, 10:43:01 ET
Posted by: Brutus Charisma,

Really "Basic" - when???

Date: Sat, May 17, 2008, 10:38:35 ET
Posted by: youtube watcher,

Younger fans commenting on an SD compilation on youtube:

'I'm only fifteen, and I find my self listening to music from artist like Steely Dan, Stevie Wonder, and Michael Mcdonald, and others during this era. This is when music was music. Music during this time was very creative and original. Now a days it's all about fashion and it's less creative. I wish more artist today would be this orignal.'

'Steely Dan is the shit. Craziest "band" ever, and no one can match their sound quality. AJA and KATY LIED, among others, are kick-ass. Truly a one of a kind show.

Love yah DF and WB!

--Another 15-year-old 'dan addict.'

'Although I'm comparably young, Steely Dan is still my biggest inspiration in many aspects of life.'

'I bought the album "Aja" back in the summer of 2000 when I was 14 and ever since then,Steely Dan has been my favortite group (also including Fagen's solo work.) My favorite Dan album is "The Royal Scam."'

'this is awesome! i'm only 20 but Donald Fagen has been my idol since living in the dorms and hearing Steely Dan freshman year. Saw them in here in Milwaukee last summer, best show of my life.'

'omg im only 12 my dad's a big fan.i agree music today is nothing like the dan ive heard all their albums and they are easily my favorite band of all time'

'I 100%... not even 100... I 200 percent agree with you, todays music is shit compared to how we used to have it... I'm 17 and all I listen to is old music because I hate my generation madly. Fagan and Becker were genious... You don't have people these days like that, people that actually cared about music and made it great!'

'I couldn't agree more with the way music is these days. I mean I'm only 15 and I hate todays music...'

Date: Sat, May 17, 2008, 08:52:11 ET
Posted by: bassicinstinct, Nottingham UK

Aren't these the same YouTube links which have already been posted a number of times?

Date: Sat, May 17, 2008, 08:25:52 ET
Posted by: Brurus Charisma,

More from Uncle Walter and the Fish:

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

Date: Fri, May 16, 2008, 22:20:19 ET
Posted by: SS, HK

Happy Birthday to you, LWO.

Date: Fri, May 16, 2008, 21:05:27 ET
Posted by: vihlutwhn, qajshmQqMbPo

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Date: Fri, May 16, 2008, 20:00:44 ET
Posted by: Brutus Charisma,

Yes ... Walt's our pal/confidante/fuckeried one:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iowlpXE1YkI

Date: Fri, May 16, 2008, 18:10:30 ET
Posted by: Denise, Happy hour in Hinktown...finally

Raising a glass to LWO: HAPPY BIRTHDAY
(a little late)

Date: Thurs, May 15, 2008, 20:16:11 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Dash,

You done broke the code...at least for me. Now I remember where I've heard/read that name before:

http://radiodupree.blogspot.com/2008/03/circus-money-here-late-mayearly-june.html

Excellent work, Dash!

Date: Thurs, May 15, 2008, 19:17:48 ET
Posted by: Dash LaRue,

Per-Gunnar Eriksson has a favorite recording artist!

http://www.pergunnareriksson.se/eilert.html

Date: Thurs, May 15, 2008, 18:18:42 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

The man has patents. What more can you say, really?

http://www.patentgenius.com/inventor/ErikssonPerGunnar.html

Date: Thurs, May 15, 2008, 17:53:28 ET
Posted by: Eva,

Those clips are hysterical! I wonder if Walter will dance on stage like that this summer.

Pete I heard about that Niel Diamond show from my friend who is the worlds biggest Neil fan. She couldn't believe it was the same place as the Steely Dan party. Sure wish I could be there! Now, if Donald or Walter were going to show up to do a show like that......

Date: Thurs, May 15, 2008, 17:21:57 ET
Posted by: Fife, Baltimore, eh

Those clips freaked my cats out I laughed so hard. Great to see that goofballs are alive and well in the USA.

Date: Thurs, May 15, 2008, 17:09:16 ET
Posted by: Dash LaRue,

Very nice viral videos! Now that is the way to market in the year 2008! Hmmm, isn't the email address in the post one of Walter's many monikers? Perhaps used during the first tour of Eurpoe in 2000?
Anyhoo, Wally looks like he has been working on the "Circus Bong" in those two clips.

Date: Thurs, May 15, 2008, 16:28:21 ET
Posted by: Matt, Chattanooga, TN

Friend of Scape,

Thanks to you, I am now totally psyched about Selfish Gene.

I honestly haven't looked forward to an album this much since 2VN.

Date: Thurs, May 15, 2008, 16:20:48 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

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

Date: Thurs, May 15, 2008, 16:18:12 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Giggling at the Manatee Bar

Spacegrace,

What the fuck? I'm laughing my ass off, here. Thank God it's happy hour, here at the Manatee. That just killed me!

BTW, it sounded GREAT!

Date: Thurs, May 15, 2008, 16:01:32 ET
Posted by: tonybass, camarillo

Chris-

Morph, Kama and the Nightfly only sound like SD when it comes to lead vocals and horn arrangements IMO...song-wise and groove-wise they sound different...probably less Becker influenced. The C$ samples sound a lot more like SD to me...especially the two post 90's SD albums. 11TOW sounds like WB was going for something COMPLETELY different.

Date: Thurs, May 15, 2008, 15:30:06 ET
Posted by: Friend of Scapegrace99, Two short clips on YouTube

http://www.youtube.com/user/scapegrace99

49 sec + 27 sec...

Date: Thurs, May 15, 2008, 14:40:30 ET
Posted by: TJ, DK

Chris, I encunter the same problem. Can't stop listening. It's so hypnotic!!

One interesting thing in regard to the Donald vs Walt discussion: Donald is definitely the one with a passion for complex jazz inspired harmony. Becker is more of a groove oriented blues man. The (lack of)bridges reveal it all.

When listening to a Steely Dan/Donald Fagen album the first time, I usually don't understand what just hit me. With Walter I feel more at home.

It's gonna be interesting if Walters album can stand repeated listening. Theoretically the music is much less complex - but something else is going on!

Date: Thurs, May 15, 2008, 13:56:23 ET
Posted by: Professor Irwin C.,

Chris

What problem(s)are there with MTC as far as being overly derivative of earlier Steely Dan? I agree that Don's solo songs drag out too long too often.

Date: Thurs, May 15, 2008, 12:24:49 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

I'm trying to force myself to stop listening to Door Number Two so I don't get burnt out on it before the album comes out. I haven't been doing very well so far.

Great to have Chris Potter back. Unmistakable Steely Dan without being overly derivative of earlier work, which I think was the main problem with MTC (and something a lot of reviewers pointed out). Walter's singing in a way Fagen just can't, taking advantage of its unique qualities. Bleak lyrics. Tight arrangement -- doesn't ride out the ending for too long.

Becker is also obviously the tech-friendly one: Fagen's site is ugly, the "No Business/Show Business" sections make it difficult to navigate, songs start playing automatically on pages, and his newsletters are HTML with images and fonts and background colors. Becker's site is simple, straightforward and intuitive. Plain text newsletters, fan-friendly pre orders (the FLAC is a nice touch).

Date: Thurs, May 15, 2008, 12:09:10 ET
Posted by: AnnaBanana, Margaritaville

Oh yes. They sell other JB stuff but not JB tickets. I just meant that people are buying tickets. They are excited about the shows they will be going to. They head over and buy shit from Mailboat.

Date: Thurs, May 15, 2008, 12:07:52 ET
Posted by: AnnaBanana, Margaritaville

Obviously it's Jimmy Buffet's label.

Date: Thurs, May 15, 2008, 11:56:27 ET
Posted by: Donald Rumsfeld-Fagen, Stewing about Mohammad Atta, that Egyptian-cum-Hamburger in Paradise

Mailboat does more than sell Jimmy Buffett trinkets; the man founded the label.

Date: Thurs, May 15, 2008, 11:56:22 ET
Posted by: WB's #1 fan,

Thanks for ruining my day Anna

Date: Thurs, May 15, 2008, 11:46:10 ET
Posted by: AnnaBanana, Margaritaville

The invoice numbers at Mailboat store include orders for all their artists.

That includes Chris Issak, Boz Scaggs, and others totally about a dozen or so. But most notable of all is that it sells Jimmy Buffet CDs and tracks. His new tour is kicking off and his tickets and CDs are selling.

Walter's new album sounds like it will be great, but most of those invoice numbers are for Jimmy Buffet commodities.

Date: Thurs, May 15, 2008, 11:38:39 ET
Posted by: ferat, HKndTCFxgsXMFR

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Date: Thurs, May 15, 2008, 08:45:59 ET
Posted by: Dan Belcher, Louisville, KY

Geoff, for me:

ORDER NUMBER:7526
DATE ORDERED:14-May-2008 06:05am

Date: Thurs, May 15, 2008, 08:33:28 ET
Posted by: Geoff & Diego the cat, My Wiggy Pad

D R-F: You're dead right Walter's right to the lions share.

I noticed my invoice number was around 5000 or something, and I was on early yesterday; I think this is the first thing that Walt has sold through his store, so it looks like sales are pretty good already. Anyone else remember there invoice number and approximate time of purchase?

Geoff

Date: Thurs, May 15, 2008, 08:13:19 ET
Posted by: bkzjkkhu, qkflvCQN

84yq5i <a href="http://mwauxwlahdmd.com/">mwauxwlahdmd</a>, [url=http://mwpseaekruwu.com/]mwpseaekruwu[/url], [link=http://uexkdcpbfoqp.com/]uexkdcpbfoqp[/link], http://uvkqrxhrprmm.com/

Date: Thurs, May 15, 2008, 05:34:38 ET
Posted by: Donald Rumsfeld-Fagen, ...

Did anyone catch that it looks like WB is releasing Circus Money on his own?

The credits to "Door Number Two" say that Mailboat is distributing and manufacturing C$, while the actual copyright is owned by 5 OVER 12, which I assume is WB's own label, created especially for C$. (http://www.5over12.com redirects to WB.com)

Seems like a good business strategy to me. The album's not going to sell much at all, so WB might as well keep the lion's share of the sales rather than give 90 percent to some record company that won't be able to understand his record, let alone promote it.

Date: Thurs, May 15, 2008, 01:27:14 ET
Posted by: Pete Fogel , NYC

Attending the After Beacon Party at the Bitter End on 6/21?

We are compiling a priority list for people who will be attending the party at the Bitter End after the Steely Dan Beacon Theater show on June 21st in New York City.

If you will be attending the After Party and want to be on a list that will give you priority admission (you'll have a better chance of getting in), email pfogelATnyc.rr.com with the subject "After Party", send us your name and the number of people who will be arriving to the Bitter End with you (i.e. Warren Kruger + 1). Only one email from your party.

This is a priority list and will not guarantee admission. However, you will have priority over those not on the list.

The Bitter End is a small club, and for those of you who have attended any of these parties in the past, you will see it is not like Le Bar Bat. We are expecting a busy night as it is, so I want to do what I can to make sure people here and those traveling in will be able to get in after the Beacon show.

Even those of you that I know will be attending, please email me again so I don't forget to include you.

Email - pfogelATnyc.rr.com (replace "AT" with "@")
Subject - After Party

Include your name plus the number of people that will be with you

Thanks,
Pete
http://www.myspace.com/razorboymusic

Date: Thurs, May 15, 2008, 01:17:15 ET
Posted by: Fife, Baltimore, eh

Happy Birthday LWO. Enjoy your party that was one hell of an invite! Have a drink for my Dad his is today. 74 years old and still kicking, whoohoo!
Fife

Date: Wed, May 14, 2008, 23:52:14 ET
Posted by: a year older, but still fun!

And lest we forget, today is 10 years since the Chairman of the Board left this earthly realm.

Thanks for all the wishes! Life is much richer for knowing all of you!

P.S. Thanks to WB for the day's first gift. That could be the man or the tiger...you decide.

Date: Wed, May 14, 2008, 20:51:29 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Dash,

It didn't surprise me too much, as "more coming soon ...** " is at the top of the concert list on Steelydan.com, and has been, for some time.

Date: Wed, May 14, 2008, 20:41:22 ET
Posted by: Dash LaRue,

Jesus, instead of whining, why didn't you just ask for the link.
Here you go -
http://walterbecker.mailboatstore.com
I found it interesting that Walter said that more shows still could be added to the tour in the email.

Date: Wed, May 14, 2008, 20:25:14 ET
Posted by: remailers R Us, door #2

check your junk mail folder or spam filter -- newsletters sometimes end up there

Date: Wed, May 14, 2008, 20:10:23 ET
Posted by: dissed in cyberland,

Are there many others who normally receive the WB Newsletter who didn't receive the pre-offer?
I even tried to re-sign up, but received an email I'm already on the list, but I still haven't gotten the recent Newsletter.

Date: Wed, May 14, 2008, 20:07:49 ET
Posted by: Dissed, in ATL

GREAT! I get all the WB newsletters EXCEPT the one w/ the pre-sale stuff.

Date: Wed, May 14, 2008, 18:54:27 ET
Posted by: ALL, CAPS

AH, DOOR #2 - THE GATEWAY TO THE COALMINE!!!

I'm workin' in a coal mine
Goin' down down down
Workin' in a coal mine
Whop! about to slip down
Workin' in a coal mine
Goin' down down down
Workin' in a coal mine
Whop! about to slip down

Cos I'm on call in the mornin'
Oh I go by the coal
But when Saturday goes around
I'm too tired for havin' fun (Too tired for having fun)

Date: Wed, May 14, 2008, 17:20:10 ET
Posted by: TJ, DK

Just ordered Circus Money as FLAC. Walter is a tech genius and he certainly knows how to treat fans! Bravo!!!

And I love Door no 2 - I think.

So incredibly understated! Something completely new. Elegant as nothing I've ever heard from the Dan. Almost minimalistic in it's approach. for now: interesting.

Date: Wed, May 14, 2008, 13:10:51 ET
Posted by: outkast, apple store

Happy birthday

Date: Wed, May 14, 2008, 11:35:32 ET
Posted by: Another B-day?,

Happy Birthday LWO! And I know that you're not as old as your liver!

Date: Wed, May 14, 2008, 10:51:48 ET
Posted by: prez logic, Woogo bound?

Say it ain't so, another birthday for LWO...

Date: Wed, May 14, 2008, 10:26:09 ET
Posted by: Geoff, The Office (BBC)

Kate Markovitz is a James Taylor BG vocalist. She's myspace buddies with Windy Wagner.

geoff

Date: Wed, May 14, 2008, 10:00:16 ET
Posted by: Geoff, Plano

Dan - I got Door Number Two too. Yes great Pooter solo, but I'll have to wait until tonight and some decent speakers to hear this thing properly. I like the washed out mask on the '1 song down load' pdf... and now we know who the BG Vocals are too

Happy Birthday Gail!

