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Steely Dan Fan White Pages Directory

October, November & December 2017 Posts

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Date: Mon, January 01, 2018, 13:16:36 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol, Mtl

Happy New Year to all my Bluebook pals worldwide! And thanks to Hoops, your efforts are truly appreciated!
Peace


Date: Sun, December 31, 2017, 23:34:35 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu ,


KD: Drew Zingg has a fantastic version of Megashine City/Talkin 'Bout my Home

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9d50bjmVW2E

That's one massive lineup.

Drew Zingg (guitar)
Vinnie Colaiuta (drums)
Will Lee (bass)
George Whitty (keyboards)
Bob Merrill (trumpet),
David Mann (saxophone),
Eric Crystal (saxophone),
David Smith (trumpet) and George Petit (incidentals).


Date: Sun, December 31, 2017, 18:15:47 ET
Posted by: HouDanFan, Houston

Walter recognized this morning on Jane Pauleys show. It was toward the end and they played Reelin during outro. Brought a few tears I must say


Date: Sun, December 31, 2017, 18:04:55 ET
Posted by: Flipkid, Ball of Confusion

Happy New Year's Eve, fellow Blue Bookers. Have fun, be safe. 2018 has GOT to be better... right?


Date: Sun, December 31, 2017, 12:24:29 ET
Posted by: KD, asdf

Here's me after driving around with Megashine City a lot:

https://tsa.substack.com/p/every-steely-dan-song-megashine-city

(I hope everyone is cool with me posting these, I'm not trying to drive subscribers to my basketball website by linking here, these posts are free to anyone to read, I'm just happily taking advantage of the time and outlet that I have now.)

Just because we've lost some things, it doesn't mean the times are bad. Times can't be bad because things are going to get better. Happy New Year, Blue.


Date: Sun, December 31, 2017, 07:56:07 ET
Posted by: Jimmie, R

Good vintage interview with Walter.

http://www.independent.co.uk/incoming/pop-a-big-hello-from-hawaii-seeking-to-recover-after-steely-dan-walter-becker-hid-out-on-an-island-1402869.html


Date: Sat, December 30, 2017, 21:01:15 ET
Posted by: .., ..

NYTimes music writer Jon Pareles updated his WB obituary:

"In addition to his wife, Mr. Becker is survived by a daughter, Sayan Becker; a son, Kawai; and a sister, Wendy O�Terry."


Date: Sat, December 30, 2017, 19:09:45 ET
Posted by: Denise, Hinktown

NPR mentions Walter:
In Memoriam 2017: The Musicians We Lost
https://www.npr.org/2017/12/29/572828157/in-memoriam-2017-the-musicians-we-lost

Nice photo, text: Walter Carl Becker founded Steely Dan with singer and songwriter Donald Fagen in 1972, and with the help of many talented session musicians, the band released a string of popular and critically acclaimed albums that combined rock, jazz and studio wizardry in unprecedented fashion.


Date: Fri, December 29, 2017, 20:55:44 ET
Posted by: Steve Gennarelli, Tampa, FL

It was nice to see Walter featured among the many luminaries who passed away this year on this evening's "NBC Evening News". They played "Reelin in the Years" while showing some of the famous names and then they showed a brief clip of "Steely Dan" from "The Midnight Special" and then a nice close up photo of Walter Becker.
Shows you how life is so precious and fragile. We just saw him not even a year and a half ago in concert.
2018 has to be a better year. I don't see how it could be worse.


Date: Thurs, December 28, 2017, 09:04:07 ET
Posted by: Matt, Chattanooga

Nice article, thanks for the link Doc.

Of course, I encourage anyone interested in Walter's Hey 19 banter to check out:

http://www.dandom.com/hey19/>http://www.dandom.com/hey19/

Where we're trying to collect all of them.


Date: Wed, December 27, 2017, 23:19:54 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

Nice article about the Hey 21 rants, and giving props to Walter giving props and love to the band and the fandom...from the April 18th show in San Diego:

https://www.jambase.com/article/remembering-walter-becker-steely-dan-hey-nineteen-banter

"Our first hit, nobody even know the name of that song. Hey, play that �flapjack� song. What�s that �flapjack� song about anyway, you know? I love that �Flapjack,� you know, that�s the one."


Date: Wed, December 27, 2017, 08:19:55 ET
Posted by: ,

Donald's southern twang in Megashine City reaches pastiche-level heights. Interesting how much southern influenced stuff they had in that pre-CBAT era. Who would have been the inspiration for that? Allman Bros?


Date: Wed, December 27, 2017, 00:37:41 ET
Posted by: Shark DeVille, up on the hill

been enjoying these "new" old songs all evening.

obviously Megashine City is the main attraction here. crazy that this song was around for so long and was so fully realized since basically the beginning of the group, and still never got released.

I prefer the feel and the chords on the Gaucho demo version, but what a great early take and how interesting to hear the similarities and contrasts between the two versions. this early version really cooks and contains some interesting jam sections.

the tape sounds a bit fast to me, both in tempo and in Donald's voice. I slowed it down a full tone and it sounds right to my ears.

here's hoping some more outtakes turn up from this period. we know there are alternate mixes of some CBAT tunes and of course the elusive and mysterious Sacajawea is out there somewhere!


as for the other tunes, it's great to have a clearer version of Running Child and this version of Any World is something different, with some great double-tracked vocals from Donald and backgrounds by Walter. Come Back Baby sounds clearer too, Walter's vocal really dominates.


Date: Tues, December 26, 2017, 06:34:39 ET
Posted by: mikem , LBI, NJ

hi all, anyone seen this? i'm about to grab it. stay tuned.

mikem, lbi nj

http://www.thetradersden.org/forums/showthread.php?t=137261

from post

Steely Dan
Four Outtakes circa 1972/Can�t Buy A Thrill
New 5� Demo Reels Source via JEMS

JEMS 2017 Transfer: 5� demo reels > Otari 5050 mk2 > Sound Devices USBPre 2 capture (24/96) > iZotope RX and Ozone > MBIT+ convert to 16/44.1 > Peak Pro XT / volume smoothing / edit / index) > xACT 2.35 > FLAC

01 Any World (early version, different from circulating demo)
02 Running Child (no fadeout)
03 Megashine City (early version of �Talkin� �Bout My Home�)
04 Come Back Baby > instrumental fragment

In the spirit of the holidays, we are releasing something special for Steely Dan fans, four newly transferred outtakes circa 1972, which we believe were made before or just after the band�s debut album, Can�t Buy A Thrill.

