May & Late April 2013 Posts

Date: Sat, June 01, 2013, 05:15:47 ET
Posted by: Abu, The Graveyard Shift

Great responses thus far for your favorite DF solo tunes. I started this list, and I must say that suggesting ONLY a Top Five was a gross injustice on my part. Even generating a Top Ten list is an understandably painful and difficult task for some, and downright impossible for at least a couple of posters to put them in any particular order. One person even suggested that some others would be offended by their including or not including a particular song. I guess I wanted to see if there was some kind of consensus of sorts, that is to say, a handful of tunes that seem to stand out perhaps more than some others. In my book, and I'm sure many others would agree, that Donald alone, or as a duo, has NEVER written or performed a bad song. All of them are good, very good, excellent, or fantastic.

Here is my entire Top Ten:

1)The Nightfly
2)The Great Pagoda of Funn
3)The Goodbye Look
4)Maxine
5)Florida Room
6)Slinky Thing
7)I'm Not the Same Without You
8)Tomorrow's Girls
9)Miss Marlene
10)Green Flower Street

I will attempt to tabulate a (sort-of) consensus of these lists.


Abu

Date: Fri, May 31, 2013, 22:51:00 ET
Posted by: SteelyDon, Maine

Top 10 Fagen Tunes - Sorta in Order
1) IGY
2) New Frontier
3) The Great Pagoda of Funn
4) Memorabilia
5) Green Flower Street
6) Slinky Thing
7) Tomorrow's Girls
8) Mary Shut the Garden Door
9) Morph the Cat
8) Weather in my Head

After writing this I can't believe I've only included one track from KAMAKIRIAD. I still think that album is really good but sonically I think it sounds dated compared to the other 3 albums. You can't really pick a bad song on The Nightfly, Morph had some monster songs - I play the hell out of Pagoda that song is so underrated in my opinion. And Sunken Condos quite possibly has the best 4 song sequence on any of these albums with Slinky, Not the Same, Memorabilia, and Weather.

Don't you feel sorry for people who don't get SD/DF? It's like we are all in a secret club to enjoy this amazing music!

Date: Fri, May 31, 2013, 18:37:45 ET
Posted by: hoops, springpatch

The latest edition of the Dandom Digest was just mailed. This one covered posts for April 26-May 31, 2013. (The previous Dandom Digest was dated April 12-25, 2013.)

If you are a subscriber, you should already have it in your email box. If you don't see it, check your spam filters first; then, if it's not there, please email me.

As I regularly remind subscribers, some people have problems with delivery of the Dandom Digest, usually because of their spam filters, firewalls, etc. That's why this sort of notice is posted here--so you can look for it.

There will be another Dandom Digest coming early next week talking about Danfests, etc. Please send your submittals or ideas over the weekend if you can. Much appreciated by all.

The following are the subject headlines of the Dandom Digest for April 26-May 31, 2013.

=======

- TOUR UPDATE: But Are The Moods are Swinging Into NYC?
- Eminently Hip Donald Fagen Memoirs
- Boz, Donald & Ray
- Catherine Russell The One Singer You Need To Hear NOW!
- Upcoming Catherine Russell Shows
- Herington & Carlock, Oz Noy & more
- REDUX: SteelyDan.com on Facebook
- REDUX: New One from Jim Beard

...& MORE COMING EARLY NEXT WEEK IN THE NEXT DANDOM DIGEST

=======

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

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

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

Date: Fri, May 31, 2013, 16:22:50 ET
Posted by: 3-2-1, X

I don't hate Goodbye Look, and was glad it was included on the '06 tour. Just that with so many to choose from for a top 10 list, I found it easier to weed a few out that wouldn't be in my top 10 and list those instead. Didn't think it would be so offensive to some.

Date: Fri, May 31, 2013, 16:11:42 ET
Posted by: Nicholas Urfe, Phraxos

3-2-1, I can't share your disdain for The Goodbye Look. One of my favorite asides in any DF, SD, or WB work is "Won't you pour me a Cuban breeze, Gretchen." It has predisposed me favorably toward Gretchens everywhere, and always makes me ask...

Date: Fri, May 31, 2013, 15:48:26 ET
Posted by: Snake Mary,

To choose my fav' 10 Fagen cuts was such a difficult decision but after much thought, for what it's worth, here's mine...!

The Nightfly
Maxine
The Night Belongs To Mona
On The Dunes
New Frontier
Morph The Cat
I'm Not The Same Without You
Tomorrow's Girls
Good Stuff
I.G.Y

Snake Mary

Date: Fri, May 31, 2013, 15:04:37 ET
Posted by: casual fan, orlando

SIAP, looks to be new on youtube so probably not. Its a lengthy interview of Jon Herrington by a woman for a guitar publication of some sort. SD discussion at about the 8:18 mark and then again at 9:40. Nothing Earth-shattering, but he discusses how much he enjoys working with DF, WB, and the rest of the touring band. He's apparently also working on a new album of his own at the moment.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8oWKC99hjLg

Date: Fri, May 31, 2013, 11:59:47 ET
Posted by: HouDanFan, Houston

Tomorrows Girl's is one fine song. DF's #1 in my book

Date: Fri, May 31, 2013, 11:49:37 ET
Posted by: Young Wu, Buffalo

Top 10, huh? Tough...

1. IGY
2. New Frontier
3. The Goodbye Look
4. The Great Pagoda of Funn
5. The Night Belongs to Mona
6. Green Flower Street
7. The Nightfly
8. Miss Marlene
9. Tomorrow's Girls
10. Slinky Thing

What I Do, New Breed, Florida Room, Morph the Cat just miss.

Date: Fri, May 31, 2013, 11:29:34 ET
Posted by: M/O/D/P, Peering into the nine-day window

Just blocked the entire week (a Monday through following Tuesday stretch) as "NYC", although realistically three shows in four nights (Thursday-Sunday) would be a good fit. Thanks for the heads-up, Lewis!

Date: Fri, May 31, 2013, 09:39:51 ET
Posted by: Chris, Nh

Thanks Lewis.

For the unitiated, Lewis was right about a bunch of other tour info in the past - safe to say he's right this time.

Security Joan, when's that interview coming out? ;)

Date: Fri, May 31, 2013, 08:44:05 ET
Posted by: Michael, Top 10 Fagen solo, in no particular order

1) IGY - What can I say? Genius songwriting complimented by one of the greatest arrangements of all time.

2) Miss Marlene - The most Aja/Gaucho-sounding of all his solo tunes IMO. The horn charts, the clav, the unmistakable Rhodes; everything is just so right.

3) The Night Belongs To Mona - Brilliant all the way through. I especially like the phrasing, how it continues to develop throughout, without ever becoming detached or insipid. This jazz-inspired style of songwriting is very difficult to pull off effectively, but of course Donald is more than up to the task.

4) Maxine - Donald is at his melodic best. His background harmonies are just a thing of beauty and that sax solo is a work of art. The harmonies at the end sometimes give me goosebumps.

5) Walk Between The Raindrops - Impossible to go wrong here. The Hammond and guitar are just swinging and jumping all over the harmonic place while Don uses a rainshower as a metaphorical device(?) for a lover's quarrel.

6) The Goodbye Look
7) Florida Room
8) The Great Pagoda Of Funn
9) The Nightfly
10) Tomorrow's Girls
*special mention* Slinky Thing, Snowbound, Mary Shut The Garden Door, Green Flower Street, I'm Not The Same Without You, Century's End, True Companion, etc.

Date: Fri, May 31, 2013, 07:39:16 ET
Posted by: Michelle, Ottawa

The flights to NYC are especially affordable in late September & early October.

Date: Fri, May 31, 2013, 06:28:34 ET
Posted by: Lewis, Suisse

Sept 30-Oct8

Date: Fri, May 31, 2013, 03:32:12 ET
Posted by: Still Sparkin', Hong Kong

Donald Fagen's Top Ten Solo Songs:

(According to me, and in no special order)

Confide in Me
Shanghai Confidential
Springtime
Walk Between Raindrops
Great Pagoda of Funn
The Nightfly
Tomorrow's Girls
Memorabilia
Good Stuff
Florida Room

* Honourable Mention, (he didn't write it, but that doesn't stop me loving it) Ruby Baby

Date: Fri, May 31, 2013, 01:38:50 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

What the hell. In no particular order, because that's where it gets REALLY impossible:

1) New Frontier
2) IGY
3) Slinky Thing
4) Trans Island Skyway
5) INTSWY
6) Miss Marlene
7) Maxine
8) Walk Between The Raindrops
9) Pagoda
10) Green Flower Street

Date: Fri, May 31, 2013, 01:34:17 ET
Posted by: Brain Strainer,

Top Ten Fagen wasn't too tough of a question:

1. Weather In My head
2. IGY/Miss Marlene (virtually the same song)
3. Tomorrow's Girls
4. Memorabilia
5. New Frontier
6. H-Gang
7. Century's End
8. Nightfly Title Track
9. Florida Room
10. Brite Nitegown

Honorable Mention

Green Flower Street
Trans-Island Skyway
What I Do

Date: Fri, May 31, 2013, 01:24:45 ET
Posted by: Michelle , Ottawa

1. IGY
2. Maxine with that doo wop group
3. Slinky Thing
4. Mary Shut The Garden Door
5. The Night Belongs To Mona
6. True Companion
7. Big Noise, New York
8. I'm Not The Same Without You
9. Century's End
10. Confide In Me

I love the horns on Great Pagoda of Funn, too.

Date: Thurs, May 30, 2013, 23:17:02 ET
Posted by: Greg M, top ten fagen

I'll go top 7.

1. Nightfly
2. Green Flower Street
3. Maxine
4. Snowbound
5. Tomorrows Girls
6. IGY
7. Ms. Marlene

Springtime's intro gets an honorable mention.

Date: Thurs, May 30, 2013, 23:08:51 ET
Posted by: M/O/D/P, Yawning or snarling?

Funny how most of the "wouldn't make it" songs listed just below by a stellar yet mysterious new contributor appear to have been carefully/deliberately selected from the "favourite" songs listed here recently by the posters who chose to play the latest list game.

Of course, when I say "funny", I don't actually mean the laughing, enjoyable type of "funny". There's another type of "funny". You can look it up, but, really, between you and me, I wouldn't bother.

Are some folks born with the inherent need to defecate in the breakfast cereal of others? And if they were, why the hell don't they at least attempt to restrain themselves occasionally? Even The Shadow doesn't know, and he's a pretty goddamned smart guy.

Jim - The Blue is fine as is. And no amount of earnest phpBBing is gonna eradicate the folks who have even more spare time on their collective hands than the rest of us do.

Date: Thurs, May 30, 2013, 20:37:31 ET
Posted by: 3-2-1, X

I couldn't come up with a top 10, but here's 5 that would never make it.

1. The Goodbye Look
2. What I do
3. Brite Nitegown
4. The Great Pagoda of Funn
5. Security Joan

I've listened to that sequence on Morph just once in the last 5 years, and I really did want to like it.

Date: Thurs, May 30, 2013, 19:43:32 ET
Posted by: Mary, Shut the Garden Door

Hey Slang Me. Check out the Marian McPartland Piano Jazz CD.

It has mostly acoustic instruments. Black Friday, Josie really smoke!

Date: Thurs, May 30, 2013, 19:27:53 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar. Still Drinkin'

And while I'm thinking about it...

I'm not even going to attempt to list my 10 top Fagen solo songs. But when I read a list that doesn't include Maxine, I just shake my head. But, hey, that's me

Date: Thurs, May 30, 2013, 19:19:17 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar. It's Happy Hour!

Only a Fool Would Say That and Fire in the Hole are two songs off CBAT that I would LOVE to hear. Throw in Razor Boy and I would be one happy Dan fan. Truth is, I am one happy Dan fan no matter what they play, but those are two early tunes I would really like to hear.

Date: Thurs, May 30, 2013, 13:50:22 ET
Posted by: Slang Me,

Only A Fool Would Say That would be totally the beez kneez this tour. What an amazing guitar song.

I like Wright's Steely Dan Tabs page, but the following also has a nice transcription. What is your favorite Steely song to play on ACOUSTIC guitar?

http://tabs.ultimate-guitar.com/s/steely_dan/only_a_fool_would_say_that_crd.htm


THe Dan should do an album as an acoustic quintet or something.

Date: Thurs, May 30, 2013, 12:57:47 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

One more thing...in case anyone's reading:

Tonight or tomorrow, I will be putting out a Dandom Digest covering all this past month. Another catchup issue.

Here's working topics--do you have anything else to add? Post here or email me.

* Donald's memoirs
* the Boz Scaggs interview that mentions DF
* Herington news including interview
* Catherine Russell news including the item posted here by Elgin ie. Security Joan interview
* Security Joan interview upcoming with DF????
* Danfest morphing and possibilities
* What am I missing?

Date: Thurs, May 30, 2013, 12:29:20 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Oh yeah, email me if you want to help, collaborate, etc. You can have our backs, if I have a heart attack. All Tweeters, Facebookers, you name it, are encouraged. Must have tact, discretion and, maybe some tech chops.

hoops at dandom dot com

Date: Thurs, May 30, 2013, 12:26:28 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Wow, Mt. Belozoni! Dat dare's good news about the Fagen memoirs. Count me in line/on line at Amazon when advance ordering counts.

Have to say though, I'll be happy if Donald breaks even on the memoirs. Unless you're the likes of Mick Jagger or Keith Richards and spill lots of juicy gossip, then they don't make money. They're more therapeutic than anything. Love Donald, but most people only connect as Steely Dan. And with their oblique personal history, I hardly think it will be a mainstream success.

That said, looking forward to the writings (and "writheings"). I think PGE might be on to something about the inclusion of some former DF.com favorites.

=======

With summer shows around the corner, some housekeeping and other opportunities.

Collaborators are always needed for what's offered here at Dandom.com or in cooperation with the site. Frankly, my own work, family and health concerns make it harder for me to keep up and assistance and cooperation is always welcomed. The caveat is that certain assistance needs to be provided with tact and discretion, awareness of the Greater Dandom's ethos (different from the mainstream internet), and, in some cases, some specialized-but-not-too-specialized technical chops.


A few examples:

1) Doc and Dean effectively run the "Neighborhood Watch" for ad-hoc spam and illicit content, often emailing or texting me when there are those sorts of issues, before I even see them. What a great help!

2) Security Joan and SueDave have been co-Tweeters for @DandomDOTcom Maybe they will be able to extend their generosity to this year. They've been great for all of us.

3) The Dandom.com / Danfests Facebook page has a slew of co-Admins -- seventeen of 'em as of this writing. I'd list their names, but will tell you to check out FB to protect their privacy. If you are on that group, and want to be an admin, contact me there, although for all other non-Facebook stuff, I prefer REAL email.

Those are just a few of the things.

We've had Danfests since the mid-90s. The format of having hosts, webpage and town/region targeted email list of interested parties have been around since Tour2K, but I think that should morph.

To clarify: Part of my professional work is community outreach and development to people who don't otherwise know about the strong circle of Danfans that exists. Everyone knows about Deadheads and Parrot heads, but, like Our Favorite Duo, we Danfans are relatively under the radar. So the idea is really to reach out and welcome new Danfans into the fold and sow the seeds of Dandemonium for future generations. Hey! Some of us ARE dying off, you know? Many of us "regulars" don't need a the email list, web page, etc to connect at every show. For example, most if the long-timers know by now that if we go to a Milwaukee show, we should contact Chris, Tony or Dale to see where to meet.

But it's great if we can help newly obsessive Danfans connect with long timers.

We have some email lists that are firmly established. These would be as follows, numbers of interested parties, all email addresses are current--no bounces, etc:

Atlantic City - AC at dandom.com - 33
australia at dandom.com - 24
Baltimore/D.C. bdc at dandom.com - 72
boston at dandom.com - 109
chicago at dandom.com - 132
indy at dandom.com - 6
milwaukee at dandom.com - 72
New England (especially CT, RI, western Mass.) newengland at dandom.com - 24
nyc at dandom.com - 152
pacificnw at dandom.com - 29
philly at dandom.com - 62
Texas (Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, Austin, etc) tx at dandom.com - 97

There are at least 60 other lists with members for towns like L.A., San Diego, Southern California, Bay Area, Denver, Florida, Atlanta, Italy, UK, etc. However, these lists haven't been used in a while so they are set to being "off" to stop spam, etc. Moreover, during the last SD tour, it seemed that folks in these areas were kinda blasé about meeting up or using the list. Coordinating the dormant lists (not the 12 above) and associated Danfest pages was like hearding cats--especially for Bay Area, and L.A. Regardless, these 60, 70 lists have "hundreds of Danfans who want to meet YOU!" Sounds like a dating service.

All this aside, the official Steely Dan Facebook Page has set up "Events" for all the shows. Seems to me that these would be excellent touchstones for all shows--provided you want to be on Facebook.

My suggestion--and I'd love your input--is that if you want to have an event, please post about it under specific event for the Steely Dan Facebook page. AND THEN, if there's an active list, like the dozen above, also be sure to email updates there. That way you have an option of not being on Facebook. Instead of hosts, maybe we can be Danfan concierges for certain sgows, helping Danfans connect, find a good hotel or spot to eat, where to hang with other friends.

How does this all sound?

=======

BTW: Earlier this week, someone posted about having a threaded phpBB format forum in place of or complementary to this one and others. Hey, everyone needs to do what they gotta do and I understand that I'm not everyone's favorite person. But do wish to point out that for seven years now, I've offered the same format forum here but it was declined by the same people who now claim it's a new and exciting format. I set it up in 2006, offered it several times as an alternative and even ported it over when we moved hosting services in 2010. So it can be up and running in less five minutes if you let me know. But if you don't tell me you like a format-- or tell me you don't like it when you do--then no kvetching or phony "I love the Blue...but..." Most ironically, I'd say that half of those complaining about anonymous trolls here appear to me to be the otherwise anonymous trolls. How slippery is that?

So if you are still reading this and haven't fallen asleep, I'm looking forward to the shows this summer, hoping there will be some in NYC too. Here's to all of us, the best of fans.

I thank you all.

Jim

Date: Thurs, May 30, 2013, 00:15:16 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Thanks, Dean!

Great to read about the memoir, the thoughts, The Bear and the Boz intervirw.

Thanks X 2 X...

Jim

Date: Wed, May 29, 2013, 15:19:41 ET
Posted by: PGE, reprinting?

Reading the news about Donald's book getting a release date it struck me that that very book might play one small part in why donaldfagen.com redirects to facebook these days.

The book was mentioned in one of the interviews/articles around the release of Sunken Condos and said that it would contain collected writings.

Looking at the description of the book on amazon.com it mentions Mort Vega and Mancini - both featured in texts published on donaldfagen.com.
Maybe the book versions are expanded/rewritten versions, but I would bet that some of those plus a few new ones make up the book.

Looking forward to having them all collected!

/PGE

Date: Wed, May 29, 2013, 14:17:25 ET
Posted by: Nicholas Urfe, Phraxos

To be sure, a DF memoir will be a kick to read, whatever the contents. It is of some note, however, that the Amazon description includes "Dukes of September," "Michael McDonald," and "Boz Scaggs," but no actual mention of Steely Dan and only a passing reference to WB. Perhaps he plans to take us from childhood to Bard College, throw in a few Dukes anecdotes, and let the SD and solo years continue to speak for themselves. We'll see.

Date: Wed, May 29, 2013, 11:44:40 ET
Posted by: Gene, US

I predict a foreword by William Gibson.

Date: Wed, May 29, 2013, 09:34:58 ET
Posted by: Dentists, Waiting room

It sort of sounds like it could be a collection of the sort of articles DF has already posted, plus new ones ? That description would fit, do u think? And not a lot of pages..don't mean 2 b a buzzkill but hoping for a 'Memoir' might be optimistic. Thoughts?

Date: Wed, May 29, 2013, 07:40:40 ET
Posted by: fagenism, She go (I cry)

Mt. Belzoni:

Absolutely incredible news. Wow.

Remember that (French?) interview where a tenth Steely Dan album for 2013 was mentioned? Would it make sense to release an album and an autobiography at the same time? Or am I being overly optimistic right now?

Either way, this will be a painful wait.

Date: Wed, May 29, 2013, 03:00:33 ET
Posted by: SDV, up on the hill

can't wait for Donald's book. what a nice surprise!

tom-
Bear was Owsley Stanley's nickname (see Bear's Choice, a Grateful Dead album) and they did say Kid Charlemagne was loosely based on someone like him. I don't think The Bear is about him though. But what do i know?

Date: Wed, May 29, 2013, 02:06:08 ET
Posted by: Mt. Belzoni, Portland, OR

Thank you, thank you. It was really just serendipity.

I check Amazon every month or 2 for "Donald Fagen" in Books in the hope that someday, someone will publish the sheet music to the Morph and Sunken Condos CDs (along with some of his other unpublished songs), or maybe even just another volume of fuller transcriptions of a few more Dan classics yet to receive such treatment.

I was delighted when Eminent Hipsters showed up instead. May it bring us all many pleasant hours of reading and discussion!

Date: Wed, May 29, 2013, 01:22:03 ET
Posted by: tom, texas

Man of the world. Peter Green. EXCELLENT DOCUMENTARY
http://www.yourepeat.com/watch/?v=-Vkh63QIw-c

Date: Wed, May 29, 2013, 01:18:38 ET
Posted by: tom, texas

Remember the beginning of the last tour when SD played "the Bear"?
Everyone was wondering what the song was about?
I ran across a potential clue.
http://www.yourepeat.com/watch/?v=-Vkh63QIw-c
At the 29:29 min mark there is mention of an LSD maker/dealer named
"the Bear"

Date: Tues, May 28, 2013, 23:33:57 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

Kewl. I will be leading a book burning bonfire of Sweet's Reelin' copies in honor of Fagen's memoirs in October.

Date: Tues, May 28, 2013, 22:18:46 ET
Posted by: M/O/D/P, Mailbox Surveillance, October 22nd

If we had a Tip of the Year award here (and I'm not entirely certain that we don't), it would surely go to Mount Belzoni. Thanks, Mount!

I just impulsively pre-ordered a few copies of the book, because, hey, what do ya get these days for under $20.00 (and in hardcover fer cryin' out loud).

Sunken Condos/SD 2013 Tour/DF Memoir....has there ever been a better time to be a deranged & obsessed Steely Dan fan??

Date: Tues, May 28, 2013, 21:57:10 ET
Posted by: Book, Info

The book can be pre ordered on I-tunes ($12.99), and lists Penguin as the publisher.

Date: Tues, May 28, 2013, 21:52:13 ET
Posted by: Clete, .

Wonder if he used a real typewriter on this one...

Date: Tues, May 28, 2013, 19:32:30 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar. It's Happy Hour!

Belzoni, great tip. I haven't read or hear anything about this til your post. I can find nothing else about it, either, though it is listed at all the major outlets:

http://www.amazon.com/Eminent-Hipsters-Donald-Fagen/dp/0670025518/ref=reg_hu-rd_add_1_dp

Date: Tues, May 28, 2013, 18:48:04 ET
Posted by: Mt. Belzoni, Portland OR

Hi Dandom,

Not sure if anyone else has commented on this, but Amazon now lists Donald's memoirs as due for publication on Oct. 22, 2013.

The book is entitled "Eminent Hipsters." Though Amazon's listing does not even identify a publisher by name, it offers this description:

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

A witty, revealing, sharply written work of memoir and criticism by the cofounder of Steely Dan

Musician and songwriter Donald Fagen presents a group of vivid set pieces in his entertaining debut as an author, from portraits of the cultural figures and currents that shaped him as a youth to an account of his college days and of life on the road.

Fagen begins by introducing the “eminent hipsters” that spoke to him as he was growing up in a bland New Jersey suburb in the early 1960s, among them Jean Shepherd, whose manic nightly broadcasts out of WOR-Radio “enthralled a generation of alienated young people”; Henry Mancini, whose swank, noirish soundtracks left their mark on him; and Mort Fega, the laid-back, knowledgeable all-night jazz man at WEVD who was like “the cool uncle you always wished you had.” He writes of how, coming of age during the paranoid Cold War era, one of his primary doors of escape became reading science fiction, and of his invigorating trips into New York City to hear jazz. “Class of ’69” recounts Fagen’s colorful, mind-expanding years at Bard College, the progressive school north of New York City, where he first met his future musical partner Walter Becker. “With the Dukes of September” offers a cranky, hilarious account of the ups and downs of a recent cross-country tour Fagen made with Boz Scaggs and Michael McDonald, performing a program of old R&B and soul tunes as well as some of their own hits.

Acclaimed for the elaborate arrangements and jazz harmonies of his songs, Fagen proves himself a sophisticated writer with a very distinctive voice in this engaging book.

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Yes, memoirs have become a rare area of profitable activity for mature rockers whose later years have been hindered by the disappearance of the mainstream music industry (and ongoing royalty streams that many counted on to fund their golden years). Nonetheless, a number of these memoirs have been good reads, and I'd expect no less of Donald's.

Looking forward to October 22!

Regards,
Mt. Belzoni

Date: Tues, May 28, 2013, 17:52:25 ET
Posted by: Brutus Charisma,

Nice new interview w/ Boz Scaggs. He mentions DF's love of Ray Charles.

http://ronbenningtoninterviews.com/2013/05/24/boz-scaggs/

Date: Tues, May 28, 2013, 16:28:01 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Good grief!

This is such a tough thread. I could think of maybe five or six songs that I might be OK if there wasn't time. (Viva Rock and Roll and Rhymes) but even those two are good.

Looking for assistance with managing the various resources of Dandom.com. Will post in a bit.

Thanks!

Best,

Jim

Date: Tues, May 28, 2013, 11:53:12 ET
Posted by: Whit,

Oops !

Forgot Pixeleen !!!

Date: Tues, May 28, 2013, 11:25:33 ET
Posted by: Whit,

My top picks !

Only a Fool

Alomst Gothic

Anything from T.R.S.

The Dean-thanks for the welcome

Shark De Ville-yes, this will be my 10th !!!

Date: Tues, May 28, 2013, 09:50:28 ET
Posted by: DeaconBlues16,

My top 10 Fagen solo tunes, which, as always, are subject to change

The Nightfly
Slinky Thing
I.G.Y.
The Night Belongs to Mona
Maxine
The Great Pagoda of Funn
Miss Marlene
The Goodbye Look
Snowbound
True Companion

Date: Tues, May 28, 2013, 03:26:05 ET
Posted by: Phil, Pau France

Another Dan cover, Pretzel logic by a french band: Geyster , hope you like it, btw, take the time to hear some of their songs, I'm a big fan.
Have a nice day
Philippe

Date: Mon, May 27, 2013, 19:35:07 ET
Posted by: Napoleon, U.K

Good cover of Home At Last. I'm willing to bet that the original poster who dissed it is one of the band members in the video. Oldest trick in the (Blue) book :P

Date: Mon, May 27, 2013, 17:41:54 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar. Just started. Typo not booze related

I meant "extremely"

Date: Mon, May 27, 2013, 17:40:44 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar. It's Happy Hour!

Woodrow,

I've heard MUCH worse than that. I heard a few clunkers, but it was actually not too bad.

The lead vocals were even OK, which is extrememly rare on SD covers.

Date: Mon, May 27, 2013, 17:01:46 ET
Posted by: Hophead and Danhead, Take a Walk on Peachtree

Ok, here is my crack at the top 10 DF songs:
The Nightfly
Night Belongs to Mona
Miss Marlene
Trans Island Skyway
What I Do
Florida Room
The New Breed
I.G.Y.
Security Joan
Slinky Thing

Date: Mon, May 27, 2013, 15:56:32 ET
Posted by: Woodrow Wilson, North of Hollywood

Just when you thought you'd heard the worst Dan cover...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GtCg_KO0WbU&feature=youtu.be

Date: Mon, May 27, 2013, 15:19:25 ET
Posted by: Hophead and Danhead, Atlanta

When i am engaged in conversation via text, I often couch one of my many profound musings with, "well, even Cathy Berberion knows". Its quite funny to see some of the reactions, particularly from folks I just met. Makes it easy to separate the obtuse from the enlightened though. Lol.

Date: Mon, May 27, 2013, 10:48:55 ET
Posted by: Phil, Pau

A nice David Paich interview with a few Steely Dan references:
http://jammagazineonline.com/mf201305-Toto-Interview-David-Paich-Still-Holding-The-Line-Writer-Vinny-Cecolini.aspx

Salut

Philippe

Date: Mon, May 27, 2013, 05:19:56 ET
Posted by: Shark DeVille, up on the hill

I will always love and use the Bluebook, but I decided to launch a Steely Dan message board called Sign In Stranger. It's long overdue in my opinion. I hope a bunch of you will sign in and help make it worthwhile. I'm open to any and all suggestions. Check it out.

http://signinstranger.freeforums.net/

Date: Sat, May 25, 2013, 21:15:44 ET
Posted by: lzrubbiaju, Netherlands

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Date: Sat, May 25, 2013, 19:25:24 ET
Posted by: Michael, whoops

A link would help:

http://www.songfacts.com/blog/interviews/donald_fagen/

Date: Sat, May 25, 2013, 19:25:02 ET
Posted by: Michael,

That was a superb interview. Perhaps the most informative out of all the ones I've read/heard from DF.

Also really enjoyed this one, though it's not really an interview, from Songfacts, where Donald describes his songwriting style.

Date: Sat, May 25, 2013, 18:42:27 ET
Posted by: DYLYNFAN, HARRISBURG PA

I will take a crack at mine, despite the fact a lot of Blue Bookers
like these list as much as a to-do list from there old lady.
Big Noise
Confide in Me
Green Street (10 Extras live version)
Security Joan
Miss Marlene
Memorabilia
I.G.Y.
Ruby Baby
Morph The Cat (still the best audio of any cd I have ever owned)(Fagen box set version)
Countermoon
ps: The Morph recording reminds me when Street Legal was re-issued
digitally years after the original and most (including moi) felt
it was like listening to a totally different disc. Now I have never owned anything but the box set version of Morph, so this may not be
analagous. DONE BABBLING

Date: Sat, May 25, 2013, 15:24:14 ET
Posted by: Chris, Nh

While it interests me to know exactly how the drum tracks were made for Sunken Condos -- and I think it's clear they were mostly live -- artistically, it wouldn't make a difference if they were purely programmed. The result is a warm, "hyper-real" sound that fits the music perfectly.

That said, I did enjoy seeing Keith Carlock play Weather in my Head on Letterman. But he's the best of the best.

Date: Sat, May 25, 2013, 15:10:30 ET
Posted by: eboepn/dpn, France

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Date: Sat, May 25, 2013, 14:37:23 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

tact: I know the feeling well. Excellent point. This is really illustrated by the video interview (3 part) with Michael Leonhart. The questions and flow along the tour are insightful, and it becomes a real educational experience...as was the written article.

The moral is: Keep Donald from getting bored, and you might just learn something!

Date: Sat, May 25, 2013, 13:12:08 ET
Posted by: tact, poise and reason, the service elevator

Doc Mu, big thanks for that Keyboardmag interview with DF. Excellent info. When he is interviewed by someone he considers in his league intellectually and or musically, he can really engage and provide fantastic insight. Dude was blessed with extra-terrestrial intelligence. What a shame about me.

Date: Sat, May 25, 2013, 11:38:59 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

Tope 10 Fagen songs )not recordings per se)

New Frontier
Big Noise New York
The Night Belongs to Mona
Miss Marlene
Greenflower Street
Snowbound
IGY
Slinky Thing
Great Pagoda of Funn
On the Dunes

Date: Sat, May 25, 2013, 05:55:42 ET
Posted by: fagenism, She go (I cry)

Michael League - Snarky Puppy's genius frontman - on the intro to "Skate U":

"Although the intro instantly may remind you of Steely Dan's 'FM' as it did me, Maz told me that he was trying to come up with a keyboard pattern that would be reminiscent of Skate U's infamous disco ball, forever rotating on its axis above Slim Pickins and his roller-addict friends."

Date: Sat, May 25, 2013, 03:05:57 ET
Posted by: SharkDeVille, stars back on

i love Condos. my favorites are Memorabilia, INTSWY, New Breed, and Planet D but there's not a bad track on it, really. Weather is a bit repetitive but catchy as heck. I can't call it better than Morph however, because Pagoda and Mona are quite possibly top 5 Fagen tunes for me, definitely top 10. I really love the title track as well.

welcome Whit! have you ever seen the boys live?

Date: Fri, May 24, 2013, 21:17:24 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol, Mtl

No love for Without You?

Date: Fri, May 24, 2013, 21:03:41 ET
Posted by: Abu, The same as above

I might add, that the two aforementioned faves from SC may end up cracking my Top 5 eventually. I would say they only time will tell if they will become endurable classics like the ones from The Nightfly, especially.

Our Man

Date: Fri, May 24, 2013, 20:56:43 ET
Posted by: Abu, SunkenCondoVille

Thanks for the "reviews" of Sunken Condos by DF. I agree, it is better than Morph overall. Miss Marlene and Slinky Thing are probably my two faves. Slinky has the great unique outro with the excellent harmonies by DF, three Leonharts, and Catherine Russell. I also like Planet D'Rhonda, especially the guitar work by Kurt Rosenwinkel. Certainly a very welcome edition to the Fagen & Becker complete catalog.

Now, let's name your Top 5 Fagen (solo) tunes. Here are mine:

1) The Nightfly
2) The Great Pagoda of Funn
3) The Goodbye Look
4) Maxine
5) Florida Room


Abu

Date: Fri, May 24, 2013, 19:11:59 ET
Posted by: Napoleon, U.K

For what it's worth I've not been a fan of the drum sounds from day one but, as mentioned, because the arrangements are so good, I can overlook it. I'm not bothered if they're real or not - just whether they sound/feel good.

I'm still left a little frustrated though. Some of the drum tracks sound 'clipped' or limited as though we're still waiting for the real tracks to be played in (is it a snare?, rimshot? anyone?) Very Kamikiriad...

Funnily enough, The New Breed sounds like an 8-bit version of its self. Not necessarily a bad thing.

Date: Fri, May 24, 2013, 16:22:03 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar. It's Happy Hour!