Geoff

Date: Wed, May 14, 2008, 09:57:13 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, @work

I got Door Number Two as well.

Sounds freakin' awesome.

KC

Date: Wed, May 14, 2008, 08:11:34 ET
Posted by: Dan Belcher, Louisville, KY

I just ordered my copy through that presale. The immediate MP3 download you are given is not a choice -- I don't know if it's the same for everybody, but it just gave me a link to download Door Number Two. Great song though -- Chris Potter has a very nice tenor sax solo in it.

Date: Wed, May 14, 2008, 06:16:56 ET
Posted by: Yummy...!, WB Pre-order

The difficult thing of course being to pick the track for immediate download.
Paging Audrey? Circus Money? Downtown Canon?

Decisions, decisions... :)

Date: Wed, May 14, 2008, 06:06:23 ET
Posted by: travellin' fan, you know

Can it be another year already?

Is this yet another milestone that has been reached ??

29 AGAIN ???

HAPPY BIRTHDAY Littlewildone !!!!!!!!!!!!

Date: Wed, May 14, 2008, 02:12:05 ET
Posted by: Gina/Mizar5, sun mountain

check your mail for the WB newsletter and offer to buy the new album first with some extra stuff attached

Date: Tues, May 13, 2008, 23:31:04 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

The latest edition of the Dandom Digest just went out, this one covering April 22-May 13, 2008.

If you are a subscriber, you should receive it within the next 8 hours. As usual, if you don't receive it, please email me. Some people have problems with delivery of the Dandom Digest, usually because of their spam filters, firewalls, etc.

The following are the subjects of the Dandom Digest for April 1-8, 2008

√ The Push for "Circus Money" is On!
√ First Impressions: WB clips
√ THINK FAST, SD!: More Dates Out West Added

*****

√ UpDaTe! THINK FAST, SD FANS!!
Sat 6/21: A Post-SD Concert Party in NYC Not To Be Missed!

*****
√ Jon Herington album re-released
√ Individual Items Version of Dandom Digest
√ REDUX, REDUX, REDUX: Don't Miss out! Get these E-newsletters

Thanks as always for your support, especially Mark, Bill and John.

Jim

Date: Tues, May 13, 2008, 15:53:02 ET
Posted by: Matt, Chattanooga, TN

I'm not saying that more songs makes a better album, just pointing out that taking a song on a Walter Becker album and pointing out how it's not like it might be on a Donald Fagen album is fairly futile. In doing so, I noticed that we have as many Walter Becker solo songs as we do Donald Fagen solo songs.

And I don't feel cheated by Morph reprise either, I just don't consider it to be it's own song independent of Morph the Cat. That's not to say I don't enjoy it, or that I like it any less.

Date: Tues, May 13, 2008, 15:14:45 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Yes, Matt

Tracks-per-album is how I judge my music. /sarcasm

I NEVER feel cheated by hearing Morph reprise.

Date: Tues, May 13, 2008, 15:05:25 ET
Posted by: Denise, Hinktown

Thanks, Pete.

Date: Tues, May 13, 2008, 14:57:57 ET
Posted by: Matt, Chattanooga, TN

TJ, the other notable thing that would be different about Somebody's Saturday Night were it on a Donald album is that it wouldn't exist because it would be more than 8 songs into the album and not Door Number Two (Reprise).

Walter is definitely giving us more bang for the buck, song-wise, than Donald ever did. In fact, if you figure tracks per album (and don't count Morph (reprise)), with C$ and 11ToW, Walter has given the same number of songs that Donald has over Nightfly, Kama, and Morph.

I know, you can add Rhymes or Shanghai for Fagen, or Medical Science and Ghost of Hipness Past for Becker, but basing it just on songs per album, we're tied folks.

Date: Tues, May 13, 2008, 14:51:45 ET
Posted by: Pete, NYC

We have been getting a lot of emails from people coming in from all over the world, and we would hate for them and people from the Bluebook not to be able to get in to the after party at The Bitter End. So, we will be setting up a list that will give you priority admission, all but guaranteeing entrance to the club. We will have more information on this in the next week or so.

If some of you aren't familiar with The Bitter End, it is one of the most well respected venues in the country. Neil Diamond performed a "secret show" at The Bitter End last Wednesday. If you want to see a clip of this which gives you a good idea of the room and the history, there is a video on my MySpace page from "CBS Sunday Morning" that aired this past weekend.

http://www.myspace.com/razorboymusic

Date: Tues, May 13, 2008, 13:28:29 ET
Posted by: Girl Margaret, Work

Reidar - unless Pete's doing something special, my guess would be that Bitter End tickets will be sold at the door.

Date: Tues, May 13, 2008, 11:48:05 ET
Posted by: Reidar (Radar), Norway, near the Northpole

Thanks you for answers further down the page, I have now extended my stay so that I will now attend all the six concerts which means that I will also be able to go to the official "DanFest" at Bitter End. I did cost me a lot extra, but for me it will be a once in a lifetime experience, and something I'll never gonna forget. But how and where can I buy a ticket to the "DanFest"?? On the frontpage it says click here for tickets but that leads to the concert tickets on the Steely Dan page. It will be a shame if I was to miss the party.
Looking forward to see you Dan fans in NYC.

Date: Mon, May 12, 2008, 14:12:34 ET
Posted by: Nicholas Urfe, Phraxos

What?!?!? You mean that all of the pedophilic homosexual drug abusing disfunctional born-on-another-planet future-men aren't AUTOBIOGRAPHICAL?!?!?

Date: Mon, May 12, 2008, 14:04:03 ET
Posted by: Lars,

Just finished listening to Walter Becker's new clips. Is it me or does it sound just like 11TOW with a better production?

Date: Mon, May 12, 2008, 12:56:26 ET
Posted by: Pentagon, dc

Common sense conclusion: the narrator is neither Walter nor Larry but...a CHARACTER

Date: Mon, May 12, 2008, 12:34:03 ET
Posted by: Donald Rumsfeld-Fagen, Banishment

Post-modern feminist Steely Dan apologist's conclusion: The troglodytic Larry Klein wrote the lyric. Walt is blameless.

Date: Mon, May 12, 2008, 12:17:41 ET
Posted by: Donald Rumsfeld-Fagen, Retirement

Hutch, yes, you're right, the lyric must be

I get along, in fact I do all right
Being somebody's Saturday night

But I don't think this is an expression of guilt or shame or some deep realization.

The double standard is hard at work here: The girl is "none too bright"," not "watertight," "*just* somebody's Saturday night," someone worthy of the narrator's scorn.

The narrator, on the other hand, gets along, in fact, he does all right.

Post-modern feminist's conclusion: Wally is a misogynist Neanderthal intent on preserving gender stereotypes and the objectification of women.

Steely Dan enthusiast's conclusion: Keith Carlock is a fucking rock.

Date: Mon, May 12, 2008, 05:47:47 ET
Posted by: Rajah, Roma

Sleeze-bucket. Perfect. I love it. Walty is the quintessential sleeze-bucket. Backs to the wall and hats off to him. Haven't heard that term in years...

Walter's record is gonna shock us all, I can feel it.

Date: Sun, May 11, 2008, 23:33:12 ET
Posted by: art imitates life,

Another important stylistic difference between Walt and Don is that Don's songs kind of idolize women, he puts them on a pedestal in sort of a romantic idealistic way (Tomorrow's Girls). Nothing particularly lecherous, but at times almost sappy and at times not getting the girl. At times frustrated that he can't get the young ones (Hey19 and Pixeleen, probably Don's thematically)) and insecure in his relationships (Maxine and Pagoda are examples). In life he's been the straight shooter and married going on 15 years.

Walt is more of the sleaze bucket, any lovin' is good lovin, who will take what he can get, he'll go for whatever goes for him. Anything that will "Slang" him. Somebody's Saturday Night is another such song, and that lyric at the end with Walt looking at his disheveled self in the mirror he ends up feeling dirty and used, like maybe it wasn't worth the thrill.

In life, of The Two, Walt has had the more checkered past and it shows up in his art.

Date: Sun, May 11, 2008, 19:51:01 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

Hutch,

I think you have the correct lyric.

What I get from this is, the narrator (Walter) realizing that he, too, is simply "Somebody's Saturday Night"...much like the woman he is singing about.

Date: Sun, May 11, 2008, 19:42:55 ET
Posted by: Hutch, rva

D.R. Fagen - Enjoyed reading the lyrics you heard. Pretty much on the mark and it was fun to read along listening to the track.

The last verse however holds the key to interpretation.
I hear:

I've been born with a second sight
Now I'm looking in the mirror at Somebody's Saturday Night
I get along, in fact I do all right
Bein' Somebody's Saturday Night

Instead of: Me and Somebody's Saturday Night.

Is that last line the difference between the girl and the pimp?

Date: Sun, May 11, 2008, 17:54:24 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

TJ-

Some nice observations. I still
feel that this will become a staple
for Walter during the upcoming tour.
And I will wager that a horn chart
will be added. I'm looking forward
to it. I have been listening to the
track a lot in my car and at the house
- it can be downloaded as an MP3 as someone
pointed out from the code in the Rolling
Stone script. I hope Donald will add his
vocals to the chorus this summer. As far
as the outro goes, you cannot deny that it
has a major Steely Dan "fade out".

Date: Sun, May 11, 2008, 17:16:07 ET
Posted by: TJ, DK

"Somebodys Saturday Night" shows the difference between Donald and Walter anno 2008 in several ways - in my opinion. Taking the Rolling Stone interview into account they might be growing seperate ways these days - maybe not a bad thing for a future Steely Dan album:

1. The guitar in the general groove is much more in front of the mix and more dirty and distorted. Very much Walter.

2. The female backup vocals are more blues oriented. They sound like the live version of Cousin Dupree. I suspect that Donald like it more subtle.

3. The guitar solo is almost experimental for Walter. Exciting and new.

4. The bridge is not as harmonically complex as it would have been if Donald wrote it. It would have been twice as long building to a higher and more contrasting climax.

5 There's no horns on the track. Seems Walt wanted to keep it simple and spontanious with a live feel. Donald would have written a horn chart to contrast the other melodic lines.

6. The outro is very very short. Looking at Morph, Donald would probably have kept it going for at least 1 minute more.

Date: Sun, May 11, 2008, 09:58:11 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu ,

There's no meiosis & mitosis with halitosis.

Date: Sun, May 11, 2008, 01:43:15 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

A real New Englander finds that 10 F is, "a little chilly."

Date: Sun, May 11, 2008, 00:22:14 ET
Posted by: orrr,

dumb and dumber

Date: Sun, May 11, 2008, 00:11:44 ET
Posted by: Errr, No,

That would be Trailer Trash and Euro Trash.

Date: Sat, May 10, 2008, 23:15:39 ET
Posted by: Euler,

Oh yeah.

I was all excited and tingly about the Higher Mathematics, that I overlooked that.

I would say that a more fitting lyric to describe what the math function was modeling, in layman's terms

It changed, as it grew, it acceleraaaated too..

Date: Sat, May 10, 2008, 23:10:30 ET
Posted by: hz, yo yo yo

deano and rajo off the cool list - quelles twats.

trailer trash and expatriot - whoopee

hz

Date: Sat, May 10, 2008, 22:56:36 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Euler,

The title of the article, "Some babies grow in a peculiar way" is a lyric from Steely Dan's Haitian Divorce.

But, you knew that, right?

Date: Sat, May 10, 2008, 22:54:37 ET
Posted by: Steely Dan reference finder, Made in Haiti

Lyrics from Haitian Divorce:

"Tearful reunion in the USA
Day by day those memories fade away
Some babies grow in a peculiar way <------------!
It changed, it grew, and everybody knew"

Date: Sat, May 10, 2008, 22:30:29 ET
Posted by: Euler, Dresden, GE

hey kulee

WTF? That article is about some exponential growth function. Where's the Steely reference?

Date: Sat, May 10, 2008, 22:13:28 ET
Posted by: kuleebaba, Charlotte

A Steely Dan reference in the rarefied world of computational complexity (in this case, referring to growth rate of functions):

http://andysresearch.blogspot.com/2008/04/some-babies-grow-in-peculiar-way.html

Date: Sat, May 10, 2008, 21:55:44 ET
Posted by: lfmvyn, jSlzamtVvtw

arVm1Q <a href="http://ieomkpmrkkac.com/">ieomkpmrkkac</a>, [url=http://wkzleczsnnxr.com/]wkzleczsnnxr[/url], [link=http://njegwtnvlhay.com/]njegwtnvlhay[/link], http://gxpnpdrnjvlw.com/

Date: Sat, May 10, 2008, 20:39:26 ET
Posted by: Rajah, Roma

Dean, no need to apologize. New Englanders need to cop to their shit. But, of course, they never will.

A pox on them.

Date: Sat, May 10, 2008, 17:10:30 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

My apologies for playing around and starting this.

Hey, how about that Steely Dan?

Date: Sat, May 10, 2008, 17:00:16 ET
Posted by: Father Time, True History

Paul -
You forgot the "rich" Slave Trade.

Even after slavery was outlawed in the North, ships out of New England continued to carry thousands of Africans to the American South. Some 156,000 slaves were brought to the United States in the period 1801-08, almost all of them on ships that sailed from New England ports that had recently outlawed slavery.

"The effects of the New England slave trade were momentous. It was one of the foundations of New England's economic structure; it created a wealthy class of slave-trading merchants, while the profits derived from this commerce stimulated cultural development and philanthropy. --Lorenzo Johnston Greene, “The Negro in Colonial New England, 1620-1776,”

"To this day, it's difficult to find an old North institution of any antiquity that isn't tainted by slavery. Ezra Stiles imported slaves while president of Yale. Six slave merchants served as mayor of Philadelphia. Even a liberal bastion like Brown University has the shameful blot on its escutcheon. It is named for the Brown brothers, Nicholas, John, Joseph, and Moses, manufacturers and traders who shipped salt, lumber, meat -- and slaves. And like many business families of the time, the Browns had indirect connections to slavery via rum distilling. John Brown, who paid half the cost of the college's first library, became the first Rhode Islander prosecuted under the federal Slave Trade Act of 1794 and had to forfeit his slave ship. Historical evidence also indicates that slaves were used at the family's candle factory in Providence, its ironworks in Scituate, and to build Brown's University Hall."

A Rich proud history indeed, but oh those great schools it funded.