The source of these songs are two 5�, 1/4-track reels marked �Becker & Fagen Tunes� which were likely compiled as publishing demos. Each contains three tracks (the other two are the A- and B-sides of the rare single �Dallas�/�Sail The Waterway�). JEMS obtained a handful of tapes from the estate of someone who worked at Village Recorders where Can�t Buy A Thrill was recorded. Given the other material we obtained, the age of the tapes, the person who had them and the content therein, the provenance strongly suggests publishing demos.

While I am no expert on Steely Dan, what follows is based on web research I have done and consultation with a major Dan collector. Corrections and additions welcome.

From Tape One:

�Any World� is an early version of a song that would later be re-recorded for Katy Lied. The key is changed and on some level it sounds more like a full-blown Steely Dan song to me than the eventual released track. Note that there is a circulating unreleased �demo� version of �Any World,� but it too is different from this, which lacks the new keyboard sound of the demo. Even with fixes, there are still some subtle channel fluctuations here, but otherwise the sound is quite good. We believe this has never circulated before.

�Running Child� is the same recording as the circulating outtake from Can�t Buy A Thrill, but in higher quality here and with no fade out. Instead it just ends abruptly.

�Megashine City� is a big surprise. It�s a radically different version of a song that would later evolve into the Gaucho outtake �Talkin� �Bout My Home,� but in a completely different and more up-tempo arrangement. Singer David Palmer apparently played �Talkin� �Bout My Home� in concert, so he must have liked the song. The vocal on this is quite affected, almost as if he is singing with an intentional accent. Again, we believe this version has never circulated before.

From Tape Two:

�Come Back Baby� is another outtake that�s been in circulation for some time, but the quality here is an upgrade. The extant versions of the song are pitched higher; I can�t tell you definitively which is correct, but the other songs on the reels appear to be correct.

�Come Back Baby� is on the same tape as �Dallas� and �Sail The Waterway,� and all three have surface noise. Given that �Dallas� and �Sail� were both issued on a 45, I initially presumed the reel was a transfer of that single. But on closer review, �Dallas� starts with a bit of studio chatter not present on the single. It dawns on me: the second reel is a recording of studio acetates, which explains the surface noise on the unreleased �Come Back Baby.� The version here has been de-clicked and de-crackled for improved listenability (because �Dallas� and �Sail the Waterway� are released, they can�t be included). When it ends, there�s a pause followed by nearly a minute of acoustic guitar playing on another track I didn�t recognize. Maybe you will.


Date: Mon, December 25, 2017, 03:38:48 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol, Mtl

Merry Christmas to all my fellow Bbookers, and the Greater Dandom!
Peace on Earth


Date: Mon, December 25, 2017, 00:09:44 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu, @ leftoftheriogrande


Very nice, KD. Yeah, who the fuck forces a guy to play bop notes on an electric sitar?!! Who else would play 1967 instruments found on Doors and Beatles albums, pulsating to a Latin beat, with the chorus rife with chords more fit of hard bop and cool jazz artists. But yet the verses stutter step over only one chord!! E minor - like some weird Bavarian jazz tomorrow Never Knows.


What the hell is this shit?!! I can remember as a kid, a next door buddy and I got an earful on the new FM radio station... and were saying - what the hell IS THIS? Way before the interwebz and years before Neuromancer was plunked down on Gibson's Royal typewriter, we weren't sure if Mr. Steely Dan were white or black or what. No one was. Dave bought the album, and we opened the inner sleeve to oily-skinned, hyper SoCal tanned bodies and still weren't certain what we had stumbled into.

Steely Dan out of the gate as subversive and perverse as possible...yet it's a skeevy hit.

"Jack" was kind of the early equivalent to a street "dude." Wanna be cool loser, world weary... at 22 and 24. Like a callout to some guy out the window of Starsky and Hutch's muscle machine.



Date: Sun, December 24, 2017, 22:07:11 ET
Posted by: Jason, OH

Nice essay KD. I bet that after the success of Do it Again, lots of women wanted to have their organ competently fingered by Donald Fagen.


Date: Sun, December 24, 2017, 19:17:13 ET
Posted by: And The Award For.., xxx

And the award for most unintentionally ironic post of 2017 goes to:

Donald Rumsfeld-Fagen - who wants "maximal dignity-preservation for all"



Date: Sun, December 24, 2017, 19:16:34 ET
Posted by: KD, asdf

Hey everyone, I wrote about Do It Again:

https://tsa.substack.com/p/every-steely-dan-song-do-it-again


Hope everyone stays warm and safe over the next week and a half.



Date: Sun, December 24, 2017, 15:51:15 ET
Posted by: Jon, @ his yellow stripe

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Major-Dudes-Steely-Dan-Companion/dp/1472127560

This one slid under my radar. Anyone hear anything about it? Just finished reading "Hotel California" by same author. Terrific writer, interesting read, and, even though they'd never be mistaken for progenitors of the "Laurel Canyon sound", Walt+Don get a passing mention.


Date: Sun, December 24, 2017, 05:47:02 ET
Posted by: Donald Rumsfeld-Fagen, Original Ray's

Wow. The old steelydan.com has been permanently archived at
http://sdarchive.com.

Mrs. Becker offers a few thoughts on the glory days of sd.com here:
http://sdarchivetalk.com

Very nice.


Date: Sat, December 23, 2017, 18:04:57 ET
Posted by: Denise, Hinktown

Happy holidays to all my Steely friends, although a sadder one this year without Walter.

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1749817711991384&set=a.1398506130455879.1073741828.100008895163347&type=3&theater


Date: Sat, December 23, 2017, 14:57:27 ET
Posted by: Warren Buffett, Nasdaq

My money is with the faction that can produce a lead singer that sounds the most like Donald Fagen.


Date: Fri, December 22, 2017, 22:36:42 ET
Posted by: Donald Rumsfeld-Fagen, Original Ray's Pizza

Sad that we now have competing official Steely Dan websites. I hope this legal wrangling gets worked out quickly��with maximal dignity-preservation for all.

And I hope that the writings and other content from steelydan.com are preserved for the ages. To many of us, the writings on sd.com are the purest expression of latter-day Steely Dan.


Date: Fri, December 22, 2017, 17:29:13 ET
Posted by: New OFFICIAL SD, here

NEW official Steely Dan website is up - www.SteelyDanOfficial.com

Nice!


Date: Wed, December 20, 2017, 21:10:41 ET
Posted by: CJB, YVR

What a great interview! Interlocutor was on point & deeply knowledegable about past history; I found myself nodding along repeatedly as he carefully brought up old news &, because of his questioning skill, was able to get more than 2-liners out of a very relaxed and thoughtful DF.