Whit, welcome to The Blue! Glad you are no longer a lurkeer.

BTW, do you have that Camarillo brillo?

Date: Fri, May 24, 2013, 15:21:35 ET
Posted by: DeaconBlues16,

The following quotes by Michael Leonhart are from this linked interview, where he answered fan questions (believe this was made possible by Fagenism; thanks).

http://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/78948039/sunken_condos_interview.pdf

"With respect to the drums on this album, we took a unique approach
to recording. The drums were all played live by yours truly
(credited to “EARL COOKE, JR.”) taking great care and time to select
just the right vintage snare, kick, hat, etc.. for each song. Donald
and I then sat and put together the ultimate hyper-real drum track
using all available modern techniques. The goal was always “hyperreal”
and never synthetic, programmed or sequenced."

"I think it’s safe to say that the use of WENDEL and other drum
machines was an expensive and time consuming affair. The results are
glorious, but Donald always prefers a “flesh and blood” drummer with
an incredible feel to a machine. Indeed, there are a handful of
great drummers out there as well as some “newbies”, and my initial
idea, as well as Donald’s, was to bring in a few drummers for the
final drum tracks. Donald had been a fan of my drum feel and sound
for many years now and said “why don’t you lay down some drum tracks
at your studio”. After hearing these initial drum tracks, Donald
said this was the sound and feel he was hoping for so we decided to
use this approach for the whole album. As stated above, the goal was
always “hyper-real” and never synthetic, programmed or sequenced."

I read those quotes, as well as the one from keyboardmag interview, as meaning Michael Leonhart really played real drums. Of course, there was editing involved, but there's been editing involved in every SD album pretty much, not to mention for other instruments on Sunken Condos as well. There was another interview I think also provided by Fagenism with Jon Herington, and he said that Sunken Condos was more of an overdub session (and I think it was Everything Must Go was more of a live band session). If the fact that the drums weren't played in a live band is what people mean by them being "fake," then the rest of the instruments on Sunken Condos weren't played in a live band setting either. So I guess the whole album is "fake." But I don't think that's the case, and even if it is, I still like it as much as I indicated I did in my previous post. As crazy as this sounds, I think that people who are clinging to this idea of the drums being "fake" had already made up their minds when they found out Keith Carlock didn't play on the album and later that "non-drummer" Michael Leonhart was credited as the drummer that the drums were fake and are too prideful (?) to accept the drums might not be fake.

But let's assume the drums are completely fake. I still wouldn't necessarily the consensus of posters on this website have a problem with the drums on the album. I personally don't; who here does? And f I did have a problem with it, I don't think the fact the drums were fake would be that problem in and of itself. The drums would have to negatively affect the song in some way for me not to like it, maybe the fact that they were fake would be the underlying reason I wouldn't hypothetically enjoy the drum track and therefore possibly the song. But I'll say that I'm sure there are songs that I don't like with drum tracks that I don't like that are played by real, live drummers.

I'll say that the drums on Sunken Condos have less memorable fills than songs on an album such as Aja, where you just can't help but "air-drumming" from time to time. But ultimately, I don't think those fills would have enhanced the songs on Sunken Condos, and I don't miss them. Donald Fagen and Michael Leonhart know what they're doing.

Date: Fri, May 24, 2013, 12:54:08 ET
Posted by: DocMu,

SJ: We don't have to scroll long in the article to find the fundamental answer:


The drum tracks are credited to “Earl Cooke Jr.,” which is actually an alias for Michael Leonhart himself. How did the trumpeter become the drummer as well?

DF: Sometimes when Michael and I were on the road, I’d hear him get behind the drums during sound check and would think, “Wow, that’s funky.” So when we first started working on the album, I said to him, ******“You have drums set up at your place. Why don’t you just play to the first couple of demos?” And they came out great. So since this particular album has more dancey kinds of grooves and didn’t require tremendous technique on the drums, I told him to keep on playing. At that point, Mike was like, “Okay, we’ll do some like this, but we’ll call in [Steely Dan drummer] Keith Carlock on some others,” but we just kept going and Mike ended up doing all of them.*****

ML: I always thought we’d bring in four or five drummers. Maybe it’s because I didn’t put a lot of pressure on the situation that I didn’t suffocate the music. I just played on some demos, and all of a sudden, we had nine finished tracks.

DF: He had an old-school groove, maybe from being a jazz player. It was just a really comfortable groove that was exactly what the music needed.



Was there some tweaking? Sure. Multiple tracks on the kit for each song? You bet. Loops? Possibly, but Don didn't get involved that much in the rhythm section post-production. They want it real and "hyper-real"

Date: Fri, May 24, 2013, 10:24:50 ET
Posted by: Whit, CamariLLo

My first posting. Been a "Dan Fan" since the mid 70's. Live in Camariilo (Parker's Band), daughter is Emily (Donald's neice's name)
Brother in law named Donald, husband's middle name is Walter..meant to be.
Going to see my boys in L.A. I know I will be in Nirvana for a few hours. Just to be there will mean worlds.

D & W...Love You So Much !!!

Date: Fri, May 24, 2013, 08:10:29 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

Security Joan wrote:
"M/O/D/P I don't think anyone (or at least me) took your comment as any manner of ridicule"

Well put, Joan. I don't think anyone actually believed M/O/P/D was ridiculing those who hadn't heard that clip--except for one individual twisting the comment to be self-serving.

If we all came here with the same knowledge there wouldn't be that much to talk about and share, would there? I actually enjoyed the responses to those who had never heard that, as it reminded me of the first time I heard it. Put a smile on my face all over again.

On a side note, typing M/O/D/P is a real pain in the neck. Why didn't I copy and paste?

Date: Fri, May 24, 2013, 00:01:24 ET
Posted by: Security Joan, AARP refuge, somewhere

M/O/D/P I don't think anyone (or at least me) took your comment as any manner of ridicule, so I think your explanation was not necessary - albeit appreciated. You are one of the more astute posters here, and quite frankly, when people post those old gems that some may not have heard, but others have heard ad infinitum, much of the fun is seeing the memories elicited in those who have heard this stuff years ago. There's a difference between when someone relates a finely textured and detailed "I heard this when...and this was my reaction" and someone who says "Whatever. Been there. Everyone else who didn't hear it before I did is a loser." You, M/O/D/P are most certainly not the latter, rest assured.

BTW, has anyone here heard of Alzheimer's, or even mid-life-memory-blitzes? Because, damn, I'm old enough that sometimes I've heard things I heard when I was 19 and exposed to them today they are completely, utterly fresh and new.... and maybe even better. So I have NO PROBLEM with old, wonderful stuff being posted and discussed anew. But maybe that's just me...

Date: Thurs, May 23, 2013, 22:31:44 ET
Posted by: M/O/D/P, Takin' the bait....again....

Perhaps I should clarify....

QUOTE: "That recording of Your Gold Teeth II is, for the record, probably the single most circulated Steely Dan "rarity" of all time".

Yup, I said that. I wasn't, however, making the statement as a way to ridicule any other posters here - especially not Security Joan, Fagenism, or Jives, all of whom I enjoy reading because they each contribute something of value to The Blue. My post was just an acknowledgement of the recording's lengthy history with fans & collectors, and its significance to myself in particular. The fact that I first heard it 34 years ago doesn't make me any better than someone who just found it, but telling the story of when I first heard it doesn't necessarily make me an "old hipster asshole" either. I appreciate the enthusiastic reactions that this version of the song can still garner, because I was there once, a long time ago, and because listening to the song still makes me smile.

Date: Thurs, May 23, 2013, 20:18:53 ET
Posted by: Security Joan, drumroll room

OK, so I was one of the people who reported (in HuffPo), based on STATEMENTS MADE IN INTERVIEWS and *direct* comments from others in the know, that Earle Cooke, Jr. was not a machine, but in fact Leonhart. Fagen had heard Michael "playing around" on drums during a tour, and liked the sound, hence why he chose him. Now, as to any manipulations or digital sequencing that may have occurred... I think that might be a question to pose directly to either DF or ML in order to clarify their process. (IMHO I think Greg M. is closest to an explanation...however I might also point out that I know of MANY drummers who aspire to "drum machine"sound, e.g. your high hat example for New Breed)However, these conversations and opinions can go on forever without resolution, so, people, let's go to them (DF/ML) to get the final horse's mouth explanation and stop beating ourselves up. First person to get a statement from one of them wins! Outside of that, it's all random conjecture.

Date: Thurs, May 23, 2013, 18:21:15 ET
Posted by: DYLYNFAN, HARRISBURG PA

Chris Partridge thinks the drums were a machine!!! That is DYLYNFAN
channeling Jim Rome. I am out!!!

Date: Thurs, May 23, 2013, 17:58:53 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

No - they're not live as a full drum kit unit, nor unedited. But layered for each track and real, not machine generated. If you want to call it a human WENDEL II then fine. The drum track on Countermoon - now that's fake.

Anyway, the groove is even more of an R&B feel than What I do. So props to Michael, however they did it.

Date: Thurs, May 23, 2013, 16:44:25 ET
Posted by: Greg M, White Plains

Wo wo wo. Let's clear this up. The drums on SC aren't 100% fake -- but they most certainly are not 100% real. There are drum loops and samples all over the album. Sometimes Mike L played a "real" fills on his small kit over a looped beat. A lot of work went into it, and its cool but it's not 100% real (or, say, "organic") by any means. Ms. Marlene may be all sampled drums. Some of the album indeed sounds like a drum machine, probably intentionally. (Check the hi hat on New Breed, for an example of that.)

Date: Thurs, May 23, 2013, 15:49:30 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

Slinky Thing, Marlene, Memorabilia, INTSWY are all classic tracks IMO. My personal favorite right now though is Good Stuff - just bad @$$ as hell with a couple of sweet instrumental bridges, one of which digs deep into Bacharach. I think Weather and Ghetto may be a little underrated. The instrumental breaks in both are worth the price of admission.


I don't think drums in SC are fake at all. Leonhart mic'ed up close to the kit in a small studio and spliced in parts (snare, hi-hat, hi hat) at a time and putting it all together. Because ML didn't record on a a big kit there's less whack reducing reverb, echo, resonance. The feel though is absolutely fantastic, laying back in the groove like a righteous Stax rhythm guy.

http://prince.org/msg/8/387319


I saw a clip of ML playing drums in the studio but can't find it now on the interwebz.

I did find a recent interview

http://www.keyboardmag.com/article/donald-fagen-inside-the-process/150863

Date: Thurs, May 23, 2013, 15:35:49 ET
Posted by: bad sneakers, pina colada

http://www.mycentraljersey.com/article/20130523/NJNEWS/305230040/NJ-29-restaurants-sold-cheap-liquor-good-stuff

Several Dangential references in one paragraph, which I highlighted in CAPS.


In one case, investigators found that a bottle was filled with a mixture of rubbing alcohol and water to give the appearance of SCOTCH WHISKY, Halfacre said. Another establishment, which was not identified, also poured DIRTY WATER, akin to river water, in a bottle and passed it off as the GOOD STUFF, authorities said. Officials said no health issues were reported.

Date: Thurs, May 23, 2013, 13:52:16 ET
Posted by: SD, Philly

So, has anything been heard through the grapevines re: a potential Beacon run? I have tickets for the Philly show, but a previous engagement may require me to unload them. I'd feel a lot better if there was at least a level of confidence that a Beacon run would occur. Also, for those of you that attended the Beacon shows in 2011, were tickets hard to acquire? Cost?

Thanks!

Date: Thurs, May 23, 2013, 11:55:06 ET
Posted by: Old Wu, Uh?

"That recording of Your Gold Teeth II is, for the record, probably the single most circulated Steely Dan "rarity" of all time"


Thanks you, M/O/D/P!

Did you read that you clueless newbies!?

Date: Thurs, May 23, 2013, 09:57:20 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

Greg and DeaconB,

Excellent summaries, I think. I think Weather was polarizing. Some really liked it, others thought it was, I guess "boring" or perhaps too simplistic for a DF song (I'm guessing a bit here as I like it a lot, but it isn't my favorite on the album). Many seemed to think it should be the 2nd single--which I suppose it kind of was.

Date: Thurs, May 23, 2013, 09:16:28 ET
Posted by: DeaconBlues16,

Re: Sunken Condos

I seem to agree with Greg M's "consensus" for the most part. Slinky Thing and Miss Marlene are my favorites, as is I'm Not the Same Without You. I like Slinky Thing the best though; I've expressed this sentiment on here before, but I think Slinky Thing is just a masterpiece, for me a top 5-10 SD/Fagen/Becker tune. And it works perfectly as a leadoff tune as well. I disagree with the apparent consensus on Weather in My Head though; I'd put it right after the three songs I've already mentioned. (Also, while I've seen some posters on here react negatively to "Weather," I've seen others strongly proclaim its merits and willing for it to be the next single). Personally, right now, I think Sunken Condos is the best SD/SD-related effort since The Nightfly and better or on par with Gaucho and Katy Lied (which are on my list after Aja, The Nightfly, Countdown to Ecstasy, and The Royal Scam). I may not feel that way in a few years though; my list is always subject to change.

But I really did like all the songs well on first hearing and still like them several months after, which isn't the case with me for all SD albums/songs (Example: it took me a long time to get into Almost Gothic, but I now think it's the best off of Two Against Nature and one of SD's best overall). My personal "least favorite" is Planet D'Rhonda, but as said before, I still really like that song. When I first heard the album, I wasn't into The New Breed very much, but now I'm tremendously into it.

Lastly, just to be clear, the drums on Sunken Condos weren't fake; they were played by Michael Leonhart under the pseudonym Earl Cooke Jr. A poster here a while back said he/she spoke to Keith Carlock, who informed that poster he wasn't involved in the recording process for Sunken Condos. Because of that, certain people were already predisposed to believe that Donald Fagen used drum machines on the album. When the album was released, people had no idea who Earl Cooke Jr was, which strengthened the assumption that drum machines were used. Then interviews started coming out, and it was revealed that Michael Leonhart played the drums. But certain posters couldn't believe that the trumpet player played the drums, and I guess have been more comfortable believing that the drums were fake. But they weren't; they were played by Michael Leonhart.

Date: Thurs, May 23, 2013, 07:56:50 ET
Posted by: Greg M, White Plains NY

Abu,

I think I can sum up the general consensus of SC as follows:

The response of us "die hards" was overwhelmingly positive. Most think that it is superior to Morph. Most have some "problems" with the fake drums, as do I at times. But overall it's a well recorded, warm and enticing album with great ideas and musicianship (obviously!).

Marlene and Slinky Thing are typically said to be the "best" tracks, with Marlene being a perhaps a "classic" on par with stuff from Nightfly. (Again this is just a consensus, I don't want to speak for everyone).

Weather and Ghetto tend to be the most disliked tracks.

And of course, most if not all of us are sad that DF did not tour to support the album.

Date: Thurs, May 23, 2013, 07:43:47 ET
Posted by: Abu, Workin' my night job, south of Hollywood

Well said, The Dean. I happen to be a Dan Fan that doesn't happen to be here all the time. In fact, it has been about two years. However, whenever I post, I use my "handle" all the time and never post anonymously. Per instructions, my first post in two years has my e-mail. Well, uh, I guess, uh, that was an apology you issued. Accepted.

It seems I missed all the discussion concerning Sunken Condos. So, people,, in a nutshell, what is the consensus? All fans, diehard or otherwise, must state your opinion on the latest DF release. For my sake, and for any others that happened to just jump in.

Abu

Date: Thurs, May 23, 2013, 02:45:51 ET
Posted by: KD, asdf

Some of us -- say, 14 years ago -- managed to take a deeper appreciation of Steely Dan to the freaking moon while listening to the "Your Gold Teeth II" outtake for the first time. Maybe off of Andy Metzger's site. Maybe because paying through the teeth, as a college freshman, was worth it to buy the CD of the demo off of the nascent eBay dot com.

Old hipster assholes who were there first will only chase new fans away. We know you heard it decades ago. Some of us weren't alive. Our job as Dan fans is to push this stuff onto anyone who will listen. To bring people into our living rooms, literally or message board-y, to demand that they hear Denny's brilliant solo and Donald's response.

Congratulations, assholes. You got to hear "Muskrat Love" before most of us as well. We're even.

Date: Wed, May 22, 2013, 23:56:09 ET
Posted by: Rasmus,

I don't like Gold Teeth II. Very un-Danlike lyrics make no sense and it has no soul. It is like a bar room song like piano man or 99 bottles of beer on the wall.

And it has nothing to do with Gold Teeth I.

Date: Wed, May 22, 2013, 21:45:42 ET
Posted by: Rasmus, Cape Henlopen

Well Mr, or Ms. UH that means you are at least 40 so act your age and not like some punk ass like that Young Wu.

Date: Wed, May 22, 2013, 21:40:08 ET
Posted by: M/O/D/P, Living in the Past

That recording of Your Gold Teeth II is, for the record, probably the single most circulated Steely Dan "rarity" of all time, but I don't think that fact diminishes its charm one little bit. Rather than use the re-posting of the recording as an excuse to gratuitously insult those who haven't been around since The Year of the Small Potato, I'd prefer to acknowledge its charm, and note that for me anyways, that charm hasn't diminished one little bit.


I first heard "Bent Over Backwards" (Katy Lied material) at the same time I heard "Rotoscope Down" (Record Plant live '74) - both were vinyl bootlegs <gasp!> owned by a friend of mine who was to say the least very enthusiastic about the music of Steely Dan. I was aware of SD at the time, but really only from their well-known radio hits. My friend raved about this band with near religious fervor, and so one evening in summer 1979 I let him try to convince me (I was really into Floyd/Zappa/Beefheart et cetera at the time). Knowing I was a collector, he played those two boots for me first. I still have a vivid memory of hearing DF's outburst for the first time.


I went out the next day and bought the first album, Countdown, Katy, & Royal Scam (I already had Aja and record club copy of Pretzel Logic). I acquired the only two Steely Dan vinyl bootlegs (at the tine, anyways) a few weeks later. To this day if you ask me what really "grabbed" me first - what "did it" for me, I would say it was those Katy Lied session recordings, and that cut in particular.

Date: Wed, May 22, 2013, 21:17:08 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

Dean: Correct, sir. the magic of multitrack recording!

Date: Wed, May 22, 2013, 20:04:50 ET
Posted by: I love Google!,

http://granatino.com/sdresource/5bent.htm

Date: Wed, May 22, 2013, 20:01:13 ET
Posted by: UH?,

My original handle on this thing is "Old Wu". I was 11 years old only when I first heard DF scream "Holy Fuck" on that boot. Do you guys know that Steely Dan went to Bard collage with Chevy Chase? Cool beans!

Date: Wed, May 22, 2013, 17:49:10 ET
Posted by: that, as well as UH being an old fossil to remember that outtake, not everyone is as old as dirt like UH!

Date: Wed, May 22, 2013, 17:45:41 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar. Still Drinkin'

There are hardcore fans here--as well as more casual fans. Old fans and newer fans. Not all people hang here all the time and see every post. Some here are completists and have bootlegs and such. Others do not--doesn't make you less of a fan if you don't collect boots, IMO.

And clearly there are kind fans, respectful of the others here, who tend to post using one username. And then there are the anon posters who make it a point to insult other posters. But the less said about them the better, I think, as I don't want to be one of them.

Date: Wed, May 22, 2013, 17:30:30 ET
Posted by: UH?,

Nope, I wasn't there. However, I purchased the bootleg album "Bent Over Backwards" in 1979. It's bee available on ebay since the Internet started. Sorry, I thought the Bluebook was made up of hardcore fans. My mistake.

Date: Wed, May 22, 2013, 08:11:26 ET
Posted by: Abu, Enthusiastic & Innocent

UH was there, incognito, with his cassette recorder. And, incognito he remains to this day.

Abu

Date: Wed, May 22, 2013, 07:28:30 ET
Posted by: Yes!, of course

Steely Dan fans (including myself) getting innocently enthusiastic about an outtake they hadn't heard before - what do they need ? To be sneered at. Only on here.

Date: Tues, May 21, 2013, 23:12:57 ET
Posted by: UH?,

That outtake of Gold Teeth 2 has been readily available and talked about for the past 30 years. Where have you people been?

Date: Tues, May 21, 2013, 22:49:29 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

Abu,

You are obviously correct. They were listening to Denny lay down the solo (or listening to it for the first time after he laid it down). The Dias solo is indeed the solo that made it to the final version. I suppose one could call the entirety of the recording an "outtake" or "alternate version"--but not the guitar solo.

Also, while this deserves to get reposted every so often to expose people who haven't had the chance to hear it, it's been posted many times here in the past, I think. I'm guessing this is where I discovered it many years ago.

Date: Tues, May 21, 2013, 21:47:08 ET
Posted by: Abu, SoCal

I'm thinking that Denny's solo was so good that they decided to use this very same solo in the final mix. My thought is this is actually not a "Demo" as entitled, but an alternate take, as the piano, bass, and guitar parts all sound very close to the final version we've all grown to love. It is unlikely that Denny could play two solos so seemingly identical. Obviously, Don was quite pleased with it. I believe they just fine-tuned the vocals, and that was it.

Abu

Date: Tues, May 21, 2013, 21:28:19 ET
Posted by: SteelyDon, Richmond

I am glad you all enjoyed the posting. I was blown away the other day when i heard it! And I actually thought it had been taking down and I was mortified. It's like being a fly on the wall as they amaze themselves as to good they can sound. I wish we had this type of insight into the birth of every song in their catalouge.

Date: Tues, May 21, 2013, 21:18:34 ET
Posted by: Jives, Glasgow

Awesome outtake.

Denny Dias...WOW!

Really sweet to hear The Don lovin'it.

Any why the hell wouldn't he?

Superb playing by Denny.

Date: Tues, May 21, 2013, 16:48:01 ET
Posted by: Security Joan, YouTube bliss

SteelyDon, I second Fagenism in thanking you for posting that link!! Wow. LOVE Donald's effusive reaction!! Proof of Dias' god-like guitar prowess. Amazing, too, that Dias' solo is an almost spot-on version of what is on the final recording.

Date: Tues, May 21, 2013, 16:34:09 ET
Posted by: Security Joan, Beautiful downtown Kensington

TY, Elgin, for posting the link to my Catherine Russell HuffPo piece, not to mention the nice compliment!) I was about to put the link up, but you beat me to the punch ;)

FYI, this was originally a bit longer, less choppy piece but due to some delays it had to be amended a few times...I have so much material and so much more to say, so I'm hoping to publish a longer piece on Cat in the near future.

Oh, and a favor to ask bluebook cohorts: Because HuffPo decides how heavily they'll promote articles on social media based on number of comments, I'm humbly encouraging people to leave comments at the end of the piece, and also to "rate" (i.e., "like") the pictures/videos in the slideshow (at bottom of article), several of which are by Pete Fogel!!

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/joan-k-smith/post_4750_b_3287673.html#slide=2454165

Date: Tues, May 21, 2013, 13:54:58 ET
Posted by: fagenism, -

SteelyDon:

Thank you so much for sharing that.

Don's reaction... That moment of musical extacy... That, my friends, is what it's all about.

What a fucking insane band.

Date: Tues, May 21, 2013, 13:20:46 ET
Posted by: Elgin, Boston

Catherine Russell: The One Singer You Need To Hear Now

Excellent piece in Huffington Post by Joan K. Smith with 1990's photos by Pete Fogel in slideshow

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/joan-k-smith/post_4750_b_3287673.html

Enjoy!

Date: Tues, May 21, 2013, 08:23:28 ET
Posted by: SteelyDon, Downtown Cannon

Not sure if anyone has posted this yet. I happened upon some new cool audio from the Jeff Porcaro rarities youtube page.

This is a demo for Your Gold Teeth 2. Donald's reaction to the guitar solo is awesome.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3fmPPnib_74

Date: Tues, May 21, 2013, 03:51:27 ET
Posted by: Abu, SD, CA

There is a new Facebook page called Steely Dan Covers, which is supposed to be posts about or concerning any cover version of an SD tune, or by Donald or Walter. Likely it will be mainly youtube vids of such songs. Feel free to post your favorite covers, and/or comment about them. Of course, feel free to give a "Thumbs up", or, "Like" the page if you are interested in such things.

Here is the page: https://www.facebook.com/SteelyDanCovers


Abu

Date: Tues, May 21, 2013, 03:05:36 ET
Posted by: Brain Strainer,

It is no doubt a dark day in the music world coincident with the passing of the great Ray Manzarek, electric bass keyboard, classical pianist/organist and musical architect of The Doors.

The Doors could do it ALL--with profound lyrics (like DF and WB) with widely varying vocal styles (DF) set to metal, psychedelia, jazz, classic blues, soul and jamming prog-type rock. Manzarek was classically trained and could play bass keyboard bass line with his left hand to accompany the melodic organ parts with his right. All of the Doors members brought exceptional talent to the table, but it was Manzarek who directed and harnessed it.

The flags will fly at half staff over the school today to honour Manzarek.

An earlier post touched on that the long version middle instrumental of "Do It Again" (1972) is similar to the same instrumental structure of the classic Doors "Light My Fire" (1967), with strong haunting psychedelic keyboards and multiple movements. Derived from might be too strong of words. But influenced by, would be a safe bet. This was the subject of a Strainer a few years ago which Doc Mu answered correctly as the "Do It Again" instrumental resembled the "plastic organ solo" of "Light My Fire". The keys on that Do It Again solo could very well have been Ray Manzarek to the casual music fan. But Dan fans know otherwise.

"Do It Again", with its "latin" groove also appears to have been influenced by the sound of another successful band by the name of Santana. DF even inflects his voice to sound like Santana's vocalist at the time, Greg Rolie who sung lead on "Evil Ways" and other tunes with a deep baritone inflection--rarely used by DF but most notably on "Do It Again".

Manzarek and the remaining Doors released an album about 7 years after Morrison's death and he incorporated Morrison's poetry. Manzarek modified the Doors sound contemporaneous with the music of that time period (late 1976-77) so it does kick. Kind of like a mash up of "Riders on the Storm" meets Boz Scaggs "Lowdown":

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y1GDP4W48FU

To paraphrase, Manzarek was an artist, a pioneer on the then New Frontier of commercial success with jazz, blues and rock fusion--all of which are the hallmarks of Steely Dan. Make no mistake though, and with deference to the Dan, The Doors got there first.

And don't forget to remember this:

"There is the Known and there is the Unknown. And in between are The Doors"......

Date: Mon, May 20, 2013, 23:08:37 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Door;

I wrote here about Ray. Ray was great but no dice on the solo.

Ray did say that the solo on Light My Fire was based on Coltrane's interpretation of My Favorite Things.

Jim

Date: Mon, May 20, 2013, 18:44:35 ET
Posted by: Door, Number Two

RIP Ray Manzarek. I think it was established here that Do It Again was derived from one of his solos.

Date: Mon, May 20, 2013, 14:33:49 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Don - I noticed that chord lacked something too. Seemed like they got most of it right; odd that they missed something that sounds so obvious to you and I.

I love The Roots though. I'd love to see Questlove play on a Steely Dan record. Talk about a deep pocket.

Date: Mon, May 20, 2013, 11:23:49 ET
Posted by: DonBreithaupt, Los Angeles

Not to nerd out, but the chord being struck in the intro of the Roots' "Black Cow" cover is missing the Bb, which changes the color substantially (fatally, I would argue!). It's supposed to be a C13sus4 with no 9th — from the bottom, C, Bb, F, A, C. Taking the Bb out makes it a garden-variety F/C, which is boooooring. There, I feel better.

Date: Sun, May 19, 2013, 23:05:28 ET
Posted by: Jim Taylor, Hello Baton Rouge

@ Steve Gennarelli: The only thing I know about their taste in Sci Fi is an interview where Donald talked about Robert Heinlein. I don't remeber the article that you reference... That's Old School classic SF: Asimov, Pohl, Niven, Herbert, etc.... I am sure they, just like me, were excited to see a network Sci Fi series.

Date: Sun, May 19, 2013, 20:05:44 ET
Posted by: hoops, finally back home in chicago, at my favorite kinko's

Well, "Friday" was a long time coming, wasn't it? Thanks for your patience with the extended period of spam. Thanks Doc...John Cleese, too.

Finally on a summer calendar as of today. Looking forward to getting caught up here.

Best wishes, and, again, many thanks,

Jim

Date: Sun, May 19, 2013, 19:09:11 ET
Posted by: Steve Gennarelli, Tampa FL

I remember Don's website had an essay awhile ago about the Golden Age of Sci-Fi. I wonder if Don/and or Walt were fans of "Star Trek" when it came out in the 60's ? I ask this as I saw "Star Trek Into Darkness" this weekend and just wondered if the boys were Trekkies just like me.

Date: Sat, May 18, 2013, 10:05:18 ET
Posted by: John Cleese, here

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M_eYSuPKP3Y

Date: Fri, May 17, 2013, 22:49:44 ET
Posted by: Michael,

That 8-bit cover of Almost Gothic is a knockout! (I've always loved video game music; some of the most talented composers IMO.) This sounds sort of reminiscent of (16-bit) Sega Genesis music, but with 8-bit NES sounds mixed in. Superb!

Date: Thurs, May 16, 2013, 09:43:18 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

Richard, thanks for the link to the Black Cow cover on Fallon.

The Roots effort was workmanlike for the most part, with the exception of the jazzy conclusion. Instrumentally it was very good. OTOH, Bilal was struggling worse than Don to hit the notes. And his scatting at the end was something out of a Saturday Night Live skit. Of course, I think there are only a handful of performers who should even attempt to scat sing. It would have been better as an instrumental, IMO.

Did the Roots' singer look a bit odd just standing there? I kept thinking he was going to join in---but no. He just stood there.

Date: Thurs, May 16, 2013, 07:12:24 ET
Posted by: Richard, Bristol, UK

Not sure if this has been posted but here are The Roots and Bilal doing a cover of Black Cow as a warm up on the Fallon show

http://www.okayplayer.com/news/bilal-the-roots-on-late-night-with-jimmy-fallon-video.html

I am sure there will be plenty of comments but I like it - nice to see a twist on the Aja opener

Richard

Date: Thurs, May 16, 2013, 00:16:29 ET
Posted by: Shangri-la, Direct from Lhasa

From Kings: "He meant to shine..."


From the Becker/Fagen-penned Streisand ditty I Mean to Shine: "I mean to shine..."

Identical? Nope, but close enough for the proverbial cigar.

Date: Wed, May 15, 2013, 23:45:26 ET
Posted by: Sam35,

Need more hints about recycle wording on Kings. Spent 2 or 3 hours looking stuff up.

Date: Wed, May 15, 2013, 18:52:39 ET
Posted by: Greg M, NY

That 8-bit version of Almost Gothic is outstanding. Actually gave me a whole new appreciation of that song (and it's already my favorite on 2vN) Thanks for that.

Date: Wed, May 15, 2013, 18:28:42 ET
Posted by: tripstar, somewhere up there

https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=P3rYq_nASAY#!

The 1957 Tail-Fin Fiasco guys have opened a 'tube account and uploaded their first "single", "Postcards From The Boys". This sounds a bit Kinks-y to me, has a great guitar solo and their choice of video is rather interesting. Hope they'll post more of their tunes. Enjoy.

Date: Wed, May 15, 2013, 16:32:19 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

Brain: Nah. The Blue Note recordings with Rudy Van Gelder at the knobs.

D&W I think actually attempted the spirit of this approach on KL. Record the core band segments in a few weeks. A couple of finishing touches. Get the *** out.

After the NR fiasco and before they knew it, the musicians were playing to "clicks" rather than bandmates.

Date: Wed, May 15, 2013, 10:55:23 ET
Posted by: Trivia, Q

re: Don & Walt recycling. They were already recycling lyrics on CBAT with Kings. Name the song (hint: it was an official release and not a demo.)

Date: Wed, May 15, 2013, 09:53:09 ET
Posted by: fagenism, -

Insane 8-bit cover of Almost Gothic; can we show this kid some love?

http://youtu.be/rbLCH2sSD_0

Date: Wed, May 15, 2013, 09:36:46 ET
Posted by: Brain Strainer,

@Doc Mu

Great article. Haven't ween anything like it in quite some time and it should be put into CREEM magazine.

I think I got the gist of it which is the live playing of recent years and changes in musical relationships with the SD session players contributed to the less sterile "live" sound no doubt apparent on SC. Hoping that some more let it rip jammin' improvisation will be done on the 2013 tour as one of the "surprises" that have been stated.

What is the "Blue Note" approach? What if anything does it have to do with Harold Melvin?

Date: Wed, May 15, 2013, 08:50:59 ET
Posted by: Phil, Pau

Hi folks, for a bit of Dangential music, try this:
https://itunes.apple.com/fr/album/aor/id632724268

Ed Motta's new album, a sort of Boz Scaggs (Lowdown) , Steely Dan from time to time, or Pages (anyone knows them here, three gorgeous albums before they changed their name into Mister Mister ?) with a Brazilian touch.
Enjoy the music
Philippe

Date: Tues, May 14, 2013, 23:48:01 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

Hmmmmm

There is a post of Barclay's construction of the new Arena dated April 15, 2012 on the NY Masters' Facebook page.

The article on the Brooklyn Nets NBA page is from 2011.

But just a bit more sleuthing, reveals the Masters' Jumping Event is now scheduled, October 3-6 at the Meadowlands Arena!

http://www.mastersgrandslam.com/fr/index.html

Date: Tues, May 14, 2013, 23:01:43 ET
Posted by: DocMu,

The opposite of an aerial view.


The Katy Lied sessions began with Walter and Donald disgusted from a lengthy and gnarly tour where their perfectionist qualities and sensibilities were frayed by bludgeoning through Reelin' even with a crack ensemble. So they gave Skunk, Hodder and part of the live band their walking papers, kept newbie and soon to be Doobie Michael McDonald chained up as their wind-up background singer with young Jeff Porcaro as the man behind the kit. So the Dan truly entered their hunkered down studio phase.