Date: Sat, May 10, 2008, 16:45:16 ET
Posted by: Paul Revere, Freedom Trail

John Smith & The Dean - It's very hard to be humble when you have the best schools, hospitals and sports teams in the country. Oh yeah - the rich history too.

Date: Sat, May 10, 2008, 15:55:24 ET
Posted by: hahaha,

lmao at The Dean's goodnight kiss interpretation.

Date: Sat, May 10, 2008, 12:56:55 ET
Posted by: John Smith, shining up my buckle

Ain't nothin' humble about New Englanders. Although they certainly have every reason to be. They are, by and large, a conservative bunch in their modus vivendi but a liberal populace at the polls. They decry the racial strife in our great cities like NY, Chicago and LA but they command no moral high ground on the issue for the simple reason that they do not live in a diverse society. The closest they have to people of colour are the Italians. And they don't like them all that much.

Date: Sat, May 10, 2008, 11:12:47 ET
Posted by: Gina/Mizar5, Swedish Ginger Cookie Mountain

http://www.last.fm/music/Georg+Wadenius/+videos/5770737

just another musical interlude, vaguely dannerished, but very smooth.

Georg Wadenius, a 2nd clip from his gig in Stockholm

have a good weekend

Date: Sat, May 10, 2008, 10:48:12 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Thanks, Gretch. That's great to know.

Although, I must admit, I never associate "humble" with New Englanders.

Date: Sat, May 10, 2008, 10:05:16 ET
Posted by: Gretchen, Old Saybrook, near Guilford

Guilford's a great town, as is the rest of the CT shoreline. A big arts community with the humbleness of old New England beach towns. A lot to offer without all of that Fairfield County snobbery and BS.

G

Date: Sat, May 10, 2008, 09:45:42 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Actually, Traveler, I think the key word in Chris' post was "Google".

On the CT side of the LI Sound, and halfway between NYC and Boston. Hell, I don't think I'm white enough or rich enough to DRIVE through that town.

Date: Sat, May 10, 2008, 05:53:52 ET
Posted by: Frank Sinatra, not ready to face the light

Look, don't remind me of those friggin Electric Prunes. I came home to Mia one night way back in 67 after filming all day on "Lady in Cement," a movie co-starring that prohibitive piece of bragiole named Rachel Welch. Man did I wanna nail that broad but I was married, see, and that stuff wasn't something I did anymore at my age. So I comes through the door and what does Mia have spinning on the turntable? "I Had Too Much To Dream Last Night." She knew I hated all the new music from Elvis in '56 onward through the British Invasion and all that long-haired shit but this goddam psyhchedelic crap was the limit. There she was, high as a kite on weed and dancing around in that baby-doll minidress. I didn't even take my hat and coat off. I went into the kitchen where Jilly was dropping a coupla nice pork ribs into the ragu and said, "buddy, it's over for me here. Handle it." Left Burbank twenty minutes later on the bird and was back in the Springs in forty minutes.

Never looked back.

Date: Sat, May 10, 2008, 02:02:23 ET
Posted by: fellow, traveller

so chris - you're saying that guillyville is and hour and a half from umass?

Date: Sat, May 10, 2008, 01:57:53 ET
Posted by: horse drawn plum, okgr[koepo[=p

the prunes were great. tight. happy to be playing and PSYCHEDELIC. BABY.

ENJOYING SOME CHERRY GARCIA TO CELEBRATE.

Date: Sat, May 10, 2008, 01:20:50 ET
Posted by: Dave From Acquisitions, Central Mass

Re:Oracle's having had too much to dream last night...
I just returned from seeing The Electric Prunes at Pearl St. in Northampton, MA.
Mark

Date: Fri, May 09, 2008, 23:55:46 ET
Posted by: chris, working (sadly not in the coal mine)

cheese zoots, i had to google guilford, but it turns out i probably drove through it a few times during the year i spent going to school in western mass. its 20 minutes to keene (home of NH's number one party school) and another hour or so to my hometown of concord, the capital of this great state.

Date: Fri, May 09, 2008, 22:38:58 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Then there's this ditty from Stephen Thomas Erlewine's (Allmusic.com) American Idol blog:

"To me, the real atrocity of last night was that group sing on “Reelin’ in the Years.” I have no problem with Steely Dan on the show, of course — if anything, the great Walter Becker and Donald Fagen would be my dream judges/mentors, rivaling that legendary episode with Quentin Tarantino as guest judge — but this was an outright embarrassment, with each line getting more ridiculous, culminating in David Archuleta botching lyrics once again. The only thing they can do to make up for this is to have a Becker/Fagen night next year, preferably early in the season when the show has enough contestants to be interesting to watch."

As I'm sure most of you know, Stephen T is the reviewer for most of the SD albums on allmusic.com.

Date: Fri, May 09, 2008, 22:26:39 ET
Posted by: Fife, Baltimore, eh

Funny they ended the second show in Bearsville in 07 with that song.

There's a few us in chat if your interested by the way.

Date: Fri, May 09, 2008, 19:28:48 ET
Posted by: Nothin' Original Here,,,,

Lee Dorsey started Workin' In A Coalmine in 1966, goin' down, down, down.

Reminds me I'm fresh out of KY. Off to the local pharmacy. Tonite. it's gonna be Someone Else's FRIDAY Night.

Date: Fri, May 09, 2008, 19:25:32 ET
Posted by: all ears, NJ

with all the he says she says,
I hear "the demon in me says" (which makes sense if the following "just you watch me" is what he would 'say')

although "the demon in recess" would be a better lyric

Date: Fri, May 09, 2008, 18:38:26 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

Well, Mr Murray, I see your point. Of course, the "available light" changes from place-to-place and situation-to-situation.

Date: Fri, May 09, 2008, 18:34:28 ET
Posted by: Robert E. Murray, Crandall Canyon, UT

No, Dean, I don't think that the song is quite so lewd. I do like how the narrator loses all need for in the protagonist when his demon goes into recess, despite the lengths she just went to for him.

I've known enough "Somebody's Saturday Night" types to know the perverse joy that Mr. Becker must have taken in writing such a cruel and hilarious lyric.

Date: Fri, May 09, 2008, 18:28:26 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

Mr. Murray,

Are you suggesting the Legendary Goodnight Kiss is a post-cornhole BJ?

Time for another shot, methinks.

Bartender!

Date: Fri, May 09, 2008, 18:23:56 ET
Posted by: Robert E. Murray, Crandall Canyon, UT

"The demon in recess" - one of the all-time great SD lyrics.

Especially in context:

..You wouldn't kick a good girl out on a night like this
...the demon in recess
Just you watch me, pucker up darling for my legendary goodnight kiss

Even better when you consider the coal mining that had just taken place.

Date: Fri, May 09, 2008, 18:05:49 ET
Posted by: they always, coalmine with the great ones

hey folks - if some of my posts seem to be not as great as others, its because the omnipotent god, his high holiness mr mck has been adding and subtracting his own hershey kisses.

something akin to - for example [editors note: blah blah frickin blah] would be more appropriate. ¿don't you think?

its good to be king, i guess. drop a coin in my piss bucket.

Date: Fri, May 09, 2008, 17:52:58 ET
Posted by: Connie, In the vineyard

Denise -

I can't make the NY shows and would love to go to the after party but....I am so jazzed that we are going to see the boys 3 Saturday nights in a row all within driving distance! Wicked Librarian and I are planning our roadtrips to Tahoe and Murphys. We hope to organize a Danfest at Ironstone. WL works in Berkeley and lives in Oakland. So no airports, no airplanes, but ouch! the price of gas.

Date: Fri, May 09, 2008, 17:42:35 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

Wow, the freakin' Blue is hysterical today. Good job, Dan fans.

And, yes, Tumbleweed Connection is one of the all time great albums, IMO. It's too bad what became of EJ. I think the same thing about Bruce whenever I hear the spectacular The Wild, The Innocent and the E Street Shuffle.

Date: Fri, May 09, 2008, 17:25:50 ET
Posted by: cheee zoots, what a suit

ATTENTION CASUAL FAN: no one gives a rat's coalmine!

¿hey chris, seriously, how long does it take to get to guilford from somewhere where there are people? i'm betting you can't get there from here.

supermarket: nice touch. buy me some fireworks.

Date: Fri, May 09, 2008, 17:21:11 ET
Posted by: old stuff, worth a glance or more

http://everything-must-go.com/morningscan.11.html

Date: Fri, May 09, 2008, 16:58:33 ET
Posted by: Matt, chattanooga, TN

Slouched in a booth at Pamela's pissed til dawn.

Date: Fri, May 09, 2008, 16:29:31 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Martial - after re-reading the lyrics, I do believe you're right. Can't wait til I hear this one in the supermarket.

Date: Fri, May 09, 2008, 16:29:29 ET
Posted by: Casual fan, Guilt

MUST INSERT NAME:

You know, well after I posted the link and my thoughts, I started to feel kind of bad about it. It started as sharing my amusement that the Dan had reached the point where there was an arrangement made for a high school orchestra to play and isn't that sort of a statement about how ... ironically ordinary?... they had become. I mean, when I was in Junior High my band did a pretty mean version of Boogie Nights.

But it got away from me. And in retrospect I say more power to 'em! They could pick a lot worse to learn from, right?

Date: Fri, May 09, 2008, 15:32:16 ET
Posted by: martial, tuckered

yes, you got it DONALD - its a song, in part, about the good ol hershey highway tango.

in that case, she'll take 5 over 12 any day of the week. ouch.

Date: Fri, May 09, 2008, 15:23:27 ET
Posted by: Gourmand , de jour

hey raj , you're in roma. what, did they run out of Ortolan in paree?

otherwise - of course, tumbleweed is good - but that's Reginald Kenneth Dwight. it doesn't count.

Date: Fri, May 09, 2008, 15:13:40 ET
Posted by: Donald Rumsfeld-Fagen, Undisclosed

My deciphering of the lyrics of "Somebody's Saturday Night." Care to check them for accuracy? The bridge was especially hard to interpret.

Somebody's Saturday Night seems pleased to meet you
Slouched in a hoof and Pamela's pissed 'til dawn
Drink-drink, cigarette. talkie-talk, drinkie-drink, smokey-smoke, cigarette
Up to the room with the beddie-by going on

Somebody's Saturday night says, "Oh, I get it"
You want to go where no man's ever been
Down in the coal mine, going down, turn around, push-push, turn around
Digging up the coal and can it back again

She looked good in the available light
She was somebody's Saturday night
She said it ain't wrong but it's not quite right
I guess it's somebody's Saturday night

Somebody's Saturday Night says, "Hey, it's raining
You wouldn't kick a good girl out on a night like this"
He says, she says, the demon in recess, just you watch me
Pucker up darling for my legendary goodnight kiss

She's no fool but she's none too bright
She's just somebody's Saturday night
She stays cool if not water-tight
Such is somebody's Saturday night

You'll meet a girl, one more is up and gone
Leaving nobody to blame the whole thing on, baby

Somebody's Saturday Night is walking in the moonlight
Praying on the beads of a beatnik rosary
Thinking nobody gives it exactly the way that you want it
And no one forgets about the money-back guarantee

I've been born with a second sight
Now I'm looking in the mirror at Somebody's Saturday Night
I get along, in fact I do all right
Me and Somebody's Saturday Night

Date: Fri, May 09, 2008, 14:41:26 ET
Posted by: old but still nice to see, audiophile

http://www.audaud.com/audaud/best2003.html

Date: Fri, May 09, 2008, 14:29:00 ET
Posted by: 5 over 15, math class

Just noticed that 5over12.com now goes to becker's site. Last week it was an error.

Anyone know or guess at the significance of 5 over 12?

Date: Fri, May 09, 2008, 14:09:06 ET
Posted by: Nicholas Urfe, Phraxos

Oracle - You had too much to dream last night.

Date: Fri, May 09, 2008, 13:50:06 ET
Posted by: tom, Lubbock Texas

That guy that likes Elton John is correct. Before Elton became a fat lesbian, he released a Superb album entitled "tumbleweed connection".
It is wonderful. I am a dedicated Steely dan fan and Love this elton john album. GET IT.
http://www.superseventies.com/johnelton2.html

Date: Fri, May 09, 2008, 12:56:47 ET
Posted by: The, Oracle

Last night I had a dream that included, among other things, Amy Poehler, Steely Dan, and David Lynch. As far as the Steely Dan part, the 08 tour began, and they played all new songs.

Date: Fri, May 09, 2008, 12:51:17 ET
Posted by: angel,

Jamie: Thanks for the interview info.

I tried to get down to San Diego last weekend, but lack of sleep and the high price of gas, deterred me. I really wanted to see the Damned play again. It's been years.

Denise: Can't go to NY in June. Hubby says once this summer is enough. Sigh...

--

I really like Somebody's Saturday Night. Nice cut.
Good going, Walter!

Date: Fri, May 09, 2008, 12:21:58 ET
Posted by: VERY, happy to see you

congrats bobbo00 you are the newest person on my cool list.

ok. before anyone gets carried away, no one here would ever consider actually shooting hoops - unless rajah is DINO raja. some elton john fan will probably take care of that for us, anyway.

elton john. now that's funny!!!!!!

anywho, if we shoot hoops, who would save Chicago??

nyc - don't leave until you get rolled by a hooker at least once.

ps. got one response to my singles listing. very kinky to "do it" with a sexy gal singing patty smyth tunes in a full yankees uniform - i still have the cleat marks!

Date: Fri, May 09, 2008, 12:09:09 ET
Posted by: Chad, Bangor, ME

Rajah - Thanks! The Chelsea Hotel! What a great idea! I'm going to check into that right now. So the "A" train can shuffle me back and fourth between the Beacon and the Bitter End? Sounds like a plan. Will you be attending the shows in New York City Rajah?

Date: Fri, May 09, 2008, 12:01:31 ET
Posted by: Rajah, Roma

Chad, you want the Chelsea Hotel, site of many famous encountres des artistes. Just don't share any needles while you're there. Actually, if you are staying for an extended period of time, just stay on the Westside around old Madison Square, circa 23rd street, so you can train up and down the "A" train corridor. Many small downtown boutique hotels, all on the net...

Date: Fri, May 09, 2008, 11:51:41 ET
Posted by: Chad, Bangor, ME

I'm flying into NYC for the shows on 6/20 and 6/21. Does anybody know of any good hotels in between the Beacon and the Bitter End? I'm really looking forward to going to the after party. The Bitter End looks like a very cool place to watch an intimate show. Look at these pixs.

http://www.thetripwire.com/news/2008/5/8/gallery-neil-diamond-the-bitter-end-nyc

Date: Fri, May 09, 2008, 11:41:18 ET
Posted by: prez logic, still in limbo

Hey Denise...the odds of prez logic visiting that New York City once more are increasing...up to around 2 to 1...still waiting on a schedule matter to finalize but it's looking better...