Some thoughts about WB. He was obviously in pain in later years and moved about very stiffly. Plus, visible body mass change & etc. It's reasonable to conclude that someone brought face-to-face with their mortality might not have had touring & recording as a main priority, especially considering that recording seemed to be very stressful for him. Legendary high standards, etc.

I think it's more productive for fans to not blame Walter for the lack of another SD record & instead ask, "What did we get?" Answer: a great WB solo record, one that for me is better than 2VN or EMG, and almost a decade of touring, which by Delia Becker's account was something WB grew to love over time. & maybe WB, always a bit solitary & insecure by almost everyone's account, also felt, or grew to feel, himself loved, & so achieved a bit of peace even as his health declined.

Just my 2c. Grateful to Rolling Stone for the interview, Donald for the serious answers, and WB.com for the live acoustic 2-set, a very moving surprise Christmas gift.


Date: Wed, December 20, 2017, 14:19:23 ET
Posted by: casual fan, orlando

That was a great interview of DF. I thought the discussion of them somewhat seeming to drift apart in the last few years was interesting, as WB lost energy and enthusiasm for it all. I saw them last year at the Beacon and commented here that WB seemed really just not as focused as in years past and I felt like DF was, if not annoyed by it, resigned to it. But that was just my take watching from the audience, so who knows if I really picked up on it or if its just a reflection of what we know now.

I am going to give the interviewer the benefit of the doubt in one respect, and that was the failure to ask if he planned to tour in '18. There was plenty of discussion of how DF plans to continue on into the future, how to name the band, the Nightflyers experiment and all of that, but all begging the obvious question: "Will you be touring next year?"

My assumption is that he was told ahead of time not to ask that question while the litigation remains pending. As DF basically says, what it gets called is not simply a function of honoring the prior name of the band. There are legal considerations, promotional considerations, and other people to think about in what you call it.




Date: Wed, December 20, 2017, 11:31:02 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

Kenny, it's an audio interview, and is available to all, right at that link. Those few paragraphs are just a summary of some of the main points.

Susan, thanks for the link.


Date: Wed, December 20, 2017, 07:41:15 ET
Posted by: Kenny, U

Do I need a subscription to read all that? The page I get directed to is only a few paragraphs.


Date: Tues, December 19, 2017, 21:34:50 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Regarding The Rolling Stone interview with Donald:

I thought it was really a great interview. It�s one we will be referencing for years to come. It was straightforward and informative to hear what Donald thinks. At the same time, I can�t help but wonder what Walter would�ve added to the stories or if Walter (and in some places Roger) would�ve maybe had a slightly different take on things. Moreover, Steely Dan� Walter plus Donald together in an interview--was always more oblique and hilarious. I did not come away with my cheeks and stomach hurting from laughing so much as I used to when it was a Steely Dan interview. The most profound part for me was when Donald described how Walter would have been great at writing fiction featuring character development. I connect with that so much. I think that�s an overlooked place where Walter was so brilliant. That�s why I always wish Walter would�ve gotten a prize for his writing.


Date: Tues, December 19, 2017, 17:24:50 ET
Posted by: Susan, Philly

Donald Fagen Discusses the Loss of Walter Becker and Steely Dan's Future
Fagen gives his first in-depth interview since Becker's September death to talk legacy, lawsuit in latest episode of Rolling Stone Music Now podcast

https://www.rollingstone.com/music/features/donald-fagen-on-walter-beckers-death-steely-dans-future-w514440


Date: Tues, December 19, 2017, 14:40:25 ET
Posted by: KD, asdf

I recently read a 1980 Guitar Player interview with Jeff Baxter where the journo repeatedly kept bringing up how Don and Walt were from Boston, and just kept running with it.

I've noticed a lot people from that generation that began saying the wrong things in 1980 or, prior to deciding not to stop for the rest of their lives. I think that's why there are so many Wal-Marts now.


Date: Tues, December 19, 2017, 09:34:27 ET
Posted by: Lucky, hide here

Thanks, Good News. She must have relapsed. Glad she's back.


Date: Mon, December 18, 2017, 23:13:44 ET
Posted by: Good News, For those who missed it the first time

"The Girl Next Door to the Methadone Clinic" is back up and available for right clicks at the official WB website.


Date: Mon, December 18, 2017, 15:34:32 ET
Posted by: M/O/D/P, Setting the record straight/shaking my fist at the [youtube] world


My goodness. So much wrong with that New Zealand TV video that it's hard to know where to start. First, Don & Walt did NOT meet in high school or "college", they met while playing in the touring version of the band Wet Willie - a guy told me this a couple of years ago and I have no reason to disbelieve him because he told me he was a huge Steely Dan fan, AND I met him AT a Steely Dan concert. No need to question his bona fides. Secondly, the first single was NOT "Dallas", it was "Summer Breeze". Any idiot knows that. Furthermore, Walter's surname is pronounced, "Brecker" ("It's an awkward name!") and Fagen's surname is spelled "Fagan". The first Steely Dan album was NOT "Pretzel Logic", it was "Year of the Cat" by Al Stewart. And so on.

One thing the TV dolt - the one with the liver spots all over the top of his big head - got correct, though, is at 2:12 of the clip where he tells the puffy-faced guy with the Lucille-Ball-smoking-filterless-Camels-circa-1985 voice that he wouldn't have known who Walter Becker was. He's right. He wouldn't have.

M/O/D/P

ps - "Walking Pop Encyclopedia"
pps - "Iconic Pop Singer"
ppps - "Washed-Up Has-Been TV Expert Faces Class Action Lawsuit Over Criminally Improper Use Of Word 'Iconic' "


Date: Sun, December 17, 2017, 17:19:17 ET
Posted by: Steve M, Scotland

I don't mind people being ignorant of the facts around SD/Don and Walt etc but what really pisses me off are twats like that who get air time (albeit in NZ I guess?) to spout off as if they were experts on the subject. I lasted for around 12 mins before I had to turn it off. I suspect others here may not last as long......


Date: Sun, December 17, 2017, 13:22:45 ET
Posted by: Brutus Charisma,


This has quite a few inaccuracies about SD. Wow.

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


Date: Sat, December 16, 2017, 22:25:58 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

should read "lighter weight."


Date: Sat, December 16, 2017, 17:25:07 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,


Dean - that's a lot to read in. Whatever convenient Collins-bashing there is for Invisible Touch (rightly so) and the gated drum trick (first used Bigly on Gabriel's epic Melt album)...the rest of the the post Gabriel Genesis stuff isn't horrible...and there's Brand X.