The album was recorded in very high fidelity with the best microphones and an ensemble or crack session players playing arguably Steely Dan's finest songs. Chuck Rainey laid down the bottom. The outtakes reveal some fab interaction between Rainey and Porcaro. Michael Omartian was the musical director, chart recorder, and held down the Rhodes with Donald. The core was recorded as a live band with nominal overdubs. Once perfection was achieved, it wasn't enough for the Dysphoric Duo - and the noise reduction snafu left Katy Lied as a damaged masterpiece... with live feel and vibe were completely mutated into muffled studio slickness.


By the time Sunken Sondos was recorded Steely Dan and Donald had become primarily live performance troubadours with nationwide and worldwide sojourns, where Feel and a dinner with soul replace the search for perfection. A performance vibe began to slowly permeate their scattered albums from the sterile, sci-fi whine of Kamakiriad to the jump playbox thrashing of 11 Tracks of Whack to the smooth retsina and full Steely Dan orchestra stylings of Two Against Nature to more streamlined live tracking of Everything Must Go... and then the solo efforts: Morph the Cat and Circus Money - where the approach more personal and emphasized sounding good.

With the girls throwing Roses on the Dukes of September tours, Fagen slowly put the live sound on an album that ironically was rarely live tracked and emerged from the bowels of Garage Band. Donald and Michael Leonart then patchworked together, with a group of their loyal live bandmates almost bar by bar, a quilt that best reflected the spirit and energy of their better live performances...of anything they've done since Countdown to Ectasy.

So that's the irony. Donald creates a true studio entity that captures the spirit and joy of playing live. The most immediate, hip, relevant, snappy, and charming album since The Nightfly. The upbeat vibe that permeates the recordings - a product of professional performers donating their best to a friend, relishing their role on each take...rather that the optimism of a youthful, if ironic, outlook played by well-compensated studio aces on the Nightfly...and that Blue Note approach nearly realized with that crack studio ensemble all those years ago on Katy.



Sunken Condos - a real treasure worthy of placement among the best of their discography.

Date: Tues, May 14, 2013, 22:33:40 ET
Posted by: Hmmmmm...., --

http://www.barclayscenter.com/events/ny-masters/

"Page Not Found"


Hmmmmmm....

Date: Tues, May 14, 2013, 22:30:26 ET
Posted by: Hmmm..., -

That masters stuff on the Nets page is from 2011. Nothing on the Barclays site.
Hmmm...

Date: Tues, May 14, 2013, 22:14:25 ET
Posted by: josh,

Doc Mu

Two months ago you said you that Sunken Condos was the opposite of Katy Lied? Is that possible?

Date: Tues, May 14, 2013, 21:44:29 ET
Posted by: DocMu,

HDF: Yeah, I could have grabbed a couple during the first few days. Bass is a great venue and it will be a fabulous night. One of the kids is heading out of state to college and I should be back, but didn't want to commit.


Here's an interesting take on Aja by the fusion band Freek Johnson. There's some Jaco action on bass with the guitar switching from a Metheny vibe to Allan Holdsworth-lite. Not bad,


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

Chord progressions with a taste of Deacon Blues

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kZ2N4PWi-_8

Date: Tues, May 14, 2013, 21:35:43 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, SoBe

"Donald Fagen To Take The Amazing Randy Million Dollar Challenge"

Donald Fagen releases new solo project names it "Sunken Condos"

It contains "Weather In My Head".

Superstorm "Sandy" hits.

And now,

"Have seen the memorabilia?"

"The rusty old memorabilia"

"That Kobe's Mom wants to sell"

http://www.randi.org/site/index.php/1m-challenge.html

Date: Tues, May 14, 2013, 15:57:59 ET
Posted by: Eric Woolfson, RIP

Are they playing AT the Pyramids, or they are covering the Alan Parsons Project song Pyramania?

Date: Tues, May 14, 2013, 12:20:13 ET
Posted by: It will be good, I guarantee it!,

Whether it is Barclay, Beacon or the Met Opera House, there will be shows. And they will be the best setlists. There will be changes you have never seen before. Start figuring out the ways and means and whatever you need to do to get to the NYC area around late September or early October. Start saving up NOW! If you save about 100 to 150 bucks a month that will probably be enough.

Date: Mon, May 13, 2013, 21:00:44 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

kzkzkz,

You are correct, not listed on Barclay's site. But is listed on NY Masters' Facebook page and oddly enough, on the Brooklyn Nets' NBA.com page:

https://www.facebook.com/pages/New-York-Masters/231443860256206

http://www.nba.com/nets/brooklyn/NYMasters_Release_111201.html


And if someone can pinpoint the exact pyramid in question, I think the discussion of seating options is perfect fodder for a Steely Dan board. Even more so, if they played the pyramids regularly in the past.

Date: Mon, May 13, 2013, 20:58:35 ET
Posted by: Ted,

Steelydoc Bad move. I was just about to donate $1,000 to the "Save Doc Bogaski" Foundation. You blew it.

Date: Mon, May 13, 2013, 20:40:55 ET
Posted by: kzkzkz, Brooklyn?

http://www.barclayscenter.com/events/index/15

The official Barclays Center event schedule has nothing listed, horses or concerts so far for those dates posted below.

Man would I love to see The Donald , Walter & Co. play at say...Carnegie Hall!! Unfortunatly they would have to play a show or two before the official season there opens in the beginning of October.

One can dream.

Date: Mon, May 13, 2013, 14:52:13 ET
Posted by: Stop, It

They are playing the Egyptian pyramids in November. Let's discuss the configurations.

Date: Mon, May 13, 2013, 14:18:47 ET
Posted by: Lon, F

Further research...

"The micro theater � created with a specially designed curtain system � can seat between 4,000 and 6,000 guests. The full arena seats 18,200 for basketball games and up to 19,000 for larger concerts."

Date: Mon, May 13, 2013, 14:09:43 ET
Posted by: steelydoc, near the Tower

Lon, their website made it seem like a separate theater, I can't confirm...check their site...but you sound like you might be right, they used to cut down the old spectrum in Philly like that...

Date: Mon, May 13, 2013, 13:52:59 ET
Posted by: Lon, F

Is this Barclays "theater" really just a half house configuration?

http://www.stubhub.com/rodriguez-tickets/rodriguez-brooklyn-barclays-center-9-10-2013-4259420/

Date: Mon, May 13, 2013, 13:48:57 ET
Posted by: HouDanFan, Houston

Unable to get tix for Austin's Bass Center. Nothing available so I'm assuming its sold out. I have been to several shows in the past where I've purchased tix upfront for close to face but have to wait till an hour before the show.

Date: Mon, May 13, 2013, 10:47:37 ET
Posted by: steelydoc, near the Tower

the Barclays Center has a smaller theater in the complex called the Cushman/Wakefield Theater...it can be configured from 3500-6000 seats...

Date: Mon, May 13, 2013, 09:25:26 ET
Posted by: NY Masters, is

Some kind of horse/equestrian thing.

Date: Mon, May 13, 2013, 08:32:40 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

While I certainly can't confirm the Brooklyn show, I can say the start time for the event booked for the Barclay on October 4th is TBA. What in the world is "NY Masters" anyway?

So I suppose it is possible that event is in the daytime.

Date: Mon, May 13, 2013, 00:40:43 ET
Posted by: Chris, Philly

http://www.ticketliquidator.com/tix/barclays-center-vv-tickets.aspx

Shows an event already planned for October 4th.

Date: Sun, May 12, 2013, 23:40:59 ET
Posted by: Santa, North Pole

Friday & Saturday, October 4 & 5, 2013
Barclays Center, Brooklyn, NY

Date: Sun, May 12, 2013, 12:16:08 ET
Posted by: JT Combs, London

I see the 1957 Tail-Fin Fiasco follow the Dandom on twitter... They can be reached @tailfinfiasco

They seem to keep quite a low profile

Date: Sat, May 11, 2013, 21:43:39 ET
Posted by: Ned, .

They are known for obscure lyrics, but perhaps their most explicit lyric that couldn't possibly be misinterpreted is a declaration that they sell programs at Steely Dan concerts. Furthermore, you better fucking buy one.

Date: Sat, May 11, 2013, 21:29:39 ET
Posted by: Patrick, San Francisco

The reason Steely Dan doesn't sell any programs at their concerts is probably because they aren't producing any new recordings. If they had a new CD out then they might offer a program to help promote it. Anyway, the programs I do see at other shows I attend are always overpriced and just full of useless photos.

Date: Sat, May 11, 2013, 14:04:55 ET
Posted by: DocMu, throw back the little ones

Walter and donald never had a good idea they couldn't recycle.


"Dog eat dog" also shows up on Cringemaker:


"In the beginning we rode high on the hog
Down in the kitchen now it's dog eat dog"

Date: Sat, May 11, 2013, 13:53:02 ET
Posted by: DocMu,

Yep.

cocaine + celebrity (real or another Saturday night) + LA = We're a star

Date: Sat, May 11, 2013, 13:03:49 ET
Posted by: Diane D., Orlando

Thanks for the info, guys. Just wondering aloud but why no programs? They're not the most commercial band I know, but .... I guess I'll have to settle for (another) t-shirt? They do sell those, right? ;-)

Date: Sat, May 11, 2013, 10:22:26 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

Mojo,

The last time I heard Walk/Talk It, was forever ago. Thanks for the tip.

Date: Sat, May 11, 2013, 04:16:20 ET
Posted by: Jazzassin,

From over here where english is not the native tongue, I can report having heard a party attendant sing along, loud and clear, on "Are you ringin' in the ears".

Date: Sat, May 11, 2013, 02:57:04 ET
Posted by: DanFan, Florida

I think it would be cool if they booked a few gigs @ Radio City.

Date: Sat, May 11, 2013, 01:42:44 ET
Posted by: cjmanbqzbx, Belgium

fwcsdeboepn, http://www.ntridjjuuo.com vvnrmkumvs

Date: Fri, May 10, 2013, 23:51:40 ET
Posted by: Mojo Hand,

@The Dean

Check out "Dog Eat Dog" off the You Gotta Walk It soundtrack. It's on Amazon/youtube. Fagen's voicing of that line cracks me up - doggy doggy dawg!

Really, "we're a star"?? This changes everything =)

Date: Fri, May 10, 2013, 22:21:00 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

Hoops, then Jack, then Jive are all about the blow. we're a star.

Date: Fri, May 10, 2013, 21:03:23 ET
Posted by: Hutch,

In the early eighties a bass player friend of mine was in a popular bar band here in town. They did some SD in their sets.
He told me that one night during a break someone asked him if they could play "Hey" by Steely Dan. James said he'd never heard that one. The guy looked at him and said, "You know, 'Hey, it'll come back to you'".

Date: Fri, May 10, 2013, 21:01:32 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Happy Friday everyone�

Regarding Beacon Shows: The masturbatory ethos of BlueBook is such that everyone is welcomed and, moreover, encouraged to indulge in the salacious self-pleasure of Steely Dan fantasies of the wildest degree. Even our lurkers are really voyeurs. So keep showing off those big dreams of NYC shows.

But for those who happen upon our little nest in search of definitive 2013 NYC shows info, it must be said that there is none to be seen here.

IMHO, I won't rule out NYC shows, nor do I have them at the front of my mind. After not seeing NYC dates on The Big Concert Date Release Day, I've kinda felt that this will be either like 1994--no NYC dates--or, what, 2007 and 2009?--when they added some shows in October, November and December when they played some dates around the NYC home base after the headiness of the main leg of the tour had passed.

As far as the Beacon, Irving Azoff and Live Nation, Azoff cashed out of Live Nation last December 31st to focus on artist management. Who knows what really goes on--well, at least I don't--but the same parties that own and operate The Beacon also own and operate the Chicago Theatre. Yet, in the past three years, Steely Dan and the Dukes bypassed the Chicago Theatre to play the not-for-profit Ravina Festival. With the shuffle at Live Nation, Front Line, and Azoff's new management company, my speculation is that SD is, if anything, less likely to play The Beacon. Maybe they will, maybe they won't. My two favorite stands of Modern Steely Dan concerts were at Roseland. But I've aged ten years, so I hope any Roseland shows offer chiropractic and massage services in the lobby.

K.D.: I'm flattered that you think I'm sufficiently organized and flush with time to strategically monitor and track this place with such detail and aplomb. Shucks.

Bestees.

Jim

Date: Fri, May 10, 2013, 19:35:50 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar. It's Happy Hour!

Mojo,

"Dog eat Dog eat Dog" vs "Doggy Doggy Dawg"

?????????

What song are either from? Something unreleased? I can't seem to place it.

And I'm fairly certain it's "We're a star"

Date: Fri, May 10, 2013, 18:49:01 ET
Posted by: Mojo Hand,

Here's some more of my misheard lyrics:


"Send in Mojo" vs "Semi Mojo"

"For a buck he wouldn't do" vs "For a monkey woman to do"

"Your Asian bride" vs "Eurasian bride"

"Reelin' in the East" vs "Reeling in the years" (don't ask)

"Break away, just when it seems ok" vs "Break away, just when it seems so clear"

"Bring out the past" vs "Ring out the past"

"Dog eat Dog eat Dog" vs "Doggy Doggy Dawg"

"Be very very quiet" vs "Be wery wery quiet" (Elmer Fudd?)

------------
anyways, are the steelydan.com lyrics even correct?

Check out the line from Glamour Profession. Pretty sure it IS NOT "we're a star" wtf - it's WHAT A STAR

Date: Fri, May 10, 2013, 17:45:07 ET
Posted by: Steve Gennarelli, Tampa FL

There have also been some nice Ballcaps, keychains, a cool Sweatshirt for the '03 EMG tour...

Date: Fri, May 10, 2013, 15:05:39 ET
Posted by: Beast w/o A Program, NW NJ

Diane,

No programs since the 2vN tour in 2000. Programs were only ever sold during the Citizen Steely Dan 94, Art Crimes Europe 96 and finally the Y2K outings.

Beast

Date: Fri, May 10, 2013, 14:32:25 ET
Posted by: tom, texastexas

does anyone have Austin tx tickets for sale?

Date: Fri, May 10, 2013, 13:53:52 ET
Posted by: Flipkid, Lovely Island

Diane D:

I have seen t-shirts and other tchotchkes the past few tours, but no tour books.

Date: Fri, May 10, 2013, 13:26:24 ET
Posted by: Ted, Not so fast...

Roseland is a great. Though SD has a lot of fans over 50 that don't want to stand in mosh pit for over three hours.

Date: Fri, May 10, 2013, 13:13:06 ET
Posted by: Diane D., Orlando

Hey, for those of you that have been to see the Dan on recent tours - do they sell tour programs at the shows? How much do they usually cost? Any other merch like coffee mugs, etc.?
Thanks in advance.

Date: Fri, May 10, 2013, 12:53:06 ET
Posted by: Aja1, Newton

Definitely thought it was "send in" not sure how I feel about this apparent error.

Date: Fri, May 10, 2013, 12:32:33 ET
Posted by: That Guy, Austin

"does anyone have Austin tx tickets for sale?"

Have you tried the web site?

Date: Fri, May 10, 2013, 11:52:25 ET
Posted by: Mojo Hand, ds

So 20 years later.. I get surprised by a lyric on the SD site.


Is it really "semi mojo"?

Always heard, "send in Mojo" - kinda pictured Mojo as an oddjob type character. Send in Mojo!

Date: Fri, May 10, 2013, 11:21:28 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, SoBe

Not So fast Ted.....

The 2011 Beacon dates were announced WAY later
after all of the other shows had been on sale
for quite some time. Much to the chagrin of
some of us here that year.

Expect NYC shows. I just hope they are at
Roseland! Probably not going to happen but
it sure would be nice.

Date: Fri, May 10, 2013, 10:48:35 ET
Posted by: tom, texastexas

does anyone have Austin tx tickets for sale?

Date: Fri, May 10, 2013, 10:46:39 ET
Posted by: tom, texastexas

Date: Fri, May 10, 2013, 09:00:51 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

Thanks for clearing that up, SBK. I thought there was some association there. Does this open up the possibility of other venues in NYC? I know many complained about the Beacon--but I think that was before the renovation.

Date: Fri, May 10, 2013, 08:13:24 ET
Posted by: Show Biz, Kids

"I seem to recall Irving Azoff's Live Nation had some sort of stake in the Beacon in the past. Is that still the case?"


Actually the other way around. The company that owns the Beacon and various other venues bought a stake in Front Line Management, Azoff's company. Live Nation bought them out on 2011.

http://www.billboard.com/biz/articles/news/touring/1179363/exclusive-irving-azoff-talks-live-nations-purchase-of-front-line

Date: Fri, May 10, 2013, 07:36:23 ET
Posted by: Michael, @f u serious?

"Michael was bad when he thought Pugwash was original. And now this? I don't know which is worse."

Excuse me but I didn't claim Pugwash was original, only that they write good music.

Also, I wasn't the one who brought up that other group. I don't even like them.

Date: Thurs, May 09, 2013, 21:43:52 ET
Posted by: Jim Taylor, Hello Baton Rouge

On the other hand, we could have a pool. The closest guess to when the Beacon dates are announced (Example: May 18 @ 10:00 A.M.)wins... the undying admiration of the Blue and a free beer at the ensuing Danfest! I mean, I am still waiting for the announcement of when the Memphis Mud Island Ampitheater Tickets go on sale, for crying out loud... And I KNOW they are playing there...

Date: Thurs, May 09, 2013, 21:29:56 ET
Posted by: Jim Taylor, Hello Baton Rouge

@ Elgin: The Alterman quote that Catherine Russell "stole the show" was a reference "stolen" from my review of the Gulf Shores Dukes' show right here on The Blue, LOL! In all seriousness, she really is magnificent, and I look forward to seeing how she is featured on this tour. I was very fond of her singing on "American Lovers." Not a "Dan" tune, but still very nice!

Date: Thurs, May 09, 2013, 21:27:53 ET
Posted by: Ted, Not so fast...

The big difference between the 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011 tours and this one is that those other Beacon shows were announced from the very beginning with all the other US dates....something to think about.

Date: Thurs, May 09, 2013, 20:46:18 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

I would suspect, with dates still to fill on the tour, that NYC is as close to a shoe-in as their is. I wonder who here would bet against it.

Now, the Beacon isn't the only venue in The City where SD can play. I seem to recall Irving Azoff's Live Nation had some sort of stake in the Beacon in the past. Is that still the case? If it is, then the Beacon is likely a good bet, too.

Date: Thurs, May 09, 2013, 20:25:00 ET
Posted by: G$, re Beacon

You look at 1994; we'll look at 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011. =)

poor roseland...

Date: Thurs, May 09, 2013, 20:22:18 ET
Posted by: oddsmaker, vegas

There is an 85% or better chance there will be Beacon shows. Reason being though they missed NYC in 94, NYC was included on eight other tours, counting the NY Rock and Soul Revue. There is too much money from Beacon shows to leave on the table. You can bet the house on it.

Date: Thurs, May 09, 2013, 20:04:26 ET
Posted by: ted,

"Beacon shows are pretty much guaranteed. We just don't know how many"

What am I missing here? Has anybody from the SD camp made any acknowledgement that the Beacon shows are going to happen? Why is everybody here so sure about it? I mean, they skipped NYC in 1994. They could skip it again.

Date: Thurs, May 09, 2013, 12:53:26 ET
Posted by: r u serious?,

Brian Wilson? That guy is nuts. And McCartney. And these guys are somehow related to the sound of Steely Dan?

Michael was bad when he thought Pugwash was original. And now this? I don't know which is worse.

Date: Thurs, May 09, 2013, 10:49:28 ET
Posted by: Citizan Wilson, On the Beach, Boy

Brian

Date: Thurs, May 09, 2013, 10:46:59 ET
Posted by: kane,

Channels which Wilson? Al? Jackie? Nancy? Pickett? Phillips?

Date: Thurs, May 09, 2013, 08:04:57 ET
Posted by: Michael, @Eurolurker

"...effortlessly channels Wilson and McCartney," huh? He sounds a lot closer to Elvis Costello to me. Definitely nothing like Steely Dan. The lame lyrics really bother me. Almost as bad as Al Jarreau.

Date: Wed, May 08, 2013, 20:30:05 ET
Posted by: Ronan71,

Beacon shows are pretty much guaranteed. We just don't know how many.

Date: Wed, May 08, 2013, 14:03:09 ET
Posted by: Eurolurker, Been a long time

Mu, delighted to see you like Duckworth Lewis Method (even if the subtleties of cricket might be lost on most of you in the US). Two fine Irish songwriters. Ben Folds covered Neil Hannon's "Songs of Love" on SuperSunnySpeedGraphic (I think).
A band I think you'd love is The Pearlfishers (a Scottish guy called David Scott, who effortlessly channels Wilson and McCartney). Try "I Can't Believe You Met Nancy", "Todd is God" or "My Dad The Weatherfan" from his Sky Meadows album.

Date: Wed, May 08, 2013, 10:39:30 ET
Posted by: ted,

Justin V. - One question: What Beacon show?

Date: Tues, May 07, 2013, 21:25:02 ET
Posted by: Justin V,

To Dave in Phila.

Just go to the Beacon which is not that far for you. Better than being bitten by bugs and sweating ur ass off. And probably a better set list.

Date: Tues, May 07, 2013, 19:21:36 ET
Posted by: Dave (from acquisitions), Philadelphia

To answer everyone's questions, I (and my whole crew) just prefer the Tower to any other venue. I saw David Byrne at the tower in '09 (greatest live show i've ever seen) then went to see him again when he came back around later that year (at the mann) and it was a huge letdown. There is almost no shelter at the mann and Philadelphia weather can be crazy, September being no exception to spontaneous downpours or overbearing heat. Bowie didn't choose to record at the Mann, the Dead didn't play the mann 40 times, where's all this mann love coming from? When I go to a Dan show i want great sound and a dark, intimate venue, hence my love for the tower, we've seen them there about 5 times though so no bid deal. Unrelated, does anyone listen to the Crystal Skulls? Definite Dan influence there.

Date: Tues, May 07, 2013, 01:29:30 ET
Posted by: Lutz , SF

Pat Metheny was already too big and not such a good fit, imo, to share the stage with more guitar players and two bosses.
He always has a lot of stuff in the pipeline and has been selling lots of concert tickets to his own shows for over 30 years now.

Other than him, who else did not go on tour with SD and instead decided to delve deeper into jazz?

Date: Mon, May 06, 2013, 22:31:22 ET
Posted by: Ken C., Troy Hills

All signs so far seem to be that the best advice would be to hold off and wait until the Beacon shows are announced. You will have to pay more but with four or five shows to choose from you will be guaranteed to get a better choice of set lists. If you are poor or can't get off from work to travel you will not get the variety of songs that the Beacon shows give you. I saw that there were some $35 tickets out there at other places. For that low of a price any set list would be acceptable. If people can't afford that they must have serious money problems.

Date: Mon, May 06, 2013, 21:10:03 ET
Posted by: Bruce B, Santa Barbara

I would love to see Pat Metheny do a "tribute" album of Steely Dan tunes. Sadly, I looked at his website and it appears he's releasing an album of compositions by John Zorn.

Date: Mon, May 06, 2013, 20:51:55 ET
Posted by: Beast w/o A Name, NW NJ

Chris from nh,

Did not mean to imply that playing rarities does not interest d+w. On the contrary, they truly seemed to enjoy playing that special show for the die-hards like me. Walter even walked over to Jon Herington to give him a congratulatory handshake for a job well done as music director.

I'm simply hoping for a new hook to draw me back to another wallet-busting night out in NYC with my favorite composers, arrangers and the very talented musicians who play their tunes.

Beast

Date: Mon, May 06, 2013, 20:44:33 ET
Posted by: Beast w/o A Name, NW NJ

Pat Metheny out of the office: good one.

Back in the 80s, I lived in Boston and a friend of mine told me that Pat Metheny's phone number was in the local phone book of all places. One day we called and got the answering machine. On it was a message very similar to the one you just posted.

Sorry you can't make it, "Pat."

Good one.

Beast

Date: Mon, May 06, 2013, 17:01:21 ET
Posted by: Pat Metheny, is out of the office

Hi, you've reached the autoreply inbox of Pat Metheny. I am currently out of the office and unavailable to joint the Steely Dan tour for "a few songs each night." I've checked, and Steve Lukather is available.




Okay, if you're a denizen of the Blue and that didn't make you chuckle, please seek help.

Date: Mon, May 06, 2013, 12:56:01 ET
Posted by: Elgin, Boston

Catherine Russell reviewed in The Nation by Eric Alterman with shout outs to Steely Dan and Dukes of September~!

Alter-reviews: Catherine Russell
I went to Jazz@Lincoln Center on consecutive evenings last weekend. Friday night, at the club, Dizzy�s, I caught one of my favorite female singers, Catherine Russell, with her band, doing a jazz and blues set. (Catherine is also top-tier backup singer for bands like Bowie�s and Steely Dan.) The daughter of Luis Russell, was Louis Armstrong's long-time musical director, she sure is schooled in the history of the music, and picks out chestnuts from the past which you can�t believe you�ve not heard before. She makes them her own, at least as far as I can tell, being unfamiliar with the originals, but they sure do sound great with her band (and of course, against the background of Columbus Circle at Dizzy�s). I first discovered her because Terry Gross is a big fan and then I caught her singing with the Donald Fagen/Boz Scaggs/Michael MacDonald band, where she pretty much stole the show. See the woman if you can, or at least check out her cds.

http://bit.ly/165LNXl

Looking forward to seeing Cat on SD/Mood Swings Tour this summer.

Date: Mon, May 06, 2013, 12:06:26 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Another hint that some special shows may be coming: the Web Drone has added an extra row to the list of dates with "..." under date, city, and venue and TBA under tickets.

Of course, this could simply mean additional non-special shows. But given the pattern of announcements for the last few tours I remain cautiously optimistic.

I'll be hitting up a show or two regardless, but I am waiting to see if special shows are announced to help me decide which ones. My feeling is that there will be a can't-miss show at the Beacon that I'll have no choice but to attend and I'll grab some nosebleeds to a Wang show if I can afford it at the last minute. If no big Beacon shows, I'll probably end up doing both nights at the Wang.

Beast w/o a Name - that's an interesting idea, a night of covers? But isn't that what the Dukes are for? I've yet to hit up a Dukes show because I can only spend Steely Dan show money on Steely Dan shows. I'd like to see the band have a good time. But I want to see Steely Dan play Steely Dan.

It's interesting that you mention the "rarities" night might not have been something they had fun doing. It seemed to me that Fagen was having a blast on all the rare tunes -- there was some pretty intense head bopping and "yeah" yelling during the Second Arrangement, and he specifically announced that This All Too Mobile Home was what they wanted to do (in response to audience requests, which included my own for Kulee Baba.)

Date: Mon, May 06, 2013, 10:13:57 ET
Posted by: Beast w/o A Name, NW NJ

How's about some ideas for the special setlist shows ?

I'm surprised that in the midst of all the setlist / ticket price talk regarding the current tour, that not a lot of talk has turned to the subject of what SD might do to have a different kind of draw for their local and most loyal fans at the presumed run at the Beacon.

I thought that Shakedown Street was an inspired choice for the Dukes tour in 2010. I'd like to see SD tackle some interesting covers during their Beacon run - covers of familiar songs of their contemporaries. Who wouldn't like to see them do Joni Mitchell's Car On A Hill or Just Like This Train ? Perhaps a Dylan song. Or them returning the favor to Joe Jackson, who has covered SD no shortage of times. Or The Band ? We all know that D + W love Jazz and those artists who have most influenced them. It would be a treat to see on display their love for whatever current artists they might enjoy as well. Ben Folds anyone ? Not that he's so current.

Now that I've seen rarities night in 2011, I'd love to see them do something new that interests them. That would be exciting.

What about Pat Metheny doing a guest spot for a few songs each night ?

Another poster recently said that they would wait to see a setlist prior to buying a ticket. I'm in the same boat. Money is hard to come by and hold onto. These guys are clearly worth it every time, but I've also seen every single tour since 1993, except the 2008 Think Fast outing. All were great shows - each and every one a significant event for a rabid SD fan, though some were clearly better than others.

Let the suggestions fly forth....

Beast

Date: Mon, May 06, 2013, 08:17:34 ET
Posted by: wedding planner,

Why not use Hold onto that Slinky Thing for the dance?

Date: Mon, May 06, 2013, 04:48:16 ET
Posted by: Jim Taylor, Hello Baton Rouge

@ "Have Dan," I hope you have some fresh cable and 15 watt bulbs.

Date: Mon, May 06, 2013, 04:42:47 ET
Posted by: Jim Taylor, Hello Baton Rouge

Thanks for that info Almost Gothic Negative Girl, I am just now recovering from a day at the New Orleans Jazz Fest. Dangentially, I saw Wayne Shorter. UnDangentially, I also saw The Black Keys. I don't know why the e-mail won't go through. My public e-mail is jhtaylor2@cox.net, for anyone who cares. I am also on Facebook at the same address. Again, thanks for the info. I'll put it to good use.

Date: Sun, May 05, 2013, 10:38:37 ET
Posted by: Sounds like a plan, except how do you slow dance to Deacon Blues?

Date: Sun, May 05, 2013, 09:36:46 ET
Posted by: Have Dan will travel,

So our middle daughter Abby is getting married Saturday, and the plan is to father / daughter dance to deacon blues (cutting verse 2 - no making love to these women). During the fade out, dj will invite all to the dance floor for gaslighting Abbie. Father / daughter dance with our first daughter ricki 4 years ago? Any guesses?

Date: Sun, May 05, 2013, 05:56:01 ET
Posted by: KD, asdf

Hoops just threw out a long way of saying "I assumed it was that guy posting as 'Janine' or 'Kyle' and whining a ton so I looked up the ISPs assuming it was the same dude but whoops NVM y'all" but, no, all my frustrations are on record.

My record has been in place since, literally, the first week of the Blue. And through several tours including the first (in 2006) when people started bitching about the setlists. I'm not bitching, I'm just pointing out that I'm not going any more.

I wouldn't disabuse anyone that has the means to go see the guys from going, I'm just finding this (far less funky, considering the band) 1993 StL live show far more bang-fo'-buck than what I'd pay for this summer. That's not a dismissive swipe, that's just one person's take.

Doesn't have to be a movement. That's what a message board is for.

Date: Sun, May 05, 2013, 02:13:02 ET
Posted by: DocMu,

M,

Kewl. The Carpenters meet Laura Nyro, including the Katz produced stuff

Date: Sun, May 05, 2013, 00:05:43 ET
Posted by: almost gothic negative girl, california coast

Jim Taylor ~

I just tried to send you a long e-mail which was lost in the ether apparently. So, regarding Mud Island PreSale, briefly:

Sign up with TicketMaster/LiveNation and list Steely Dan as a favorite. Include areas where you would like to get info about. It will be general geographical areas usually, not specific venues.

They will send you an e-mail saying The Dan (or whatever band you have said was a "favorite") is playing at such-and-such Venue on these dates. Then later, they will often send you an e-mail saying the PreSale Password is "rikki" or whatevah.

Another way is to use their "search" function and put in "presale passwords". I tried this for you last night and couldn't get anything at this point. But it could pop up at anytime.

Also, keep asking at the BlueBook as someone may post one if they know it. The first time you asked about hmmm, Houston,? I e-mailed you back from a different e-mail account of mine and I don't think you received it, so I posted the info again here, which you got. I don't know if your e-mail is sending unknown addresses to junkmail or not, because once again, the one I tried to send you tonite evaporated...

Anyway, good luck, Mud Island sounds interesting!

almost
gothic
negative
girl

Date: Sat, May 04, 2013, 19:17:58 ET
Posted by: Jim Taylor, Hello Baton Rouge

When I saw SD in 2007, they had a groovin' little riff that featured Walt Weiskopf and led into Band Intros. By 2011, they had taken that riff and incorporated it into the main groove for "Show Biz Kids." I'm not buying the 'tude that on this tour we are going to hear a "the same old shit" set list. It will be a mix of familiar and new. I can't wait!

Date: Sat, May 04, 2013, 18:59:02 ET
Posted by: DYLYNFAN, HARRISBURG PA

Burger Boy I like surprises as much as the next guy, however hearing
Emotional Disco is not one I look forward to, here's hoping they
don't play it in Philly next month. Sorry kids, now back to our regularly scheduled programming.

Date: Sat, May 04, 2013, 18:46:06 ET
Posted by: Michael, @Doc Mu

Your observations are spot-on. Another group I enjoy is The Bird and The Bee. They have a nice retro sound; you can hear all sorts of influences all over their material, most especially Burt Bacharach.

This exquisite number is titled 4th of July, which was a bonus track exclusive to the Japanese release of their album Interpreting the Masters Vol. 1: A Tribute to Daryl Hall and John Oates.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wDQ-nnv8yU8

I think their newest album is all buttoned up and should be released soon. Should be good.

Date: Sat, May 04, 2013, 16:23:23 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

Michael,

DLM - Like a mashup of Bowie, Beatles, ELO, REM, XTC (Andy Partridge is an occasional writing partner with Walsh) and Gilbert & Sullivan. It's a good partnership where richness is added to Walsh's already eclectic palette while limiting Hannon's excesses. The Nightwatchman is another good track...the throw off rain stops play is some semi-funked up muzak Anyway, a good answer to that there's little good stuff out there. It just takes more digging.

Date: Sat, May 04, 2013, 15:22:52 ET
Posted by: Michael, @Doc Mu

The Duckworth Lewis Method's debut album came out several years ago. 'Flatten the Hay' and 'Mason on the Boundary' are my two favorites from it. They're currently at work on their second album.

Date: Sat, May 04, 2013, 15:04:33 ET
Posted by: Burger Boy, San Francisco

Last night in Los Angeles the Rolling Stones performed Emotional Rescue. This was the very first time this hit song was performed live. These are the kind of surprises I like.

Date: Sat, May 04, 2013, 14:28:15 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

Danfans might enjoy this song from a side project of Thomas Walsh (Pugwash) with Neil Hannon (Divine Comedy) - The Duckworth Lewis Method as well...