Date: Fri, May 09, 2008, 11:38:09 ET
Posted by: Bobbo, recruiting the Great Unwashed

And,

Let me tell you about Bubba. He's a guy at work, and fairly "countrified." Right about my age. Bubba is an enigma, and going through a very gratifying era of his life. Everybody digs Bubba: he's a gentle, unassuming guy, great for conversation, a lifelong reformed Catholic, and his little heeler is probably his best friend, other than his wife of many years.

A couple of months ago, Bubba came over to my laminator and said, "You know, I bought a Steely Dan album."

"Really, Bub, which one?" I've seen this particular New Fascination before, of course.

"It's the 'Essential Steely Dan'. I couldn't get that 'Reelin' in the Years' out of my head...It was only eight bucks at Wal-Mart, so I got it."

"Well that's cool, Bubba, but be careful...There's a whole 'nother world of wicked-wild subject matter in there, and if you don't watch it, soon you'll be going to two shows a year, like me." Just playin' around with the guy, who has better taste in art, film and music than most day-to-day acquaintances at Ye Olde Salt Mine.

But Bubba wasn't finished; he was obviously looking for something. "Well, that's what I wanted to ask you. Is that 'Things I Miss the Most' on an album? I've never heard THAT one, before..." For all of his positive qualities, Bubba was obviously so susceptible to this New Steely Phase that the need to find more Dan music had hit him before it occurred to him that it might be in the liner notes. But you know me: I was happy to help out.

Wonder if he's going to dig EVERTHING MUST GO? God bless the child who's got his own; another Steely Freak, just beginning his journey. Does the old heart good when I see it firsthand...selah.

Okay,
Bobbo

Date: Fri, May 09, 2008, 11:36:51 ET
Posted by: Rajah, Roma

Hah, that IS a knee-slapper there, brother Bo...

Steely Dan has been remunerated handsomely for the American Idol rendering of "Reelin in the Years." So though it may offend your sensibilities, let's consider for a moment the real possiblility that a nice easy paycheck like that ain't goin' amiss with our boys. Actually, it's quite a tribute to a long-lost forgotten top 40 hit. Fortunes rise and fall, and if you're lucky twice, they rise once more.

But you're right, Dean, the choreography was atrocious. Donald wiggles in his seat better than that.

Date: Fri, May 09, 2008, 11:23:12 ET
Posted by: bobbo, wabbit hunting...huh-huh-huh.

"Looking for a sporty girl to shoot Hoops..."?!

Now, that is either very fuckin' funny, or as snarky as I'd like to be...yikes!

Date: Fri, May 09, 2008, 11:17:00 ET
Posted by: suedave, gettin' ready

Honey I will be there
Yes I'll be there

Denise, will you be there too?

Date: Fri, May 09, 2008, 10:18:09 ET
Posted by: tiny fan,

Casual fan-Thanks for the link to "American Idol 7 - Top 4 Group Song - Reelin' In the Years"

I liked it! I thought is was very well done. I've seen a lot worse when it comes to singers/bands trying to cover Steely Dan!

Though I'm still trying to figure out why anybody here would be interested in reading an interview with Hank Easton?

Date: Fri, May 09, 2008, 10:08:52 ET
Posted by: Larry,

Reidar- Change your tickets and come out for the last few shows instead. You won't want to miss June 21!

Date: Fri, May 09, 2008, 09:55:27 ET
Posted by: MUST INSERT NAME, LEFT BLANK

Nobody expects high school ball players to compete with the Yankees. Why all the bashing of high school bands, young AI contestants, etc. who cover Steely Dan?

Date: Fri, May 09, 2008, 09:39:56 ET
Posted by: nyc, tourism board

RADAR- ok. spend a LITTLE time with danny freeks but the best place to find out what's happening during Steely Dan week in NYC is to sign up for the email list NYC at DANDOM dot COM. There are something close to 200 people who will be attending Danfan events all week--some like you who are also planning other "official" events before Saturday. Of course, Saturday 6/21 will probably be the best event of the whole 9 nine days. So email hoopster at hoopsATdandomDOTcom and get added to the list. You can talk here and reach a handful of attendees but you're gonna miss out on the bulk of the fun if you don't get on that list.

And first time in NYC???!! - wow you gotta immerse yourself in the greatest city on earth. walk everywhere(subway and cabs - must be experienced though) - do not sleep (nyc doesn't).

the culture, the architecture, restaurants, famous sites, etc - those are what you want to concentrate on!

Date: Fri, May 09, 2008, 04:39:20 ET
Posted by: Reidar (Radar), Norway, near the Northpole

Since I will be in New York for the first time in my life, I would really like to know where Dan fans are going to meet before and after the conserts. I will attend the four first conserts so I will be missing the "official" Dan-Fest at the 21th. Which is a shame, but anyway it would be nice to meet some of you before and after a consert for a drink or two.

Date: Thurs, May 08, 2008, 23:07:57 ET
Posted by: Jamie, Sunny Side of San Diego

Greetings and salutations ever e 1. I have been busy, so I have not been around as much as usual. I moved - from hellish Tampa to glorious San Diego, my hometown....so a belated hellow and HNE and all that good stuff...this is why I posted [ from SDREADER.COM APRIL30]

Which One’s Steely, Which One’s Dan?
By Jay Allen Sanford | Published Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Text size: A | A | A
Send to a Friend | E-mail the Editor
Printer Friendly
Hank Easton is the guitarist for the Steely Damned, a local Steely Dan tribute band also featuring members of Rockola. The New York native began playing guitar at age five and was classically trained as a teen at the Cleveland Institute of Music. He moved to Southern California after graduating from Ohio State University in 1985.

While best known for playing jazz and blues, Easton has lately been nursing his inner rocker on the electric guitar. He says his playing is influenced by the likes of Hendrix, Beck, Clapton, Carlos Santana, Steve Howe, and even Peter Frampton. A highlight of Easton’s Steely Damned set is a medley reproducing the guitar solos from several Steely Dan guitarists, including Larry Carlton, Denny Dias, Elliott Randall, Rick Derringer, and Jeff “Skunk” Baxter. Steely aficionados typically marvel at how Easton slips from one guitarist’s signature riff to the next — the jaw-dropping medley frequently earns him standing ovations. The first time I viewed it on YouTube, I gave him one too, standing right there in front of my computer.

Easton released three CDs in 2007: Snapshots, Nylon and Steel, and Eleven. His albums feature some of San Diego’s best-known singers, including Tony Davis, Keni Yarbro, Leonard Tucker, and John Toomey.

In addition to the Steely Damned, Easton performs around town solo — currently appearing at Trisler’s Wine Bar in Mission Valley every Thursday — and with his four-piece fusion band, the Hank Easton Group.

WHO’S ON YOUR FAVORITE iPOD PLAYLISTS?

1. “James Taylor. Great writer and a great singer. I love the natural flow of his music and his productions. He’s one of the few artists whose new music is as good as his older work.”

2. “Steely Dan. All their music up through Gaucho, including [Donald] Fagen’s album The Nightfly, an awe-inspiring collection of work. Top-notch studio musicians on every song and always perfectly produced.”

3. “Stevie Wonder. Incredible voice, writing, and musicianship. One man shouldn’t be allowed to have that much talent!”

4. “Elton John. All the old stuff — I love the songwriting and the productions. Especially on the earliest tunes, when his voice was still incredible.”

DESERT-ISLAND DVDs?

1. “One Flew over the Cuckoo’s Nest. Great story, with classic Jack Nicholson at his best.”

2. “Spinal Tap. I get a good belly laugh every time I watch it. In fact, I named one of my CDs 11, after a gag in the movie about amps with a volume knob that goes higher than 10.”

3. “The Sting. Lots of twists and turns in the plot and an all-star cast.”

4. “Dirty Harry. I’ll need at least one great Clint Eastwood film.”

FAVORITE STEELY DAN GUITAR RIFF?

“Larry Carlton’s in ‘Kid Charlemagne’ is probably my favorite overall. The two solos are a perfect mix of jazz and rock: melodic and powerful, with incredible tone highlighting the chord changes perfectly and wowing the listener. He takes a great song and makes it an incredible song, which is what a solo should do.”

WALTER BECKER OR DONALD FAGEN?

“After listening to the respective solo works by both Steely Dan main men and seeing both of them at live shows, I’d have to say Fagen. Although I do love some of Becker’s guitar solos, like ‘Bad Sneakers’ and ‘Josie,’ to name two. They work well together, though, that’s for sure.”

INSTRUMENT YOU WISH YOU PLAYED?

“I think I picked the right instrument, although I wish I were a great keyboardist. I would like to sit down at the piano and just play whatever I want, like I do on the guitar. Also, it would be a lot easier to lay keyboard parts in the studio.”

YOUR WORST JOBS?

1. “Bus boy: Disgusting work, little pay, and you’re treated like a lower life form.”

2. “Dishwasher: Same as above.”

3. “Cleaning boats: Really hard work with really bad pay. Plus, many people who own a yacht are fastidious, ungrateful, and cheap.”

WHERE DO YOU HANG OUT?

“Anthology, because first and foremost it was designed for live music. Also, Humphrey’s, because I know a lot of other people who hang out there.”

Date: Thurs, May 08, 2008, 20:02:01 ET
Posted by: D, H

BTW...roll call for NYC: Prez Logic, will you be there? Gail & Ed? Sue? All the Chumash crowd???

Date: Thurs, May 08, 2008, 19:59:23 ET
Posted by: Denise, Hinktown

Chris & Doc Mu...what is the prejudice against sax solos by music execs? Does it always have to be a guitar solo? Is it rooted in any kind of real logic or metrics? Sounds like idiocy to me. Just my 2 cents.

Date: Thurs, May 08, 2008, 19:08:00 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

OK, just saw the AI version of Reelin'.

Let me repeat my earlier comment:

The Horror!

Also, that may be the worst choreography ever.

I will need several shots to wipe that from my memory, Bartender...

Date: Thurs, May 08, 2008, 18:31:49 ET
Posted by: The Big Guy, Brisbane, Australia

OK - I was late with the news about "Reelin" on American Idol and SixWire. Took a peek, but couldn't watch the videos all the way through.

However,kind of cool to see SD covers on prime time TV. And if it makes even one person want to hear the original song as it was recorded by SD, and converts them into a Dan Fan, well - that's got to be a good thing.

Keep on rockin' in the real world.

Date: Thurs, May 08, 2008, 17:53:59 ET
Posted by: no, just glad to see you - correction #1

All this talk about singles. Since when did this become a singles site?

I'll give it a shot:

Male Steely Dan geeko with plenty of time on his hands seeks - no, demands - a well rounded gal a la Miss Stein in Blazing Saddles or Monica Bellucci to accompany me to Danfests (more excitement than most females can handle, I tell you - what with all the incredible sexy dudes just dripping IN IT there!) and to compare and contrast the harmonic complexities of Sail the Waterway v. Pixelene.

Ability to serve up a nice Breeze or hot coco and short skirts a plus - no thighhigh boots, please. Boots of a certain gray area of coloring - very desirable.

Also, looking for a sporty girl to shoot Hoops.

If my election lasts for more than four hours, we are both (all) in big trouble.

GOD BLESS AMERICA! Whee.

Date: Thurs, May 08, 2008, 16:33:42 ET
Posted by: jvmyudal, yurDPajFXWSVtT

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Date: Thurs, May 08, 2008, 11:04:03 ET
Posted by: Paul Chernin [drummer for Doctor Wu Band], STEELY POSTERS for sale / Los Angeles

Hi all,

I have a few dozen Steely Dan posters that I have collected over the years. Some are common, and some are very rare. All are framed, and excellent condition, and in storage. If there are any serious collectors out there who may be interested in purchasing this collection, please contact me for details.

Thanks.

Paul

Date: Thurs, May 08, 2008, 10:57:49 ET
Posted by: or, just happy to see you

All this talk about singles. Since when did this become a singles site?

I'll give it a shot:

Male Steely Dan geeko with plenty of time on his hands seeks - no demands - a well rounded gal a la Miss Stein in Blazing Saddles or Monica Bellucci to accompany me to Danfests (more excitement than most females can handle, I tell you - what with all the incredible sexy dudes just dripping in it there!) and to compare and contrast the harmonic complexities of Saill the Waterway v. Pixelene.

Ability to pour a nice Breeze or hot coco and short skirts a plus - no thighhigh boots, please. Boots of a certain gray area of coloring - very desirable.

Also, looking for a sporty girl to shoot Hoops.

If my election lasts for more than four hours, we are both in big trouble.

GOD BLESS AMERICA! Whee.

Date: Thurs, May 08, 2008, 10:50:59 ET
Posted by: George, in Paris

It was a horrid, pathetic spectacle. Millions of potential Danfans are now lost forever.

By the way, Somebody's Saturday Night continues in the fine tradition of wrapping things that aren't normally discussed in polite company in the lyrics of a catchy tune. (To paraphrase a previous post, when you hear "Everyone's Gone to the Movies" in the grocery store, the subversion is complete.")

Date: Thurs, May 08, 2008, 10:29:07 ET
Posted by: Gretchen, disgusted

I refuse to watch American Idol, it's a prime example of the idiocy that is American pop culture. I saw a clip of these horrid performers on "Today" and couldn't believe my eyes. They must be stopped.

G

Date: Thurs, May 08, 2008, 10:15:12 ET
Posted by: Casual fan, State of Denial

Here's the video and, sadly, the audio as well, for the American Idol show featuring the top four contestants singing Reeling. Someone please tell me that the Dan are locked in a room somewhere rehearsing and do not see this. For I fear that if they do, they may cancel the tour in protest/disgust/lamentation.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1lNv38nqH9U

Date: Thurs, May 08, 2008, 09:27:45 ET
Posted by: heymike, Chgo

I have never seen a minute of American Idol, but I have the creeps.

Date: Thurs, May 08, 2008, 00:41:40 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

Chris: Too much sex on the radio is OK, but not too much sax.

Date: Wed, May 07, 2008, 23:31:14 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

"Reelin In..." was also played on another shitty music-related contest show, last year. Sixwire was runner-up on Fox's crapfest "The Next Great American Band"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f8DP0XjI_Ws

The horror!

Date: Wed, May 07, 2008, 23:17:37 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Steely Dan on "American Idol"?
I don't know how I feel about that.
Part of me gets the "douche chills"
and then part of me thinks, "Hey,
they chose the song and it's a popular
show - any publicity is good promo".
Can you imagine one of those "special"
episodes when music stars come on and
coach the contestants for an evening
of their music. Taskmasters & rapier
wits Don & Walt would reduce them to
tears like a Gore Vidal interview gone
awry. Though I would pay to see that.
Don't get me started on the current
state of British influenced American
Television.