After In the Air Tonight, the higher weight lyrics for Collins sometimes worked in the right context. Some of the Disney songs that channel Gabriel's world music side are actually pretty good. So - like chord progressions

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bd9R5uPjafI

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cJlyoDbm5YA






Date: Fri, December 15, 2017, 16:21:15 ET
Posted by: KD, asdf

Listen, Phil Collins had NO CHOICE but to "become Phil Collins" when his parents forced him into showbiz at an early age.

YOU try going through life with a name like "Philip McThynnedyck."

I don't even know why his mother Carol even married Anil in the first place.


Date: Fri, December 15, 2017, 13:24:48 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St. Augustine Beach

Josey, you are correct. These lists are silly, and are just fodder for clicks and controversy. I think they add the preposterous rankings just to get people talking. Unfortunately, it almost always seems to work. Seriously, who cares where someone ranks the drummers? Honestly I think it's ridiculous to rank musicians anyway---though I also think it's fairly obvious who are among the "best" while others are "lesser" in terms of skill and influence.

And Mu, I think it's pretty clear that Jon didn't dismiss Collins as a musician. He dismissed Van Halen as a musician. He simply said Collins shouldn't make the list for "becoming Phil Collins". At least that's what I took from it. Makes sense to me.


Date: Fri, December 15, 2017, 10:46:27 ET
Posted by: Josey, Mass

I always think these "greatest" lists are somewhat silly. The fact that they have Vinnie Colaiuta ranked 49th certainly begs the question: what criteria is being considered for those rankings?!


Date: Fri, December 15, 2017, 00:06:10 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,


Jon - Mostly agreed about Alex...but you may want a listen before completely dismissing Phil as a musician.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M1JKX-Pti5M



Date: Wed, December 13, 2017, 12:53:20 ET
Posted by: Jon, PA

Alex Van Halen shouldn�t even make the list of the top 32000 drummers. And Phil Collins is disqualified for becoming Phil Collins.


Date: Tues, December 12, 2017, 18:36:52 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

My copy of �Cheap Xmas� on vinyl arrived last night.

The Nightfly, Kamakiriad, and Sunken Condos are all pretty much the same as the previous LPs. Exceptions are that Sunken Condos is on 180 gram standard black vinyl instead of the clear vinyl.

The Nightfly album name is in standard deep blue�no aqua like some of the first pressings. Morph The Cat is different in that instead of a gatefold cover, it�s a standard cover with the panels of artwork transferred to two (unused) paper sleeves.

Finally, there�s the 10 Extras LP. The cover is the same as the box, and the back has song/muscian credits for all ten. I paid about $100 for the seven LP set. Keep in mind that I regretted not getting Kamakiriad on vinyl circa 1993/94. Until a few weeks ago, the original copies on standard vinyl had been ranging from about $100 to about $240. So I�m very pleased to have Kamakiriad on vinyl for $100 and on 180 gram vinyl with six other disks at that.

All the internal records sleeves are reprinted, but the LPs themselves are inserted into plastic lined white paper sleeves, no doubt in part because the heavy vinyl would immediately split them.


Date: Mon, December 11, 2017,  11:07:24 ET
Posted by: Ben Jammin, Chilly Indy


Rolling Stone snared a list of the Top 100 drummers. Somehow Keith's not listed, but check out numbers 63, 37, and 20.


http://www.rollingstone.com/music/lists/100-greatest-drummers-of-all-time-20160331/christian-vander-20160328?

This interview with Glenn sheds light on what he and Don gleaned about songwriting from our Don and Walt.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iHPwHeTLLV0

Have a great start to the week!


Date: Sun, December 10, 2017,  04:12:48 ET
Posted by: MikeA, Seattle


Disappointed to read about the lawsuit reports. The lawyers don�t belong in the music biz. But sometimes there is no other remedy. Reminds me of a documentary I just saw on Tom Petty and how he had to take the record companies and his old manager/producer to court. Check it out whether or not you are,in to Petty, it�s a very well done (and long) piece of history. Many great interviews from a who�s who of talented folks. I saw it on Netflix.

I sure hope the Steely Dan issues are solved quickly and fairly. Let�s get back to the music!


Date: Sun, December 10, 2017,  04:11:33 ET
Posted by: MikeA, Seattle


Hey Matt, thanks for posting the 2009 Walter stuff. A real treat to hear vintage Walter licks. Always distinctive, always unique, there was no one quite like him.


Date: Sun, December 10, 2017,  10:59:11 ET
Posted by: Lon, DE


Anyone know who played bass on Rhymes?

From: hoops:
Fagen's "Cheap Xmas" CD box set out last month has credits for "Rhymes" but no mention of bass. My guess is that the bass line comes under Todd Rundgren's keyboard and sequencing credit.


Date: Fri, December 8, 2017,  01:32:15 ET
Posted by: CJB, YVR


London O2 Arena, superb audience recording

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HPXtf1LiGz4


Date: Tues, December 5, 2017,  15:31:47 ET
Posted by: SoulMonkey168, Louisville, Ky


If anyone is in or around Louisville on 12/22, our local Steely Dan tribute band, Steely Danish will be playing a Becker tribute show at Headliner's Music Hall. They are a 12 piece and play 2 or 3 shows a year. Always a fantastic time. If anyone is interested, contact me. We have a group of 16 as of now, with a pre party at a neighborhood bar.


Date: Tues, December 5, 2017,  10:05:00 ET
Posted by: BadSneakers, getting ready


Unusually informative Steely Dan radio interviews circa 1981:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SptXsgI2Y7w

Becker, Fagen, Baxter, et al


Date: Mon, December 4, 2017,  21:53:37 ET
Posted by: Denise, BOS


Matt, thanks so much for those Boston clips. They were wonderful shows and it's great to hear WB playing so well. I'm going to miss that.


Date: Sun, December 3, 2017,  21:23:25 ET
Posted by: Matt, Chattanooga


Two more shows added to the Hey 19 rap database, both from Boston. The June 23, 2008 show from the Bank of America Pavilion is here:

http://www.dandom.com/hey19/items/show/113

And the July 24, 2009 show from the Wang Theatre is here:

http://www.dandom.com/hey19/items/show/111

That 7/23/2009 show is from Gaucho album night, and on those nights Walter often stuck to the recorded versions (skate a little lower now/sure looks good/etc), but it makes for a good opportunity to check out the super funky chicken scratch guitar licks Walter was dishing out.

We all know Walter was a student of the blues, and here he really seems to be getting into a Jimmy Nolan (James Brown's guitarist on his funkiest and arguably best recordings) groove.