It digs into the 30s and early roots of SD more than the mid 60s.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TxuV0A1Jlxk

Date: Sat, May 04, 2013, 14:02:35 ET
Posted by: SF DanFan, by the bay

Just picked up two $35 seats for the SF show @ the temp venue for the America"s Cup. Just hoping we have an early wave of good weather which usually comes in Sept-Oct. will check in more often now that a tour is a reality. Love the Dan!

Date: Sat, May 04, 2013, 11:46:01 ET
Posted by: Lurker Ray, SoBe

Shark,

Good grief! That is awesome!

I smell a new T-Shirt or bootleg cover.

"Snoopy Dan" or "Schroe Dan"?

Though "Schroe Dan" sounds like a
Godzilla opponent.

Makes me wanna dance to "With A Gun"
while alternately lowering my shoulders.

Date: Sat, May 04, 2013, 11:18:49 ET
Posted by: Michael, @hoops

If you're into stuff like ELO, The Beatles, Brian Wilson and The Beach Boys, there's a good chance you'll enjoy it.

Date: Sat, May 04, 2013, 10:56:38 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago, at McDonald's having a yogurt cup and cofee

Ok...sooooo...posts about Pugwash stay...but posts about spell casting were either spam and/or accidentally mis-posted from something like a Stevie Nicks fan board. Got it. Will check out Pugwash in a bit.

In fairness, I have to say, there's been times in the past. when I'M whiny or ungrateful. No one's said that, about me recently, but it's true. Sorry. And I also do appreciate those who may have asshole-like opinions but still post under a real identity. You know, Like you've probably guessed that I think K.D. on Hoops can really have some harsh, goofball opinions, or just assume the wrong facts are correct, but I gotta give it up with respect for K.D. because you know who he is and doesn't mis-use anonymity.

At any rate, that there is overlap between tours' setlists is besides the point: I'm amazed at the subtlties and details that are added and switched out and upgraded and changed on the same compositions between tours. I wish I had musical vocabulary to better express what I find fascinating in the evolution of these songs, but there's an evolution that fascinates me so. That's something not conveyed in setlist running order posted the next morning.

I could be wrong, but my understanding is that SD goes into rehearsals within 2-3 weeks of a tour, tries things, maybe drops a thing or two that doesn't go right after the first show or two, and maybe even adds one or two things later. I do try to get to the first or second show just to hear something I might not later. I think this year's opener might be a bit of a traveling challenge for me. I read it as flying into the NYC Tristate Area and renting a car to head upstate 1-2 hours.

Gotta run.

Jim

Date: Sat, May 04, 2013, 10:32:05 ET
Posted by: Michael,

Who said that they've seen SD 15 times?

Date: Sat, May 04, 2013, 10:06:38 ET
Posted by: Steely Jan, Utah

Here is an interesting portion of a local Salt Lake City newscast from this past week.

http://www.kutv.com/news/top-stories/stories/vid_4788.shtml

Several Steely Dan references and a short clip of the 2VN DVD.

Date: Sat, May 04, 2013, 09:53:23 ET
Posted by: Diane D., Orlando, FL

I've been a Dan Fan since the 70's. Never had the chance to see them live. Either I couldn't afford it or they weren't where I was. I tried in 2008 to get tix but having no AmEx card 5 mins after general public sales they were gone. Bummer. I borrowed a friend's (a GOOD friend LOL) AmEx card and got half decent seats to this year's show (Sept 11 no less!) Came to here to read and share and connect with other fans. The complaining just about drove me away. You've seen the Dan 15 times? How nice for you. Maybe stay home so the rest of us who've never been can have a turn. Just sayin'.

Date: Sat, May 04, 2013, 08:50:33 ET
Posted by: Michael, @Jazzassin

Here's your quote: "Michael, if you're not able to get excited by them for the rest of your life, I would say that's an attribute of yours, not of the music..."

I didn't say "...for the rest of my life," you added that part. But yeah, old music is hardly exciting to me. Besides, my original grievance was about the lack of great new songwriters.

"Myself I don't even have to force myself to excitement. I can get so enthusiastic over the same old SD recordings for the n'th time you won't believe it. And that's not at all how I feel about everything from the '70s that I used to listen a lot to years ago, but for SD it's true. If I didn't think it was that unique I'd probably not spend so much time on this board either."

Ok, you're entitled to your opinion. So be it.

"But different people listen in different ways I guess, maybe it's because I'm such a mediocre musician myself, and you are probably a true master in at least one field of music, that I'm more easily impressed by the same stuff time after time than you are."

Rather presumptuous on your end. Being a musician doesn't necessarily make one a better listener than a non-musician.

"And as for SD's live setlists, I'm more interested in hearing small, but significant variations in the arrangements and execution of the canon than to hear a lot of rarities, even if that's of course very nice too. If people aren't able to hear and appreciate those variations, that's their problem. It's there for everyone who has their ears intact. Even if I never had the possibility to see them as many times as you, I know it's true because of a massive amount of boots and online services like Youtube that documents it."

*shrugs*

"I liked the Pugwash songs, but with all respect; if that's original and not-recycled enough for you, I don't think your demands are that much higher or different than anyone else's. It's as '60s pop pastiche as it gets, and there's a lot of stuff in that genre out there, even if not all of it is as solid as Pugwash. But NEW? ORIGINAL? No. Not by any measure."

Now you're conflating what I originally said to somehow mean that new music must be 100% original in order for me to enjoy it. My point of contention is with the current lack of quality songwriters in the industry, that I'm not content with the same old material.

"And it is of course harder to make something new and original in 2013 than it was in 1953. The backdrop of six decades of electric pop isn't entirely inspiring to new artists, it's also a ball and chain around their ankle. You write a song and you realize it's probably not possible to hide the traces of everything that happened in the past. There is a limited number of combinatins of notes, harmonies and grooves that will work as a good pop song, and most of them are used before. So you make the best out of it; you no longer try to deny it or hide it, you just try to make it as solid as you can and put a big wink smiley on it hoping that your audience will recognize & appreciate."

Go back to what I said in my last post. Art doesn't exist in a vacuum. What are you driving at?

"To me this is a fact, but hardly a problem. Since you too like Pugwash I guess it's not that big a problem to you either, or what?"

You seem dumbstuck with the notion that I demand wholly original music, that anything even the slightest bit derivative is somehow rejected.

"But that's just a half truth. Because, like Tom Waits once sung; 'there's a world going on underground'. You'll have to look a little harder to find the interesting stuff than just take what's drawn over your head by mainstream medias. And however much I love and acknowledge the American musical heritage, maybe some of the more creative and refreshing things are going on outside the US these days?
Try to widen the horizon a bit and check out more obscure things and things from the European scene. There's a common opinion around that it's over here things are happening. Myself I don't agree unconditionally, as I think it actually still happens a lot of good stuff over at your place, too. Both very established artists and newer ones. One great example would be Snarky Puppy from Denton TX. If they're not original and good enough for you, I guess nothing is."

I've just never cared that much for jazz. Of course certain voice-leading characteristics are interesting and there are some exceptional players in the field, certainly, but generally I like jazz best when it's married with something else, e.g. rock, pop, fusion, etc.

"To me it seems like what you want is to save the whole effing world from the tragedy of mainstream crap music. Good luck. Maybe instead you should give a shit about the world and enjoy the better things without caring at all whether it's played on the radio or not."

Oh, now I'm trying to "save the world" from the curse of mainstream music. How, by posting my grievances here on the Blue?

"The world as such is lost, lost, lost, Michael. The crap will always threaten to bury the quality, and in fact always did. It's true that because of the amount of crap and the recycling speed the quality is buried deeper now than ever, but it's still there."

It is, as artists such as Pugwash prove, but in less quantity.

"Listen to and salute what you dig and ignore the crap instead of wasting your/our time complaining about everything you don't like. Life's too short. If absolutely nothing of the newer things appeal to you, it must be because you, regardless of your own despise for nostalgia, aren't able to appreciate things that sounds different than what you're used to. And that makes you more of a nostalgic listener than me, to be honest. Or maybe you just like to complain for the sake of it? I hope not."

Not only are you condescending (perhaps unintentionally) but have mistaken yourself for the village conscious as well. If I'm just wasting your time, as you say, with my posts then why did you need to compose a reply/rebuttal no less than six(!) paragraphs-long?

Date: Sat, May 04, 2013, 06:07:46 ET
Posted by: Jazzassin, @Michael

Michael,
When I quoted you in my reply I copied/pasted your actual words, so I guess you must've said it even if you don't want to stand by those words a few hours later.
I repeat the quote in case you don't bother to scroll down to see what you actually said:

"Steely Dan's art may be great and all but I just can't force myself to be excited. Reelin', Josie, Dr Wu, Second Arrangement... been there, done that."

Myself I don't even have to force myself to excitement. I can get so enthusiastic over the same old SD recordings for the n'th time you won't believe it. And that's not at all how I feel about everything from the '70s that I used to listen a lot to years ago, but for SD it's true. If I didn't think it was that unique I'd probably not spend so much time on this board either.
But different people listen in different ways I guess, maybe it's because I'm such a mediocre musician myself, and you are probably a true master in at least one field of music, that I'm more easily impressed by the same stuff time after time than you are. And as for SD's live setlists, I'm more interested in hearing small, but significant variations in the arrangements and execution of the canon than to hear a lot of rarities, even if that's of course very nice too. If people aren't able to hear and appreciate those variations, that's their problem. It's there for everyone who has their ears intact. Even if I never had the possibility to see them as many times as you, I know it's true because of a massive amount of boots and online services like Youtube that documents it.

I liked the Pugwash songs, but with all respect; if that's original and not-recycled enough for you, I don't think your demands are that much higher or different than anyone else's. It's as '60s pop pastiche as it gets, and there's a lot of stuff in that genre out there, even if not all of it is as solid as Pugwash. But NEW? ORIGINAL? No. Not by any measure. And it is of course harder to make something new and original in 2013 than it was in 1953. The backdrop of six decades of electric pop isn't entirely inspiring to new artists, it's also a ball and chain around their ankle. You write a song and you realize it's probably not possible to hide the traces of everything that happened in the past. There is a limited number of combinatins of notes, harmonies and grooves that will work as a good pop song, and most of them are used before. So you make the best out of it; you no longer try to deny it or hide it, you just try to make it as solid as you can and put a big wink smiley on it hoping that your audience will recognize & appreciate.

Like Brain Strainer said; "Ripping, deriving or whatevah, has been going on since the dawn of music. It can go sideways (1965-66), it can span decades, and in the possible case with these two tunes and bands, it can be cyclical."

To me this is a fact, but hardly a problem. Since you too like Pugwash I guess it's not that big a problem to you either, or what?

As for jazz ... well, I see perfectly well the same mechanism being applicable and I will once again qoute your words:

"It's very telling when an entire style of music revolves predominantly around standards from the early 20th century. Everybody goes into jazz trying to sound like everybody else and therein lies its tragedy -- nobody really stands out from the crowd. Heck, they practically manufacture them in our "prestigious" music colleges (which incidentally did not exist back in jazz's heyday.)" It's true.

But that's just a half truth. Because, like Tom Waits once sung; "there's a world going on underground". You'll have to look a little harder to find the interesting stuff than just take what's drawn over your head by mainstream medias. And however much I love and acknowledge the American musical heritage, maybe some of the more creative and refreshing things are going on outside the US these days?
Try to widen the horizon a bit and check out more obscure things and things from the European scene. There's a common opinion around that it's over here things are happening. Myself I don't agree unconditionally, as I think it actually still happens a lot of good stuff over at your place, too. Both very established artists and newer ones. One great example would be Snarky Puppy from Denton TX. If they're not original and good enough for you, I guess nothing is.

To me it seems like what you want is to save the whole effing world from the tragedy of mainstream crap music. Good luck. Maybe instead you should give a shit about the world and enjoy the better things without caring at all whether it's played on the radio or not.
The world as such is lost, lost, lost, Michael. The crap will always threaten to bury the quality, and in fact always did. It's true that because of the amount of crap and the recycling speed the quality is buried deeper now than ever, but it's still there.
Listen to and salute what you dig and ignore the crap instead of wasting your/our time complaining about everything you don't like. Life's too short. If absolutely nothing of the newer things appeal to you, it must be because you, regardless of your own despise for nostalgia, aren't able to appreciate things that sounds different than what you're used to. And that makes you more of a nostalgic listener than me, to be honest. Or maybe you just like to complain for the sake of it? I hope not.

Date: Fri, May 03, 2013, 23:53:00 ET
Posted by: Michael,

Glad you people enjoyed it.

@Brain

TLS had nice harmonies, as did various other artists from the era. I agree that everything is a hodge-podge of sorts, because art doesn't exist in a vaccum.

Even so, great songwriters are the key ingredient absent from today's landscape. We really do need great new music, now more than ever.

Here's one more by Pugwash, a gorgeous piece titled Anchor that's somewhere between ELO and Brian Wilson.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Bzr_kyKnf4

Date: Fri, May 03, 2013, 23:47:19 ET
Posted by: almost gothic negative girl, california coast

"There's a certain boner-killing corrosiveness to the incessant complaining.

If you want to endlessly complain about set lists that don't exist yet, then, please, start a new board. I'll even suggest a name for it: "Torture is the main attraction." But also know, most of us don't go for that kind of action. In the process, you're killing things."

AMEN. Some of you little adolescent schoolboys/girls? need to try to find and grab hold of your 'nads and take 'em elsewhere. Because you seriously don't have a clue about the amount of time, energy and resources that certain people put in to keep this website alive and kicking. Continual whining and negativity is just that--it's not going to give back anything positive to this Steely Dan community, you're just gonna come off being a little wanky beotch. Congratulate yourselves with that, yeah.

As if there isn't already enough truly devastating dissappoinment in the world already.

Date: Fri, May 03, 2013, 23:00:46 ET
Posted by: Brain Strainer,

Points made by Greco and Michael are well taken about the talentless manufactured music that has predominated for well, about 20-25 years. Shameless direct rips of 30 year old tunes dominate the rap and hip-hop top selling genres. It is hilarious when teenagers say "hey, how do you know this song? Then I tell them that it is 20 or 30 years old, or sometimes play the original for them. It might be an old Rick James song sampled with some vile ghetto gibberish voiced over it. But some of it is funny and yet melodic because of the catchy pop sampling. And these "remakes" outsell the originals.

@ Michael

That Pugwash 2005 tune was pretty "nice", and somewhat as you say "Beach Boyesque" I would also say that that Pugwash tune might be closer to the tune below and group as far as being "esque" (1965)


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YpZI8biFsn8

The Beach Boys "Wouldn't It Be Nice" (1966) was probably influenced by the tune above. So even back in the glorious 1960's and 70's there was lots of cross ripping of music and themes and the like going on. But keep in mind that the Beach Boys preceded the group and tune above by about 3 years (1962), and probably influenced them.

Ripping, deriving or whatevah, has been going on since the dawn of music. It can go sideways (1965-66), it can span decades, and in the possible case with these two tunes and bands, it can be cyclical.

There is still some decent music out there. Genres such as Electronica, Trance and Acid House today might be the most "innovative" music today. These "DJs" do have talent and ability to program, and arrange digital music into some sonically cutting edge stuff. But many here would say they are all synth and not legitimate. And there are no doubt some great new voices out there. But the arts, and the world in general seem to be running out of original ideas. Sting was correct, "When the world is running down, make the best of what's still around"....

Date: Fri, May 03, 2013, 22:15:18 ET
Posted by: Jim Taylor, Hello Baton Rouge

@ Michael: Credit where credit is due...Pugwash clips are very "nice."

Date: Fri, May 03, 2013, 22:07:15 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

That's a nice power pop, 60s sound by Pugwash

Take Me Away is really catchy

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y8bn2k9_LZE


The Fagen interview is better than most. I forgot about his hip cousin Barbara. At least Fagen didn't deny SD was heading back to the studio this year! ;)


Here's the direct link:

http://www.waxpoetics.com/features/articles/the-insider

Date: Fri, May 03, 2013, 21:56:03 ET
Posted by: Jim Taylor, Hello Baton Rouge

If anyone has any information about a pre-sale for the Memphis Mud Island show I would appreciate it. It is on my "definite" list!

Date: Fri, May 03, 2013, 20:38:40 ET
Posted by: Michael,

@Jazzassin

"Michael, if you're not able to get excited by them for the rest of your life, I would say that's an attribute of yours, not of the music..."

Did I say that? I simply stated that it's not possible for me to get excited over listening to the same material for the umpteenth time. Must everything in this industry revolve prepetually around the bygone era? SD's music, classic though it may be, is not an adquate substitute for hearing something NEW.

"New and interesting music is actually popping up almost every day as far as I'm concerned. And if you weren't so easily bored by pure quality I'd recommend a few good newer jazz artists, but I understand that it would be wasted time."

It's very telling when an entire style of music revolves predominantly around standards from the early 20th century. Everybody goes into jazz trying to sound like everybody else and therein lies its tragedy -- nobody really stands out from the crowd. Heck, they practically manufacture them in our "prestigious" music colleges (which incidentally did not exist back in jazz's heyday.)

@Greco

"I agree 100% with Mike. The radio is filled with songs from the 60s thru the 80s. Any new stuff is just rubbish. No one makes a full album. It's a bunch of one hit wonders from 'the voice' and 'American Idol' . They steal an old song, make it new and go on tour. It's a total joke. There aren't anymore 'bands'. Just a bunch of wannabees lip sync pretenders."

Manufactured, pre-packaged success has become epidemic in the industry. I need to dig and dig in order to find gems in the dunghill. For instance, I stumbled upon a great retro-pop artist called Pugwash. Ever heard of 'em? I'll tell you this much, they beat the crap out of everything currently on the Billboard charts.

Have a listen to this Beach Boys-esque tune 'It's Nice to be Nice.' Check out some of their other videos as well.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bgVwfeCgZKQ

Date: Fri, May 03, 2013, 17:40:15 ET
Posted by: Young Wu, Buffalo

"What are you going to do when WB sings two songs?
What are you going to do when WB tells 6 minute story when the play Hey 19?
What are you going to do when DF says to the crowd, " were going to do another song from the 70s"

These are your biggest concerns?
Christ, dude. Who cares about the story and how Fagen introduces the fucking songs.

Like I said before, I'm all for constructive criticism... but complaints like this are ridiculous.

Date: Fri, May 03, 2013, 17:33:37 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar. It's Happy Hour!

Shark, awesome picture. That's a keeper.

Greco, I hate to even engage a guy like you, but I have a very clear answer to your questions:

What are you going to do when WB sings two songs?

What are you going to do when WB tells 6 minute story when the play Hey 19?

The answer to both of the 1st two questions:

I will stand up and cheer at the top of my lungs. Firstly, I LOVE when Walter sings a song. I like his voice and on his voice and style fits perfectly with the SD songs he sings. I also really like the songs he gets to sing and know they likely would not play those if Walter was unwilling/unable to sing them.

As for the Hey 19 story--well, I admit I'm not the biggest fan. But that story has been told less often and for a shorter duration in recent tours. But if Walt is animated and interested enough to talk for 6 minutes, I will take it as a sign he is feeling better--and there is no better news for a SD fan, IMO.

What are you going to do when DF says to the crowd, " were going to do another song from the 70s"

Well, considering the vast majority of their output is from the 70's, I would stand up and cheer. As most of their material is from the 70's, most of their best material is from the 70's. Most of their rarely played songs are from the 70's. I love their stuff from this century, too. But unless it was a special show devoted to the new stuff, anyone attending a SD concert, and doesn't want to hear songs from the 70's is a moron.

Here's my question. What to you do if/when you have to sit next to a total buzz-kill who complains the entire concert about the setlist (not enough hits, they didn't play song X, too many hits, etc.)? That's 1,000 times worse than the worst thing SD can ever do in concert.

For the sake of the people who came to see the band, I just hope people like you stay the fuck home. They can't please everyone and they can never please the people who think they have to play their personal setlist preference to be satisfied.

Date: Fri, May 03, 2013, 17:28:36 ET
Posted by: steelydoc, near the Tower

from last night's Lefsetz Report re: Stones tickets, and ticket prices in general. Discuss.


It's a disaster.

And it's hiding in plain sight. All you've got to do is go to their site and see what's available, your jaw will drop.

Enthralled with the ancient British rockers, the mainstream press has completely dropped the ball on this story. So busy reporting last weekend's club gig, the sycophantic reporters refuse to do any...reporting. To see that the bottom just dropped out of the Stones business.

Yes, go to http://www.rollingstones.com

And click to "Get Tickets."

Then pull up May 3rd's gig at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, America's number two market, home to more poseurs than anywhere but the Cote d'Azur.

First you'll be stunned how seamlessly AXS works. We've been told for eons that Ticketmaster is an unbeatable champion. But AXS is faster, easier and just an all-around better experience.

So pick the May 3rd gig. If you can't navigate to this page, stop reading this now, you're too ignorant to get the points I'm going to be making anyway.

Select 2 seats. Don't allow for splits. There are frequently single seats available in good sections for the most desirable gigs.

Select "Best seat at any price level."

Then click on "Find Tickets."

Whew!

You can sit right down front!

But it gets better!

You can still get 8 seats together in desirable sections!

Which means...

Sales are horrific.

It's even worse for the May 20th gig. You can still get 8 seats together right down front!

How did this happen?

GREED!

Let me tell you how this works. AEG pays the Stones whether they sell out or they don't, whether anybody shows up or the hall is empty.

This is a far cry from the way business was done in the years the Stones became the "World's Greatest Rock & Roll Band."

Used to be there was a guarantee, and then a split after break even.

But then Michael Cohl revolutionized the business.

And then Bob Sillerman rolled up the promoters and the acts had a field day, raping big time promoters for huge guarantees.

And the small shows got squeezed out, only the big ones counted in the mind of the public. And the Internet burgeoned. And suddenly, scalping became rampant. Even via the eBay company StubHub, never mind by individuals speculating.

And the game was rigged. There were so many pre-sales and holdbacks that demand seemed to outstrip supply in all cases. So resale prices went through the roof!

And until 2008, everybody was loaded with cash, the rich still are, they want to go to the show not to see it, but to say they were there.

And Mick Jagger is pissed these people have more money than he does. He wants to fly private and vacation without the hoi polloi, so he needs to rip you off, he needs to get all that money!

That's what the inflated ticket prices are all about. Making sure scalpers don't get the markup.

But this time around, prices are so damn high the public is balking, which surprises even me, because this truly looks like the last tour. But what we've learned here is the mania surrounding recent Stones shows has been created by the press, there's just not that much demand, people cared more about Miley Cyrus and Beanie Babies. Yes, parents care more about their kids than decrepit rockers.

The initial shows last fall did well. Because of the mainstream press around the marketing angle of fifty years...

But just like the Cream comeback was an event in London and a dud in New York City, the bloom is off the rose, there's no story, people just don't care.

Do they care for $100?

A lot more.

Then again, the Stones have been doing weak business for eons. You could always get a ticket.

So where does this leave us?

In the land of Kid Rock. Where everybody scales back, where we have a reset, where even the execs take less.

Because what once was is no longer.

The Stones have jumped the shark.

And that means most of the other classic rock acts have too.

Furthermore, if you think the Stones are phenomenal in concert, you haven't seen them, or are used to the Grateful Dead. They lock on occasionally, otherwise, it's rough.

So if you're against paperless ticketing, you're a weasel. That's what delivered $600 tickets, fear that the scalpers would take too much of the profit.

And if you're against airline style variable pricing, you're part of the problem too. Because if we had such a system, AEG could lower the price and sell out. But now they can't.

Oh, they'll find some way to fill the hall. The biggest stars paper, from Springsteen to Kenny Chesney.

And a loss is in the offing, unless the Stones give back.

But they won't.

But maybe they will. Dainty dropped out because he couldn't come up with the money. Maybe if AEG does a great job they'll get a better, profitable deal in the rest of the world.

Yes, at some point, everybody drops out. The deal becomes too expensive. Not only for the promoters, but the public.

But this is what income inequality has wrought. Acts pissed that record sales have dropped have raised ticket prices so high the public has now cried UNCLE!

Date: Fri, May 03, 2013, 17:22:28 ET
Posted by: Young Wu, Buffalo

Hoops: "It's finals week and I'm running around like crazy"

Are you a professor? You taking classes?

Don't answer if you feel I'm prying into your privacy. Just interested.

Date: Fri, May 03, 2013, 17:13:25 ET
Posted by: SharkDeVille, SD's Nuts

something to cheer us all up:

https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/943044_10151577666743928_1710726293_n.jpg

Date: Fri, May 03, 2013, 15:56:16 ET
Posted by: M/O/D/P, ......Couldn't agree more

QUOTE:

"There's a certain boner-killing corrosiveness to the incessant complaining."

No truer (or more relevant) words have ever been posted here. That one line should stop the pre-opening-date-on-the-tour-setlist grousing dead. We can only hope.

Date: Fri, May 03, 2013, 15:14:02 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago, really on the quick, as usual

M/O/D/P: Thanks for the kind response--sincerely appreciated.


Again, stating in kind, soft, gentle voice to all with no exact post in mind:

I have indeed seen that. Is there something else that's having people be so specific about their complains? See, I'm reading what's on SD's tour site as pretty much the standard disclaimer--more dates may be added or maybe they will play a special festival or specially sponsored gig or double billing. I *do* remember they added a handful of mid-Atlantic and NYC dates in November and December one year after a tour. Maybe, but I'm hanging and obsessing about that.

I personally don't have huge expectations for what they play this year...to the contrary, I'm huge excited about hearing the way they do the standards.

But the whining about the 2013 set list? As I said a week, I doubt Steely Dan even knows at this point what they are going to play this time around. I'm expecting mostly the perennial chestnuts--with some special new seasoning on those chestnuts.

Moreover, given that half of these are new venues, why not a similar set list, the best of what they play live through the years? For many attendees, this is their first go round hearing SD. I'm not saying don't wish for something different in one respect or another--and there will be--simply in terms of playing.

Like the vast majority of people who read here, I'm looking forward to the shows, Move on if you are tired of it. Take a year off. It used to be 3-4 years between tours. And if offering criticism, then there's a polite and respectful way of speaking one's peace--acknowledging room for having one's opinion changed, too-- and leaving it at that. Some of you are complaining about something that hasn't even happened. Moreover, we're about less than 10,000th of 1% of Steely Dan's audience.

There's a certain boner-killing corrosiveness to the incessant complaining.

If you want to endlessly complain about set lists that don't exist yet, then, please, start a new board. I'll even suggest a name for it: "Torture is the main attraction." But also know, most of us don't go for that kind of action. In the process, you're killing things.

Date: Fri, May 03, 2013, 14:09:44 ET
Posted by: M/O/D/P, Your request is my command

Hoops - This is from the PR blurb over at www.steelydan.com -

"Opening in Atlantic City on July 19, the tour hits major markets including Los Angeles, Chicago, Atlanta, and Boston, with additional special engagements to be announced soon."

I take this to mean (at least) another fall Beacon run. Others have interpreted it differently. Somehow.

And:

"As always with the adventurous Fagen and Becker, a few surprises may be in store as well."

I take this to mean that the setlist hasn't been fully worked out yet. Others feel that "surprises" means exactly the same songs as the 2011 tour. Go figger.....

Date: Fri, May 03, 2013, 14:00:28 ET
Posted by: Greco,

"So all you folks waiting for setlist info before buying your tickets...whatcha gonna do when you see it, love it and realize there are no tickets left?
Have fun!"

The questions for you sir are as follows:

What are you going to do when WB sings two songs?

What are you going to do when WB tells 6 minute story when the play Hey 19?

What are you going to do when DF says to the crowd, " were going to do another song from the 70s"

I'll wait for your response.

Greco

Date: Fri, May 03, 2013, 13:07:36 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

It's finals week and I'm running around like crazy, and sadly not getting to spend enough time here. So in catching up, I've not been able to figure out the following so please answer:

1) Where is this official setlist for this summer and/or where have Donald and/or Walter mentioned it?

2) Where did they say that there would be special set list nights, special album nights, etc.?

Hope someone responds quickly because I don't see where the information is coming from. Thanks for clearing things up.

So far, I've got a ticket for Detroit and Indy; as much as I prefer other Chicagoland venues for Steely Dan, I tried for Ravinia seats starting right at 5:00 am last Friday and pretty much could only get last or second to last row in the far corner. I'm tremedously excited about these shows. Hoping there will be some more I can attend and hoping that they add NYC for later in the fall. Great to get my fix.

As I've said for years, Boston has the best Steely Dan audiences.

Again: Thanks for providing links to advance set list or any comments by our esteemed duro about the set list for 2013 or at least the media source. I can't find anything.

Best,

Jim

Date: Fri, May 03, 2013, 11:53:43 ET
Posted by: kzkzkz, waiting for beacon info

So all you folks waiting for setlist info before buying your tickets...whatcha gonna do when you see it, love it and realize there are no tickets left?
Have fun!

Date: Fri, May 03, 2013, 11:47:06 ET
Posted by: Greco,

One more thing. What kind of world do we live in when the headlines read "Warren Buffett makes his first tweet"

It's not just music. The whole world has gone mad. Some loser puts something "funny" on youtube and is instantly famous? sick sick sick world

Greco

Date: Fri, May 03, 2013, 11:41:17 ET
Posted by: Greco,

"Forget whining about stale setlists. Nobody here is addressing the real issue, that being that the entire music industry has become a joke, an endless parody of itself. There's absolutely nothing to get excited about anymore. No standard of quality, no freshness, everyone trotting out the same-sounding stuff ad nausea.

Steely Dan's art may be great and all but I just can't force myself to be excited. Reelin', Josie, Dr Wu, Second Arrangement... been there, done that. They had their moment, as did various others, but that moment has long since passed and nobody is picking up the mantle. We're left with a bunch of manufactured starlets and indie journeymen looking for their 15 minutes of fame on YouTube and Amazon/iTunes -- few possessing actual musicality and taste. It's a sad state of affairs.

Where did all the good songwriters go?"

I agree 100% with Mike. The radio is filled with songs from the 60s thru the 80s. Any new stuff is just rubbish. No one makes a full album. It's a bunch of one hit wonders from "the voice" and "American Idol" . They steal an old song, make it new and go on tour. It's a total joke. There aren't anymore "bands". Just a bunch of wannabees lip sync pretenders.

Glad I was born in the 60s
Greco

Date: Fri, May 03, 2013, 10:56:40 ET
Posted by: Jazzassin, Yippee yippee happy hippie!

Phil & PGE,
Thanks! If this is correct it's the best news we could get! You made my day! Thanks again!

Date: Fri, May 03, 2013, 10:12:00 ET
Posted by: PGE, "It's difficult to make predictions, especially about the future"

Phil: Thanks for the Wax Poetics link! And although the interview mainly is a repeat of what's been asked and answered in many other interviews over the years, a line in the final question to Donald caught my eye:

"Steely Dan is heading back in the studio in 2013."

So, could somebody that run into Donald and/or Walter this tour please confirm this. Yes, even if it will sink prophet1:s predictions of no more recordings and no more Steely Dan after the 2013 tour.
(And the "this is the last time/tour/record" is something stated by at least one person - perhaps the same under different monikers - before each and every tour since 1993 or thereabouts.) The pre-tour doom-and-gloom discussion is staler than any Steely Dan setlist will ever be. ;)

Audiophiles! Why not take a break from it all and go listen/watch an interview with recording engineer Bill Schnee (Aja, Gaucho) about his quest to bring high resolution audio to the masses here:

http://twit.tv/show/home-theater-geeks/157

They talk very briefly about Steely Dan, maybe a minute or so, before Bill explains why recording digital DOES sound better than analog(ue) IF you do it right.

Enjoy the spring weekend!

Date: Fri, May 03, 2013, 09:53:16 ET
Posted by: DYLYNFAN, HARRISBURG, PA

Mt. Belzoni, Tru Dat, Boston Rag would be FKING amazing!
A few others I would really dig, Caves,T.O.O.M., & Western World
just to name a few.

Date: Fri, May 03, 2013, 09:33:31 ET
Posted by: Jazzassin, @ Michael

"Steely Dan's art may be great and all but I just can't force myself to be excited. Reelin', Josie, Dr Wu, Second Arrangement... been there, done that"

Michael, if you're not able to get excited by them for the rest of your life, I would say that's an attribute of yours, not of the music...

New and interesting music is actually popping up almost every day as far as I'm concerned. And if you weren't so easily bored by pure quality I'd recommend a few good newer jazz artists, but I understand that it would be wasted time.

Date: Fri, May 03, 2013, 09:18:26 ET
Posted by: Michael,

Forget whining about stale setlists. Nobody here is addressing the real issue, that being that the entire music industry has become a joke, an endless parody of itself. There's absolutely nothing to get excited about anymore. No standard of quality, no freshness, everyone trotting out the same-sounding stuff ad nausea.

Steely Dan's art may be great and all but I just can't force myself to be excited. Reelin', Josie, Dr Wu, Second Arrangement... been there, done that. They had their moment, as did various others, but that moment has long since passed and nobody is picking up the mantle. We're left with a bunch of manufactured starlets and indie journeymen looking for their 15 minutes of fame on YouTube and Amazon/iTunes -- few possessing actual musicality and taste. It's a sad state of affairs.

Where did all the good songwriters go?

Date: Fri, May 03, 2013, 09:08:08 ET
Posted by: Jazzassin, Freudian typo

Correction: " My Rainbow Ride" should be "My Rainbow Race", of course. My bad. The ride done was by Charlie Daniels.

Date: Fri, May 03, 2013, 08:53:28 ET
Posted by: Jazzassin, scroll exercise

fagenism:
Amen. After all these years Steely Dan's music, even the oldest things, is still able to give me chills and almost chock me with it's genious. In our private conversation the other day we talked about "Turn That Heartbeat Over Again". I just had to put it on for who knows which time, probably a thousand or more, and it left me speechless again. What the heck are you guys D&W, really? Aliens from a much more developed dimension? Thanks a lot anyway. Never shall we see your equals. (bowing my head in humble respect)

prophet1:
I fear that you are 100% correct. I hope not, but it seems likely.

holy shit:
Thanks a lot for your kind words. As a matter of fact I'm not retired, but have a privileged job that implies no boss or regular hours except from binding engagements in projects of limited lenght. I live much by Benjamin Franklin's words (the prez, not the blue poster); "Those that would sacrifice freedom for security deserve neither."
I'm not saying everyone should live by this mantra, but it fits me like a glove. And it's true I have a lot of time to enjoy life and music. I would've enjoyed it even more if I wasn't such a cynical misantrope, but that's another story. If you live in this world you're feeling the change of the guard.