Paddy Chayefsky was a genius.

Date: Wed, May 07, 2008, 21:39:02 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Speaking of singles, I remember hearing that Don and Walt wanted Jamie Runaway to be the first single from TvN, but the record execs said "no" because it had a sax solo.

Date: Wed, May 07, 2008, 21:11:42 ET
Posted by: cj,

They must of gave there approval interesting and smart.

Date: Wed, May 07, 2008, 21:09:36 ET
Posted by: cj,

I never thought i would here a steely dan song on american idol. Hopefully they get tons of downloads for reeling.

Date: Wed, May 07, 2008, 21:08:27 ET
Posted by: V, What the...?

I was just flipping channels...to hear the American Idol contestants singing "Reelin' in the Years". Wow...

Date: Wed, May 07, 2008, 20:23:31 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Doc,

Regarding the singles from Morph, you are right on the $$. I also thought that Security Joan would have been the best choice for a single. Nowhere near the best tune, but it's the most immediate and very Pop.

Date: Wed, May 07, 2008, 18:08:06 ET
Posted by: Doc ,

sorry Audrey. I'm looking forward to the full length version of your song.

Date: Wed, May 07, 2008, 18:00:11 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu ,

DaddyG: Could be. H Gang was the firstg "single" from Morph. Actually charted in the Smooth Jazz arena. Second "single" was What I Do. Security Joan would have been my choice. Not that it's the best song. It's very good - but catchy with nice guitar solos.

I'm still perplexed why Lunch With Gina and Pixeleen were not the singles from EMG.

Date: Wed, May 07, 2008, 16:06:55 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., NJ

Thanks P-G, now that you mention it, yes I do recall "H-Gang" being the first "single" as such from Morph. And I think I vaguely recall "What I Do" being the followup. Guess I had a brain cramp back there, although the concept of singles isn't what it used to be, I know, at least not for our boys' most recent releases anyway.

My question re WB's "SSN" remains. I suppose time may tell, as they say...

Date: Wed, May 07, 2008, 15:58:50 ET
Posted by: Bomzhang, CzGeMvyZ

It's so interesting:,

Date: Wed, May 07, 2008, 14:40:45 ET
Posted by: More from Carolyn L, Chances Are - The Romantic Music Of Robert Allen

May 26 is date set for Carolyn's new solo album Chances Are - The Romantic Music Of Robert Allen.

Tracks:
1 Chances Are
2 I Don't Regret A Thing
3 Come To Me
4 You Are Never Far Away From Me
5 Everybody Loves A Lover
6 Meantime
7 It's Not For Me To Say
8 Play For Keeps
9 It Could Have Been Worse
10 No Such Luck
11 Teacher, Teacher
12 I'm Loving You A Lot
13 Moments To Remember

From the pressrelease:
"The timeless music of Robert Allen has been covered and interpreted by a string of prestigious voices for more than fifty years.
Born in New York in 1927, Robert Allen became a professional musician soon after leaving school and, after playing piano for some years in various jazz clubs, found his ideal lyricist in Al Stillman in 1953.

The pair were very successful and wrote classic melodies such as You Alone and To Know You Is to Love You for Perry Como, and Chances Are and It's Not for Me to Say for Johnny Mathis, Doris Day, The Four Lads, Nat King Cole , Billie Holiday, Cliff Richard, Carpenters, Olivia Newton-John,Barry Manilow, Paul Anka and Garth Brooks are just some of the fine interpreters of his music.

Now, a contemporary and fresh approach to some classic Allen songs is given by a talented American singer, Carolyn Leonhart taking Robert's music stylistically back to its jazz origins."

I stumbled upo the album on emusic.com Europe we're it's already available for (legal) download.

Date: Wed, May 07, 2008, 14:27:00 ET
Posted by: Audrey's being paged, physical singles

H-Gang was available as a "download single" and both that song and What I Do exists as radio promo singles, but that is - I think - it.

Date: Wed, May 07, 2008, 14:16:19 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., NJ

I wonder if the availability of "Somebody's Saturday Night" in any way indicates it may be the first single from C$. Or do they even release singles anymore? Were there any official singles from Morph? I don't recall hearing of any.

Date: Wed, May 07, 2008, 13:40:48 ET
Posted by: TJ, DK

"A lot of the things that Donald and I have worked on in recent years have been built from the ground up. And I get too old and too bored to do that anymore. And this is just much more fun. You have a bunch of people there and they all are contributing to the thing at the point where its taking shape for the first time, so you get a much richer — to me — a much richer texture to the thing."

Date: Wed, May 07, 2008, 13:09:37 ET
Posted by: lovethisgig, atlanta

A killer song indeed!! Walt is the man!
And I believe you are correct Dean, no
"else's" in there to my ears.

lovethisgig

Date: Wed, May 07, 2008, 09:10:08 ET
Posted by: heymike, ouch

http://thedaily.washington.edu/2008/5/7/uw-medical-center-denies-transplant-man-dies/

Date: Wed, May 07, 2008, 07:23:40 ET
Posted by: Pixeleen, Hidden in the code of the Rolling Stone interview

http://download.rbn.com/rstone/rstone/download/smokingsection/walterbecker.mp3

Date: Wed, May 07, 2008, 00:30:35 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu - Enjoying The Weber Fire Pit On The Veranda

So Carolyn won't be joing us after
all out West. I figured as much.
Actually I'm looking forward to
hearing something different like at
Roseland 2003!
I recorded "Somebody's Saturday Night"
in WAV format and I'm basting it right
now on the veranda. Killer. It clearly
will be a staple during this summer's tour.
Laid back vocal, it's got the girls,
Walter solo space and a chance to add horns.
I'd love to hear Donald add on the chorus
with the girls! I can't wait.

Date: Tues, May 06, 2008, 23:21:22 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Two quick things that have yet to be mentioned (I think):

1. That's a terrific little embedded player on rollingstone.com.

2. Boz's kid screwed up the lyrics, a bit, it seems. Austin writes, "She's no fool/But she's none too bright/She's just somebody else's Saturday night." I don't hear the word "else's" in that line, anywhere. Does anyone else? (I don't think it's a big deal, and it's not meant as a criticism of Scaggs. I just wonder if I missed something or if it was a RS mistake.)

And, here's one thing that has already been mentioned:

Out-fucking-standing! That's a killer song, Walt.

Date: Tues, May 06, 2008, 22:15:17 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

Damn, that's one fine recording. Kudos to Walter, Larry Klein, Jim Beard, and the Usual Suspects Band.

Hey Raj, that was a mini-bridge!! Awesome chorus.

It's ALIVE,

Date: Tues, May 06, 2008, 19:36:10 ET
Posted by: pge - yeah me again, F5, F5, F5!

Sorry for previous post about news already posted here by others. Forgot to update the browser so it didn't show the latest posts until I hade made mine...

That's technology for you. OK. So to make at least some kind of addition I'd like to add that the full version of SSN sounds fine ;)

Date: Tues, May 06, 2008, 19:34:19 ET
Posted by: Ken, NYC

I just received this email on my Myspace account from Pete Fogel. Neil Diamond just sold out Madison Square Garden for three shows in August. If he can show up and play at the Bitter End, maybe Donald and/or Walter can make it in on June 21!!
_____________________

"Legendary singer, songwriter and performer Neil Diamond (myspace.com/neildiamond) will perform at a special free show, Wednesday, May 7th at New York City's The Bitter End.

This show is 18 and up and admission is on a first come, first served basis. So get there early and stay in line. Not many people know about this. This is a special notice to all my Myspace friends.

Neil Diamond starts his world tour on May 24th. The tour includes three sold out shows at NYC Madison Square Garden in August.

Pete Fogel"

Date: Tues, May 06, 2008, 19:32:08 ET
Posted by: PGE, Up north

Full song (Somebody's Saturday Night) + article over on Rolling Stone!

http://www.rollingstone.com/news/story/20721773/qa_steely_dans_walter_becker

Date: Tues, May 06, 2008, 18:19:17 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

The look on Walter's face right after Donald nixxed "Dr. Wu" at Soboba was worse than any rotten tomato toss. Donald is a stick in the mud. And always will be. Some people just don't know how to have fun and please the crowd. Maybe that's one of the reasons he's such an incredible songwriter. He doesn't pander and he will not bend.

OK, so be it.

Date: Tues, May 06, 2008, 18:04:13 ET
Posted by: Nicholas Urfe, Phraxos

I think he was talking about all of the "Peg" signs. I carry one with me wherever I go, just in case.

Date: Tues, May 06, 2008, 17:22:18 ET
Posted by: Little Wild One,

I, for one, NEVER threw a rotten tomato.......

Date: Tues, May 06, 2008, 17:06:13 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., NJ

First of all, I dig the tune. :-)

Some interesting stuff in the interview, but I'd consider these the biggies...
___________________________

AS: I notice a lot of Jamaican influence on 11 Tracks of Whack, as well.

WB: I had started listening to that way back in those days and at one point Donald [Fagen] and I actually experimented with the idea of doing an album with reggae-type beats on it in the Eighties. I think "Snowbound" that was eventually on one of his albums was from that period. And the original version of "West of Hollywood" was from that period. It's always fascinated me the way they use the same elements of rhythm and blues playing, but they turn them around in a way and yet they still get a great feel on it, you know? And as a rhythm section guy, those rhythm sections are sort of the ultimate — the tightness of it, the complexity of the feels.
___________________________

AS: "Circus Money" is the only song on the record that you wrote without Larry. But I'm sure that has nothing to do with the fact that it's also the title of the record.

WB: That was just a coincidence. Larry and I were going back and forth. He was coming to New York and I was going to California. He was working on other things and so on. And that particular tune I wrote during a holiday when he was I think on a vacation somewhere and I had taken some friends and dropped them off at the Big Apple Circus and I came home and had this idea for this thing. It's allusive with an "a." You don't exactly know what it means. So it's allusive and illusive. It feels like it must mean something, but you're not such which of the many things that it might mean it would be. I just thought it was a nice combination of words for a title.

AS: As far as your mentality going into the studio — and perhaps feeling more comfortable behind the microphone — how is this process different from 11 Tracks of Whack?

WB: I was definitely more comfortable singing, plus a lot of the singing for 11 Tracks I just did myself with the engineer, so it was a little more tedious. There was a learning curve for me as a singer making tracks that I got out of the way making 11 Tracks. And also, I realized I wanted to make this record with basically the same band, or slight permutations on the same band. Doing all the tracks and getting that kind of unity of playing and concept and feel. Playing without clicks and stuff like that, so it would be like the good old days of, you know, where the musicians set the tempos and the feels and everything. So that was the main thing that changed it. So once we had the basic tracks, which we did in 10 days or something, the basic music of the thing was there, you know? And it didn?t need to be invented as you go along. A lot of the things that Donald and I have worked on in recent years have been built from the ground up. And I get too old and too bored to do that anymore. And this is just much more fun. You have a bunch of people there and they all are contributing to the thing at the point where its taking shape for the first time, so you get a much richer — to me — a much richer texture to the thing.
___________________________

AS: Is another Walter Becker show in the works?

WB: Oh, I don't actually know, because we're gonna go out and do the Steely Dan tour and that's gonna pretty much occupy a big chunk of time for me, and energy. At some point, it might be nice to do something, although at that point, I'll probably want to do something slightly different. I don't know if I would aspire to actually re-create the stuff I recorded. It might be more fun to play live with a slightly different format, with more blowing and stuff like that. Maybe.

AS: And the Steely Dan tour? What have you guys thought up for that?

WB: Well, we're revamping our show to change the pace and the flow of the show and to include songs that we haven't been doing as much recently. We haven't really started rehearsing yet, so I don't really know how it's gonna turn out. We just want to make sure it has a fresh energy for people that have come in previous years, even though they'll still get to hear basically what they wanna hear: the Steely Dan songs played more or less how they were recorded. In some cases, we'll do rewrites, segues and stuff, make it a different live experience. There's a couple songs that I'd like to do that we'll maybe get to do this year. But I hate to say in advance, in case it doesn't happen. And then fans are coming to the shows with signs and stuff, throwing rotten tomatoes at us if we don't do certain songs.

Date: Tues, May 06, 2008, 16:31:08 ET
Posted by: Maxwell Smart, aka Daddy G.

"Missed it by that much."

OK, while composing my short blurb re the update at walterbecker.com wowie beat me to it...

;-)

Date: Tues, May 06, 2008, 16:29:08 ET
Posted by: Daddy G., NJ

Now at walterbecker.com there's a link to:

> Full song stream + Q & A at RollingStone.com <

The song is "Somebody's Saturday Night"

The article is titled...
Walter Becker Talks Solo Album, Future of Steely Dan, Reggae

(And no, I haven't listened to the song yet.)

Date: Tues, May 06, 2008, 16:28:12 ET
Posted by: wowie, here

check walterbecker.com -- a link to a whole song, plus interview....gonna read and listen

Date: Tues, May 06, 2008, 15:56:57 ET
Posted by: ,

When you post a message, look above to see the rules pertaining to buying/selling tickets.

Date: Tues, May 06, 2008, 13:36:33 ET
Posted by: fezman, boston

Looking for single seat june 21st,prefer down front any one that can help would be greatly appreciated..i hope its ok to seek a seat hoops,soory if not....fezzie

Date: Tues, May 06, 2008, 11:24:50 ET
Posted by: Beacon Tickets Available, Philadelphia

Hello friends,

2 great sets of tickets available for The Beacon Theatre:

Tues. 6/17- Orchestra Row A (5th row)
Wed. 6/18- Loge Row A (1st row of Loge)

I'm asking what I paid $345 for each pair. Shipping is on me.

Drop me an email if interested.

Thanks.

Date: Tues, May 06, 2008, 10:57:41 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, @work

In that '69 picture on wb.com, if you put a beard on Don, he'd look like one of the geico cavemen.

The years have been kind to him.

KC

Date: Tues, May 06, 2008, 09:54:04 ET
Posted by: Casual fan, I could put anything and you'd be none the wiser

Hey Dave and Fezman, could they compete with this?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZNYDW17xtoI

Date: Tues, May 06, 2008, 09:53:57 ET
Posted by: Hutch, rva

I don't know if this is new or just something I overlooked before.

http://walterbecker.com/galleryA.html

Some nice photos. Walter standing in front of the Cafe Gollem in Amsterdam is priceless.