Date: Sat, December 2, 2017,  21:54:42 ET
Posted by: CJB, Early Xmas


Private Gig, Part Two now up over @ WB.com...

"Jones," an obscure-ish WB/DF ditty for Thomas Jefferson Kaye, same album that gave us "American Lovers."

WB.com, bringing the Deep Cuts!


Date: Wed, November 29, 2017,  18:01:09 ET
Posted by: The Dean, Manatee Bar. It's Happy Hour!


I'm no fan of this speculation about what is going on with Don and Walter's estate. Publicly taking wild guesses (for which we have no evidence) serves no positive purpose. It only sullies the reputation of all involved. These aren't rock stars, who lived for the publicity of the gossip rags. These are musicians, who did their best to live privately.

Keep in mind, there was no rift (that we know of) between Walt and Don. This is between Walt's estate and Don. At its heart, this is lawyer stuff. Lot's of money involved (plus rights to use the SD name going forward) so it's pretty much standard operating procedure, in cases like this. There is too much money at stake for lawyers, managers, etc to simply let the parties work it out between/among themselves. Too bad, really. But let's not turn it into something it is not.


Date: Wed, November 29, 2017,  17:47:27 ET
Posted by: .,


Who is the one filming the private video of Walter Becker?


Date: Wed, November 29, 2017,  17:08:01 ET
Posted by: Chill Burlap, chicago




Now I have to go listen to Pixeleen and West of Hollywood....


Date: Wed, November 29, 2017,  11:46:23 ET
Posted by: Aja1, Newton


Bob, maybe the rub started with the Dukes tour. Just seems like DF was out making money using SD songs and maybe WB felt snubbed. But to say that DF toured every year without Walter isn't accurate. He had the one solo tour in '03 supporting Morph, then the Dukes for a couple years, then the Nightflyers. It was all much more recent. Walter never benefited from SD songs without Don. I don't blame DF for this, he wanted to tour and of course play SD songs. Just saying that they might not have mutually agreed on how to handle it. I hope I'm wrong.


Date: Tues, November 28, 2017,  14:01:01 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago


Bill Charlap and Chris Potter competing in "Best Jazz Instrumental Album" category at the 2018 Grammys. Eric B reports that John Beasley is in the running for a couple of Grammys including "Best Jazz Ensemble" album.


Date: Tues, November 28, 2017,  11:44:17 ET
Posted by: Bob, AccounTemps


Aja1: No. Donald goes on tour every year while Walter went on tour every other year. I think Donald said Walter likes a less intense schedule.


Date: Tues, November 28, 2017,  11:38:19 ET
Posted by: Bookkeeper's Son, Florida


For a couple of guys who intensely protected their privacy as much as possible this is such a bizarre situation to see unfolding. A part of me likes the "peek behind the curtain" while at the same time another part wishes this would have been settled out of the media view.


Date: Tues, November 28, 2017,  10:53:19 ET
Posted by: Aja1, Newton


I can't help but wonder if some of this arose from the DF and the Nightflyers tour. Maybe Walter didn't appreciate DF's striking out on his own playing their songs under a non-SD name while he was ill. I hope not. I also hope we get to see/hear the Nightflyers again.


Date: Mon, November 27, 2017,  15:12:09 ET
Posted by: David,

Another Update:

Updated with a response from Fagen's lawyers to the earlier Rolling Stone item featuring Walter Becker's estate:

NPR.ORG: Steely Dan, Inc. Fights Itself In Lawsuit Over Shares Band co-founder Donald Fagen is suing the estate of�

https://www.npr.org/sections/therecord/2017/11/27/566735079/steely-dan-inc-fights-itself-in-lawsuit-over-shares


Date: Mon, November 27, 2017,  10:59:26 ET
Posted by: Napoleon, UK

Update:

http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/walter-beckers-estate-responds-to-donald-fagen-lawsuit-w512628

Nap


Date: Mon, November 27, 2017, 00:32:16 ET
Posted by: SDV, up on the hill

if anyone missed or wants the video of Walter singing Girl Next Door, you can view it here:

https://www.mediafire.com/file/2tbgmvc4pdp7t8q/girl.mp4


Date: Sun, November 26, 2017, 20:59:54 ET
Posted by: Steve,

Here's hoping the legal stuff with Donald and Walter's estate gets worked out quickly.


Date: Sat, November 25, 2017, 15:10:05 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

IJOOMEC:

That's probably how they ID'd Knopfler.

"Hey, who's the picker on this roller skating video?"


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


Date: Fri, November 24, 2017, 10:48:23 ET
Posted by: DYLYNFAN, HARRISBURG PA

Right back at ya Hoops and thanks for all you do and all you put up with.


Date: Thurs, November 23, 2017, 14:54:56 ET
Posted by: hoops, Chicago

Happy Thanksgiving, US Dan fans. Let's be thankful for all that we have.


Date: Thurs, November 23, 2017, 12:54:54 ET
Posted by: Detective, on his case

There was an online discussion about Fagen's interest in skating.

https://www.audioaficionado.org/showthread.php?t=5296

Speed skater Cliff Nazzaro who is mentioned in the story is Facebook friends with Scott Neuman, who has posted several comments on youtube videos that he was a neighbor of Fagen in Kendall Park. Maybe he's Teddy skatin' backwards at the speed of light.



Date: Thurs, November 23, 2017, 10:49:54 ET
Posted by: KD, asdf

Count me in as too daft to know why the Walter clip isn't available anymore, I guess it was too large and then popular a file. Also count me in among those too overcome by emotion to watch it, upon finding out it was available.

As soon as I saw Walter with an open chord, something you don't see much of, I kinda lost it and decided to return later after clicking away.

If that could be on YouTube someday, or if I could just pay a buck for it, that would be fantastic.


Date: Thurs, November 23, 2017, 08:48:59
Posted by: NYB, .

"Book Value" in this case probably means the same as it means in the sale of any business, you take an accounting of what the business actually made over the last couple of years minus all expenses (employee salaries, equipment, supplies, fees, insurance, travel, hotels, ect), average that out, and that's the general selling price of the business. In this case the buyout would be 50% of that. Sometimes though with a Buy/Sell there's a life insurance policy in place to pay that amount.

Seems pretty clear in this case though how it's going to be handled.

Hopefully the family doesn't live in a state the collects inheritance tax. I think New Jersey does and several other states do, it can be up to 16% of the inheritance.