Hutch:
Don't get me started, please. You know perfectly well that when I start to write here it will likely be a long essay before you've said "Dan". And it could easily become more or less "all about me", which unfortunately isn't the purpose of this board.
Please feel free to contact me privately for a longer conversation if you'd like. I guess we have a lot in common music wise.
But as you've probably calculated from my previous comment I will turn 50 this year, which of course feels u n r e a l, but not bad at all if you take in consideration the only alternative. ;o)

Oops, too late. Here we go. I blame Hutch, if it's ok with you, Hutch. Hutch asked a few questions. I'm just the polite guy who feel obligated to answer. Yeah, sure. ;o)

A quick(?!) summary of early sources of inspiration:

My parents and older brothers (I'm an afterthought. Pampered & overstimulated; hey, that's me!). They have all had a massive influence on my musical taste and preferences.

The first two songs I learned to play and sing was Dylan's "Blowin' In The Wind" and Pete Seeger's "My Rainbow Ride" (a Norwegian translated version of it that used to be very popular here in the '70s). I was about 10-11, I think.

The Beatles, Lovin' Spoonful, The Rascals/Young Rascals, The Beach Boys, Four Seasons, Dylan, Neil Young/CSN(Y), The Doors, The Hollies, Steely Dan, The Doobies, BST, Chicago, Little Feat, Ry Cooder, Mike Bloomfield, Yardbirds, Eric Clapton and of course all of the original American blues giants, Led Zeppelin, Van The Man, Tom Waits, Dr.John, Talking Heads, Randy Newman, Joni Mitchell, Aretha F, classic soul and funk music often involving session musicians associated with The Wrecking Crew (LA) and The Funk Brothers (Detroit), Frank Zappa, British progrock/artrock/symphorock like Genesis, Yes, King Crimson, ELP, Pink Floyd, David Bowie and obscure acts like Soft Machine and their German equivalents known as "krautrock"; Can, Faust, Tangerine Dream, Neu!, Kraftwerk, jazz guitar giants like Joe Pass, Django Reinhardt, Tal Farlow, Jimmy Raney, Barney Kessel, fusion guitarists like John McLaughlin, Jan Akkerman, Jeff Beck ... and so many others.

I could go on forever. Much of this was introduced to me by my oldest brother (17 years older than me). I fell into the stew as a very young kid, and became a Dan fan at age 14. I should add that he also opened the door to country music for me, allthough I've learned to appreciate it much more in later years than was the case in my youth. Outlaws like Waylon & Willie, Hank I & III and traditionalists like George "No Show" Jones who unfortunately went out of time a few days ago. RIP. What really peaked my interest in country music was the fact that in this genre we find some of the finest instrumentalists/session players on the planet; people like Brent Mason and John Hiland is undoubtly amongst the few who can match the best jazz players any day of the week. And when you're that good, the fence between different genres is automatically irrelevant and often crossed.

And still I haven't mentioned all the pure jazz artists that was always my dad's passion. All the famous big band leaders and pianists from the golden era with The Duke as The Numero Uno and Basie & Gerald Wilson as a close second. But this list is really even longer than the previous one, so I'll stop here. I think you can figure out many of the other names by reading a good jazz encyclopedia from cover to cover. My dad's jazz record collection was/is huge, and I can physically touch it from where I sit right now.
My mom and my other big brother (15 years older than me) contributed to my list with classical music, and some of the biggest names besides the mandatory Beethoven, Mozart, Bach, H�ndel and Schubert was Russian giants like Prokofiev and Rimsky-Korsakov, Hungarian Bel� Bart�k and last but not least the French impressionists like Maurice Ravel and Claude Debussy.

Through the years I've added hundreds of artists to my collection and favorites list, but will mention one in particular; Argentine composer and bandone�n player �stor Piazolla.
His music is of utmost grace and beauty, it has the latin temperament and passion and shows that all known human emotions can be expressed within a tango. I think many have become familiar with one of his most known compositions "Libertango" through a (kind of) cover version by Grace Jones called "I've Seen That Face Before". Do yourself a favor and check out Piazolla.

What do I play on the guitar myself these days? Not too much at all, at least not in public. I've become shy about it, and I'm a much better listener than a player. But in secrecy I play many jazz standards and some Dan songs and other old and new favorites of mine. Also, I recently bought a gypsy swing guitar (a Selmer-Maccaferri copy) and try to get a grip on some Django classics. Damn, my fingers almost bleed...

Date: Fri, May 03, 2013, 08:32:31 ET
Posted by: prophet1,

I predict that this is going to be the last tour and the last chance to get the deep cuts from SD, which means with WB. That's why the set list is being bitched about.

SD will soon no longer exist as a touring act and it will be because WB will retire.

A tenth SD album will probably never be produced since WB has already turned down DF. It WB had accepted DF's proposal, Sunken Condos would have been Steely Dan 10, but with the WB touches. From the sound of it though, I do think WB had a hand in Sunken Condos but no written credits.

The Donald Fagen Band will be a solo act and maybe one or two more records will come out of that. This solo act will not be a big tour but will be in certain areas. We will have to rely on DF to put out new material which is cool as many people believe that solo DF is better than SD itself.

Date: Fri, May 03, 2013, 03:11:52 ET
Posted by: fagenism, -

My thoughts about the tour:

As a European fan, all this bitching about ticket prices and tired, old setlists, seem like real first world problems - absolutely understandable in this economy and so on and so forth, but no one forces you to go to these gigs. And, as has been noted countless times in here, it is borderline narrow-minded to assume that this craving we have to hear an encore consisting of Kulee Baba, Negative Girl and Here At The Western World - all performed as extended, unplugged, ultra rare fifteen minute jams - afflicts the prospective ticket buying population at large.

More importantly, though... You know, truth be told I'm not even that jealous, even if it *does* turn out The Two dust off a handful of new/old-new masterpieces for this tour. To me, Steely Dan was always a level of genius one does not simply get enough of in a fleeting two hours; it's something you let your brain appreciate over years, decades.

In other words, new studio material - whether a tenth Dan album or solo - is billionzzz and billionzzz times more important than touring at this point. The Two are alive and - judging from the quality of Sunken Condos - at least one of them is still in prime friggin' form. Give us more stuff we can one day introduce the grandkids to; more stuff that makes *life* more livable, not just a fleeting couple of hours.

Over and out.

Date: Fri, May 03, 2013, 02:04:06 ET
Posted by: Phil, Pau France

Hello there, scrolling down the lower I could, I didn't see any reference to Donald's interview for the excellent Wax Poetics magazine last issue, be sure to read it, you can order it there:
http://www.waxpoetics.com/
It also has interviews of Bobby "what you won't do for love" Caldwell, Ned Doheny, Daryl Hall and other captivating articles.
Hope you like it.
Have a nice day
Philippe

Date: Thurs, May 02, 2013, 22:51:57 ET
Posted by: SDV,

other rarities played last tour:

Night By Night
Everything Must Go
Monkey In Your Soul
Rikki

and more

Date: Thurs, May 02, 2013, 22:30:44 ET
Posted by: SharkDeVille, near the carousel

why do folks want to pick on the setlist 3 months before it happens?

the last time they toured, we got Your Gold Teeth at every single show. those who were lucky enough to catch select shows got everything from Any Major Dude and Dr. Wu to Pearl of the Quarter and Jack of Speed. We also got This All Too Mobile Home! and The Bear!!! And The Second Arrangement!!!!! how many naysayers swore they'd never play that one???

In hindsight... only a fool would say that.

Date: Thurs, May 02, 2013, 22:26:20 ET
Posted by: JX, R

Well fuck if that doesn't make you smile.

Date: Thurs, May 02, 2013, 22:13:23 ET
Posted by: PianoPanther1, NJ

http://youtu.be/2hkIw1Y7hz0

His last video got 3300 views in one month! Here 9 yr old piano prodigy Owen York plays one of his favorites, from the 1972 classic album Can't Buy A Thrill.

Date: Thurs, May 02, 2013, 22:05:58 ET
Posted by: Archie, Seattle

I doubt if The Boston Rag will make it on this tour's set list. The emphasis seems to be on playing the hits that the public know and love.

Date: Thurs, May 02, 2013, 21:22:02 ET
Posted by: Mt. Belzoni, Portland OR

Given many folks' eagerness to salute Boston for how it has coped with challenging recent events (to put it mildly), wouldn't The Boston Rag be a welcome addition to the 2013 set list? It is one of their all-time great songs, and was a wonderful set opener during the 2000 tour if memory serves.

Date: Thurs, May 02, 2013, 20:54:22 ET
Posted by: Hutch,

Jazzassin - I got a kick out of that age thing. I'm sixty-two. Curious as to when you started playing music, guitar specifically, and what scene it was that influenced you in the beginning. For me it was the folk music of the early sixties. Now I play mostly electric blues.
Axes of note?

Date: Thurs, May 02, 2013, 17:25:39 ET
Posted by: Chris, Philly

Ben Franklin, is this a joke? Upper Darby is far from the "gem" that you make it out to be. Crime has been on the rise in that neighborhood for years. I won't pretend that Camden or Fairmount Park are walks in the park, but get off your high horse. No one cares if you have to drive through the "ghetto". Put your windows up if you're that scared. I am even willing to concede that Tower Theatre is the best of the three, but get a grip...

Date: Thurs, May 02, 2013, 16:55:41 ET
Posted by: SteelyDon, Richmond

I've been on this site for over 10 years now. So at the time I would have been 16 years old. Does that count? I'll be 28 on Saturday.

Also my daughter is 2.5 years old and loves Steely Dan. Maybe I could create her own handle...Younger than Wu

Date: Thurs, May 02, 2013, 15:33:00 ET
Posted by: Ben Franklin, don't you believe it

True facts

The Mann is a really a shit hole. It is in the inner city hood of Philadelphia one of the most run down cities in the Western Hemisphere. Maybe one step above Detroit. You will truly want to be Out of the Ghetto if you go to the Mann Music Center. With no off street parking you might have to park 10 blocks away and you will be walking 10 blocks through the hood. Humidity is just as bad and there are lots of bugs and the area is hot from the concrete of the inner city and no breezes.

Tweeter, across the river in Camden, NJ, which is a smaller but more dangerous armpit, no, ass crack of a city is in a modern cleared park type area isolated from the hood. You drive from the interstate then through the hood for a few blocks. Then you park in a large paved lot that has a 6 foot high fence with razor wire on top of it, with guards. It is only about 15 years old, and has a large covered area for at least 3000 people. Very few people will need to sit on a lawn. If you get a breeze off of the Delaware River it helps at times.

Located just west outside of Philadelphia, The Tower is the shit. It is about 80 years old it is like an art deco theater inside totally enclosed with very cold air. It is designed for ideal sound. It is in a decent shopping district and there are parking garages and guarded parking lots about 3 blocks away. At night the stores close and there is nobody around but police patrols.

Now that you have the true facts which shed would you choose?

Date: Thurs, May 02, 2013, 15:19:16 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Anxiously awaiting special setlist shows to be announced. I have no doubt that a few will in the major markets. From the newsletter:

"Check in soon and often for additions (;-)), changes,
and all on-sale date announcements."

Date: Thurs, May 02, 2013, 14:58:05 ET
Posted by: anymanleft, rio grande

I've been to several concerts at the Mann, Tower and Camden and I like the Mann better for several reason. First, the access to get in and out is much better. The parking lot is surrounded by Fairmount park and tailgating is everywhere. No NJ cops crawling all over the place. The sightlines are excellant, especially from the balcony. The acoustics are great, it was built for and is still used by the Philadelphia Orchestra. It's old and needs some cleaning up, but it's perfect for warm weather outside gigs.

Date: Thurs, May 02, 2013, 14:18:21 ET
Posted by: Mr. Mann, philly

The Mann Center is nice because it is an outdoor shed, with lots of room on the lawn. the place kind of fell into a little disrepair when acts switched over to the Tweeter Center or whatever it is called these days, over in Camden NJ.

The Mann is in a crappy neighborhood, like the place in Camden. The last time I was there, the parking was a mess, but, other than that, I have seen several great shows there. The Tower is sonically preferable, but the Mann should be nice. It's more open than the shed in Camden, so it's not hot and humid down in the covered area.

Date: Thurs, May 02, 2013, 12:39:53 ET
Posted by: Asking, Q

What's wrong with the Mann center vs. the Tower?

Date: Thurs, May 02, 2013, 11:56:28 ET
Posted by: holy shit,

@Jazzassasin

I know what Oscar Wilde said, but man you are as old as DIRT.

But you write better than most Americans.

You must have been in your 30s when Steely Dan first toured.

You must be retired for many years to have time to study, think and write like that since Europe has good benefits.

Date: Thurs, May 02, 2013, 10:52:16 ET
Posted by: fagenism, -

I am somewhere between 19 and 38.

Date: Thurs, May 02, 2013, 10:52:03 ET
Posted by: Greco,

YES The set-list is relevant. If you're putting down tall coin, you should be satisfied with the set-list. When I go, I book a hotel, buy meals etc. If I'm going to spend $300, I want a show that I will enjoy.

I agree that we are all speculating on the set-list but all indications are its a greatest hits show. Therefore, If you like that so be it. I don't therefore, I choose to sit on the sidelines and wait. I don't for the life of me understand why folks get so defensive about this topic. The set-list will make or break the show.

Greco

Date: Thurs, May 02, 2013, 09:33:31 ET
Posted by: Jazzassin, 22

Young Wu,

Wow! So am I! Or more exact; 22 and a few days. 18 088 days not counting today, in fact.

Date: Thurs, May 02, 2013, 09:10:53 ET
Posted by: Young Wu, Buffalo

I had no idea my age was such a mystery... 22.

Date: Thurs, May 02, 2013, 09:09:32 ET
Posted by: DYLYNFAN, HARRISBURG PA

Dave, what is wrong with the Mann? Already got my tickets and have
never been there. Nothing compares to the Tower,which I love!
Second, Jazzassin that was real "Good Stuff". Third,Vince T. guilty
as charged, good call.

Date: Thurs, May 02, 2013, 08:03:59 ET
Posted by: Dave (from acquisitions), Philadelphia

my whole crew found out the Dan are coming to the Mann in Philly instead of The Tower... are you kidding me? probably the first tour in a while that i will miss.

Date: Thurs, May 02, 2013, 06:54:37 ET
Posted by: Jazzassin, YoungJazzassin

Edwin
bikemann17
Robb46
et al,

I usually hate to kill good jokes by explaining them ... but now I feel the need to clarify a bit.
To me it seemed totally obvious that Edwin was joking in his comment.
The setlist issue has been one of old testamental proportions, and I believe Edwin's comment was meant ironically. The hysterical use of more than two exclamation marks should tell anyone that this was meant humorous, and that he of course realizes that this was an old setlist, probably from 2011. A parody on some of the more exaggerated worries about "stale setlists" that always pops up here before tour starts. The kind of comments that made Hoops close down this place for several days a few weeks back ...
My own reply to Edwin was of course meant as a humorous follow-up to Edwin's original comment, which gave me a flashback of the '90s Bill Murray movie "Groundhog Day". Google it if you don't know the story.

Edwin, feel free to correct me if I'm wrong. However, if by any chance you were death serious after all, I apologize for taking the word on your behalf. And I might add, if so, it's one of those sad, sad things things that makes me want to pull out the plug for good. (The network plug, goddammit, not my own.)

And Robb46, have you ever been present when a piano was tuned and maintained? Ain't much playing of real music going on at all, really.
It's a pure technical job of an expert, and the way it's done is not by playing actual music and tuning a key now and then until it sounds good. It's a systematic series of compromises, and music has little or no place in the process, believe it or not. They don't tune Donald's keyboards by playing his songs on them. They might give a few actual chords a go once in a while, but that's all. And those chords are not exclusively Don-chords, not even the Mu Major (add2) chord...

When that is said, I do of course agree that the aforementioned setlist is probably not far from the truth regarding this year's tour, but all who has read my comments on this board over time should know by now that I pesonally don't worry a second about setlists. I live in Norway, have only had the pleasure of seeing the boys live two times and will probably never see them again, sad as it is. And also, I agree wholeheartedly to ChuckNY's comment where he writes:

"Enough with the "stale setlist" complaints. They won't even begin to narrow down a setlist until tour rehearsals are well underway. Whatever they choose to work up and play will be awesome, not least because it's Steely Effing Dan, but because Don n' Walt's exacting quality standards ensure audiences are always treated to the finest ensembles and stellar performances.

How lucky we all are that Don and Walt are in good health and able/willing to Do It Again so definitively after almost 5 decades in the music biz."

I stress this and clarify my position in the world of setlist discussions to avoid being taken for the benefit of the opposite of what I actually think. Should be unneccessary I know, but hey, since so many don't seem to be able to detect humor and irony even when it's shoved up a certain place, I feel the need to do so after all.

Finally, I agree with DYLYNFAN that "With A Gun" would be a fantastic and refreshing rarity for this tour. Would be interesting to hear if Jon was able to pull off some nasty chicken picking solos, or eventually find another way around this pseudo-country gem.
And personally I'd love it if they actually played more post 2K songs, but think the percentage will be as it usually is; a few songs from 2vN and EMG once in a while, but not many of them will be stayers on the list.

Re: YoungWu's real age, to which I have no clue...
Many of us are middle aged or elderly. I quote the master Oscar Wilde who said: "The tragedy of old age is not hat one is old. It is that one is young."

Date: Wed, May 01, 2013, 23:03:56 ET
Posted by: wellesley,

That's a good point! Could you imagine Don Fagen standing in a field at a concert at his age ankle deep in mud? Not just him, but any other of these overpaid geriatric divas?

Date: Wed, May 01, 2013, 22:54:52 ET
Posted by: Kevin K.,

Lawn seats? I could tolerate that when I was 18. I am approaching 60 and would rather pay 150 dollars to be in a dry air conditioned concert hall. Nothing sucks worse than sitting in mud at a concert. These older bands need to consider their audience is not a bunch of teenagers.

Date: Wed, May 01, 2013, 22:39:55 ET
Posted by: Wellesley, Elyria

The Dan is playing in mostly shittier sheds across the board. They have sunk lower than going to Indian casinos which are palaces compared to some of these places. They are really trying to squeeze out every buck they can get their hands on.

Date: Wed, May 01, 2013, 19:13:18 ET
Posted by: Vince T,

from that lost post of yours you must be smokin wherever you are DYLNFAN

Date: Wed, May 01, 2013, 19:06:30 ET
Posted by: Robb46,

Don't know what Edwin saw, but the guy did say that they were tuning the piano for the 2013 tour.

They might be tuning it using those songs to guide them which means there is a good chance that will be the setlist or something close for 2013.

Date: Wed, May 01, 2013, 18:53:17 ET
Posted by: DYLYNFAN, HARRISBURG PA

While reading through some of the old archives on the Blue(I know get a life) I seem to recall an epic beef involving Young Wu (who for the record I dig)getting very defensive when some posters were making fun of his age. eg: What does a 12-year old know about Steely Dan anyway, or
some such nonsense. Is there a point to this, glad you asked, Young Wu
has taken the ribbing about being 55 very well. Still no point to this?
You are correct and I am done with this ramble! Here is a guilty
pleasure I would like to hear this tour: With A Gun, knowing full well
one man's guilty pleasure is another man's classic. Feel free to add
to the list or not.

Date: Wed, May 01, 2013, 18:44:04 ET
Posted by: bikemann17, nj

Relax Edwin,, That setlist is clearly dated 2011

Date: Wed, May 01, 2013, 18:14:47 ET
Posted by: Jazzassin, groundhog spotting

Edwin, It's a living nightmare. And tomorrow is 02.02.

Again.

;o)

Date: Wed, May 01, 2013, 17:43:45 ET
Posted by: Edwin, Peekskill

There is the written proof!!!!!!!! It is the same fuckin setlist excuse my french. Can't believe this is happening again again again and again!!

Date: Wed, May 01, 2013, 17:32:32 ET
Posted by: r2d3,

Everybody is impressed with Young Wu because he seems wise beyond his years. Someone said earlier he is really 55 and his wisdom for that age makes him just about average.

Date: Wed, May 01, 2013, 17:21:02 ET
Posted by: casual fan, orlando

Here's an interesting video of a guy that is going to give DF's Rhodes a tune up for the upcoming tour. Interesting that it has an old set list still on the corner and you can read it a few seconds in. SIAP

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uParFk2FRew

Date: Wed, May 01, 2013, 13:48:38 ET
Posted by: PGE, My entry for Weakest Steely Dan connection of the week

In the somewhat new movie Iron Man 3 a certain "Dr. Wu" makes a brief appearance early on in the somewhat amusing proceedings.

OK.

That's it.

Date: Wed, May 01, 2013, 13:31:44 ET
Posted by: Young Wu, Buffalo

Haha... ain't I hilarious!?

Date: Wed, May 01, 2013, 13:00:26 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

Well played, Young Wu.

Date: Wed, May 01, 2013, 12:34:02 ET
Posted by: Johnny, Russia

Wow, Young Wu. You really are brilliant. Probably the best poster on this website. Screw everyone who disagrees with you.

Date: Wed, May 01, 2013, 12:32:57 ET
Posted by: Young Wu, Buffalo

"I firmly believe there are few posters who post agreement with their point of view under several usernames to make it seem as if their views are popular with the posters here."

Absolutely. No doubt.

Date: Wed, May 01, 2013, 12:30:38 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

Wu, I don't know what she meant, just thinking out loud. For that matter, I don't know she is a "she". Has a "danielle333" ever posted here in the past? I can't find it.

I firmly believe there are few posters who post agreement with their point of view under several usernames to make it seem as if their views are popular with the posters here. BTW, I'm not suggesting danielle333 is definitely a pseudo-handle for another poster. I'm just pointing out that danielle333 is not a known entity here, and there is really no way of knowing.

Date: Wed, May 01, 2013, 12:00:04 ET
Posted by: CJB, YVR

Mt Belzoni, thanks for the heads-up. You're right about the Schnitzer Auditorium being an excellent former venue for the band. Hung around after the set two years ago & got to chat with the hard-working road crew.

Date: Wed, May 01, 2013, 11:56:59 ET
Posted by: Young Wu, Buffalo

Ah, Dean... I thought she meant songs ala Razor Boy, Fire in the Hole... things like that. I didn't even think Bear, Mobile Home.

Good point.

Date: Wed, May 01, 2013, 11:30:48 ET
Posted by: casual fan, orlando

Three things regarding the Orlando Hard Rock show of note:

1) On the Ticketmaster website last week there was a note that the act would have "support," or words to that effect. The suggestion was an opening act. But I don't see that on the page there anymore.

2) I noticed a day or so into the sale a tab for "Official Platinum Seats." Might have been there before and I just didn't notice it. At any rate, front row tickets are -- get this -- $498.97, plus fees. Fourth row tickets are $395.

3) Using the interactive map, by my count, there are only 17 reserved seats left on the floor, and only about 60 seats left in the balcony. Impossible to tell how many GA tickets are left, but that's not a huge area.

Of course, they often hold back seats for radio promotions and what not, some of which will get dumped back into the que at a later point. But its a capacity of 3,000ish. Seems likely to me that it will sell out.

Date: Wed, May 01, 2013, 11:18:38 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

Young Wu, you posted:

"Danielle, how can you bitch about a stale setlist and then say that you're "not into" the rarities??"

I admit her statement seems a bit odd at first. But I think I understand where she is coming from. I consider a true "rarity" something like "The Bear", "2nd Arrangement", "Mobile Home", etc. Songs not released. rarely heard anywhere. I'd certainly love to hear those live--don't get me wrong.

But I'd be much more excited with hearing rarely/never played live, actually released, SD tunes: Dr. Wu, Fire in the Hole, Razor Boy--you get the drift.

Of course I am perfectly happy hearing whatever the boys choose to play, as there isn't a clunker in the bunch. It isn't like I'm seeing five shows this tour. I'm likely to only attend one. I have no problem listening to 5-6 songs played at every SD concert, seeing as I only get to hear them live once every two years, or so. I find at least 5-6 surprises at each show I've attended, too.

Date: Wed, May 01, 2013, 10:37:00 ET
Posted by: HouDanFan, Houston

The venue in Houston is outdoors and pretty large. Capacity is around 19,500. The Dukes played there last year and I was told only about 3000 tickets were sold. It's a nice venue with good support services but the sound is suspect, particularly for a band like Steely Dan. For Aerosmith, Kiss or whomever its perfect. It's still popular among the locals becasue its the only outdoor venue and thus, you can partake on the lawn.

Date: Wed, May 01, 2013, 00:34:17 ET
Posted by: Mt. Belzoni, Portland OR

The Portland venue (actually east of Portland in Troutdale) is relatively new and indeed sort of small. It is largely an open field near a tavern/hotel that opened a few years ago. I've never been there, and it isn't as active as many other summer venues, but I believe that Stevie Wonder played there a few summers back, though it is mostly booked for much smaller acts. It's in a lovely area (near the Columbia River Gorge), but doesn't seem like it offers any view thereof.

As I understand it, it holds 5,000, but 4,500 of these are simply lawn admission. There is a small area of 500 reserved seats in front of a covered stage. I tried to secure reserved seats the instant the tickets went on public sale, but struck out. I have only lawn seats for the show.

The Dan's Portland shows have really mixed it up. In 2000, they played Memorial Coliseum (holds about 11,000). A few years later, they re-booked the Coliseum, but then switched to the Keller Auditorium (about 2900 seats) at the last minute, and had to map everyone's tickets over to the different venue. Their next area show (w/M McDonald) was at a more typical shed venue in nearby Vancouver WA (maybe 10,000 seats including lawn), then last summer they played the Schnitzer Auditorium (a lovely Beaux Arts theatre from the 1920s that holds 2,800). Last summer, as I've previously complained, the Dukes chose to play a venue in So. Oregon many hours from either Portland to the north or Sacramento to the south.

Not sure why all the bouncing around, but they've just about Bingoed every conceivable Portland area venue at this point. Very glad that they're coming, and that this time we'll be well into the tour (usually we're the first or 2d show). They've always drawn a lively and enthusiastic audience here.

Date: Tues, April 30, 2013, 22:46:43 ET
Posted by: CJB, YVR

What ChuckNY said!

Also: anyone from Washington or Oregon have an opinion on the Portland venue? I've checked it out online; it appears to be TINY. Any feedback on location, parking, size, & etc?

Date: Tues, April 30, 2013, 20:15:41 ET
Posted by: Chip, Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio

excited about another tour just got my ticket for Jacobs Pavilion at Nautica, best available but the boys are worth it,last show I went to was at Toledo, I know I real see the real fans there!

Chip

Date: Tues, April 30, 2013, 15:47:33 ET
Posted by: tact, poise and reason, in groovetime

ChuckNY, I agree with you so much I feel like singing.

It was a late April morning
near the box office booths
I arrived to buy concert tickets
and waited with some local youths
The young dudes were grinnin'
I can't say it didn't sting
But I loves me some Donald and Walter
so I went ahead and purchased them things.

The preceding attempt at amusement was sponsored by Anheuser-Busch.

I purchased tickets for the Virginia show on Saturday morning. Price range for the venue, I'm told, is $31-$156. Mine were $97 each all included, 25th row in the center. No complaints, only enthusiasm. Can't wait!

Date: Tues, April 30, 2013, 13:03:07 ET
Posted by: ChuckNY, NY

Enough with the "stale setlist" complaints. They won't even begin to narrow down a setlist until tour rehearsals are well underway. Whatever they choose to work up and play will be awesome, not least because it's Steely Effing Dan, but because Don n' Walt's exacting quality standards ensure audiences are always treated to the finest ensembles and stellar performances.

How lucky we all are that Don and Walt are in good health and able/willing to Do It Again so definitively after almost 5 decades in the music biz.

Date: Tues, April 30, 2013, 10:00:09 ET
Posted by: what if???,

This could be a slick marketing scheme. They might change the set list early in the tour and then switch back to the same old same old later after you already spent 400 bucks for tickets.

Date: Tues, April 30, 2013, 09:52:07 ET
Posted by: Greco,

It's nice to have a dialogue about the up coming shows. I'm not the "lone wolf" because a few folks agree with my observations. A Steely Dan show can either be good or GREAT! A very fine line. I remember the EXCITEMENT when we heard Boston Rag, Night by Night, Glamour Profession,Royal Scam and Don't Take me Alive the first few times. All I'm asking is to drop a FEW "cookie cutter songs" and add Gold Teeth, King of the World, Dr Wu or any other deep cuts. They've did it before why not do it again? (no pun intended) maybe a little pun. Time will tell. Based on the past and the way the shows have been promoted, it doesn't look to promising.
I'm hoping for a GREAT show but expecting a good show.

Greco

Date: Tues, April 30, 2013, 07:37:13 ET
Posted by: The Bending End, RI

Haven't posted here in years...good to see it's still going strong.

New tribute band in RI: http://digital.olivesoftware.com/Olive/ODE/ProJo/LandingPage/LandingPage.aspx?href=VFBKLzIwMTMvMDQvMzA.&pageno=Mjk.&entity=QXIwMjkwMQ..&view=ZW50aXR5

Date: Tues, April 30, 2013, 07:13:46 ET
Posted by: JT Combs, London

Jazzassin - You have a fine ear!

''Tell all of your friends that they're winning!'

Date: Tues, April 30, 2013, 06:26:40 ET
Posted by: Jazzassin, 2013 Tail-Fin Success Soup

JT Combs,
Thanks for the 1957 Tail-Fin Fiasco link. Good stuff!
There's a little bit of many things in there. I can hear Randy Newman, I can hear Steely Dan, Rod Stewart, Soft Machine, Carole King, The Kinks and probably a dozen other artists that I guess they've listened a lot to. They obviously have great taste (like me!), and has been able to put their favorites in a blender, add a little Tail-Fin Factor and come up with a catchy yet sophisticated mini-album that has an absolutely irresistible charm to my ears.

Date: Tues, April 30, 2013, 02:04:14 ET
Posted by: JT Combs, London

Many thanks to The Dean for helping out with The Tail-Fin link... Apologies I was a little giddy when posting!

http://the1957tail-finfiasco.bandcamp.com/

I'm sure I've got it right now. Cheers to us all x

Date: Mon, April 29, 2013, 23:14:09 ET
Posted by: Young Wu, Buffalo

Danielle, how can you bitch about a stale setlist and then say that you're "not into" the rarities??

I'm all for constructive criticism but that's ridiculous.

Date: Mon, April 29, 2013, 23:08:58 ET
Posted by: Satch, Santa Barbara

I agree. I'm not buying a ticket until I see the setlist for the first show on July 19.

Date: Mon, April 29, 2013, 22:34:55 ET
Posted by: Danielle333,

The customer should know basically what they are getting going in to the show. The same Greatest Hits show changed by putting in a different Dan song now and then will not satisfy me. What are they talking about a few surprises?

There needs to be MUCHO surprises!

The first surprise should be five or six Beacon shows.
Second would be using those blazing solos they claim to make the live songs sound less like the CDs
Third surprise would be solo some Walter or Donald music.
Fourth surprise could be a rarity even though I'm not into those.

Date: Mon, April 29, 2013, 21:40:50 ET
Posted by: Young Wu, Buffalo

Haha, I love them, but I'd hardly call Becker and Fagen "always adventurous"... at least when it comes to touring in the past few years.

Not that I mind. I'll be happy with the two rarities they throw at us.

Date: Mon, April 29, 2013, 21:25:33 ET
Posted by: jake,

M/O/D/P

Don't get your hopes up. The key word below is "may be". If nothing cool happens, they're covered.

As always with the adventurous Fagen and Becker, a few surprises may be in store as well."

Date: Mon, April 29, 2013, 21:25:07 ET
Posted by: T.O. Danfan, home

M/O/D/P....thanks for that info! Maybe a couple of goodies thrown in for us here on night three and a trip to NYC in the fall if we're lucky. Glad to be of help last week with the pre code.

Cheers

Date: Mon, April 29, 2013, 20:57:08 ET
Posted by: Nicholas Urfe, Phraxos

Thank you kindly, to The Dean.

Date: Mon, April 29, 2013, 20:49:58 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

Nicholas,

The problem with the link is the "https". Just use this:

http://the1957tail-finfiasco.bandcamp.com/

Date: Mon, April 29, 2013, 20:45:51 ET
Posted by: Nicholas Urfe, Phraxos

Mr. The Dean, computerman extrordinaire - my web safety software didn't like that 1957 Tailfin Fisaco download site. Should we steer clear? Because I'd like to have the album, but not at the expense of giving some Russians access to my bank account!

Date: Mon, April 29, 2013, 20:07:25 ET
Posted by: Gecko, Ipswich

Grecko, for some reason you remind me of Cousin Dupree.
Are one of the roadies that got fired for creeping the singers out and now want to stink things up here? Ain't working, Greco.
Get a life.

Date: Mon, April 29, 2013, 19:44:12 ET
Posted by: Garrett, Boston Strong

http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/thenightshift/the-greatest-band-ever-print

Everyone please kick in the minimum pledge (1 measly dollar) so that the Dan get their due on this clever Kickstarter-funded print when it goes to press. You'll get your voting link when the funding phase closes.

Date: Mon, April 29, 2013, 17:06:05 ET
Posted by: M/O/D/P, Just tryin' to be helpful

From the official vebsyte (www.steelydan.com)- an official PR Blurb!

"Opening in Atlantic City on July 19, the tour hits major markets including Los Angeles, Chicago, Atlanta, and Boston, with additional special engagements to be announced soon."

And:

"Together, they will treat audiences to selections from The Dan's extraordinary four-decade catalog, rich with infectious tunes, bodacious harmonies, irresistible grooves, and sleek, subversive lyrics � punctuated by blazing solo work and rich ensembles. As always with the adventurous Fagen and Becker, a few surprises may be in store as well."