Date: Tues, May 06, 2008, 06:50:55 ET
Posted by: fezman, boston

Hi to all,A little follow-up to Marks blurb regarding last nights high school performance.First,thanks for inviting me Mark,i had a great time and the band was GREAT.You had to see these kids,lol. EIGHT backup singers!!full brass section 3 guitarists,congas,2 drummers!! and get this an OBOE! there was even a mini Donald,this kid maybe 15 at most was scheduled to play violin and due to tech issues switched to the OBOE !! lol, the director of the band mentioned other instuments he could play but he choses the oboe,lol He was the spitting image of donald at lets say 15,it was weird to see this little guy.the whole evening was just great fun and the band played beautifully,congrats to pioneer valley H.S and looking forward to next years performance......Fezzie

Date: Tues, May 06, 2008, 06:07:14 ET
Posted by: steelydoc, near the Tower

here's part of a recent email newsletter from Carolyn Leonhart:

Greetings,

I wish you all a happy, happy Spring and to my felliow NYers, a wonderful allergy season - the likes of which we may have never seen before...

I just want to remind y'all one last time about the show I'll be doing this Wednesday, May 7th @ 8:30 pm.

As I mentioned a few weeks ago, this will be one of the last solo shows I'll be doing for a few months. I am planning on doing all the local shows with Steely Dan in June, but come July, I'll be taking a bit of maternity leave while we welcome an addition to the family... Having said that, one never knows what the future holds, do they ( there is already talk about doing a guest spot at the New Haven Jazz Festival in August. I'll keep you posted)...

Date: Tues, May 06, 2008, 00:56:55 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu

Dave -

What? No Dr. Wu?!!!!
Only ONE set!
Who do these kids think they are?!

But really, sounds like a hoot
at the Iron Horse.

Wish I could have been there.

angel - Don't worry about being
on the floor at the Honda. Remember,
it's a hockey rink. Chandeliers and
curtains can't change that. Nokia
will be the place for the LA show.
The sound and sightlines are amazing!
I'm going for the "Double-Double"
myself. LA, Paso Robles, Anaheim
and Pala. I always like to stay
within driving distance of an "In-N-Out"!

Date: Tues, May 06, 2008, 00:27:51 ET
Posted by: Dave From Acquisitions, Central Mass

Wanted to share a few details about a very cool concert I saw this evening with my buddy Paul (Fezman).
Pioneer Valley Performing Arts Charter Public School from Hadley, MA presented "A Tribute to Steely Dan" at the Iron Horse Music Hall in Northampton MA. A group of talented and well rehearsed high school students on brass, woodwinds, vocals and rhythm section took to the stage to perform a sophisticated tribute to Steely Dan. During most songs there were 22 kids up on stage - a veritable Steely Dan army! The audience was made up of parents, students, and Dan fans. It was good to see the kids play Steely Dan music and appear to be having so much fun at it.
Mark

Here's the set list:

Peg

Kid Charlemagne

Green Earrings

Charlie Freak

Babylon Sisters

My Old School

Any Major Dude

Home At Last

Josie

Reelin' In The Years

Date: Mon, May 05, 2008, 13:24:00 ET
Posted by: angel,

Well, I may not be going to NY...sorry Ed B. :-)

But I did score tickets for both LA and Anaheim, so I am happy.

I tried for the floor at Anaheim and got told that there was nothing available in that area. At 10:05AM. Whatever...

It just never ceases to amaze me, what goes on with ticket selling.

Date: Mon, May 05, 2008, 11:58:07 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

As a matter of fact, yes, it is asking too much.

Dandom.com has two forums. The BlueBook is one huge SPOILER while the flagship Dandom Digest designates SPOILERS.

As reminder:
This forum is entirely a SPOILER zone. In other words, posts shouldn't be marked with SPOILER designation because that is part of the nature of the BlueBook

If you need to participate in a forum with entries marked as SPOILERS, please participate in our other, original forum, the Dandom Digest.

Subscribe details are at http://dandom.com/dandomdigest

Jim

Date: Mon, May 05, 2008, 11:49:09 ET
Posted by: Is it asking too much,

to start any comments on the WB clips with ***SPOILER ALERT*****

Date: Mon, May 05, 2008, 10:42:56 ET
Posted by: Matt, Chattanooga, TN

I do believe that I am hearing shades of I Can't Function in the brief clip for Three Picture Deal. Just maybe an intonation thing, but it feels close.

Date: Mon, May 05, 2008, 09:06:43 ET
Posted by: Looking at the schedule,

That leaves only July 7 and 8 left as possible dates unless they do 3 nights in a row (something they are obviously taking care not to do) or extend the tour. They would likely be in Canada or upstate (Westchester, etc.) NY.

Date: Mon, May 05, 2008, 07:56:24 ET
Posted by: steelydoc, near the Tower

new date added at steelydan.com

Aug 05 - Palomar Starlight Theater - Pala CA | on sale TBA < date added

Date: Mon, May 05, 2008, 07:26:07 ET
Posted by: Tiny Fan,

Darling - Yeah, I guess musicians like Blue Lou Marini and Birch Johnson (who played with the "real thing") have no business making a mockery out of this great music. You my "darling", need to get a clue.

Date: Mon, May 05, 2008, 00:32:23 ET
Posted by: Darling, this side

'Nice'?

Yikes!

Some music (like SD and the Beatles) should be avoided by Broadway types, jam sessions, rukkus bar imprompus, etc.!

Date: Sun, May 04, 2008, 21:10:58 ET
Posted by: Nice!,

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gOjuhzIgqtQ&feature=related

Date: Sun, May 04, 2008, 15:05:09 ET
Posted by: Connie, In the vineyard

Dean -

Yup, that's the graphic but w/o "Sad Synapse is Sad". It was in the Press Democrat but probably also in the Chron.

Date: Sun, May 04, 2008, 14:49:31 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

Raj,

Volare! That is, indeed, good pop music. So was Louis Prima, of course. And, as you mention, Italians have been making great pop music for a loong time. Opera was pop music, in its time, if I'm not mistaken

I was referring to the "newer" Italian pop music, and quite honestly, was just using your post as a reason to link to that bizarre video.

I tend to be quite anti-pop (although I sure did like the soul music of the 60's and early 70's). But, for some reason, I've taken a liking to Pizzicato Five. Maybe because it is such an obvious throwback to an earlier era.

Date: Sun, May 04, 2008, 14:40:05 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

Dean, very cute, I'm enjoying that Nipponese pop clip on YouTube. Good pop music is and remains a guilty pleasure for this humble auditor when rendered with that alacrity and perfect light touch. Italians tend to strangle the tender reeds of pop stuff at times but, when they do hit as did Quando Quando Quando and Volare, few can match them. The Brazilians notwithstanding. We Italians invented pop music, begining as it did in the 15th century as intermezzi to the classic Greek 5 act dramas in the priories of North Italy. So, as they say, when in Rome...

Date: Sun, May 04, 2008, 14:28:38 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

Connie,

Is this the graphic?

http://tiny.cc/hnuN3

By "this Sunday's paper" do you mean the SF Chronicle?

Date: Sun, May 04, 2008, 14:08:55 ET
Posted by: Connie, In the vineyard

In this Sunday's paper there is a full page color ad for The Greek Theatre Concert Series by Another Planet Entertainment including "Think Fast, Steely Dan Summer Tour 2008". And right below that are graphics depicting a Presynaptic Nerve, a Synapse and a Postsynaptic Nerve and the concert date and time. It's very cool.

Date: Sun, May 04, 2008, 13:05:45 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Heading Toward the Manatee Bar

Raj,

Italian pop? Yikes! I'm as proud of an Italian-American as there is, but I won't go near that dreck.

Japanese pop is where it's at:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c5CuZzIexfc

:#)

Date: Sun, May 04, 2008, 12:32:26 ET
Posted by: Doc Âµ,

"last thing - this reminds me that Donald went to great lengths to tune all instruments perfectly to the piano for every recording session. Sweet music."

I should reference the Nightfly recording sessions.

Date: Sun, May 04, 2008, 12:32:24 ET
Posted by: GaijinX, 405 of the Mind

Yama digi piano intonation better than about any grands, excepting maybe high end, symphony-quality Steinways, or Bosendorfers (actually superior to most hack-steinways): maybe slightly sharp, for the El Lay-death fusion sound. A Corea does better on digi-p or elec. p than with grand............unless you can play Chopin n scriabin (my man Alex) up n down, yr better off with digi.........

Date: Sun, May 04, 2008, 12:30:09 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

Raj: If it's not Sinatra, I wouldn't know. When we were touring Sicily and Italy the temp was 30-40Â°C, everything was melting including the Spanish portable band/panhandlers on the trains. I believe that accordions, Walter's "favorite" instrument, are sometimes tuned above A440...which gives Tejano music common here a strange sound to my ears. Cajun music is more bluesy so it's more normal/flatter.

Date: Sun, May 04, 2008, 12:21:41 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu ,

last thing - this reminds me that Donald went to great lengths to tune all instruments perfectly to the piano for every recording session. Sweet music.

Date: Sun, May 04, 2008, 12:17:40 ET
Posted by: Rajah, look sharp, B#

Ok, let me narrow my statement down. Italian pop music of the last 50 years informs me. Maybe the barbarian tribes to the north and west have a different proclivity but Neopolitan songs, the heart of Italian pop music, is overwhemingly so.

Date: Sun, May 04, 2008, 12:13:45 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu ,

Steinway supposedly used A436. Philharmonic pitch was A439. A440 was adopted by the international community in 1939, a little earlier that I thought, but in order to get the 3rds and 5ths equal tempered piano tuner have told me then sometimes settle in the end below A440. I have read some Euro orchestras will use A444 even though A440 is standard.

It reminds me that upright pianos out West tend to go flat in the dry air...a sound SD used in My Old School.

Date: Sun, May 04, 2008, 11:52:46 ET
Posted by: GaijinX, 405 of the Mind

How you doin' Paso ROBLES!!!!!

Dan in central Cali! wooooo-hoooo. Parker's Band---that's FESS PARKER

Motel 6 room, cheap merlot, and grand-slam b-fast for takers, er takerettes.

Date: Sun, May 04, 2008, 11:39:29 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

Before A/C American pianos were tuned below A440, particularly for orchestral use. Moisture/humidity tends to make the strings go sharp. Pianos in Europe were designed for higher humidity environs and were thus tuned sharper to begin with.

With digital tuning, keys, and Yamaha pianos A440 has become standard for tuning pianos and guitars.

Date: Sun, May 04, 2008, 11:38:32 ET
Posted by: GaijinX, 405 of the Mind

WALTER BECKER HAS A NEW ALBUM!

AH yeah. Back on bass, and featuring keyboard upgrade from DF to Ted Baker. Bodaciousness.

Rock the F. on Walt.

Date: Sun, May 04, 2008, 11:37:55 ET
Posted by: TJ, DK

"Europeans are chronically on the sharp"

Mmm... maybe a few more examples to back up this interesting thesis?

Date: Sun, May 04, 2008, 05:40:29 ET
Posted by: Rajah, this side too

Europeans are chronically on the sharp, and not just their pianos, it's rare to hear a singer who isn't besotted with the belcanto of major sharps. It's extremely annoying, let me tell you. It's either that or you have some raspy-ass pop singer droning away trying to be a mix between Dylan and Springsteen. But mostly they sound like Steve Perry, beautiful tone and elasticity in the tenor range but oh so sterile and hum-drum when all is said and done.

I agree you don't necessarily have to have much of a range to be a proficient singer. Witness Satchmo, Joe Cocker, Dylan. I'm defining range here as the distance between the highest and lowest notes an instrument or voice can cover without cracking. But let's not forget timbre, dynamic and duration ranges, they all play a part. A truly great voice like the late Pavarotti in his prime had them all at his command. Very few mortals have that gift. Walter may be being goosed and tweeked by pro-tools but nonetheless I think his singing is getting much more engrossing and he certainly has more confidence.

Date: Sun, May 04, 2008, 02:56:34 ET
Posted by: Darling, This side

"Most American pianos are tuned a little flat."

More correct is: All European pianos are tuned sharp.

Date: Sat, May 03, 2008, 22:57:56 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

Not: I am more than aware of the difference. On 11 ToW there are flat notes as well as warbling. Hell, Sinatra sang even flatter from the 50s on. Most American pianos are tuned a little flat. Walt is stylist and a storyteller, not a Julliard virtuoso.

Date: Sat, May 03, 2008, 22:21:51 ET
Posted by: Not Really, ..

Singing flat is when you're trying to sing in pitch, but not making it. It is noticeable, and irritating. If WB sang in a way that reminded you of that on 11 tracks of Whack, I would suggest that was conscious on his part and should not be confused with people who can not actually manage to stay in pitch even if they wanted to.

WB slides his voice all over the place, but at the end of the slide he is where he set out to be.

It's about intention. Being called a flat singer is an insult. I would not be too quick to toss that idea out there.

Date: Sat, May 03, 2008, 16:22:38 ET
Posted by: angel,

Hey Dim Skip!

Thanks for the additional info and links on Carlock's work with Jeff Oster.

Date: Sat, May 03, 2008, 16:09:59 ET
Posted by: kuleebaba, Charlotte

I see the same thing... maybe they're about to update the clips?!

Date: Sat, May 03, 2008, 15:38:19 ET
Posted by: KMITB, Mt. Belzoni

Becker's clips are not loading now....anyone else have this problem?

Date: Sat, May 03, 2008, 15:23:41 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

BC: I wasn't specifically addressing tonic range - but yes, Walter's *natural* voice's range sounds limited, but not as much as one would think - almost 2 octaves in Book of Liars...but he's not singing the National Anthem! Which is why I mentioned his falsetto...extending his range on the new one.

Really: W's warbling and hitting more flat notes on 11 ToW than Kelly Clarkson. Sure, it's got character...but compare AiA where he's more in tune and in sync with a live band. That's why Downtown Canon hits ya like a jackhammer. C$ has potential to be a robust album. Even the weaker sounding songs in the latter half appear to have compelling lyrics to keep Danfans occupied for quite some time.

Date: Sat, May 03, 2008, 14:21:07 ET
Posted by: Brutus Charisma,

Doc Mu:

Re: "To be fair, I did not mean a limited "range" as in scale. Walter's new one features a nice falsetto."

Why WOULDN'T you mean WB has a limited range? In natural/chest voice he's a bass/baritone (in treble clef: low D(ledger space below the staff) to high F(top line of the staff) - singer.
DF WAS a pretty much a tenor (in treble clef: low F (bottom space on the staff)- high G/A) - above the staff) in his 20s-30s.
Nowadays DF's a low tenor/baritone singer.