Date: Wed, November 22, 2017, 20:46:10 ET
Posted by: IJOOMEC, US

Kendall Park, NJ roller rink to close. Opened in 1964 when Fagen lived in town, it may be connected to the roller skater in Everything You Did.

http://www.mycentraljersey.com/story/news/local/middlesex-county/2017/11/22/kendall-park-roller-rink-wheels-come-stop/884723001/


Date: Wed, November 22, 2017, 18:36:39 ET
Posted by: NYB,

Rumor,

Donald can still tour with the Nightflyers all he likes, and he can even reference his relationship to Steely Dan in the advertising to his shows. Hell he can bring the whole SD ensemble along with him if he likes and just bill his shows as "Donald Fagen (the voice of Steely Dan!) and his Steely Band!". He's perfectly able to do that, he's not selling the show as a Steely Dan show he's selling as a Donald Fagen show. There are numerous ways for him to continue to tour.


He is, regardless of legality, the instantly recognizable voice of SD. That could be advertised and promoted if he wanted it to be.


Date: Wed, November 22, 2017, 17:00:08 ET
Posted by: hoops, Chicago, traveling

I�m not in a position to take some of these posts down. Some of you have to be so cruel in discussing this? Just for starters, you read somebody�s age and you�re already decided what they are like as people?? The point is, these people around Walter�his wife, Donald, etc.--have all suffered a loss. They're all adjusting. Give some space and have some class, not to mention some humanity. And yes, a few these posts are gonna come down.


Date: Wed, November 22, 2017, 12:46:45 ET
Posted by: Nicholas Urfe, Phraxos

To me, the crux of the matter is that the agreement provides for a transaction at "book value," which has nothing to do with actual market value, and is probably very low. Note the statement in the lawsuit that DF offered in 2009 to rework the agreement so that certain assets were valued at market value rather than book value. Who knows why that offer was declined.

In any event, under the heading of All of Life is a Negotiation, it is likely that this will all be settled under terms that we'll know nothing about, which is fitting.

My inner voyeur got its kicks reading the complaint. My inner SD fan wishes that it wasn't there to read.


Date: Wed, November 22, 2017, 12:15:35 ET
Posted by: OrangeTom, no longer in back woods

Lots of conclusory statements in DF's lawsuit about how the buyout agreement between the original band members was applied in the past without any specifics as to individual members.

Hard to opine about enforceability from afar without knowing some of those specifics, or the lack thereof.


Date: Wed, November 22, 2017, 12:10:02 ET
Posted by: BadSneakers, right here

Do I understand this?

Assume the Buy/Sell Agreement is enforceable... so then DF would have the right to buy the other 50% shares from the estate of WB...

Then Steely Dan carries on. Sounds pretty fair.


Date: Wed, November 22, 2017, 10:04:50 ET
Posted by: Steve Gennarelli, Tampa, FL

I agree about Norm McDonald. I was never a fan, but heard
him on The Stern Show and found him to be hilarious. Saw him on Conan since and he's just extremely funny.
David Cassidy's passing has really touched me. "The Partridge Family" was one of those TV shows that I loved as a 7 year old growing up and my wife and I have recently revisited the show via Antenna TV. The music is a lot better than I remember it being.
His cover of "Dirty Work" was particularly good even though it sounded like he was channeling Cher a bit. Liked his vocal but wasn't really into the arrangement of it.


Date: Wed, November 22, 2017, 00:53:24 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

Chris: I don't know if Walter had a list of favorite comedians, but Norm's craft had a vein of Steely Dan like humor and satire. deceptively finely crafted and wickedly funny. Combine Bob Newhart with Bob Uecker, a bit of Jonathan Winters and SCTV. His delivery is so dry, he can get away with murder...wholesome on the outside, subversive on the inside.


This Wrong Room bit from The Norm Show is freakin' art in construction and delivery:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FmDoDrzLi68



Date: Wed, November 22, 2017, 00:41:52 ET
Posted by: Chris, Nh

Doc, I was hoping that�d be the Norm bit


Date: Wed, November 22, 2017, 00:17:28 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu ,


NYB: The CCR story gets twisted, because the entity wasn't a shared partnership. John Fogerty wrote, arranged, and produced pretty much all of it...well, at least the good stuff. they made a democratic album and it sucked. then in the 80s, Fogerty was sued for sounding to much like...CCR, his own music.

Walter/Donald was a true partnership, so the Keith Richards analogy worked.


That reminds me of a great John Fogerty joke:

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







Date: Wed, November 22, 2017, 00:06:22 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,


MB: Yep, spouses are bound to the Buy/Sell agreement/contract.

Louie's still the Kingpin

Here in 2017

It's been 48 days since the estate was seeing green.


Date: Tues, November 21, 2017, 23:31:00 ET
Posted by: MB,

The lawsuit is here:

https://www.scribd.com/document/365118684/Donald-Fagen-v-The-Estate-of-Walter-Becker#fullscreen&from_embed


Date: Tues, November 21, 2017, 22:25:51 ET
Posted by: CJB, YVR

Private Gig is down, but an invitation to share is still up.

If you missed seeing Walter perform "The girl next door to the methadone clinic," you could either look & click in a longstanding Web Based Database "under a banyen tree," or email a web friend who right-clicked at just the right moment, perhaps intuiting that early Christmas presents sometimes disappear. My email, for example, is above.

Big thanks to everyone involved with WB.web. A super moving gift, especially for those of us who wish we could have been flies on the wall whenever WB played solo material. Thank you very much.


Date: Tues, November 21, 2017, 22:18:21 ET
Posted by: NB, OA

RIP David Cassidy.

His cover of Dirty Work.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DhRi7WSdhG8


Date: Tues, November 21, 2017, 19:39:42 ET
Posted by: NYB, And justice for all

Doc,

I wouldn't say that Delia Becker is going all "Yoko Ono" here. What you're seeing here is exactly what will happen if Keith Richards dies tomorrow afternoon, the lawyers for his family will send a letter to Mick Jagger and the other members letting them know that they are going for the brass ring, trying to get paid as much as possible over the settlement of the estate...

Problem is, Corporate Buy/Sell agreements have their stipulations pretty well outlined in the contract itself and simply sending a letter to the other members of the corporation upon the death of one of them saying that you do not recognize the Buy/Sell really means nothing more than you intend to fight the agreement in court. The odds of a judge overturning the stipulations of the Buy/Sell are exceptionally low.

But there are several options for Donald to consider...