That should clear up most of the "Beacon confusion" and some of the "setlist confusion". Or exacerbate it. Depends on the reader's ability to combine laws of probability with historical precedent and basic common sense. Yeah, I know. It's tough.

Date: Mon, April 29, 2013, 16:51:49 ET
Posted by: JT Combs, London

Morning, afternoon or evening - For those of you that have already checked out
The 1957 Tail-Fin Fiasco, I follow them on Soundcloud & they now have an album out. It's available here -

https://the1957tail-finfiasco.bandcamp.com/

Its a pay what you like download & is a terrific thing. Cheers to us all x

Date: Mon, April 29, 2013, 16:46:52 ET
Posted by: Frank,

No NYC shows in 1994. So far it doesn't look like any in 2013.

Date: Mon, April 29, 2013, 14:22:37 ET
Posted by: Tim ,

I agree with Greco. And there will have to be Beacon shows. There is too much money to turn down like someone said.

Date: Mon, April 29, 2013, 13:33:43 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

Let's all be adults here. I'd think an adult would wait for an ACTUAL setlist from the tour before criticizing it. Making up a fake setlist to attack seems childish to me.

Furthermore adults register a complaint and move on. Repeating the criticism seems like a way to draw attention to oneself. Don't like what they are playing? Don't go to the show. Pretty simple, really.

Date: Mon, April 29, 2013, 12:58:10 ET
Posted by: jake,

here's what is going on - What Beacon shows!!!???

Date: Mon, April 29, 2013, 12:43:35 ET
Posted by: Greco,

Let's all be adults here. As paying customers, we have the right to criticize. I'll say it before and I'll say it again, why can't we have another 2000 set list? Night by Night, Glamour profession, Jack of Speed, Boston Rag, FM and others. Not necessarily the same set list but come on and mix it up.

I'm tired of WB or DF with the 6 minute ramblings on Hey Nineteen, the fake cigarette that DF throws away just before the encore, thank you very much appreciate it,& hey what a great #$ing audience. Their shtick is OLD. It's not a concert, it's a play and we know all the lines.Their ad lib lines were well rehearsed (Rod Stewart).Very Boring

Until I see a better set list, I reserve the right to stay home and keep my money. For those of you who enjoy the same ol same, I hope you enjoy the show.

Greco

Date: Sun, April 28, 2013, 21:30:21 ET
Posted by: here's what is going on , Jake does not need to guess

1. We are fortunate to have SD touring or doing anything at all. Other 70's bands have disappeared. If they are touring they may not even have any of the original band members.

2. Unfortunately SD's Becker and Fagen are elderly, particularly Becker is showing signs of wear. Fagen is still pretty zippy. Touring, doing side gigs, writing articles, while putting together a great album. Key SD session people are younger, though. Becker and Fagen are going for one last maybe grab for retirement money as was posted earlier.

3. There might be sales data or focus groups that say that the SD greatest hits type set list, and some of this was posted awhile back, will sell more tickets and make more money. They are going to continue with the same set list that makes money.

4. Yes there are many people who on this site who have "admitted" to going to 14 or more shows. Watching the same show each time, traveling great distances despite having advance notice of the same set list. I don't get that, and suggest that these same people should be "admitted" to an institution for psychiatric eval.

4. Since this could very well be the last hurrah I would suggest that you go to these SD shows. But what the smart money, sane people will be doing is to go to a NYC Beacon show. These shows are already proven to have rarities, Internet request nights, and maybe album sides. If you are a major dude you must do this even if you live on the left coast.

If you need more info we can try to answer it.

Date: Sun, April 28, 2013, 16:43:45 ET
Posted by: SteveandErika@tampabay.rr.com, Tampa, FL

True, Jake. I'd be willing to swap out "Aja" for "Gaucho"
and "Babylon Sisters" for "The Second Arrangement".
Only time will tell, I guess.

Date: Sun, April 28, 2013, 16:19:16 ET
Posted by: jake,

Steve Gennarelli : I agree with you that those songs are great. It's just that a good portion of the people in this group have seen a ton of shows and have heard those songs over and over again. I mean if you have only seen the band once or twice, that set list is still must seem like a novelty I guess.

Date: Sun, April 28, 2013, 09:11:47 ET
Posted by: Susan johnson, Jon Herington Band Tour

Jon Herington Band Spring tours, there are 3 shows that are "double bill" with Keith Carlock featuring Oz Noy on guitar

May 17, 2013
The Brighton Bar
Long Branch, NJ
JHB will be hitting at midnight!

May 18, 2013
Bldg 24 Live
Wyomissing, PA
Double Bill with Keith Carlock featuring Oz Noy
www.bldg24live.com

May 24, 2013
8:00 PM
Mauch Chunk Opera House
Jim Thorpe, PA
www.MauchChunkOperaHouse.com

May 31, 2013
8:00 PM
Havana New Hope PA
New Hope, PA
The Jon Herington Band on a dual bill with Keith Carlock featuring Oz Noy on guitar, James Genus on bass.
www.havananewhope.com

Jun 1, 2013
Historic Blairstown Theatre
Blairstown, NJ
www.thehbt.com

Jun 7, 2013
10th Street Live
Kenilworth, NJ
JHB hits at MIDNIGHT

Jun 8, 2013
Jersey Shore Jazz and Blues Festival
Asbury Park, NJ
Asbury Park Blues and Brews Festival- show is FREE to the public. Event will be outdoors at Bradley Park Fifth and Ocean Jon Herington Band is scheduled to perform from 5PM - 6:15PM www.jsjbf.org

Jun 13, 2013
Iridium
New York, NY
on double bill with Keith Carlock featuring Oz Noy shows at 7:30 and 9:30

Jun 15, 2013
Bearsville Theatre
Woodstock, NY
www.bearsvilletheater.com

Date: Sun, April 28, 2013, 08:49:19 ET
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Date: Sat, April 27, 2013, 21:25:44 ET
Posted by: Biff, Q

"A healthy dose of EMG and 2VN wouldn't hurt my feelings either, but that doesn't seem to be the bands cup of tea."

Fagen has said he'd love to do those on album night, but the demand isn't there.

Date: Sat, April 27, 2013, 18:34:42 ET
Posted by: Jazzassin, pastime

While waiting for the tour to begin and the actual setlists to be reported, here's a SD tribute night from a few years back, on 9.11.2010.
The concert took place in Halden - a town in south-east Norway.
Yours truly was not present.

Here's Godwhacker:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JB9uJNmh59Y&list=UUUvq04ImCf-PHwbZ1z_XBkw

...and here's the rest of the night, more or less:

http://www.youtube.com/user/steelydantribute?feature=watch

I guess there's both good and not-so-good things to say about their take on the beloved songs, but either way it's done with lots of love for the material, and for a "by the book" tribute band they're not bad at all, I think.
The backup singers are so good they could probably fill in for the Borderline Brats.

Date: Sat, April 27, 2013, 18:07:53 ET
Posted by: Steve Gennarelli, Tampa

If Greco's set list is correct, I don't see how anybody could be disappointed hearing all of those great songs.
Yes, I'd prefer a few surprises and I'm sure some of the shows on the tour (Most definitely the ones at the Beacon and a few other locations) will have at least a surprise or two.
But as some others have said, this is friggin' "Steely Dan" and these shows will be fantastic.
I'll be honored to see these fellas do any song they want to do as they've entertained me more than any other solo or group act in the 48 years I've been living.
Thank you Donald, Walter and all of your supporting help low these many years.
I don't have my tickets yet for the show here in Clearwater in Sept. but even if I can't get tickets, I'll be sure to bust my hump to get up there to get my "Steely Dan" t-shirt.
Can't wait to see what styles they have out for this tour.

Date: Sat, April 27, 2013, 15:56:56 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

? and the Mysterions:

inside info? lol D&W are near retirement age. Don still has the goods though, although who knows with Walter. Six months after Don's finest album (solo or SD) since the Nightfly and there's hardly a ripple.

The tour is part of the retirement package and the setlist will dig mightily into the pet rock and lava lamp epoch. Best to be existential about these things.

Date: Sat, April 27, 2013, 15:25:49 ET
Posted by: Josey, Mass

A good dose of Gaucho would suit me fine as well! When Greco posted the "setlist", there were a few on there that I've never seen live before - Rikki, Chain Lightening, it may have just been those two..maybe Glamour Profession was the third mentioned...never seen that one live either, and I've seen 14 shows at this point.

A healthy dose of EMG and 2VN wouldn't hurt my feelings either, but that doesn't seem to be the bands cup of tea.

Date: Sat, April 27, 2013, 13:58:22 ET
Posted by: HouDanFan, Houston

Looks like I get two shows this year so I'm pretty excited. Austin's Bass Center is a good indoor venue that is smaller in size. I'm not too excited about the Houston venue. Its a decent place and fantastic area of Houston but the sound on the lawn is iffy. Even under roof to the sides can be suspect. Jim T. I think your in good shape where you are. I'll be close to there as well. Hoping I get a good dose of Gaucho this year.

Date: Sat, April 27, 2013, 12:30:02 ET
Posted by: Elgin, Boston

Dangential Alert! Listen and watch Borderline Brat Catherine Russell and her band

"Live Webcast" from Jazz at Lincoln Center in NYC on Sunday April 28 at 7:30pm and 9:30pm EDT

http://jalc.org/multimedia/webcasts/dizzys?reset=1#.UXv61uCLGQI

Date: Sat, April 27, 2013, 02:29:06 ET
Posted by: SS, Hong Kong

Tim Schmit (as he is listed in the credits)sang backing vocals on Aja, the title track. Where else he might show up, I'm not sure.

Listening to another alum, Hugh McCracken, playing on McCartney's Ram (last year's sweet remaster). Great album, unless you hate McCartney...and please, lets not go anywhere near any of that...ok, sorry i brought it up. I guess the point was, you can tell when Macca used some studio help, and it really showed up there.

The Stones...yeah well every so often living in the middle of nowhere has its advantages. In 2003 once SARS had subsided, Hong Kong decided on a relaunch concert series full of Boomer acts. I got to see over two weeks, the Stones, Prince, and Neil Young (with Crazyhorse)at an outdoor venue with maybe 3,000 other people. The Stones were fine and the show left me feeling no different about the band than I ever did. I still have none of their albums.

Happy concert-going for all of you stateside and in Canada. It's a tired story to go on about how much it costs to get on planes to attend, but give it a thought when the tickets prices seem a bit much.

And a shout-out to all those who helped me get to shows in the past, including Sue Dave, Little Wild One, Alan, Scotty. It'll be shows on four continents if I can ever manage one in Europe !

Date: Sat, April 27, 2013, 00:04:10 ET
Posted by: almost gothic negative girl, california coast

Thanks for sharing that info, Jim. I had checked out The Pearl at the Palms online in the past and it looked like a really nice venue which I wanted to attend, but the timing was wrong. My younger brother has seen shows there when he lived in Sedona, including Steely Dan, which I believe was the 2009 show, as we were all involved in 2011 helping a family member say goodbye and move along to the next plane.

Any time you can deal directly with the venue for ticket info/purchases it is worth trying to do so. Thank you for passing this along to the BlueBook. It will surely help someone.

Date: Fri, April 26, 2013, 23:02:29 ET
Posted by: Young Wu, Driving up to Toronto to hang out with my new best bud!

M/O/D/P... glad to hear it. Although I do think our rivalry could have been one for the ages.

Cheers, mate!

Date: Fri, April 26, 2013, 22:36:33 ET
Posted by: Jim Taylor, Hello Baton Rouge

And I am going to return the favor. In 2011 I saw SD at the Palms' Pearl Theater in Lost Wages. About a month ago, I called them out of the blue and asked when the Steely Dan tickets were gong on sale, hoping to get a bite. No dice. The woman I was talking to said that she had no information that SD were being booked.

Last week I called back and got another woman who was very helpful. She said that there has been no official announcement yet, but that they always did those on Mondays. The tickets go on sale the next Friday.

The key here is that you don't have to go through Ticket Master to get tickets to the Pearl. Just monitor The Pearl online on Monday mornings for their announcement and then call the box office on Friday morning to order your tickets. They will take your order directly and work with you on the phone as to where you want to sit. Pick up the tickets at will call the day of the show (just make sure you bring the credit card you used to order the tickets). I know this from personal experience.

You can get a great seat at one of the best sounding halls (2500 seats) in the country by talking to someone over the phone.

Date: Fri, April 26, 2013, 22:02:52 ET
Posted by: almost gothic negative girl, california coast

Jim Taylor ~ I'm so glad that your ticket purchase went well today and it's a done deal. Happy to help a fellow BlueBook DanFan. Now just don't oversleep tomorrow morning!

Date: Fri, April 26, 2013, 21:07:19 ET
Posted by: Your Friendship Request, ....has been accepted by M/O/D/P

Glad to see I finally made ya laugh, Wu. And thanks for extending the Olive Branch.....I appreciate it. As part of the deal, I will happily admit to being an Aging, Bitter, Sarcastic, Tequila-Pickled Hipster if you will admit to being a Stones Fan. Wait.....you already did that. It's done, then. We're pals! If you find yourself up in Toronto for the summer's REALLY big show on July 21, the Genesee Cream Ale is on me. Sorry, I really won't be in town for those Stones shows, though. Just playing it safe. I mean, what if it's, y'know, contagious???

Date: Fri, April 26, 2013, 20:18:10 ET
Posted by: DYLYNFAN, HARRISBURG PA

While I would go see this band to hear the F*cking Mourner's Kaddish,
and agree with the like's of The Dean that there is nothing inherently
wrong with Gordon Greco's fake set-list, he put zero surprises in to piss
everyone off, and remarkably it worked!! DONE BABBLING

Date: Fri, April 26, 2013, 18:20:17 ET
Posted by: Jim Taylor, Hello Baton Rouge

Hey, "almost gothic negative girl, california coast," I owe you BIG TIME! I just copped an awesome seat for the Houston Dan show. I'll be 14 rows back right in front of Jon Herington. If you are ever down our way, say for the New Orleans Jazz fest, let me know, and I'll buy you a fancy New Orleans dinner! I couldn't have done it without you. Now I can make sure I show up for my gig ontime, LOL!

Date: Fri, April 26, 2013, 15:35:49 ET
Posted by: An anonymous source, recommends

I agree that some kind of temporary moderation (not post holding or delaying pending a later review) is a better answer than the log in or verified account route. Let's not kill the inside info messenger(s), but please, let's do something about the people who can't talk without one "f**k" after another, and the buzz killers. Self censorship is always the best I know, but doesn't seem to work here.

I also agree that the Stones might have been cool in 72, even 75, but are now the ultimate in cringeworthy entertainment. Like someone else said, I wouldn't go to a Stones fansite so heckle them about it, but here it's fair game or should be without a few resident Mick 'n' Keef lovers getting offended on his behalf.

And I just got my tix for Canandaigua, really top notch ducats. I have mixed feelings, though, since I missed first day sales and had to go to an "aftermarket broker" for the first time. Ouch. Not crazy about those guys, but I can't sit on the lawn half a mile away from the band anymore!

Date: Fri, April 26, 2013, 14:06:55 ET
Posted by: ?,

You may knock out the 13 year old anons with the log in thing...but you will also never get any legit inside info ever again!

Date: Fri, April 26, 2013, 13:44:00 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

I wouldn't get too defensive about liking the Stones, Wu. People have different tastes and opinions. You are entitled to your own--as is M/O/D/P and as am I.

I might have been a little more receptive to seeing the Stones in 1972, but watching an elderly man run/jump and shake his way around stage doesn't really appeal to me--nor does their music anymore. But I think Chuck Leavell is terrific. Bring Back Sea Level!

Date: Fri, April 26, 2013, 13:31:21 ET
Posted by: Young Wu, Buffalo

"M/O/D/P, Toronto (except for May 25th & June 6th)"

I gotta give you credit, I got a hardy chuckle out of that one.
Come on, man... let's be friends!

Date: Fri, April 26, 2013, 13:26:10 ET
Posted by: M/O/D/P, Toronto (except for May 25th & June 6th)

Hoops, I think it's pretty sad that once again you have to deal with unnecessary trouble here, especially in light of the fact that this is clearly a labor of love, not a commercial endeavor. This always seems to happen right around the times when something positive is happening Steely Dan-wise (new music, new tour).

There are basically two types of garbage on The Blue - (a) the deliberate stuff i.e. sabotage from dirt-disturbers who get a laugh out of soiling the proceedings because they actually dislike SD (this would cover most of the fake setlists, and ridiculous or anonymous random misinformation/gratuitous insulting comments etc.) and (b) profane outbursts and juvenile/offensive stuff from recognizable community members who seem unable to control their own emotional incontinence. I'm not sure which is worse. It all detracts from the credibility and enjoyability of the site, though.

Although I personally can't stomach the music of, say, Kiss or Springsteen or The Stones or the current plethora of counterfeit music acts ("boy bands" and other prefab entertainment) that other people love, you won't find me posting on their fan sites to deliberately antagonize those fans. What's the point of doing that? So if you're a diehard Aerosmith fan, and you despise the very idea of Steely Dan, feel free to contribute your thoughts on an Aerosmith lovers' site, where the majority will agree that you, dude, totally rock up to 83.6% more than many other posters there. You'll get the attention you crave, and we won't have to read your tiresome, repetitive crap over here. Works for me.

Maybe the best solution might be to find someone who has the computer-time to monitor the board regularly for a while and who has the ability & authority to delete any garbage (as defined above) and related responses. This isn't a perfect solution, I realize, but it might just work. I think it's worth a try at least. I would hate to see the format of the board changed in response to the actions of folks who would take great satisfaction at having caused the changes. We've had a good number of interesting and completely anonymous tips here from genuine insiders. Let's not spoil that by giving the idiots what they want.

Date: Fri, April 26, 2013, 13:15:35 ET
Posted by: Young Wu, Buffalo

I still get mad looking at that Rarities Night setlist from last tour. Mobile Home, The Bear, Second mudafuckin' Arrangement, Wu, Pearl of the Quarter... goddamn it.

This year all I'm hoping for is Wu, Pearl, and my all time most wanted: Glamour Profession.

Date: Fri, April 26, 2013, 13:11:52 ET
Posted by: Young Wu, Buffalo

Haha... where did this "Young Wu is 55" thing come from? I've seen it a couple times here. It's good stuff.

Date: Fri, April 26, 2013, 12:50:54 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

I could care less about the Stones. To me, they're in the same box as U2 or even Lady Gaga - I don't listen to them, but if money were no object I'd check out a show just to see what it's like. (No, I'm not equating the Stones with Gaga, calm down. I think seeing Gaga would be interesting because I've never been to a huge theatrical super produced concert, just like I've never seen a band that remains, 50 years later, culturally relevant - whether or not they deserve said relevance.)

MODP, I can't say I'd lump everyone who sees the Stones into those categories, but then again my knowledge of them ends with the fact that Mick Jagger and Keith Richards are band members. But I agree with your larger points. Still, I can't knock anyone for being into a band that I'm not into - you like what you like and there are various reasons why.

Regarding the fake setlist - yep, 70% probably WILL be played. They have live staples and they will add an older tune or two that they have never played and they will radically rearrange a few songs that they have played. This has been the case in every tour since '96 and it's a hell of a lot more than most bands without a new record to support will do. The band also gets tighter every time I see them; they know every track inside and out and they all take more chances. Listen to some of the stuff Carlock and Washington do - they're throwing amazing subtleties into almost every track. Herrington changes up his guitar solos on the regular. Beard is the best pianist they've had in the band since Baker, or possibly ever. The horns keep adding new parts to songs and in recent years the backup singers have started to harmonize with them - it sounds amazing! This is stuff they throw in for themselves to keep it interesting, but it's also for us.

When they played The Second Arrangement in 2011, maybe 1/4 of the crowd was ecstatic -- the rest were indifferent at best. This is in NYC, their hometown, at a show specifically advertised as one with RARITIES. Do you think the average concert-goer at the Halliburton Ampetheatre in Podunk Hollow wants to hear a night of cuts from Becker's solo album? Or do you think they think Fagen's name is Steely Dan?

Date: Fri, April 26, 2013, 12:07:37 ET
Posted by: jeff g.,

The Stones draw a more general crowd that may be more lower class. As Young Wu knows, because he is 55, Stones fans are not gullible kids. Going to a SD show is more like going to the Boston Pops or a Symphony compared to the Stones. The Stones generally draw more commoners but they create more action and excitement than SD. If you have more excitement you can charge more money.

Plus, you are more likely to see about 100 more sets of boobs and possible bush flashed at a Stones show than at SD which adds further value to the tickets.

Date: Fri, April 26, 2013, 11:20:50 ET
Posted by: Young Wu, Buffalo

Jesus Christ, MODP... that was the most passive-aggressive holier-than-thou bunch of nonsense that I've seen in quite some while. I wonder whosoever you could possibly be directing that post to??

And really, people who think the Stones are one of the all time greatest rock and roll bands are "gullible kids" believing the "empty hype" about the "overexposed/formulaic/dusty" songs of the Stones??

Fuck me, I guess Steely Dan has a few aging (bitter) hipster fans.

Who's going to these Dan shows? Is it really a different group than those seeing the Stones? 90% of the crowd sit on their hands waiting for Do It Again.

And let's be honest, The Stones can blow Steely Dan out of the water when it comes to live shows. And Steely Dan also performs a set consisting of almost all hits, or at least whatever constitutes a Dan hit. And of course you gotta consider yourself lucky if you see a Dan set consisting of more than 16 songs.

Whatever, I'm seeing them both this summer and I couldn't be happier.

Date: Fri, April 26, 2013, 11:09:12 ET
Posted by: Young Wu, Buffalo

Hoops, I'm all for login names/email/password/whatever. The regulars (or "semi-regulars" ala me) wouldn't have a problem with it. And we (well, you) would rid the board of the unidentified idiots.

Date: Fri, April 26, 2013, 10:40:40 ET
Posted by: Dan Fan, Work

Orchestra pit (about 500 seats) in St. Augustine sold out in ten minutes.

Date: Fri, April 26, 2013, 10:27:41 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago, really on the quick, as usual

The latest edition of the Dandom Digest was just mailed last night This one covered posts for April 12-25, 2013. (The previous Dandom Digest was dated March 7-April 11 2013.)

If you are a subscriber, you should already have it in your email box. If you don't see it, check your spam filters first; then, if it's not there, please email me.

As I regularly remind subscribers, some people have problems with delivery of the Dandom Digest, usually because of their spam filters, firewalls, etc. That's why this sort of notice is posted here--so you can look for it.

The following are the subject headlines of the Dandom Digest for April 12-25, 2013.

=======

- TOUR UPDATE: The Moods are Swinging
- SteelyDan.com on Facebook
- Re: Fagen Guest Panelist for "Broadcast News" 4/17
- New One Coming from Jim Beard
- Upcoming Catherine Russell Shows
- Herington & Carlock, Oz Noy at Iridium

=======

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

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

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

Date: Fri, April 26, 2013, 10:20:42 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago, really on the quick, as usual

I'm thinking I should delete the fake set lists....they just cause confusion and discount our overall reliability. The idea of this place was so that knowing fans who had real info but had to remain anonymous could post reliable info.

Between the B.S. with the ticket pricing whining and the fake set lists, maybe we have to forgo those tips so some people will act like adults instead of 13 year olds. Maybe logins and password with email addresses are in order? I dunno...hmmmm.

Yes. Tim B Schmidt was on SD's album, even before the Eagles. He's also been a guest at modern era SD performances. Would be tres cool of someone could compile the list and post here...gotta run.

Date: Fri, April 26, 2013, 09:20:51 ET
Posted by: mr belzoni, funway west

Someone told me Timothy B Schmit played on some dan songs?? I sure you superfans will know if and what songs? As for the set list time to open with the Boston Rag like in 2000?, the crowd went nuts ! Awaiting your reply on the tim Schmit question. Mr. B

Date: Fri, April 26, 2013, 00:27:54 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

M/O/D/P,

As usual you make a number of very good points. Even the fake setlist is full of GREAT songs anyone with even a modicum of musical taste should be thrilled to see SD play live. It won't be that list, but if it was I would not complain.

And your comparison to setlist and prices for SD and The Stones is brilliant.

I also have to say, you would have to pay me to see the Stones in concert--and supply me with a set of ear plugs.

Date: Thurs, April 25, 2013, 23:18:42 ET
Posted by: M/O/D/P, More setlist silliness

The best part of the latest fake setlist offered up here, aside from the fact that it contains a bunch of excellent songs that sound great & go over well live AND the fact that it also contains a lot of music the typical paying concertgoer actually wants to hear, is that it is very probably around 70%+ correct, give or take a few tunes. How could it not be? Of course, they hardly ever play Rikki, and Bad Sneakers is not a staple, but the rest of the list gets played regularly (or rotated in and out from year to year) for what should really be obvious reasons. We've had this discussion before.

The other part I like is that the geriatric and thoroughly embarrassing Rolling Stones will in all likelihood perform nothing BUT "classic hits", charge their excitable fanbase outrageous ticket prices, and then get tons o' love here on The Blue for doing so. By "fanbase" I'm referring to the gullible kids who think The Stones define rock music and were not around to see them when that claim was still empty hype but not nearly as laughable as it is in 2013....and, of course, the elderly folks who just weren't cool enough or <snicker> weren't allowed to go to concerts when they were '70s kids. Don't laugh - that's who's filling the barns in 2013.

By contrast, Don and Walt dare to charge less than half (less than a third?) of the average Stones ticket, and don't have anywhere near the number of overexposed/formulaic/dusty/tired old radio hits to play, and they get routinely crapped all over for what they charge and play. Right here. On a "Steely Dan Forum".

So, I guess I like both parts. The fake setlist and the bizarre double standard. It's fun to like stuff!!

PS - Thanks to T.O. Danfan for the presale code! Very much appreciated, sir! I'm excited about the show, and I promise to leave my rarities pining for later on in the tour....

Date: Thurs, April 25, 2013, 21:48:01 ET
Posted by: almost gothic negative girl, california coast

Jim ~

Regarding your Houston tickets On Sale timing dilema on Saturday morning, there is a Live Nation Online PreSale for that show tomorrow (Friday) from 10am - 10pm. The password for April is showers.

Not all sections will be offered, but hopefully you'll find something you like. If not, you'll have to scramble on Saturday morning. It helps to be familiar with the seating chart ahead of time, maybe print up a copy and mark acceptable areas if there are several you would settle for, and set-up a Live Nation account with all of your info and billing address in advance if you don't already have one established. These things can save you time. Good luck!

Date: Thurs, April 25, 2013, 20:40:34 ET
Posted by: boiling happy, here

boiling piss, you're not showing up - that's good news!
I hate being near unhappy jerks.

Date: Thurs, April 25, 2013, 18:56:45 ET
Posted by: Jim Taylor, Hello Baton Rouge

Houston Tickets go on sale at 10:00 Saturday morning (4/27/13). I have a gig at 11:30 which means I will only have 15 minutes to buy the tickets before I have to leave, since I have to get there an hour before to "set up my gear." If anyone has any tips for buying tickets on TM as they go on sale I would appreciate it. I actually practiced today by pretending to buy tickets at the Detroit show. I could have gotten 4th row Walter/John Herington/horns side for $164.00.

Date: Thurs, April 25, 2013, 17:08:24 ET
Posted by: Young Wu, Buffalo

It's not a real setlist... Christ!

Date: Thurs, April 25, 2013, 16:36:04 ET
Posted by: boiling pissed off about that setlist, wouldn't go even if it was free!

Date: Thurs, April 25, 2013, 15:42:06 ET
Posted by: DYLYNFAN, HARRISBURG, PA

I tried for the 85.00 dollar seats Young Wu and all I got was a t-shirt telling me better luck on the 100th Anniverary Tour! Glad you
enjoyed Mr. Zimmerman, he is the man! ps: There is no F*CKING way
that is an actual set-list for the tour. I suggest Mr. Greco stick
to wrestling!

Date: Thurs, April 25, 2013, 15:03:04 ET
Posted by: Ben, Indy

WFBQ is the Indy Presale code I've seen (call letters for the flagship station of Bob and Tom if you're a fan)

Of the IN, OH, KY and MI shows I'm shooting for, the best value is Fraze in Kettering. I caught The Dukes there last year and it's a cool 4,000 seat Shed Jr.

Good luck to the True Fans in grabbing Pancake Tix!

Also, I'm NOT bitchin', but if only we could exit these shows, like Frampton and Knopfler fans, with the cd to enjoy...

Date: Thurs, April 25, 2013, 14:26:12 ET
Posted by: T.O. Danfan, happyville

Got my tickets today for Toronto. Right centre about third of the way back. Good seats....had 'em before. $223.50 all in for the pair.
The presale radio code is STEELY.

If this venue sells out (highly unlikely) there will be 15,000 people. Might get 9K with the lawn open this time. They would be the H Gang....High, Hot, Hits, and Happy! I somehow doubt that many of them will be pining for rarities.

Cheers

Date: Thurs, April 25, 2013, 14:15:10 ET
Posted by: Lou Chang, Greco's SD Setlist

LOU CHANG IS BURNING WITH RAGE!
LOU CHANG IS BURNING WITH RAGE!
LOU CHANG IS BURNING WITH RAGE!

Date: Thurs, April 25, 2013, 13:20:24 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago, on the quick

Dan the Man: I doubt very much if even Donald and Walter know the exact set-list right now.

And hits. Well, by Billboard standards they have, what? maybe a half dozen? Yet, even what little "filler" they have is far from "filler."

Gotta run!


JIm

P.S. Despite not caring for Ravinia as a venue for the SD experience, I couldn't resiste and got on line at 5:00 am to try and get single tickets. Long waits, the web page timed out or crashed. By 6:30 I had to go to work. Nadda. Have Detroit; trying for Indy tomorrow. They have an Indy pre-sale today--password is "spring" but remaining pre-sale seats are kinda far back.

Date: Thurs, April 25, 2013, 12:45:44 ET
Posted by: rag,

Boston Rag

Date: Thurs, April 25, 2013, 12:44:49 ET
Posted by: Dan the Man,

If it looks like the greatest hits tour & even sounds like the greatest hits tour. You know the rest of the story

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10200875736873855&set=vb.168707239851029&type=2&theater

Greco was spot on

Date: Thurs, April 25, 2013, 12:44:06 ET
Posted by: Dan the Man,

If it looks like the greatest hits tour & even sounds like the greatest hits tour. You know the rest of the story

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10200875736873855&set=vb.168707239851029&type=2&theater

Greco was spot on

Date: Thurs, April 25, 2013, 12:19:36 ET
Posted by: Young Wu, Buffalo

DYLYNFAN... from their website:

"As a part of the general on sale, there is something for everyone, including over a 1,000 tickets per show at $85 (including service charges). Some will be among the best seats in the house in the Tongue Pit, with others spread around the arena. Tickets will be sold as a pair. You will find out your seat location when you pick them up the night of the show. Other tickets range from $150- $600 (plus service charges)."

Just got lucky.

(Oh, and not to derail the conversation anymore, but I saw Dylan for the first time a couple weeks ago. It was an incredible experience.)

Date: Thurs, April 25, 2013, 11:23:24 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

First of all, the tour is NOT being billed as a Greatest Hits tour. One venue uses that verbiage on their website, from what I can see so far.

I'll bet anyone that Greco's setlist is not the setlist. Any takers?

Date: Thurs, April 25, 2013, 11:22:39 ET
Posted by: UH? UH?,

Could be true. Let Greco reconfirm this.

Date: Thurs, April 25, 2013, 11:07:19 ET
Posted by: UH?,

If this tour is being billed as the "Greatest Hits Tour" why would Greco be wrong? His set list sounds right to me.

Have fun at the shows!

Date: Thurs, April 25, 2013, 10:38:17 ET
Posted by: Kane,

Greco You must be joking son! Tell us you are.

Date: Thurs, April 25, 2013, 10:29:27 ET
Posted by: Josey, Mass

That's a damn fine list of songs!

Date: Thurs, April 25, 2013, 09:44:41 ET
Posted by: Greco,

2013 SD Setlist Spoiler Alert

Do it Again
Reeling in the years
Rickki Dont lose that number
Black Friday
Kid Charlemagne
Peg
Josie
Aja
Hey Nineteen
Bodhisattva
Black Cow
Babylon Sisters
Deacon Blues
Bad Sneakers
Green Earrings
Chain Lightning

Greco

Date: Thurs, April 25, 2013, 09:37:26 ET
Posted by: casual fan, orlando

Judging solely on the early ticket sales for Florida venues (Tampa-Orlando-St Augustine) this tour is going to be well attended, indeed.

Glad to see it.

Date: Thurs, April 25, 2013, 09:34:21 ET
Posted by: Josey, Mass

Ticket prices notwithstanding, The Stones put on one helluva great show! I'm not that big of a fan, but I've had the opportunity to see them 3 times, and there's no way you walk out of there not thoroughly entertained!

Last show I saw was in Vegas around 2006 or 2007. The face value of the ticket was $475.00. One of my best friends bought tickets for six of us to go for his bachelor party. Awesome show!...but then, it wasn't my money so perhaps I would have a slightly different perspective if it had been.

Date: Thurs, April 25, 2013, 08:53:36 ET
Posted by: DYLYNFAN, HARRISBURG PA

I apoligise for this, I know it is not a Stones sight, but Young Wu
how the HELL did you get Stones tickets for 85.00??? I have been
trying to get them for either Philly show, and the cheapest is 275.00
Now back to our regularly scheduled program.

Date: Thurs, April 25, 2013, 00:00:04 ET
Posted by: M/O/D/P, How's my little Beacon?

So far, the "final" show of the tour listed on the SD official site is Foxwoods Casino (CT) on September 28. Most of us suspect/hope there will be more shows announced, of course. I stopped by The Beacon Theatre this past Saturday and casually spoke to a couple of employees about possible upcoming Steely Dan shows there. Neither would let any specifics slip (I tried my best, short of outright bribery), but I left with the distinct impression that something was brewing and that staff had been told to keep mum. Still, No News Is No News....