Date: Sat, May 03, 2008, 13:13:39 ET
Posted by: DimSkip, Eternal Path

A short while back I mentioned that Jeff Oster's "Saturn Calling" and other tunes from his album "True" feature Keith Carlock on drums. A little birdie now informs me as to the other KC "True" tunes...

In addition to Saturn Calling, the first track on TRUE, KC played on:

Track 3 - SERENGETI - free download available here:
http://www.jeffoster.com/music-18.html

Track 5 - TIBET (both Tibet and Saturn Calling were mixed by the legendary Brice Swedien - he of MJ's THRILLER fame.. )

Track 6 - SOUNDS LIKE SUNSHINE

Track 7 - ONCE IN A BLUE MOONLIGHT - GREAT feel from KC on this one
and finally - if you listen to one - this is it:

Track 10 - MUMBAI - this track features KC in a HUGE way - He ROCKS...

This can be found on MySpace at...
http://www.myspace.com/jeffoster

I recommend you check out Mr. Oster's work with Mr Carlock when you can.

Date: Sat, May 03, 2008, 12:48:53 ET
Posted by: Really ?, ..

On which songs is Becker singing flat on his first album ?

Date: Sat, May 03, 2008, 12:42:17 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Heading Toward the Manatee Bar

0's and 1's,

Interesting site. Are you familiar with this company and/or do you know anything about its methodology? I can't find a detailed explanation of their method, on their website.

The reason I ask is, I'm a media measurement guy (well, former media measurement guy, anyway). As such, I'm a little troubled by this:

"Quantcast Corporation was founded in 2005 by a team of engineers and mathematicians committed to advancing the digital media industry"

I'd feel better if an audience research professional was among the founders. Also, I'd prefer a commitment to objective measurement to a commitment to "advance the digital media industry"...but, hey, that's just me.

Date: Sat, May 03, 2008, 12:31:42 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu ,

Buzz: To be fair, I did not mean a limited "range" as in scale. Walter's new one features a nice falsetto. I meant he sings flat on 11 ToW. The on-key sound on the new one is indeed mostly related to the more live recording paradigm. I could be wrong, but isn't this one analog like EMG?

Date: Sat, May 03, 2008, 12:29:14 ET
Posted by: zeros and ones, digital dmain

http://www.quantcast.com/steelydan.com

check the numbers

Date: Sat, May 03, 2008, 11:12:06 ET
Posted by: Larry,

Hey Wash DC- Hop on a train and come to NYC for one or two shows at the Beacon. If you have no money, stay outside the Lincoln Tunnel at one of the many cheap motels that are just minutes from Manhattan. Or you can even drive to the Atlantic City show. Stop bitching.

Date: Sat, May 03, 2008, 09:13:20 ET
Posted by: wash, dc

You bet I'm going to whine if they play ridiculous podunk towns like Hartford and Tampa and skip DC. (And then schmucks like AnonTwit will meta-whine about people whining.)

Date: Sat, May 03, 2008, 03:28:40 ET
Posted by: Due with Buzz, here

it's a gorgeous saturday morning.
Dolly Parton is known for singing her songs 'just like that' and recording swifter than folks could take measurements of her non-vocabulary assets.
don't assume 'everyone' uses Pro Tools and the likes to 'cover up' or polish what can't be done realtime. that's an insult to a musician's artistry. often CD's are recorded 'realtime' as in with ALL the musicians playing 'at the same time' as if it were LIVE. Carmen Lundy, an outstanding jazz vocalist has a tendency to record that way too. you might here a little tweaking here and there, but that's what makes an album authenthic and 'real'.
and yes, Billie Holiday IS Billie because her voice, at the end anyway, sounded like a broken record.

ANON, you are right on the dot.
look what modern life did to us human beings.
we moan, groan and complain more than ever.
we need lessons in being humble and thankful again.

there will be a new Indiana Jones movie out.
has got nothing to do with the Dan, except maybe it's Harrison Ford again in the lead in one of his signature roles. like Steely Dan has a signature of its own.

I'm not the fan I used to be, hardly spin their albums these days.
but I do wish them well and applaud their appetite for touring LIVE.
you just have to respect that. period.

and Walter's singing range isn't 'limited', Mu :-)
(but you're forgiven for saying that)
Walter has a powerful and soulful delivery. There are singers with a range from Antarctica to Jupiter's invisible moon, and yet they lack every bit of genuine emotion and soul.

and what you hear on Three Picture Deal is this niftly little itsy bitsy note the grrrls sing on THREE. I love it.

Date: Sat, May 03, 2008, 02:03:00 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

You're correct as usual, Mu, the clip of Upside Looking Down (the opposite of an aerial view) does sound lke the tail end of a bridge. A bridge made to order for Mike McDonald.

Date: Sat, May 03, 2008, 01:27:56 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

ProTools: You make a great point. Collectively, Fagen and Becker have used every studio trick in the book; that's what they're known for, and it's a huge part of what makes Steely Dan Steely Dan. The thing that bothers me about AutoTune type stuff is that its distracting and alters the actual timbre of the voice. It's like how Fagen describes digital synths; I almost always notice it and it always takes away from my enjoyment of the track.

The other huge issue I have with it -- that doesn't necessarily apply to Steely Dan, because they were never about this kind of thing -- is the fact that little vocal imperfections give a vocalist a lot of character. How would Billie Holiday sound in the studio if she started her career in 2008?

Date: Sat, May 03, 2008, 01:23:01 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, Malibu - Man The Pacific Ocean Can Be A Beautiful Thing

Pro Tools -

"no one sings a song all the way through, or even a verse."

I would respectfully disagree.
Today many artists are going for
more of a "live take" in the studio.
Or if they are laying down vocals,
over the backing tracks, they are
going for that "one special take".

"Catch the magic", It's tried and
true and simply makes for a better
record.

Date: Fri, May 02, 2008, 22:30:45 ET
Posted by: pro tools,

Pro Tools or any digital audio software allows all manner of tuning/editing individual bits of audio as a manual or automated process.

Google Celemony Melodyne and Antares Autotune to see what amazing manipulation can be done to audio.

There is probably no studio album that does not use some form of tuning correction, and also, the majority of all lead vocals are comped together from multiple takes - no one sings a song all the way through, or even a verse. Often only a few words are sung and then the final performance is pieced together from individual phrases, words, syllables, phonemes - with tuning, EQ or other filtering applied as necessary.

Date: Fri, May 02, 2008, 21:30:31 ET
Posted by: Question: , from a curious listener

How can Pro Tools work to alter a vocal track ?

Date: Fri, May 02, 2008, 20:08:06 ET
Posted by: Hutch, rva

Steely Dana and Wash, - I feel your pain. Since it looks like Time For Happy Hour was apparently AT Happy Hour at the time he/she posted that lovely reply to your simple request then it's best we ignore and move on.

Yes, I too am wondering about dates in the Mid-Atlantic. Since they started touring again in '93 there hasn't been a schedule that didn't include at least Nissan Pavillion in Manassas or the Va. Beach Amphitheatre(last year it was the new amphitheatre in Portsmouth). Even the DF solo tour hit the Warner Theatre in D.C..

They don't have anything in Texas yet, and they ususally play San Antonio, so I wouldn't be surprised if they don't swing back around for two or three dates to wind it up. Then they can take a month off, Donald and Walter can do one-month-long simultaneous solo tours and then after that they can hunker down and start putting the new Steely Dan album together.

Oh yeah.

Date: Fri, May 02, 2008, 19:39:23 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

Excellent point, Bob.

I just played the Downtown Canon clip for my older (57 years old) sister. Now, while she likes the Dan, she isn't a Dan head, like many of us hear. She doesn't know who Walter Becker is, doesn't know there is a new album coming out, etc.

I simply said, "This is a short clip from a new album, who does it sound like? Does it remind you of anyone?"

Her response: "Sounds like Steely Dan." I pointed out that it wasn't Donald Fagen singing, she was unswayed. While she realized the vocals were different, she knew it was The Dan, simply from the short clip. "Nobody else sounds like that", she noted.

Date: Fri, May 02, 2008, 18:58:33 ET
Posted by: Bob, Atlanta

Date: Fri, May 02, 2008, 17:26:43 ET
Posted by: faithful , before you were born

hey ANON - who died and made you pope*? damn killjoy.

walter's vocals need to be up in the mix more - how's that for bitchery??

*anon you can't be pope because we are blessed now with the wonderful RATZ0 I

Date: Fri, May 02, 2008, 17:15:29 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar, It's Happy Hour!

While it is UNLIKELY The Dan will come back East on this tour, it isn't totally out of the question as SD doesn't always follow the normal tradition, and they indeed HAVE left an area of the country, then returned later in some past tours.

I agree with others who noted they ARE playing near the DC area...it's called NYC. Suck it up!

As for both Peg covers posted: A for taste and effort, F for execution.

And, Anon, BRAVO. I'm with you.

Date: Fri, May 02, 2008, 16:49:15 ET
Posted by: Time for Happy Hour ,

I'm in complete agreement, Anon Twit.

Date: Fri, May 02, 2008, 16:36:16 ET
Posted by: AnonTwit, Happyland

"I recall when I was small(er)."

What continues to squish my face about this board is the general bitchery of most - but not all - of the inhabitants.

I seem to remember back in the early to mid 90s when there weren't many SD guestbooks supporting the faithful, and sharing news of the Boys.
Now, in the last 10 years (and including WB's C$), we will have had 4 albums by SD or their ilk, including 2 solo projects by the principals, who, by nature of their bad selves, happen to introduce their fans to some of the most creative and honestly musical people on the planet. The Last 10 Years (TLTY) has also brought us five - count 'em, FIVE! - tours by the Purty Ones along with a touring cast culled from the heavens.

All this, and 15 years ago all we had new was Citizen.

And yet people bitch.
and bitch.
and moan.

Now you've even stooped to the depths of moaning about the Tour - which has become an ANNUAL event of late - not coming to a particular neck of the woods.

Cowards.
Imbeciles.
May the pox of a thousand pairs of ill-fitting jeans decend upon your closet. May your underwear bunch in such a way that your genitals are uncomfortable.

STEELY DAN is ON TOUR THIS YEAR!
WALTER BECKER HAS A NEW ALBUM!

I find it overwhelmingly disrespectful and just plain gauche to micro-criticize a record based on 30 second clips; to begrudge a tour yet to begin.

I think there should be more reverence and thankfulness towards the whole of the Dan due to their ability to enlighten and entertain us SO OFTEN with so much music. We are a VERY fortunate lot of people, whose choice in music has grown and evolved along with ourselves. You can't say that about many groups or bands.

So if you want to come to the Church of Dan, why not try a little worshipful reverence?

Date: Fri, May 02, 2008, 16:02:27 ET
Posted by: Time for Happy Hour ,

Hey Wash. They ain't gonna come back east in August. Tours don't work that way. Time to make a bunch of posts about how you've been fucked, which is kind of dumb. Better yet, go to Yahoo Travel, Amtrak.com or something and make reservations to see them 100 miles away or whatever the distance to Philly is. Most Danfans would be tickled if they only had to travel 3 hours to a Dan show.

Then have some beers at happy hour.

Date: Fri, May 02, 2008, 15:40:49 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu ,

Raj: The first part of Upside Looking Down sounds like a short bridge...

Date: Fri, May 02, 2008, 15:39:00 ET
Posted by: Casual fan, Suicide is painless

Re: the high school band youtube clip of Peg.

Enoyed the responses, folks. Pretty funny stuff.

You've got to wonder whether DF and WB would view that video as a compliment or as merely the next stage in their inevitable walk to oblivion. I mean, I assume that JP Sousa had some people covering him for awhile before the high school bands got ahold of his charts and wrecked them, right? So SD has its share of cover bands, they show up on some muzak tracks ... and now they've got this.

To be a fly on the wall (if and) when either of them watched this video...

Date: Fri, May 02, 2008, 15:21:18 ET
Posted by: wash, dc

Starting to get frustrated/worried about lack of a DC-area date. Will it be Wolftrap? Will it be Merriweather Post? Dare I hope for a smaller venue like Constitution Hall? Will it be in August? Just figure it out and f-ing announce it, please.

Date: Fri, May 02, 2008, 15:09:51 ET
Posted by: RG64,

Hate to be an even bigger Killjoy, but both of them use ProTooks. Donald's voice has been tweaked majorly with ever since TAN. Listen to Donald singing on Cuz Dupree, Almost Gothic, Jack of Speed and it's pretty obvious.

Date: Fri, May 02, 2008, 15:08:47 ET
Posted by: µ,

Date: Fri, May 02, 2008, 14:44:05 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

I don't want to be a "killjoy," but it sounds to me like Walter's pitch was tweaked a bit in Pro Tools on much of the Circus Money clips.

"Some producer with computers fixes all my sh**y tracks."

- Ben Folds.

Could be. I hear something snarky on Three Picture Deal, like someone has sped up a turntable...for a sec.

Date: Fri, May 02, 2008, 14:44:05 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

I don't want to be a "killjoy," but it sounds to me like Walter's pitch was tweaked a bit in Pro Tools on much of the Circus Money clips.

Date: Fri, May 02, 2008, 14:23:50 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu ,

Raj surmised: "As to the question of what we can or cannot glean from these tidbits that Walter has allowed us to hear from Cirus Money, let me offer that when you know an artist's work as well as we all do, there is indeed a veritibile trove of clues and indications as to what lies beyond. Now admittedly, we have not heard, as far as these ears can tell, a hint of a bridge, a middle eight, a modulation of the music that might shed more light on the whole of any of the tracks. But what we do hear is that Walter is singing, even with his limited range, with a more refined sense of pitch than I have ever heard before. The opening notes he hits on the second track on the line, "I cracked the code," represent something never heard before from Walter as far as attack, a certain sense of security of vocal entrance on a song. Singing with brio is difficult stuff, you have to really stretch yourself at times. Like Donald's shocking entrance on, "agents of the law-ah-aw." I hear Walter doing just that on some of these songs. 11 TOW was very weak in this regard. So I'm very intrigued by this newfound energy of his and although I can't quite connect all the dots, every indication leads to the sense that he has crossed over into another level of performance on this record. Larry Klein, I surmise, might be the difference."

That and the LIVE recording paradigm. Walter sounded great live in 2003, at least as far as I could tell with people scrambling over me to run through the aisles to grab some brew. It's also discernable on the AiA version of Book of Liars. Klein's ear can be heard in the elegant use of space and balance, something I found a tad lacking on TvN and EMG compared with the Nightfly and the Jurassic Period. I really like the open, ALIVE sound.

I've mentioned this previously, but had a real laugh with my perfect pitch daughter about Walter bein spot on key in the Downtown Canon clip.