First, what is the Buyout figure of the deal? In other words, what is the value of 50% of the band's corporate shares worth? If that is a very big number then Donald may decide to keep the family as 50% partners or (if possible) simply dissolve the Steely Dan name and strike out on his own as something like... "Donald Fagen of Steely Dan! With the Steely Orchestra!". In that case he is simply using his association with the name and not the name itself. Some of the members of CCR did this as "Creedence Clearwater Revisited" as you recall.

In any case, the ball is entirely in Donald's court. He can simply wait for the judge to uphold the Buy/Sell agreement, pay off the estate by buying out Walter's shares, and continue on happily as "Steely Dan". Or... (if there is not life insurance policy in place to pay the Becker buyout figure) he can choose a couple of other avenues. But I think the probability is 95% that any judge that sees the case is simply going to enforce the legal statements within it and Donald will buyout the shares of his partner.


Date: Tues, November 21, 2017, 18:18:25 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,


Looks like Delia went full Yoko...


Tour and/or...?

Louis "Skip" Miller??? Really? Better call Saul.


http://ultimateclassicrock.com/donald-fagen-sues-becker-estate/



Donald Fagen's attempt to continue Steely Dan in Walter Becker's absence has run into a road block.

Walter's widow Delia Becker apparently petitioned to become an officer of the incorporated Steely Dan partnership in a letter dated just days after his sudden death; she also demanded 50 percent ownership. Fagen says that the Becker family has taken control of the band's official web site, as well.

Fagen is now suing Becker's estate in an attempt to complete a long-planned buy out of the band name, as detailed in a 1972 agreement signed by all of the original Steely Dan members. The Hollywood Reporter says Fagen's complaint, filed today in Los Angeles County Superior Court, references an option for remaining members to purchase all shares belonging to any one who quits or dies.

The Beckers are apparently trying to block that legal route. "By the 2010s, Fagen and Becker were the only remaining shareholders and signatories to the buy/sell agreement," attorney Louis "Skip" Miller says in the suit. "Four days after Becker�s death, on September 7, 2017, the Becker defendants sent Fagen a letter stating that 'We wanted to put you on notice that the buy/sell agreement dated as of October 31, 1972 is of no force or effect.'"

Fagen is also suing Steely Dan's management firm, claiming Nigro, Karlin, Segal, Feldstein & Bolno is withholding financial records. In all, Fagen seeks roughly $1 million in damages, as well as a declaratory judgment stating that the buy/sell agreement is valid, making him the sole owner of the Steely Dan name. He's already returned to the road under the Steely Dan banner.

�This lawsuit is about a contract, the enforcement of that contract and the continuity of Steely Dan,� Miller told the Hollywood Reporter. �We think the contract is very clear on its face and we hope this lawsuit is resolved expeditiously.�


Date: Tues, November 21, 2017, 17:40:38 ET
Posted by: Napoleon, UK

Article about Donald Fagen fighting to protect/own/claim rights to the group he�s been in from the start. It�s a glamour profession.

https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/thr-esq/steely-dan-singer-sues-bandmates-estate-1060687

Nap


Date: Tues, November 21, 2017, 15:26:29 ET
Posted by: Nicholas Urfe, Phraxos

I post this occasionally, so I apologize for the repetition. This is classic WB writing.

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


Date: Tues, November 21, 2017, 03:29:08 ET
Posted by: NYB,

I think it's nice that Walter got to play his music for his fans all the way to the end of the road. I can think of so many artists who cannot say the same, who wrote and performed great music only to find obscurity in the end, unable to draw 10 people to see them play. That's the bright spot in all of this, that he got to play his music which he loved and be with the fans that he loved right to the very end.


Years ago when I started getting back into Steely Dan again the first thing I remember reading was Walter's writings on SteelyDan.com and laughing my ass off, lol! He was incredibly funny, and that's how I'll remember him having never met him. He had a funny way of looking at things and was great at putting it up on the screen for you to read. I'm gonna miss that, a lot.


Date: Mon, November 20, 2017, 15:20:13 ET
Posted by: BadSneakers, and a Pina Colada my friend stompin' on the avenue by Radio City with a transistor and a large sum of money to spend

oops...
Looks like I forgot to include the YouTube link before...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jp9SDO7hlGM

This snippet shows Walter's last moments onstage in Greenwich, CT a few months ago... It's the last chord from "Kid Charlemagne." SD returned to the stage for one more song after this -- the encore "Pretzel Logic".

(Many of you have seen this entire video -- which It focused mainly on special guest Larry Carlton... before it was later removed by YouTube.)


Date: Mon, November 20, 2017, 13:34:21 ET
Posted by: Hans,

WB.com has added a new clip of Walter's home performance of "The Girl Next Door To The Methadone Clinic" -- Scroll to the bottom and look to the right.

http://walterbecker.com/mediaproject.html


Date: Mon, November 20, 2017, 00:11:10 ET
Posted by: wb web again, x

..and the thank you extends to those who helped via email, not publicly seen here


Date: Sun, November 19, 2017, 23:47:58 ET
Posted by: wb web , nyc


o my goodness thank you -- everyone!
delia and wendy the(a) web girl


Date: Sun, November 19, 2017, 22:05:23 ET
Posted by: NYB,

WB Web,

I was not able to find the Greenwich Town Party show on YouTube, but I was able to find the entire show here...


https://ok.ru/video/308455475928




Hopefully it can be downloaded and saved in some format. Hope this helps.


Date: Sun, November 19, 2017, 18:49:57 ET
Posted by: WB Web, NYC

"Mr Bad Sneakers"

We're helping family collect material for Water's estate ( eg daughter + wife) and believe you have that final Greenwich concert on tape. Would you mind sharing it with us? We can't believe how fast things like this disappear from youtube -- and can't even figure out why! In any case, we didn't grab it soon enough, never imagining it would be taken down, and now can't find it (OR SO MANY OTHER videos of interest) anywhere online. If you're willing to share it via a post to "a private youtube" (so to speak), please contact us at the email above. Many thanks.
w.


Date: Sat, November 18, 2017, 05:22:02 ET
Posted by: Bob, AccounTemps



An interview in Rolling Stone from around the time of Two Against Nature or EMG profiled Walter as being divorced while Donald was of course married to Libby Titus.

Maybe ten years ago, a subsequent interview said Walter was married to a psychologist, living in NYC. That I found to be an interesting match.

I also thought it was odd when Walter died and that reports said he died in Hawaii. His web site had news of his death at maybe 7 or 8 am EDT the day he died. It appeared to be on the site earlier. If he was in Hawaii, it means he likely would have died the night before on Sep 2 not Sep 3 as reported. That's when I started thinking that maybe the reports were second hand. Walter's wife clarified that he was in NYC, not Hawaii.