As of tonight, The Beacon has the first ten days in October open (October 01-10), then an Ian Anderson solo show on the Friday (the 11th). Then, they have 14 days potentially available from Saturday October 12 through Friday October 25. The 26th is booked with a Beatles tribute, and Dweezil does his Cashing In On Daddy's Legacy thing on Hallowe'en . So far, the venue has nothing announced for November at all.

As far as those Beacon runs go, the band doesn't really seem to have a pattern:

2007 - 2 shows in May, followed by 3 shows in June
2008 - 6 shows in June
2009 - 8 shows in late July/early August (interrupted by 2 out-of-town casino shows)
2011 - 7 shows starting in mid-September

My uninformed/pointing-out-the-obvious prediction? Look for an SD run sometime in that October 01-10 window. Or, if I'm wrong on that, the October 12-25 window. Either one - take yer pick. Anyways, the anticipation is fun in itself, and a bunch of us are already planning to see as many NYC shows as we can squeeze out. Four days in The Big Apple, with nightly SD shows Friday/Saturday/Monday would make a pretty decent Long Weekend, no??

Date: Wed, April 24, 2013, 22:51:09 ET
Posted by: Jim Taylor, Hello Baton Rouge

What are their "greatest hits?"

Date: Wed, April 24, 2013, 22:26:21 ET
Posted by: Young Wu, Buffalo

Haha, Winston... I'm actually seeing The Stones twice! I got lucky and nabbed the $85 dollar tickets for the second Toronto show.

I've never been more excited for a show in my life (excluding Paul McCartney for the first time). They've been at the top of my bucket list for ever... I had basically written them off as an impossibility.

Cannot fucking wait.

Date: Wed, April 24, 2013, 21:24:57 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

Wu, the fluctuations are based on market and venue (which includes capacity). I'd guess seating capacity is probably the biggest factor, The smaller the venue, the higher the ticket prices, for the most part.

Steely Dan are a big buck for a small venue. The Stones are a big buck for a stadium.

Date: Wed, April 24, 2013, 21:14:33 ET
Posted by: Winston S., Aurora

See Young Wu, prices not so bad. And after all, since you are actually 55 & nearing retirement and can afford a Stones show, 60 bucks for the SD should should be chump change.

Date: Wed, April 24, 2013, 20:34:39 ET
Posted by: Young Wu, Buffalo

I think the ticket prices are pretty fair, at least for the Canandaigua show. 40 bucks for the lawn. 100 bucks for front row. Not bad for a Steely Dan show. In fact, probably cheaper than their peers. I paid 60 bucks for a decent seat.

Seeing The Stones in May. THAT'S an expensive ticket.

No complaining about the prices, here. Although I don't get the great fluctuation in prices for some of the shows. Different markets I guess?

Date: Wed, April 24, 2013, 18:28:31 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

GREAT to read about all the ticket purchases going on and all. I'm getting excited, as many of you are as well. So far have a ticket for Detroit. Milwaukee would be swell too if I can swing it.

Getting a much-delayed Dandom Digest together. My house flooded with 4' of water and still cleaning up and all, so I'm a bit out of the groove. I would like to request your help: if you have suggestions for news items or topics for the Dandom Digest I plan to put out tomorrow, please email me privately at hoops at dandom dot com.

Thanks! YouDuhBest!

Jim

Date: Wed, April 24, 2013, 16:23:37 ET
Posted by: Josey, Mass

Chris - now that's encouraging news! $35.00 for the upper section at The Wang is fine!! Saw Sting from that section in The Wang a month after the SD show and it was great!

Date: Wed, April 24, 2013, 15:57:57 ET
Posted by: JJ, .

The Gibson Amphitheatre is closing. I know SD played there in 2009 and maybe other tours.

http://www.imdb.com/news/ni52050635/

Date: Wed, April 24, 2013, 15:52:14 ET
Posted by: CJB, YVR

Idaho general admission seat = $72 everything in, and apparently nothing to stop a body arriving early to secure primo seating by the stage.

I like the idea of seeing the band outdoor in a garden setting; I've checked the garden's website out already and it looks like an interesting half-day's worth of wandering around even without SD in attendance.

A very pretty drive from YVR to Boise, 3 or 4 days slowly with the tent in the back in the rusty old Subaru. Then back down the Columbia to Portland (maybe) and back to Seattle. Not as fast as flying in a private jet or jets, but _quality_.

Also: everybody's already seen Rickie Lee Jones covering "Third World Man" on YouTube, yes?

Date: Wed, April 24, 2013, 15:37:27 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Not to mention that in 2009 I spent about $75 with service charges for the same seats ... Sure, the band looks like ants, but there's a completely clear view of the stage and the sound at the Wang is phenomenal.

Pending an official announcement of "special" shows, I'll likely be hitting up both nights. Can't wait!

Date: Wed, April 24, 2013, 15:33:42 ET
Posted by: Chris, Nh

Boston shows aren't on sale yet, but the prices are live. Nosebleeds are $35. I believe lawn tickets at Tweeter in 2000 were $25. Not bad!

Date: Wed, April 24, 2013, 13:34:06 ET
Posted by: casual fan, orlando

Orlando show now has Amex presale tix on Ticketbastard. Kinda pissed about it because I'd been checking the last few days and there was nothing on the site indicating it. Just happened to check today, and sure enough, they are listed and available.

Got row 16, center. About $110 each, including service charges. If memory serves, this is less than I paid lass time they were here.

Date: Wed, April 24, 2013, 13:14:16 ET
Posted by: Ports, Minneapolis

Presale for Milwaukee code - "DEACON". Just got seats in row 3 Center.
Very pleased since I'll be on a plane when they go on sale Friday.

Date: Wed, April 24, 2013, 08:40:14 ET
Posted by: Hutch,

La Tanya Hall joins the lovely choir....

http://steelydan.com/2kband.html#hall

Date: Wed, April 24, 2013, 08:28:59 ET
Posted by: Doc & Bowl, East

re: The Levon Helm documentary. It's playing at just one theater in New York. Cinema Village at the corner of East 12th and University Place. Right across the street from Bowlmor. Just remember to look both ways if you're going to catch the movie after bowling a few games/throwing a few back.

Date: Wed, April 24, 2013, 03:30:11 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol, Mtl

I forgot to mention I meant the Idaho show.

Date: Wed, April 24, 2013, 03:25:07 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol, Mtl

@CJB I looked at the venue website,and it looks very nice.I see that they are playing a few botanical gardens. Maybe a post show report on this type of venue?

Date: Wed, April 24, 2013, 01:20:43 ET
Posted by: Daddy G, NC

Please, presale password Atlanta show for tomorrow sale....

Date: Wed, April 24, 2013, 00:09:09 ET
Posted by: Lutz , SF

Some "true fans" only sit in rows 1 and 2 and as such, demand to have a say in song selection. Hence tickets for them start north of $ 200. Never mind that the majority of tickets is priced way below that. Never mind that they added on ticketmaster service charges in their quotes. Never mind the dishonesty either. Or maybe they just want to kill a good vibe here. It'r rather amusing...

Date: Tues, April 23, 2013, 23:36:10 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

Simon, AXS, shows tickets as low as $59.50 for the Nokia shows.

Date: Tues, April 23, 2013, 23:33:12 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

For the record, the St Augustine show is NOT billed as a "greatest hits" show and nothing on Steelydan.com suggests it is a "greatest hits" tour.

I can see the Riverside Theater uses that phrase and I can only guess it is the product of some PR hack employed by the Riverside. But feel free to make wild assumptions based on limited information.

Date: Tues, April 23, 2013, 23:29:52 ET
Posted by: Simon Fez, Santa Monica

Wow! I just checked the ticket prices for the two Nokia shows in Los Angeles at www.axs.com and they are pretty hefty...$275.00!!

Date: Tues, April 23, 2013, 22:50:51 ET
Posted by: T.O. Danfan, 60 yrs young

Looking forward to another show. I've never seen the same one twice...always something different added to the hit mix. Never seen Rikki...the biggest "hit"....I wanna see it! And Wu too!

Too bad it's at the Moslum Antitheatre again but we can live with that. Looks like tickets are $25 for the lawn (never open for SD previous shows here) up to a buck sixty up front with affordable price points in between.

Being third on the schedule I'm hoping we get some early tour special song(s). Don's voice won't be burnt so thats a good thing. There's not much rest between gigs on this tour....so wondering if that means more vocals for Walt and the Gals?

Sorry for not whining, swearing, slagging the band, women, and other posters here. Maybe I just don't fit in anymore ;o)

Cheers

Date: Tues, April 23, 2013, 22:44:50 ET
Posted by: Kim Z, kenosha

I agree with Greco. i disagree with that Young Wu character

Date: Tues, April 23, 2013, 22:23:13 ET
Posted by: Greco,

Unless you are Stevie Wonder you can see its advertised at greatest hits tour

ONE NIGHT ONLY!

STEELY DAN
an evening of their greatest hits
+ Deep Blue Organ Trio
Sunday, July 28 � Doors Open at 7PM
- The Riverside Theater
sponsored by The Shepherd Express

It�s time to go back, Jack� and DO IT AGAIN! But this time for one night only.
This band simply creates magic every single night. Be there as hit after hit of jazz-inflected hyper-literate lushness fills the Riverside Theater.

In my opinion , Donald put out a solo CD and it was ranked 35 out of 100 for the best CDs of 2012. Why not tour that Cd along with more solo material & a couple of SD songs ?

I'm happy they are still touring however, I reserve the right to stay home and listen to my 2000 NJ bootleg . I will wait and see the set-list , if I like what I see then I may choose to attend.

Greco

Date: Tues, April 23, 2013, 22:12:10 ET
Posted by: Greco,

Date: Tues, April 23, 2013, 22:12:00 ET
Posted by: Greco,

Date: Tues, April 23, 2013, 21:06:35 ET
Posted by: DYLYNFAN, HARRISBURG PA

I will stay out of the Young Wu "frey" except to say that when he
does post it is usually excellent. Finally it was all worthwhile
just too be able to read the post: " Young Wu is 55 which is young
for this board" LMFAO

Date: Tues, April 23, 2013, 20:37:19 ET
Posted by: Hector E.,

I understand that there will be Greatest Hits and glad that they still tour. But why can't they add in 5 or 6 deep cuts, rare cuts or some solo tunes? Maybe they will this time. I think it is stoopid to pay more money for the same show, though.

Date: Tues, April 23, 2013, 19:37:04 ET
Posted by: Lutz, SF

Presale for SF starts Wed. 10am - if anyone knows the Amex code word, please share.
Anytime a band that has been on the scene for 40+ years tours, it's a Greatest Hits show by default, unless otherwise announced - like the Aja, RC, Gaucho or specialty nights. At least half the songs will be hits/ best known songs.
What do people expect, Gold Mountain unplugged, in it's entirety?
That'll pack 'em in...
Why do people feel the need to share they are not going, it won't be any different or it's too expensive? It's fine by me, stay home and make space for someone else.
Yes we've heard most of it before, I also watch the big Lebowski at least once a year.
Can't wait for the summer!

Date: Tues, April 23, 2013, 18:57:16 ET
Posted by: actually, Young Wu is 55, which is young on the Bluebook,

Date: Tues, April 23, 2013, 16:56:32 ET
Posted by: yeah, that, and,

If Chris nh is right about white males, Dean, Chris himself and others would have backed Young Wu. They didn't, so all of these posters who trashed Young Wu must not be white or male.

Date: Tues, April 23, 2013, 16:48:18 ET
Posted by: Marlacles, Stalktown

Sure reads like Drew Zingg has a stalker here, and a sourpuss on top of it. Barnacle biatching and lying about ticket prices is no better.
Numbnuts galore!

Date: Tues, April 23, 2013, 15:51:52 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Chris in Philly, fair enough. I was speaking from my own perspective; I didn't mean to imply race had anything to do with it, nor am I making assumptions about Young Wu. You're right, though -- that probably muddied the waters a little.

Date: Tues, April 23, 2013, 15:13:24 ET
Posted by: Donald Rumsfeld-Fagen, Way down in Brentwood

I found the LA pre-sale Web site. Here are the links:

Sat Aug 24:
http://www.axs.com/events/241374/steely-dan?skin=aeglive

Sun Aug 25:
http://www.axs.com/events/241375/steely-dan?skin=aeglive

The "AmEx Preferred" password is the 800 number on the back of your AmEx card with no dashes and without the "1."

Date: Tues, April 23, 2013, 15:08:25 ET
Posted by: Chris, Philly

Chris, nh; I'm not quite sure why race came into play here. It appears as though Young Wu had only mentioned the lady's name, certainly not bringing race into play. Let's not make it more than it is.....

Date: Tues, April 23, 2013, 14:56:20 ET
Posted by: Donald Rumsfeld-Fagen, Way down in Brentwood

Hey LA Cashier - Thanks for the heads-up. Where can AmEx pre-sale tickets be bought? Do you have a URL? Can't find any info anywhere.

Date: Tues, April 23, 2013, 14:45:58 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

I am not MODP; his posts are much more thoughtful and interesting than mine.

Young Wu, depending on how young you are, you may not fully understand how insulting a remark like that can be to a woman. This is especially true in the male-dominated music world.

I'm not a woman, but I do know I've made jokes that have crossed the line in the past. In my experience it almost always stemmed from a lack of understanding both white male privilege and the way our white male dominant culture essentially seeks to control anyone who isn't a white male.

That's a gross oversimplification -- you could spend your entire life studying this stuff -- but hopefully it helps you understand the reaction from everyone here.

Date: Tues, April 23, 2013, 13:43:39 ET
Posted by: The Cashier, Los Angeles

Amex presale for Los Angeles shows is now in progress, which you can't tell from the SD homepage. It looks like most of the house except for Pit is up for grabs.

Date: Tues, April 23, 2013, 11:53:27 ET
Posted by: CJB, YVR

Young Wu,

I generally like your enthusiasm; I'm a youngish fan too; your so-called "joke" was sexist & classless and dumb. Please think better before disrespecting a working musician, respected by her peers, or ANY woman, for that matter.

In other news: Boise and Seattle tix purchased. AUGUST ROAD TRIP, hoping for "Western World," "Miss Marlene," anything from Circus Monkey or 11 Tracks. Pipe dream, I know. Still, never thought I'd hear either "The Bear" or "Second Arrangement" live and in person, so what do I know?

Date: Tues, April 23, 2013, 11:46:31 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

Young Wu, my email is included above. Feel free to shoot me a message if you like, I will return it later in the day.

I like Young Wu's enthusiasm, but I agree he breaks the bounds of acceptable behavior in our community. I think he has had to apologize for it before, and now would be a good time to do so again. Perhaps Wu should take the advice of not posting when he is all riled up and wait an hour, or a day, to settle down. This isn't a comedy roast. If it were, that joke would be acceptable and possibly even funny--possibly. But crude insulting/attacking shots aren't really part and parcel of a Steely Dan forum. Smart, snarky, intelligent humor should really be what you go for here, don't you think? Do you really want to be a major reason for Hoops shutting down the board again? It isn't fair to him to act this way.

As for the "Greatest Hits" verbiage, where is that coming from? The commercial? I agree with some the commercial is a bit too hit oriented for my tastes--but it is a COMMERCIAL--so it is a bit, you know, commercial.

Complaining about the setlist months before they've even taken the stage is about as stupid as complaining about the ticket prices before you actually see what the show you are looking to attend will cost.

Tickets in St Augustine are: $99.50, $77.50 and $52.50. $77.50 will get you a ticket right by the sound board. That's a great deal in my book. And I'd assume, as in years past, there will be various kinds or shows. How hard is it to actually wait for setlist to appear before you start the grousing?

Date: Tues, April 23, 2013, 11:42:52 ET
Posted by: Can someone please, show this punk the door?

I'm definitely not MODP, but I do agree with him/her on this, and Chris nh is a known regular poster here, so I doubt he's MODP either. Are you a conspiracy theory guy, Dude? Some of us are really tired of your act, Mr. Young Wu. The fact that you would continue to defend your truly tasteless "joke" about Carolyn makes me wonder what else you think is OK in public. Why the need to continue to soil things with more attention whoring?

Instead of deleting your ignorant comment, I would prefer that Hoops deleted you. The Blue would be a much better place for it.

Peter

Date: Tues, April 23, 2013, 11:31:25 ET
Posted by: My Guess, US

Well I didn't want to bore anyone with my moment in the sun per Strainer's request, but could it be any worse than this crap?

Date: Tues, April 23, 2013, 11:02:45 ET
Posted by: Young Wu, Buffalo

Wow, isn't it strange that everyone "supporting" MODP doesn't give an email address (including MODP himself), have very short, unrecognizable handles, have the same type of pseudo-intellectual posting patters, and starts off both posts with saying MODP is right, "as always" or "as usual."

Very strange, indeed...

Date: Tues, April 23, 2013, 10:46:57 ET
Posted by: EC, NY

MDOP - right as always. Young Wu - please take your Tourette's act elsewhere. Your sophomoric comments aren't satire, nor are they even remotely amusing. If you can't show a little respect for a musician many of us here hold in very high regard maybe you could do us all a favor and keep your "satire" in the room with all the porcelain and plumbing where it belongs.

Date: Tues, April 23, 2013, 09:53:14 ET
Posted by: Josey, Mass

I hope it doesn't hurt ticket sales. Since it's already been reported that some shows have already sold out, that's a great indicator. If anything, I hope some new generation discovers this music! In all likeliness, I'm skipping this years tour because I'm pretty sure it will be a "been there, done that plenty of times" setlist. Having said that, it's a damn great list of songs, and ticket prices are what they are. The only problem I have is the lack of money in my checking account...but that's certainly not Donald and Walter's problem, it's mine. And if it wasn't an issue, I'd certainly be going to one of The Wang shows. My concert money has already been designated to the Jazz fest in Newport.

I'm glad these guys still tour as much as they do! Like one of the members here said a few weeks ago: if ya don't like the setlist and or ticket prices, don't go.

Date: Tues, April 23, 2013, 09:33:13 ET
Posted by: what they don't realize,

The small number of posters on the Blue's Steely Dan Show boycott themselves will not hurt overall ticket sales.

The Blue is sort of like the Nielsen TV Ratings, or other polls. If say one half of the Blue posters which are from mostly all metro areas of the country, including Buffalo, are pissed off about the same greatest hits set list and prices, you can count on about at least one quarter of the total US fan base to also be pissed off. This will definitely hurt ticket sales and they ought to be concerned if they want to make the most profits.

Date: Tues, April 23, 2013, 08:45:59 ET
Posted by: Young Wu, Buffalo

Anyways, on to important matters.

Why are people advertising this tour as an "Evening of Greatest Hits"? Where is that tagline coming from?

Date: Tues, April 23, 2013, 08:43:47 ET
Posted by: Young Wu, Buffalo

M/O/D/P, dude, get over yourself. Your self-imposed crusade for morality is ridiculous. And I wasn't serious about "satire." I'm not Christ, you're obviously being intentionally obtuse to keep your artificial anger in tact. Really, your response to my terribly crude and sexist comment is kinda astonishing and intellectually dishonest.

MODP... I feel bad for you, my brother. Good luck on your neverending battle against the evils in this world. I'm gonna go write Ms. Leonhart a letter begging for an apology.

Hoops, please delete my post if it's gonna cause any problems for this board. I don't want to be the reason this great site gets into a petty internet brawl right before a tour starts.

Date: Tues, April 23, 2013, 04:09:52 ET
Posted by: About Done With This Board, Everywhere

I'm certain that the two dozen souls on the bluebook who plan on boycotting this tour won't affect the gates of these shows one bit. Ironically, if Steely Dan decided to play obscurities in small clubs in an attempt to appease "real" fans, the complainers would STILL be bitching about the setlist and the ticket prices.

Date: Tues, April 23, 2013, 01:53:03 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

MODP is right (as usual). That post was skeevy as hell.

For all of you lemmings flipping your shit about ONE SPECIFIC PROMOTER calling a show "greatest hits," please jump off a cliff.

Date: Tues, April 23, 2013, 00:39:04 ET
Posted by: M/O/D/P, Still pretty tired......

Young Wu - Nah...just tired of the schoolboy-level vulgarity. It's not actually "funny", ya know. You just publicly posted a really crude sexual comment about a respected musician - a female vocalist who has graced the stage at many a Steely Dan concert - and one who deserves better than that. Oh, and for all we know, she reads this board. This is a music discussion forum, and not really the best venue for your asinine/juvenile "shocking" comedy routine. So no, none of us are nuns here, but all of us have likely heard a few million gratuitous comments like yours. It's tiresome stuff, bro/dude. To be honest, you're more irritating than you are "offensive".

If you would be so "hip" and "edgy" to make the exact same comment to Ms. Leonhart in person and in public, that might be different. Not "better" or "OK", we understand. Different. As far as Jon Stewart goes, as predictably "edgy" as he is, I really doubt that he would have Carolyn on as a guest and then proceed to treat her like you just did on here.

There's a pretty wide gap between satire and your ridiculous grade school potty-mouth. My advice? Be sure to pack a fresh Ivory bar with you if you're ever lucky enough to meet one of Steely Dan's backup vocalists. Or even a real live girl. Just in case.....ya know.....

Date: Tues, April 23, 2013, 00:05:47 ET
Posted by: Another Scurvy, Brother

I had been to a handful of shows in the early Aughts before I ever heard hits like Reelin, Do It Again, or the biggest (based on charts) Rikki. Those three are, from my 10 or so shows from 00-present, rarer to encounter on a set than those Royal Scam cuts that have been played to death.

Date: Mon, April 22, 2013, 23:23:07 ET
Posted by: Young Wu, Buffalo

Dude, what are you, a nun? It's a joke... it's making a point. It's satire! I'm like Jon friggen Stewart!

Do you need your fainting couch, my dear?

Cut the righteous indignation nonsense.

Date: Mon, April 22, 2013, 23:05:50 ET
Posted by: M/O/D/P, Tired...so very, very tired......

Ladies and gentlemen, let's have a round of applause for the regular contributor who has just topped all of his previous foul-mouthed juvenile contributions with quite possibly the most unfunny bit of gratuitous crudeness witnessed here in quite some time [see immediately below, if it's still up].

Date: Mon, April 22, 2013, 22:15:24 ET
Posted by: Young Wu, Buffalo

...at least New York will get 42 Ultra-Raritiy-Super-Duper-Carolyn-will-give-every-attendend-a-blowjob nights.

Date: Mon, April 22, 2013, 22:12:05 ET
Posted by: Young Wu, Buffalo

What the fuck??? Where are people getting this Evening of Greatest Hits crap?

EVERY goddamn tour since 2006 has been an evening of greatest hits. Aren't they tired of this?

They have, inarguably, one of the greatest discographies of any group in popular music history... show it to the public! They casual fans aren't paying attention anyway, they're always running off to get another 12 dollar beer.

But if they are really billing this thing as a Greatest Hits tour, I'm flabbergasted. I mean, literally every single tour since '06 has been hits heavy. Sure, we get one or two rarities thrown our way every year, but it's usually a never ending slough through the same tired setlist. Thank Allah that this tired, worn-out set contains some of the greatest songs ever written.

But seriously, how can they get MORE "greatest hits" than the last tour???

Whatever.

Date: Mon, April 22, 2013, 21:54:59 ET
Posted by: Barnacles, San Francisco

I'm glad I'm passing on this tour. Now that they are announcing this as an "Evening of Their Greatest Hits", I can expect it will be the same old predictable setlist as before. The only surprise would probably be one or two tunes from Donald's Sunken Condos CD.

Date: Mon, April 22, 2013, 16:37:52 ET
Posted by: Nicholas Urfe, Phraxos

Jim -
It is too bad that your entreating, beseeching, pleading, and cajoling didn't serve to quiet the vibe-killers. Indeed, it seems only to have spurred them to new heights - in addition to the ongoing complaints about ticket prices and setlists, now the website doesn't measure up and gives imagined offense to poor souls who have been relegated to nonexistence, cruel fate. What next? Someone won't like the cut of their jib? Another won't like the rumored reading material in DF's bathroom? And finally another will be unhappy because, despite sharing a touring drummer, they don't cover any Sting tunes?

Date: Mon, April 22, 2013, 12:44:46 ET
Posted by: GRECO,

Oh no!

STEELY DAN

an evening of their greatest hits

That means : Do it again , Reelin in the years and the rest of that rubbish

No: Royal Scam, Don't take me Alive, FM etc . I'll pass and listen to my 2000 bootleg from NJ

Date: Mon, April 22, 2013, 12:30:05 ET
Posted by: Toni,

I will be in america for vacations this summer and probably squeeze the steely dan concert in Cleveland, OH at Jacob's Pavilion @ Nautica into my schedule. As I have never been there before my question is, is this venue good? What are the best seats?
It would be great if someone could help me.

Date: Mon, April 22, 2013, 10:22:58 ET
Posted by: Danfan, Toronto

This just in...Toronto/Molson Amphitheatre show July.21 will be on sale this Friday April.26 @ 10:00 A.M.

Date: Mon, April 22, 2013, 08:45:45 ET
Posted by: DYLYNFAN, HARRISBURG PA

Miss Marlene, Toto was f*cked the minute he left Kansas!(not the band)

Date: Mon, April 22, 2013, 02:24:56 ET
Posted by: Miss Marlene, Portland, OR

Toto should never have gotten rid of Bobby Kimball. So much better than Joseph Williams. Not even close!

Date: Sun, April 21, 2013, 21:21:55 ET
Posted by: Gus Winterbottom, Torrance, CA

Sorry for the short notice, but there will be a Michael McDonald interview on one of the local FM stations in LA this evening at 8:00 PM PDT, or less than two hours from now as this is written. Link is below; there is a "Listen Live" button on the homepage. I am certain that MM's time with Steely Dan will be one of the topics.



http://www.thesoundla.com/

Date: Sun, April 21, 2013, 20:24:31 ET
Posted by: Steely Jan, Salt Lake City, UT

I am so glad that SD is finally coming to Salt Lake City. They have a huge fan base here. My wife and I and our sons have run into so many Utah SD fans in CO, NV and CA concerts over the years. The venue at Red Butte Gardens is fantastic and right next to our beautiful mountains. It only holds about 3,000 fans but there is not a bad seat in the place . Come see them here. It is a great place.

Steely Jan

Date: Sun, April 21, 2013, 20:14:51 ET
Posted by: Sib, N

Was browsing online to see if there's any movies out worth seeing, and came across this movie about Levon Helm released Friday. 100% on Rotten Tomatoes. Libby Titus among the "cast."

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1362518/?ref_=fn_tt_tt_1

Date: Sun, April 21, 2013, 14:38:52 ET
Posted by: Brain Strainer,

REVISED VERSION:

"Speaking of Good Stuff, there has been discussion of late about that Sunken Condos tune, of which a well-done cover was posted earlier. While Good Stuff appears to be be the "newest", "freshest" material from solo Fagen, it also bears a strong sonic resemblance to a tune not appearing on any SD studio album. Name that tune."

EPILOGUE

The Solo Fagen tune Good Stuff, the eighth cut off of Sunken Condos has sonic origins that extend way back into the SD catalogue, as well as parts that come from a number of SD tunes. This can be seen from the number and diversity of responses. What we look for in these Strainers and Hemorrhagers is a "best fit" of the tune in question with others based upon having the tempo, vocals, predominance of instruments and other elements in common.

Among the responses was the SD tune "Everything Must Go" of which there are some common elements with Good Stuff, but does not have the "funkiness" and tempo of Good Stuff. It is also disqualified since it appears on an SD studio album. The Fagen tune "Big Noise NY" was also suggested, and that is to be expected since it is an almost sonic duplicate of EMG. A most notable common element with Good Stuff is notably the harmonica in the outro.

"Kind Spirit" was suggested by TWO posters, and there is a similar tempo/back beat to Good Stuff. However the vocals are loud and prominent (not laid back enough), the standard piano is very loud dominates. The tune is not dark nor mysterious enough for a good fit with Good Stuff, which is as was noted a "minor key" type of tune.

The most intriguing response was "Mary shut the Garden Door" by Moray "Dreaded" Eel. And it was the latest response and appeared to be NOT influenced by the previous responses. I am glad that I did not write my take on this BEFORE Moray came out with that tune. It qualifies because it is NOT on an SD studio album, AND it has the mood, tempo and darkness of Good Stuff. The only issue is that that recurrent dominating snare drum sets it apart from Good Stuff.

The best fit with the tune in question we were looking for was indeed Cash Only Island which was provided right out of the box by the poster "My Guess". In retrospect, they tell you on Multiple Choice tests if you are going to "Guess", go with your "initial" response.

The "best fit" response for the tune Good Stuff by "My Guess" has made him (or her?) the ALL-TIME leader in "best fit" responses with eight (8) surpassing the poster "r u with me dr hoo" who had 7.5. Big props to "My Guess", who once disqualified himself (herself?) on the basis that he did not wish to claim the all-time leadership on an easy (about 4 or 5 out of 10) Strainer. To him, it would have been like getting his 3000th hit on an infield dribbler. Or something like that.

So "My Guess", if you want to add anything, or any general info you are comfortable with, please do. I am curious if you are a musician, how long you have been into the Dan, what other music you might be into etc. Congrats.

And a shout out to all who participated with their insights.....

Date: Sun, April 21, 2013, 13:37:00 ET
Posted by: Frank,

Down Under is the perfect place for The Dukes Of September! Get them as far away from the USA as possible!

Date: Sun, April 21, 2013, 08:14:43 ET
Posted by: search, k

Australian interview with Boz. Apparently they haven't ruled out the Dukes going Down Under this fall.


http://blogs.abc.net.au/queensland/2013/04/the-boz-is-back.html

Date: Sun, April 21, 2013, 03:10:34 ET
Posted by: Miss Marlene, Portland, OR

I'm thinking of seeing Boz Scaggs tour, just so I can see Drew Zingg play live again.

They never should have let him go. Drew did so much for Steely Dan. He Helped bring them back with stunning lead guitar and musical direction during 3 years of NY Rock & Soul Revue Shows and then amazing playing in the 1993 tour. Also returned for a couple of Roseland shows when Alive in America was released.

And now - there's no mention of him even in the touring archives of steelydan.com

There's no mention of Wayne Krantz, Georg Wadenius, Peter Erskine, Dennis Chambers, Bill Ware or Warren Berhnardt in the touring archives either. In fact there's no mention of anything pre-2000! It's like it never even existed. That's pretty strange seeing as all of these guys worked their asses off and Wadenius played 50% of the guitar on Kamakiriad.

1993 and 1994 were the best live years. It was all so new and exciting and evolving.

It's kinda like "what've you done for me lately?"

Date: Sun, April 21, 2013, 01:09:41 ET
Posted by: la again, x

I saw the LA tickets are through Ticketmaster. This should be anounced on the 22nd as well

Date: Sun, April 21, 2013, 01:08:09 ET
Posted by: la baby, la

Could there be 3 presales for LA?
Here's what I saw

AMEX PRE SALE: Tuesday April 23th 10am - Sunday April 28th 10p
password = RIKKI

AEG Live / RADIO PRE SALE: Thursday April 25th 10a - Sunday April 28th 10p
password RIKKI

LA LIVE/ VENUE / RADIO PRE SALE: Thursday April 25th 10a - Sunday April 28th 10p
password NOKIA

General onsale date is April 29, this will be announced April 22

don't know how accurate this is but it gives us someplace to start.

Date: Sat, April 20, 2013, 23:05:41 ET
Posted by: Jim Taylor, Hello Baton Rouge

I am goin' to see Peg as much as (your town here). I dearly love this band, and will go see them play what they want to play several times this year at whatever cost.

Date: Sat, April 20, 2013, 19:46:30 ET
Posted by: Sid Dithers, Melonville

For the Nokia shows the general sale is on April 29 and the American Express presale begins on April 23.

Date: Sat, April 20, 2013, 18:24:36 ET
Posted by: Donald Rumsfeld-Fagen, Way down in Brentwood

LA Baby - Do you know what Web site is selling the tickets (aeglive.com has no info on the shows)? And when do the sales/pre-sales begin?

Date: Sat, April 20, 2013, 12:27:10 ET
Posted by: LA Baby, LA

Passwords for LA presales ---

Try both of these .passwords -- don't know which goes with which.......

Password: NOKIA
Password: RIKKI

I think there are 2 presales:
AMEX PRE SALE:
AEG Live / RADIO PRE SALE:

Date: Sat, April 20, 2013, 11:25:29 ET
Posted by: fagenism, She go (I cry)

Merry 4/20 to the extended Dandom.

The Cuervo Gold
The fine Colombian
Make tonight a wonderful thing

Date: Sat, April 20, 2013, 01:55:28 ET
Posted by: moray eel, m

Mary Shut The Garden Door

m.e.

Date: Fri, April 19, 2013, 23:02:36 ET
Posted by: DYLYNFAN, HARRISBURG PA

Tru Dat The Dean, hoping to see all Dandets at The Mann in September.
I hope Dandets (which I very lamely just made up) refers to all
on this board and is not gender specific. Disclaimer: This senseless
ramble was brought to you by Absolute Vodka and Tropicana OJ.

Date: Fri, April 19, 2013, 22:30:57 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

SDV, that's exactly what is going on. I have no problem with that--I do that myself with a couple of friends. It's the quiz format (as if there is a correct answer) that bugs me. Just have an honest discussion.

Date: Fri, April 19, 2013, 22:24:31 ET
Posted by: SDV, lucky night

you guys are so into playing "what Steely Dan song does this other Steely Dan song remind this random Steely Dan fan of" it's kind of sweet. i wish i could get into it

Date: Fri, April 19, 2013, 22:11:57 ET
Posted by: Greg M, nyc

Cash Only Island is a good guess. I concur!

Date: Fri, April 19, 2013, 19:03:17 ET
Posted by: Askin', Q

So what did DF have to say about Broadcast News? I checked it out from the library the other day. Hadn't seen it since it was in theaters.

Date: Fri, April 19, 2013, 16:14:35 ET
Posted by: Lee, Tampa

The song Brain Strainer referenced is in my opinion "Big Noise, New York".