Date: Fri, May 02, 2008, 14:09:05 ET
Posted by: Chip, Cuyahoga Falls Ohio

bought a ticket for the show in Cincinnati, the boys only appearance in Ohio this time. It was the most I have ever paid for a concert ticket, but how many more tours of these Hall of Famers are there going to be. I have seen every show in Ohio since 1993 when they started touring again. Wonder what they are going to open with?Best open I ever heard was the 93 tour. They opened with an instrumental consisting of Gold Teeth, Bad Sneakers, but the best was instrumental of The Royal Scam. Will definitely write a review of the show.

We've got your skinny girls

Date: Fri, May 02, 2008, 14:00:16 ET
Posted by: Fife, Baltimore, eh

Bobbo,
I found that calling TicketBastard actually gave me better seats. I tried Monday when they went on sale on line and all I could get was crap. On Tuesday they kept throwing up the same thing row S way to the left. I got frustrated and called ended up with Row K still to the left but with only 1 row in front of us and only 3 seats in our row. You might want to try calling and see what you get.

Date: Fri, May 02, 2008, 13:58:49 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Ha, the youtube clip reminds me of playing an arrangement of The Goodbye Look in high school jazz band ... the arrangement wasn't bad, actually, but the band ...

Date: Fri, May 02, 2008, 13:22:40 ET
Posted by: a Peg cover,

http://stereogum.com/archives/mp3/cryptacize-cover-steely-dan_009499.html

A band called Cryptacize, who played at Cochella, do a cover of Peg. Hmmm.

Date: Fri, May 02, 2008, 13:20:21 ET
Posted by: Kid Clean, @work

Re: you tube clip

Insert hollow point, lock in clip, saftey off, open mouth, point and click........

Date: Fri, May 02, 2008, 13:06:55 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

Most God-awful cacophony I've ever heard.

But I applaud it nonetheless...

Date: Fri, May 02, 2008, 12:50:28 ET
Posted by: Casual fan, The office of the boss of my secretary

For Danfans, do you laugh or cry at this?

For me, I thought Hindenburg and "Oh, the humanity."

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZNYDW17xtoI

Date: Fri, May 02, 2008, 12:31:51 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

As to the question of what we can or cannot glean from these tidbits that Walter has allowed us to hear from Cirus Money, let me offer that when you know an artist's work as well as we all do, there is indeed a veritibile trove of clues and indications as to what lies beyond. Now admittedly, we have not heard, as far as these ears can tell, a hint of a bridge, a middle eight, a modulation of the music that might shed more light on the whole of any of the tracks. But what we do hear is that Walter is singing, even with his limited range, with a more refined sense of pitch than I have ever heard before. The opening notes he hits on the second track on the line, "I cracked the code," represent something never heard before from Walter as far as attack, a certain sense of security of vocal entrance on a song. Singing with brio is difficult stuff, you have to really stretch yourself at times. Like Donald's shocking entrance on, "agents of the law-ah-aw." I hear Walter doing just that on some of these songs. 11 TOW was very weak in this regard. So I'm very intrigued by this newfound energy of his and although I can't quite connect all the dots, every indication leads to the sense that he has crossed over into another level of performance on this record. Larry Klein, I surmise, might be the difference.

Date: Fri, May 02, 2008, 10:33:57 ET
Posted by: Bobbo, Desperately Seeking Rajah

And,

Wally, well...gee, check your email, already, well that's all! Gee...

Stuck in a Coffee Cup,
The Beaver

Date: Fri, May 02, 2008, 10:29:53 ET
Posted by: Bobbo, diggin' into Ticketbastard's graphics...

Hey All,

Concerning the Beacon shows, is Orchestra row S, seat 49 a good one? Looks like far stage left to me, in row 20-something...

Hope all of the good ones aren't taken, at this late date, but MAN...looks like a good seat to me! Let me know, and FAST if you can, y'know...thanks in advance, as always. And, selah.

Okay,
Bobbo

Date: Fri, May 02, 2008, 10:26:39 ET
Posted by: SteelyDana, wondering and hoping

Okay, fellas:
Six dates in CA, eight dates in NY, and NO dates in VA, MD, NC, or DC ???? What's up with that??? Please come to the mid-Atlantic...

Date: Fri, May 02, 2008, 08:13:46 ET
Posted by: HeyMike, and one more chimp who isn't here..

http://commongroundmag.com/2008/05/fromtheed0805.html

Date: Fri, May 02, 2008, 00:57:29 ET
Posted by: yowsaaa, dec232012

can't wait to go to the cinema to see redbelt. i'm going to stand up and dance through the whole thing at my seet.

or ill stay home and listen to stand up - great cd - benefit too.

dean - you ben listening to the wrong bootlegs. you are so bad in that department that you need a telethon to save you.

Date: Fri, May 02, 2008, 00:34:45 ET
Posted by: hey uk dude, yeah you

inca roads rules - give up music and sell cell phones at the mall unless you can play it like this:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b8DxA1rLmo4

Date: Thurs, May 01, 2008, 23:15:19 ET
Posted by: tom, in texas

Walter's Paging Audrey is sooo good.

Date: Thurs, May 01, 2008, 19:22:49 ET
Posted by: Channelling Jack, On The Road

You must mean this review:

Tonight’s show at Paso Robles was a huge step up from the opener on Wednesday night in Costa Mesa. The night was perfect, the neighbors were listening instead of bitching and the band was hot. The set list was varied slightly for Night II and is as follows:

Set I
Cubano Chant (with Herington, Baker and the horns…An excellent intro piece)
Aja
Time Out Of Mind
Godwhacker (Maybe the strongest sound of the night)
Caves of Altamira
Blues Beach (set list change from The Last Mall on Wednesday night)
Do It Again
Slang of Ages (and band intros)
Peg
Home At Last (set list addition)

Set II
The Steely Dan Show
Janie Runaway/Hey 19
Haitian Divorce (WB sings!)
Things I Miss The Most (surprisingly, this works very well live)
Parker’s Band (with the girls handling the vocals…Well done!)
Josie (with a Carlock solo that had him quite close to spontaneous combustion)
Kid Charlemagne (Herington just rips on this, as usual)
Don’t Take Me Alive

Encores (No Dr. Wu!)
My Old School
FM

DF was in strong voice and great spirits. At the end of Do It Again (?), he stood up, pointed to this very odd-looking ride off in the distance called The Ejector Seat (it is a state fair, after all) and yelled “What IS that thing?!” Towards the end of the show, when calling for applause for the various band members, DF also said “And let’s hear it for the Ferris Wheel!” and then “And please give it up for THAT thing!” (The Ejector Seat, once again.) The band was extremely tight and those of you going to a show in the future have much to look forward to, especially at some of the nicer venues. This one was better suited to tractor pulls, but the sound quality was acceptable. Still really hoping to hear Everything Must Go, perhaps down the road a show or two? Anyway, another great night to be a Dan Fan...

Date: Thurs, May 01, 2008, 19:10:59 ET
Posted by: steelydoc, near the Tower

hey Ed Beatty...please email me...SD-related!

Date: Thurs, May 01, 2008, 18:25:11 ET
Posted by: ed_beatty, i was there

Yes..the smell of jack Daniels mingling with sweat and garlic fries and COW SHIT

but the band...was hotso

no return to Paso Robles for me

Date: Thurs, May 01, 2008, 17:40:38 ET
Posted by: ed_beatty, I was there at Paso robles

Date: Thurs, May 01, 2008, 16:54:12 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

I remember reading a review of a state fair in 2003. Didn't Fagen introduce the ferris wheel during the band intros?

Date: Thurs, May 01, 2008, 16:20:04 ET
Posted by: almost gothic negative girl,

Nope angel, different pool.

Sounds like some people didn't have a very good time at the Midstate Fair show. Sorry about that. We had a blast. It was not their usual type of venue, for sure, but that just added to the totally wacky experience.

Soundcheck in the pool, great pre-show party in our room, walk across the street to the venue, neon and calliope and fair food and goofy fairgrounds cocktails, and Steely Dan. Having that behemoth ferris wheel light up and spin as a backdrop while they played, and then riding that same ferris wheel after the show, looking down on the arena they had just played in, was a trip. A very different sort of Steely night. Best show? Hell no! Memorable experience? Yes, in a very good way.

Date: Thurs, May 01, 2008, 15:35:21 ET
Posted by: angel,

Hey AGNG! Were you in the pool at the Paso Robles Inn? I remember seeing several Dan Fans in the pool, before the concert.

I was ALL the way on the far left, we could see Donald and Walter as they came onto the stage and as they left. That was probably the best part of the evening.
Minus that I got to hear Blues Beach (which they never played again).

Ok, it's wasn't totally bad... :-)

Date: Thurs, May 01, 2008, 14:42:56 ET
Posted by: almost gothic negative girl,

We were in the center of the venue, which was cow-free, in the last row in our section. The person to my right would not shut up the entire show, intent on talking loudly to a twelve-year-old kid the whole time. I finally had enough, so we went and stood in a wide aisle behind our seats (but slightly upwind of the gabby girl) and proceded to stand and dance for the rest of the show. No one hassled us. I don't recollect what others were doing dance-wise; I was pretty mesmerized by the band and the neon lights of the fair.

This is the only show where I have caught the soundcheck from the pool and spa of the motel I was staying at. Quite a bonus!

Date: Thurs, May 01, 2008, 14:29:53 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

"hmmm... the sample of "Paging Audrey" on Walt's site sounds similar to Don's The Night Belongs To Mona.

I only point this out because, although the tracs are from two SOLO albums, it blurs the lines even further in regards to who contributes what to Steely Dan. What is it with girls names in the titles too? Every once in a while its only fair that a crazy Dan fan asks himself: "is it all linked?"

Same band.

...But then we know that Chuck Rainey, Purdie (between dubbing Beatles' remasters), and Carlton wrote and arranged the music to Steely Dan I. ;)

Date: Thurs, May 01, 2008, 14:17:26 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Dancing on the side at the 2003 show at Cali Mid-State Fair?

More than a few SD fans posted they they could really kick the shit there.

Date: Thurs, May 01, 2008, 13:32:17 ET
Posted by: AG, CA

Hey Almost Gothic and Angel- I was further back in the middle at the fair in 2003- was there a "dancing sideline" at all that you recall? I think I remember security getting people out of the aisles but....in keeping with the dancing topic (sorry) I just remember feeling like a heel dancing a bit while some people behind me were sitting; just wondering what you gals remember...I remember "Caves" and "Slang Me" tho fer sure- good show that was...

AG

Date: Thurs, May 01, 2008, 13:23:49 ET
Posted by: almost gothic negative girl,

Larry ~ Sounds like you had some really "shitty" seats ; ) Happily, we were in a No Dumping zone.

Date: Thurs, May 01, 2008, 13:17:16 ET
Posted by: Napoleon, U.K

hmmm... the sample of "Paging Audrey" on Walt's site sounds similar to Don's The Night Belongs To Mona.

I only point this out because, although the tracs are from two SOLO albums, it blurs the lines even further in regards to who contributes what to Steely Dan. What is it with girls names in the titles too? Every once in a while its only fair that a crazy Dan fan asks himself: "is it all linked?"

As an aside, has anyone ever atempted to play Zappa's Inca Roads? I'm learning the bass parts for a friends university dissertation and man it hurts.

Date: Thurs, May 01, 2008, 13:16:48 ET
Posted by: Larry,

Mid-State Fair? Oh no! In 2003, right when Donald was giving his "Hey 19" speech, a cow to took a huge dump right next to where I was sitting! That was the worst smelling SD show I ever attended!

Date: Thurs, May 01, 2008, 12:57:42 ET
Posted by: Adorable Ghost, Central Coast CA

Sweet!!! Paso again! I kept checking the Mid State Fair site hoping, putting the energy out there that they might come back....now the Santa Barbara Bowl again would be supremo..c'mon guys! Guess I'm not goin to NYC, got three in the bucket here in CA, oh well! Hope to meet up with some of you again soon!

AG

Date: Thurs, May 01, 2008, 12:51:16 ET
Posted by: angel, Oh No, Guadalahara won't do!

Oh No!

I am never going back to the California Mid State Fair! lol

Date: Thurs, May 01, 2008, 12:32:02 ET
Posted by: Bill from Pgh,

As to why Walter sang Slang, I believe that in the recorded interview which was widely distributed around the time of EMG both D&W said the song was written for Donald, they discovered it was in Walt's range, and Donald suggested Walter sing it. I don't think it was a case of Donald "allowing" Walter to sing. In the same interview Walter said it would be unlikely that he'd take any more lead vocals on a SD record. Slang is one of my favorite cuts from that album, by the way.

Date: Thurs, May 01, 2008, 12:28:49 ET
Posted by: sdshow, anywhere

Boys and Girls
They come from all around
From dear old Stockholm
To Copenhagen town
Forget their troubles
In tasty riddum n' rime
So here you are
And now it's party time
Wrap your mind
Around this sound
And let the goodness ripple down
Goodbye to Lonely Street
You're in the Catbird Seat
At THE STEELY DAN SHOW

If you got backpacks
And pointy little shoes
Late-model roadsters
Or just those walkin' blues
A case of heartache
That you're too numb to fight
A secret sorrow
That keeps you up all night
Well don't you fret
It's not your fault
Just lay it all on Don and Walt
Just trip out on these hits
The groove that never quits
At THE STEELY DAN SHOW

So buy a program
And/or a hat
You don't pass up a deal like that
It's only promo stuff
But hey it's good enough
For THE STEELY DAN SHOW

Date: Thurs, May 01, 2008, 12:26:19 ET
Posted by: almost gothic negative girl,

http://www.midstatefair.com/news_details.php?id=165

So they're coming back to the California Midstate Fair. That was an unusually fun night when they played there five years ago. That huge, lit-up ferris wheel as a backdrop was beautiful!

Date: Thurs, May 01, 2008, 09:20:59 ET
Posted by: Like this is necessary, But it's fun

July 25 date added at SD.com

Date: Thurs, May 01, 2008, 06:07:06 ET
Posted by: steelydoc, near the Tower

The Dean: thanks for the info!!!

Date: Thurs, May 01, 2008, 04:02:28 ET
Posted by: Rajah,

I hear strains of "In My House," by the Mary Jane Girls immediately after the piano intro on "Door No. 2."

Date: Thurs, May 01, 2008, 01:29:38 ET
Posted by: ,

I can imagine Keith in Dunkin Donuts trying to choose between a plain or chocolate humming "I'm so undecided..."

Date: Thurs, May 01, 2008, 00:04:07 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

"Donald can't finish a song and Walter can't start one."

Yes. That pretty much distilled their collaboration through the 90s, Bill.

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