Date: Fri, April 19, 2013, 15:49:42 ET
Posted by: Technicolor Motorhome, SE USA

I think the shows in Charleston SC and Clearwater (Tampa) FL are going to sell out LONG before the shows, especially a fast growing city like Charleston that is going through one of those sun-belt mega-growth phases like Charlotte and Nashville went through. If you live around Charleston or Tampa/St.Pete - get your tickets soon. Otherwise you will be paying StubHub prices and fees later. Just sayin'

Date: Fri, April 19, 2013, 14:52:31 ET
Posted by: j,

Put me down for Kind Spirit too.

Date: Fri, April 19, 2013, 13:37:18 ET
Posted by: Jazzassin, Still straining

Ignoring the key, Cash Only Island has much more of the funkiness and especially the rhythm guitars of Good Stuff of course. Minor vamp too.

Date: Fri, April 19, 2013, 13:24:08 ET
Posted by: Jazzassin, Re: Brain Strainer

Kind Spirit

Both goes in Bm and in roughly the same tempo, at least.

Date: Fri, April 19, 2013, 11:14:40 ET
Posted by: Chris, Philly

For Philly, the AEG code was SHUFFLE. Not sure if this will be the case for your show.

So far, I've seen that both the AmEx and AEG pre-sales have not yielded any Pit tickets for the Philly show (Mann Center). I will be holding out for the General Sale tomorrow morning to see if I can get my hands on some prime seating. I've done two shows now, from a pretty far distance. I think now is the time to see them up close.

Date: Fri, April 19, 2013, 08:52:31 ET
Posted by: Technicolor Motorhome, SE USA

HELP!! Does anybody have the "AEG" pre-sale password for Red Rocks for this morning???

Date: Fri, April 19, 2013, 07:02:34 ET
Posted by: Guess Again,

Everything must go!!

Date: Fri, April 19, 2013, 00:20:16 ET
Posted by: My Guess, .

Cash Only Island. (But I still Green Book is the most similar.)

Date: Thurs, April 18, 2013, 23:58:55 ET
Posted by: Brain Strainer,

REVISED VERSION:

"Speaking of Good Stuff, there has been discussion of late about that Sunken Condos tune, of which a well-done cover was posted earlier. While Good Stuff appears to be be the "newest", "freshest" material from solo Fagen, it also bears a strong sonic resemblance to a tune not appearing on any SD studio album. Name that tune."

Date: Thurs, April 18, 2013, 23:20:32 ET
Posted by: My Guess, US

Green Book.

Date: Thurs, April 18, 2013, 22:43:16 ET
Posted by: SDV, couple things

thank you Freddie. glad someone pointed that out.

and BS... Good Stuff is not "based on" any other tune in the catalog. it might remind you of another song, but that's not really the same thing is it

Date: Thurs, April 18, 2013, 22:17:28 ET
Posted by: Brain Strainer,

Strong emotions certainly abound about the 2013 tour, and that sentiment seems polarized into two major camps--those who will go to any Steely Dan show regardless of their playing essentially the same set list for seven years--and those who won't go if there are not major changes to the set list. There is a third group that won't go because of the price. All camps anxiously await to see how all of this plays out. That set list in particular. Personally, I am looking for the GOOD STUFF. And I'll clue ya, it is not necessarily their Greatest Hits...

Speaking of Good Stuff, there has been discussion of late about that Sunken Condos tune, of which a well-done cover was posted earlier. While Good Stuff appears to be be the "newest", "freshest" material from solo Fagen, it also evident that it is strongly sonically based upon an earlier SD tune. Name that tune.

Date: Thurs, April 18, 2013, 22:03:50 ET
Posted by: Freddie, Mars

Barnacles, I hear ya, but it looks like $225 is the maximum. The price range for that show starts at under $50...

Date: Thurs, April 18, 2013, 21:51:09 ET
Posted by: Jives, Glasgow

No offence to Hoops'delightful forum or the best band in the world but,sorry...

I aint paying these prices.

If only i could.

"While the poor people sleepin' with the shade on the light..
While the poor people sleepin' all the stars come out at night..."

Date: Thurs, April 18, 2013, 20:30:31 ET
Posted by: Barnacles, San Francisco

I was planning on buying tickets for the San Francisco show at this new America's Cup Pavilion venue. But then I saw the ticket price on ticketmaster....$225.50!!! Forget it! I'm not paying inflated prices just to hear the same songs again.

Date: Thurs, April 18, 2013, 15:15:34 ET
Posted by: Dave Robicheaux, New Iberia

Nice to hear Boz Scaggs's cover of "Pearl of the quarter" on UK national radio this a.m.

Date: Thurs, April 18, 2013, 15:06:28 ET
Posted by: Lutz, SF

Dylan, I hope you're hopes are not that far off, they might just surprise us a little this year.
SC and it's commercial success could be brought back into the limelight this year, and there are some great party tunes that (hopefully) would be welcomed by concertgoers, even if not heard before.

Date: Thurs, April 18, 2013, 12:16:57 ET
Posted by: Ben, Indy

Detroit's Promo Code for today's presale = olympia

Date: Thurs, April 18, 2013, 09:25:38 ET
Posted by: Steely Dad, Salem, MA

Always a great summer when it includes a SD tour. BUT, no outdoor shows in New England. More datea?

Date: Thurs, April 18, 2013, 08:38:20 ET
Posted by: DYLYNFAN, HARRISBURG PA

Just heard Miss Marlene(spelling?) on XPN(PHILLY) on my way in to
work!! Anyone out there in Blue Book land think there is a prayer
of hearing any Sunken Condo's songs this tour? A guy can dream
can't he? It would be F*cking awesome!!! Done Babbling

Date: Thurs, April 18, 2013, 00:06:56 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

uh - yeah, the vocals don't bother me and the drumming's good enough. The remainder of the instrumentation has the edge and immediacy the song needs. I'd take this over the vast majority of Dan tribute bands. Something about Canadian musicians that captures the essence better...

The exclamation btw was an inside joke but w/e...

Date: Wed, April 17, 2013, 19:19:20 ET
Posted by: B. Teele,

Also, Capt. Lutzi, the ad sounds too pretentious/Eagles-ish for me. Deepak, no good. Tupac would've been nice. The Dalai Lama # 12 would also have been great.

Date: Wed, April 17, 2013, 19:09:03 ET
Posted by: B. Teele,

Dr. Lutz - Yes, the announcer's voice is too banal/usual - not sardonic or sardine-ish or Al Jardine-ish enough for me, Lt. Nutz n' Boltz.

Date: Wed, April 17, 2013, 19:03:58 ET
Posted by: B. Teele,

Hoops - I'm getting hairdone just watching it.

Date: Wed, April 17, 2013, 19:03:48 ET
Posted by: Lutz, SF

Teele, you poor, tortured soul!
Were you looking for a more introverted or or a more esoteric approach?
Perhaps narrated by Deepak Chopra, with falling leaves and rose petals all over the screen?
Please share...

Date: Wed, April 17, 2013, 18:40:12 ET
Posted by: bikemann17, nj

OK, This year I would like to hear Rose Darling, Throw back the little ones and Western World (original version). Life will be complete! Come on Rarities Night!!!!!

Date: Wed, April 17, 2013, 17:45:29 ET
Posted by: UH?,

It's not THAT good Mu. Calm down now!

Date: Wed, April 17, 2013, 16:17:23 ET
Posted by: Have Dan Will Travel, louisville

commerciality? I don't like it because it will sell more tickets more quickly, impeding my chances of getting choice seats. Like hoops, i gotta rush also. Damn

Date: Wed, April 17, 2013, 16:13:39 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

Holy ***, that's great. One of the best covers I've ever heard - can hardly think of a better one. That's one bad @$$ bass playing for a multi-instrumentalist. Sign the kid up!



Date: Wed, April 17, 2013, 11:08:10 ET
Posted by: SS, HK

Very nice cover of DF's Good Stuff

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MxwkKl-_UgM

Date: Wed, April 17, 2013, 16:11:28 ET
Posted by: hoops, on the quick, in chicago

Commerciality?

Not unreasonable at all. I got a hardon watching it.

Date: Wed, April 17, 2013, 15:30:43 ET
Posted by: B. Teele,

The commercial formality of this "Ad" doesn't sit well w/ me. Sorry for the typo.

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10200875736873855

Date: Wed, April 17, 2013, 15:29:05 ET
Posted by: B. Teele,

The commercial formality of this SD 2013 tour doesn't sit well w/ me:

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10200875736873855

Date: Wed, April 17, 2013, 13:04:27 ET
Posted by: I Want To go, but

I wish the movie screening were either an hour later or closer to the bus terminal. Any idea on what I'd be looking at trying to drive into the city through the Holland Tunnel around 5:30? Are there parking garages near the theater? Their website doesn't say.

Date: Wed, April 17, 2013, 12:28:31 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

I hope somebody catches Donald tonight. I'm interested to know if the set is truly acoustic. A lot of times when I see "unplugged" or "acoustic" billed on a TV appearance by bands, they aren't really acoustic. Almost always have an electric bass, for example.

Either way, I hope it's great.

Date: Wed, April 17, 2013, 12:22:35 ET
Posted by: Ben, Indy

DF's playing an "acoustic set" @ this event...

http://www.jambands.com/news/2013/04/16/donald-fagen-to-appear-at-new-york-broadcast-news-screening/

Date: Wed, April 17, 2013, 11:08:10 ET
Posted by: SS, HK

Very nice cover of DF's Good Stuff

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MxwkKl-_UgM

Date: Wed, April 17, 2013, 10:49:01 ET
Posted by: Flipkid, Blue State

Just got my internet pre-sale tix for the North Charleston Performing Arts Center, and I am STOKED. Ironically we are permanently relocating from Baltimore (my life-long home) to Charleston SC at the end of April. Imagine my delight when the tour dates came out and Charleston was on there (and the Baltimore area was NOT). The N. Charleston PAC is just ten minutes from our new home.

Date: Tues, April 16, 2013, 23:32:36 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

Lutz, while I doubt the tour name has anything to do with Redman. But given your history, it isn't completely out of the question it is related to the Stern tune.

Date: Tues, April 16, 2013, 23:29:56 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

Casual Fan. I won't say I definitely won't be there--but it looks bleak. I will attend the St Aug show.

I'd love to go to Clearwater, but I just don't think I will be able to swing it cash-wise or time-wise. I suppose that show or Orlando are a possibility--just not a good one.

Too bad your SD date is no longer in the area. She really was spectacular as were the dates/wives of your friends. Fine people all around.

Date: Tues, April 16, 2013, 23:27:33 ET
Posted by: Lutz, SF

Mood swings is also a great Mike Stern composition from his first cd, with Jaco on bass - one of Jaco's last recordings. Sadly, it was likely dedicated to him as he was in the final years of his bipolar being. Not related to D&W calling the tour mood swings but Mike pretty much started it all at 55 Bar in the early 80's with Jaco sitting in often. This also paved the way for Wayne Krantz and many others such as Lost Tribe players. From what I understand - later on - Wayne playing there with Keith and Tim, Keith was "discovered" there by the boys and subsequently called in for the 2VN sessions.

Date: Tues, April 16, 2013, 16:58:57 ET
Posted by: casual fan, orlando

Josey, I have been to Boston a couple of times and always enjoyed it. Probably goes without saying -- but will do so just the same -- the City and everyone there has the undivided attention of the entire rest of the world right now. What a terrible thing.

As to my date back at the Hard Rock show (5, 6 year ago?) she's been my SD show date three or four times and is actually a big fan. But she moved to the big city (D.C.) not too long ago and so I'm left to scramble to find a substitute !

I'm sure I can find a victi .... er, date, for the show here this September.

Date: Tues, April 16, 2013, 13:39:37 ET
Posted by: Josey, Mass

Hey Casual Fan!...that's a bit more travel for me now than it used to be! I'm fairly sure I'm gonna sit this tour out, reserving the right to change my mind accordingly. The place for me to see them now would be The Wang in Boston. Beautiful, beautiful theater!!

I remember the girl you brought along was a so-so Dan fan. Has she developed a more appreciative taste for the band?

Should you find yourself anywhere in the Boston area, let me know.

Date: Tues, April 16, 2013, 13:18:13 ET
Posted by: casual fan, orlando

Dean and Josey, perhaps we'll try that again this year at Margaritaville. But Dean I imagine you'll stick to St Augustine Amphitheatre. Heck, I'm even thinking about Ruth Eckerd Hall show myself, as its my favorite prior Dan venue.

Date: Tues, April 16, 2013, 13:01:14 ET
Posted by: anymanleft, RioGrande

Great news on the tour. 2 stops in the Philly area between the Mann Music center and the Sands in Bethlehem. And to make it even better,the Carlock/Herrington band are playing in Reading on May 18th. It's like hitting the Trifecta!

Date: Tues, April 16, 2013, 12:58:49 ET
Posted by: Potato , Pancakes?

The Idaho Botanical Garden seems like an intersting venue. I hear Boise is a good party town.

Date: Tues, April 16, 2013, 12:20:01 ET
Posted by: Josey, Mass

Dean - we had to have met! I was with (at the time) a tall Delta flight gal and my buddy and his wife. My buddy was wearing the loudest pair of flower print pants anyone's ever seen...they would be hard to forget! We thought we had front row seats...but they were front row of the balcony, which were still good seats.

I remember how damn good Two Against Nature sounded! Good time all around.

Date: Tues, April 16, 2013, 12:01:54 ET
Posted by: DYLYNFAN, HARRISBURG PA

I am sure this has already been posted (didnt have time to check)
Saturday September 21st at The Mann in Philadelphia!! WOO-HOO!!!!

Date: Tues, April 16, 2013, 11:06:13 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

Josey, we may have met as I was at that show.

I met the very generous person who sold me a front row seat at Margaritaville. There were a few Dan fans hanging at the bar, waiting for the meetup to happen but nobody quite knew where we were supposed to meet up.

I had a great cigar and a joint burning a hole in my pocket and went looking for a place to smoke the cigar, drink good bourbon and watch some sports. I found some bar on the second floor of the complex where I accomplished all three. I hit the joint a few times on the walk to the venue.

So if we met, it was probably for about 10-15 minutes. Everyone I met seemed very nice, though--from what I can remember.

Date: Tues, April 16, 2013, 10:39:16 ET
Posted by: Josey, Mass

Dean - did we possibly meet at the Orlando Hard Rock show about 7 years ago? Casual Fan put together a Danfest at the Jimmy Buffet bar there that about 10 to 15 of us attended. Just curious. I would imagine some of my St. Simons amigos will attend the St. Augustine show.

Date: Tues, April 16, 2013, 10:13:05 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

Mood Swings? Interesting.

I doubt there is any connection, but there is a great Joshua Redman album entitled Mood Swing.

St Aug is right down the street, so that may have to be my gig. But I really am dying to go to Ruth Eckerd in Clearwater. Can I possibly pull of two this year?

Date: Tues, April 16, 2013, 08:40:36 ET
Posted by: GMQ, US

Funny how a couple of times they played Foxwoods and Atlantic City on consecutive nights. This year (so far) they are the first and last shows of the tour.

Date: Tues, April 16, 2013, 07:45:43 ET
Posted by: fagenism, She go (I cry)

Babylon Gargoyle wrote:

"8 Miles to Pancake Day tour, huh? Sounds like Walt and Donald might be fans of the Coen Brothers films. There are some references to pancakes in the The Big Lebowski and Fargo movies. Also, one character is named Garth Pancake in The Ladykillers film."

Huuuge fan of the Coens here. Are you serious? "8 Miles to Pancake Day" is a nod to the Coens because... uh... the Coens have mentioned pancakes in some of their movies?

That's even more far-fetched than your average BrainStrainer!

Date: Tues, April 16, 2013, 05:44:23 ET
Posted by: JungleMusic, Evr�pa

I'm sure they'll show up in the autumn!

Date: Tues, April 16, 2013, 04:54:34 ET
Posted by: PETE EVANS, MANCHESTER UK

Not looking good for the UK and European fans !

Date: Tues, April 16, 2013, 03:34:58 ET
Posted by: Miss Marlene, Portland, OR

If you all wanna re-acquaint yourselves with Drew Zingg, by far the greatest guitarist Steely Dan has ever had - (and the musical director of the NY Rock & Soul Revue) - he's playing May 24th & 25th with his new band in NYC. The band features Will Lee and Keith Carlock (not Dennis Chambers who is the greatest drummer Steely Dan has ever had).

The info can be found on Drew's website here: www.dzdap.com

Drew is also once again the lead guitarist for Boz Scaggs who is currently on a long tour.

Drew is also on twitter right here: https://twitter.com/DrewZingg1

And yes - I LOVE DREW ZINGG!!

Date: Tues, April 16, 2013, 00:39:02 ET
Posted by: SDV, Ooo-La-La!

Wow. 46 dates and counting... they're warhorses i tell ya!

I love this band. I have high hopes for another song or 3 we've never witnessed before. Maybe more. Last tour we got several.

another album in its entirety would be tremendous. which would you vote for?
probably CTE for me, but I'd be so happy with any of 'em.

if you could pick JUST ONE SONG for them to do... which one?
now that's a toughy

Date: Mon, April 15, 2013, 21:44:15 ET
Posted by: SoulMonkey, The Ville

We will be going to Dayton, Indy and of course, Louisville. The Palace is an awesome venue.

Date: Mon, April 15, 2013, 20:55:52 ET
Posted by: Technicolor Motorhome, SE USA

No Nashville this time = BUMMER
I think I'll go to the Louisville show. That Palace Theater looks like the Fox in Atlanta so it's probably really nice. Mud Island in Memphis used to be a dump unless they did major improvements. I can't fathom how people in Memphis think it's not horrible - or was the last time I was there. Nashville tore down an amphitheater that was both newer and nicer. I love FedEx Forum in Memphis - it's one of the nicest large arenas in America. But Mud Island was straight-up ghetto last time I saw it.

Date: Mon, April 15, 2013, 19:20:27 ET
Posted by: Dan Fan, The Sunshine State

Tickets go on sale 10:00 a.m. Friday, April 26 for the St. Augustine Amphitheatre show. Can't freaking wait! Should sell out fast!

Date: Mon, April 15, 2013, 19:03:05 ET
Posted by: Sid, o

Also the Eminem movie 8 Mile.

Date: Mon, April 15, 2013, 18:52:23 ET
Posted by: Babylon Gargoyle, Santa Barbara, CA

8 Miles to Pancake Day tour, huh? Sounds like Walt and Donald might be fans of the Coen Brothers films. There are some references to pancakes in the The Big Lebowski and Fargo movies. Also, one character is named Garth Pancake in The Ladykillers film.

Date: Mon, April 15, 2013, 15:15:00 ET
Posted by: Mpls Dan Fan,

Since it doesn't look like the boys will be stopping quite in my neck of the woods, I'm looking for advice from those familiar with Ravinia as to whether it is worth the trip there. I seem to recall some discussion last go-around about the merits/drawbacks of this venue. So...would appreciate feedback on a couple things:

1) how is the sound quality overall, and, lawn vs. pavillion?
2) I seem to recall reading they play shorter sets there because of curfew or something. Am I making that one up?
3) any other thoughts on the venue as a potential "destination" for a show

Thanks!

Date: Mon, April 15, 2013, 15:01:09 ET
Posted by: Maple Syrup, On The French Fries

Try the Original Pancake House if there's one near you. There's maybe 100 in the country. That's my favorite.

www.originalpancakehouse.com

The new Revel casino in AC is in the shitter financially. I wonder what drew them away from The Borgata.

Date: Mon, April 15, 2013, 14:21:25 ET
Posted by: pixeleen,

There's an "8 Mile Pancake House" in Detroit, Michigan......for what that's worth.

Love the "Mood Swings".........

Date: Mon, April 15, 2013, 14:07:28 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

I love the name of this tour.

But seriously, 8 miles to pancake day? Is that a reference to anything?

Date: Mon, April 15, 2013, 13:51:25 ET
Posted by: ccw, dc

Re "Jiffy Lube Ampitheatre" venue: yuck. Even in outdoor-ampitheatre-land, a worse choice than the Meriwether Post and Wolftrap dates they've done around DC in the past.

But those inevitable (right?) "special engagement" dates at the Beacon, some with interesting setlists (Rarities Part 2?), will make everything more than OK!

Also, I don't get the "8 Miles to Pancake Day" reference, I apologize for my ignorance, could someone explain? Thanks.

Date: Mon, April 15, 2013, 12:59:02 ET
Posted by: Katy, nyc

Not sweating the lack of NYC dates yet. Still really amped about this tour! Woo!

Date: Mon, April 15, 2013, 12:23:11 ET
Posted by: Jim Taylor, Hello Baton Rouge

Hmm. No New york dates? I'll be able to hit Memphis, Houston and maybe Vegas or Portland. The Pearl is a great venue and I have friends in Portland.

Date: Mon, April 15, 2013, 12:05:15 ET
Posted by: Bren, London UK

.....North American dates just announced on SD.COM...exciting news indeed...Hopefully the UK/European dates will be included in their itinerary soon...get set for the Steely Dan Mood Swings tour 2013!
Bren London UK

Date: Mon, April 15, 2013, 11:55:14 ET
Posted by: steelydoc, nea

Jake

I didn't sucker anyone. If you have the balls, email me or shut the f*ck up.

Date: Mon, April 15, 2013, 11:48:32 ET
Posted by: Young Wu, Buffalo

Yeah motherfucker!! July 20!!!

Goddamn, I love this band!

Is this the first time that they actually announced the whole tour all at once?

And NY, enjoy your 47 shows that I'm sure you're gonna get at the end of the tour.

A Steely Dan summer! Nothing better!

Date: Mon, April 15, 2013, 11:44:40 ET
Posted by: suedave, Redmond isn't Seattle but it'll do

I love getting Steely Dan Newsletters!

Date: Mon, April 15, 2013, 11:40:38 ET
Posted by: Danfan, Toronto, Canada

Hey Toronto fans, my source was only off by a few days...early Aug. Toronto Show July.21 Molson Amp. Looking forward to another "GREAT" Toronto show!! Tickets TBA.

Date: Mon, April 15, 2013, 11:19:06 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

At last! Can't wait!

And please, please accept my apologies about those crap rumors about Borgata and NYC. I should have not allowed to stay up.

Looking forward to some shows!

Still crazy for Steely Dan after all these years!

Jim

Date: Mon, April 15, 2013, 11:13:34 ET
Posted by: steelydoc, near the Tower

new tour announced at Steelydan.com

Date: Mon, April 15, 2013, 10:54:36 ET
Posted by: Mr. Dakine, The backroom

Yay! Tour dates!!!

Been in Florida all my life and seen them 6 times at various venues here. Movin to NC triangle in August so I'll catch them at Red Hat Amphitheatre. Anyone seen them there before? Any hints about good seats there?

Date: Mon, April 15, 2013, 10:53:30 ET
Posted by: UH?,

Steely Dan Dot com has posted the 2013 tour schedule! Guess what? NO NYC SHOWS LISTED!!!!!!

Date: Mon, April 15, 2013, 10:39:27 ET
Posted by: Jazzassin, Tour annoncement from steelydan.com newsletter

Subject: Steely Dan Newsletter - Issue #51

Steely Dan Newsletter: Issue #51
April 15, 2013



+++++++++++++++++++++++++
My Face or Yours?
+++++++++++++++++++++++++

Hey ... we're on Facebook!
Come visit:

http://www.facebook.com/SteelyDan


*********************
||||||||||||||||||||

Announcing
MOOD SWINGS: TOUR 2013
8 Miles To Pancake Day


||||||||||||||||||||
*********************


Up, down, left, right;
MOOD SWINGS --
everybody's got 'em!

Come swing along with Donald, Walter,
and their band of musical compadres
-- The Bipolar Allstars featuring The Borderline Brats --
as they power-march though North America
this summer and beyond in their...

<< Mood Swings 2013 - 8 Miles To Pancake Day Tour >>

A few slippery-quick dates jumped past
the SD WebBot, and are on sale now.
See all dates confirmed as of this mailing, and
all announced on-sale dates, at steelydan.com.
(Dates are also at the bottom of this email).

Check in soon and often for additions (;-)), changes,
and all on-sale date announcements.


+++++++++++++++++++++++++
AMEX Ticket Pre-sales
+++++++++++++++++++++++++

Steelydan.com is not sponsoring any ticket pre-sales
of their own this season.

However, most shows will offer pre-sales
for American Express cardmembers.

These pre-sales often (but not always) begin
3 days before the general on-sale date listed on steelydan.com.

--->>> You must visit the ticket vendor (we provide
the link) for all pre-sale dates, times, and conditions <<---


Related ....
+++++++++++++++++++++++++
Pre-sales and "Good" Tix
+++++++++++++++++++++++++

This is a good time to briefly address a persistent
fallacy surrounding ticket pre-sales.

It is not true that a pre-sale can "sell out" a show,
or that a pre-sale sells "all the good seats", row by row,
until the pre-sale time has elapsed.

Instead, only a portion of seats from *all* locations
and price ranges are set aside for the pre-sale;
a pre-sale never eliminates any ticket type or location
from the general on-sale pool.


+++++++++++++++++++++++++
Updates ...
+++++++++++++++++++++++++

Long-time SD watchers know that the
present schedule may well expand --
and other changes are always possible
at any time.

But please note: Although updates to steelydan.com
can happen frequently, we will NOT send a newsletter
every time tour information is added or changed.

Therefore, it's strongly advised that your monitor
steelydan.com
for the very latest in these fast-moving developments.
(Also consider signing up for Email Alerts
offered by Ticketmaster!)

And don't forget to check your show for AMEX ticket pre-sales!


+++++++++++++++++++++++++
MOOD SWINGS 2013
Tour Dates Announced as of APRIL 15
+++++++++++++++++++++++++

... and then follows the dates as listed below.

Date: Mon, April 15, 2013, 10:35:50 ET
Posted by: Ben, Indy wit da Tour Dates!!!

Here's the Mood Swing Tour from glidemagazine.com

http://www.glidemagazine.com/hiddentrack/tour-dates-steely-dan-mood-swings-tour-2013/

In addition to all the dates announced today, The Dan makes specific mention that �additional special engagements will be announced soon.� Beacon run anybody? For this tour Walter and Donald will be joined keyboardist Jim Beard, drummer Keith Carlock, vocalists La Tanya Hall, Carolyn Leonhart-Escoffery and Catherine Russell as well as guitarist Jon Herington, bassist Freddie Washington and a four-piece horn section.

Here�s the list of dates as it currently stands with on-sale dates where available�


July 19 Atlantic City, NJ Ovation Hall � Revel Casino tba
July 20 Canandaigua, NY Constellation Brands April 19
July 21 Toronto, ON Molson Amphitheatre tba
July 23 Cleveland, OH Jacob�s Pavilion @ Nautica tba
July 24 Kettering/Dayton, OH Fraze Pavilion tba
July 26 Louisville, KY Louisville Palace Theatre tba
July 27 Detroit, MI Fox Theatre tba
July 28 Milwaukee, WI Riverside Theatre tba
July 30 Ft. Wayne, IN Embassy Theatre tba
Aug 01 Highland Park, IL Ravinia Festival NOW
Aug 02 Highland Park, IL Ravinia Festival NOW
Aug 03 Indianapolis, IN Murat Theatre tba
Aug 05 St. Louis, MO Peabody Opera House tba
Aug 06 Omaha, NE Orpheum Theatre tba
Aug 08 Denver, CO Red Rocks Amphitheatre April 19
Aug 10 Salt Lake City, UT Red Butte Garden May 6
Aug 11 Boise, ID Idaho Botanical Garden April 20
Aug 13 Troutdale/Portland, OR McMenamins Edgefield tba
Aug 15 Redmond, WA Concerts at Marymoor April 19
Aug 17 San Francisco, CA Americas Cup Pavilion April 26
Aug 18 Reno, NV Reno Events Center April 26
Aug 20 Santa Barbara, CA Santa Barbara Bowl tba
Aug 21 San Diego Humphrey�s NOW
Aug 23 Las Vegas The Pearl tba
Aug 24 Los Angeles, CA Nokia Theater LA Live tba
Aug 25 Los Angeles, CA Nokia Theater LA Live tba
Aug 28 Austin TX Bass Concert Hall April 19
Aug 30 Houston, TX Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion tba
Aug 31 Grand Prairie, TX Verizon Theatre tba
Sept 03 Kansas City, MO Midland Theatre tba
Sept 04 Tulsa, OK Brady Theatre April 26
Sept 06 Memphis, TN Mud Island Amphitheatre tba
Sept 07 Atlanta, GA Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre tba
Sept 08 St. Augustine, FL St. Augustine Amphitheatre tba
Sept 11 Orlando, FL Hard Rock Live tba
Sept 12 Boca Raton, FL Mizner Park Amphitheatre tba
Sept 14 Clearwater, FL Ruth Eckerd Hall April 20
Sept 15 Charleston, SC North Charleston PAC tba
Sept 17 Charlotte, NC Time-Warner Uptown Amphitheatre tba
Sept 18 Raleigh, NC Red Hat Amphitheatre tba
Sept 20 Bristow, VA Jiffy Lube Amphitheatre tba
Sept 21 Philadelphia, PA Mann Center for the Performing Arts tba
Sept 24 Boston, NA Citi Wang tba
Sept 25 Boston, MA Citi Wang tba
Sept 27 Bethlehem, PA Sands Event Center tba
Sept 28 Mashantucket, CT Foxwoods Resort Casino tba

Date: Sat, April 13, 2013, 21:31:32 ET
Posted by: Moss, San Bernadino, CA

Despite the seating capacity, the Steely Dan show at Humphreys was the most expensive and the first show to sell out at this particular venue. Just take a look at all the empty seats available for Bruce Hornsby at Humphreys on Ticketmaster.

Date: Sat, April 13, 2013, 17:39:11 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar. It's Happy Hour!

Somebody might want to mention the San Diego venue doesn't seat 17,000 people. It seats fewer than 1,400 which is a VERY small concert venue for major acts like Steely Dan.

Date: Sat, April 13, 2013, 05:06:23 ET
Posted by: fagenism, -

I don't want to be a downer here, but the Morgan Freeman AMA is widely regarded as a semi-fake; that is, it was most likely carried out by a PR rep.

Speaking of fakes; this Twitter account is officially listed as a "verified account". Surely this can't be right? Don would cringe at the idea of tweeting lyrics from his back-catalogue, let alone call himself "@SteelyDanSays". Are Twitter's verifications sometimes off? And if they are, what is the point of 'em?

https://twitter.com/SteelyDanSays

Date: Sat, April 13, 2013, 04:25:53 ET
Posted by: Jazzassin, aerial view

Casting,p, you wrote:
"Morgan Freeman can play Chuck Rainey in the SD biopic."

Now roll back 12 years to Grammy Awards night at Staples Center, LA, Feb.21 2001:

Morgan Freeman and some younger dude, both wearing white, sits on top of a fluffy cloud high above the City of Angles, looking down at Staples Center.

Young dude (chewing popcorn that looks like the cloud they're sitting on):
"Seems like the thin white rapper's gonna get a home run tonight".

Morgan Freeman (while putting on a worn Steely Dan T-shirt):
"Oh, we'll see about that".

Date: Fri, April 12, 2013, 20:55:07 ET
Posted by: Mt. Belzoni, Portland OR

Glad to hear of SD, Utah, Ravinia, etc. Just hoping that this year's itinerary includes Portland. Happily, SD played here last time around (and filled an enthused 2800 seat beaux arts theatre), and has done so on about half their tours this century. After all, we are reputedly the 25th biggest media market in the States.

But other times, they've only hit Seattle in the NW, although Donald's tour skipped the NW altogether (Donald!?!) And last summer's Dukes tour made the odd choice of instead playing the biggest town in Southern OR, which is tiny and not near anywhere else (4.5 hr drive from Portland). At least Seattle can pull from Portland (3 hrs south) and Vancouver BC (2 hrs north). (Springsteen recently played Portland and Vancouver, and skipped Seattle entirely. though this may owe more to the arena problems that former Sonics fans know too well.)

Broadcast News is a great film - wonderful dialog by writer James Brooks. Favorite line:

Holly Hunter's network boss, mildly ticked off: It must be wonderful always to know better than everybody else.

Holly Hunter: No, it isn't.

And what a relatively innocent time it depicts in the evolution (and ultimate collapse) of network news organizations. We'd be happy if the only problems we now faced with broadcast journalism were those of Broadcast News. I'd love to hear Donald's take on it.

Date: Fri, April 12, 2013, 19:31:52 ET
Posted by: FlbrkMike, LoCal

That was LAST Thursday...tickets went on sale Saturday.

Date: Fri, April 12, 2013, 19:30:10 ET
Posted by: FlbrkMike, LoCal

Found out on Thursday about the San Diego show. Was waiting on-line at 10:00 am for tickets to go on sale. Good thing too because it looks like they're sold out.

Date: Fri, April 12, 2013, 17:49:43 ET
Posted by: toni,

I watch this space all the time and now i feel like its watching back!!! :)

Date: Fri, April 12, 2013, 12:48:39 ET
Posted by: RC, SLC

Greetings old timers.

I see it has already been noted that The Dan will play Utah for the first time in over 40 years. Finally in my home town.

3000 seat venue and the $75.00 ticket is the most expensive ticket for this venues concerts this year but still a hell of a deal.

If anyone is going to make it let me know. Love to have a meet up.

RC

Date: Fri, April 12, 2013, 11:31:38 ET
Posted by: T10, u

Top 10 things not likely to be Tweeted from concerts this year.

10. Keith Jarrett sitting in on Gaucho.

Date: Fri, April 12, 2013, 11:18:12 ET
Posted by: May Bee,

Borgata on Hoops Milestone Birthday.

Beacon run in September. Tradition, Tradition, Tradition. Seats will top out around $300 each.

----May Bee

Date: Fri, April 12, 2013, 10:33:21 ET
Posted by: Red Butt e, Mormon state of mind

Utah tix only $75-

Date: Fri, April 12, 2013, 10:24:37 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Someone on the Facebook page just found this:

http://redbuttegarden.org/steely_dan