Pretty clear though that Walter and his wife wanted privacy. Leaving it at that. Even the lone pic of Walter with presumably his wife and web girl doesn't fully show her. Just a glancing nuzzle.


Date: Sat, November 18, 2017, 04:27:24 ET
Posted by: NYB, Uh... what?

"Researcher" wrote: "Hi I'm a psychotic from outerspace I just got here wow!"


Fun Fact: 1984 actually is considered "the early 80's".


The question was, as everyone is aware, Walter married a woman named "Elinor" sometime in the early 80's and they were divorced in 1997. A few days ago we hear from his current wife "Delia" that I'm sure nearly no one was aware of prior to her bombshell statement. She has never been mentioned before on this board or elsewhere in the Danosphere, so it's perfectly legitimate to ask when Walter married again. As far as I know Walter never mentioned her. Donald never mentioned her. No one here has ever mentioned her. Is it a surprise to be surprised by her appearance a few days ago? I don't think so...

I'm not trying to start trouble I'm just interested to know when Walter remarried. I mean if I were trying to start trouble I would suggest that Libby Titus, Carly Simon, and Maria Muldaur make sandwiches for us because it's football season again and the Jets (as usual) are 4-6 and headed towards yet ANOTHER horrifying trainwreck which will indeed end in... f'king drumroll... NO SUPERBOWL! But does anyone here understand the longsuffering of NY Jets fans? I think NOT! Maybe Cleveland Browns fans might understand... maybe them.. BUT NOT YOU! Where the hell was I! Oh yeah, does anyone know when Walter married again? ANYONE? AN---YYYY---OOOONNNE?



Thank You,
NYB (aka "Beatmastah Nitro")


Date: Fri, November 17, 2017, 23:15:20 ET
Posted by: KD, asdf

(Trying this again -- Wonderful post from Walter's widow, made a rough thing nice to read. Glad Walter met his final time with his usual Walter-ness.)

We should probably cool it with talking about the guy's health now, right? Like, everything's out there that needs to be, none of us stand to gain anything, same as the needless marriage math?

Seems like zero posts would be preferable to those.


Date: Fri, November 17, 2017, 22:50:59 ET
Posted by: researcher, tere he goes again

what" record shows" he married Elinor in the early 80s? They didn't marry until after their son was born and befoe they adoptedtheir daughter - that would have been around 1984 or 5 I guess?
I guess there are records that show not only marriages but when a couple first hook up? Cool! Might come in handy.


Date: Fri, November 17, 2017, 15:55:27 ET
Posted by: asdf, asdf

Spotted this awhile back and found it amusing. Walter with a machine gun? LOL.. What next, NRA member?


https://everything2.com/title/Steely+Dan


Date: Fri, November 17, 2017, 13:41:39 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu ,



NYB - that's a great picture and message from Sayan. Safe at Home, indeed...the track Walter produced on Blue Pacific.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aAFPrYs9p0o


The tracks Becker produce IMO lifted Franks above the high quality, well musician-ed, but a little cheesy diet served up in most of his albums: All I Need, the exquisite Vincent's Ear, and Crayon Sun/Safe at Home are some of his best tracks of all time.


Makes no difference where you go
Every journey ends.
Each new landscape now you know.
Is a stepping-stone
Till you're safe at home.

Purple clouds, grey winds that rage,
Lightning lines pale white-
Choose new colors, turn the page
Where there is no storm
And you're safe at home.

Crayon sun above you
In a blue crayon sky
Little one, I love you
You're the reason that
I am here.

Once inside just close the door
Leave the world behind.
Love is what we're living for
Love and love alone
To be safe at home.

You asleep in my arms under crayon
Sunlight-yellow
By the opal pool.
All the long afternoons in the crayon
Sunlight-yellow
By the opal pool.
And both of us safe at home.
And everyone safe at home.


Date: Fri, November 17, 2017, 11:24:27 ET
Posted by: BadSneakers, Near NYC

Thanks Mrs. Becker for the moving letter.
Thank you Matt and Hoops for the WB Hey 19 Raps website.

Just finished uploading a video to the website ... It's not a Hey 19 Rap.
It shows Walter's last onstage moments in Greenwich, CT a few months ago.
Watch his gesture during the applause... Telling his fans that he loved them back!

It's the last chord from "Kid Charlemagne"... Most of the video I recorded (which was removed from YouTube) shows only Larry Carlton, the surprise guest.


Date: Fri, November 17, 2017, 08:56:18 ET
Posted by: Gene, Glen Mills, PA

Landscaping going on outside and the sound of the leaf blowers revving up reminds me of the chanting at the end of Surf and/or Die.


Date: Fri, November 17, 2017, 04:25:01 ET
Posted by: NYB,

Does anyone know when Walter married Delia? The record shows he married a woman named "Elinor" back in the early 80's and was divorced in 1997, but no mention of any marriage after that. When did Walter marry again?



Also, at this time (and forever more) Sayan has ensured that Walter is safe at home... in a place of sunlight and beauty, where he belongs...



https://www.instagram.com/p/BZ_qsF9DqeX/?taken-by=sbecker4u


Date: Fri, November 17, 2017, 03:43:36 ET
Posted by: Chris , Nh

Fuck, that letter is heartbreaking.

Very kind of Mrs. Becker to share that information with the fans and offer us some closure. I can only imagine how difficult it is.


Date: Thurs, November 16, 2017, 16:50:49 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,


KD: I know the feeling. When we returned from the Austin Nightflyer concert I was so excited, I couldn't fall asleep until 3am...then the next morning Walter passed. Still having trouble falling asleep before 3 am. It's a problem.


I hope Walter didn't suffer too much - horrendous way to go.

NYB - Walter's long-term problem was with Hep C...ironically, effective treatments have recently entered the market.


Date: Thurs, November 16, 2017, 15:09:00 ET
Posted by: Steve M, Scotland

Just reading the contents of the latest Digest there got me thinking..

5 years between CBAT and Aja? jeez that's some accelerated musical evolution isn't it??


Date: Thurs, November 16, 2017, 11:57:17 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

The latest edition of the Dandom Digest has been sent out in little, succulent, juicy bursts of date transition starting at around 11:45 pm last night through 11 am this morning. (all NYC time). It covers September 28-November 15, 2017. (The previous Dandom Digest covered September 5-27, 2017.)

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

Walter Becker's Widow Details Swift Illness, Death

WB Video at WB.com

HELP! An Update on the WB Hey 19 Raps Database

WB Really Was a GEARSLUT!
WB: "The Hiding Man"
SD Honors WB with Tender Book of Liars
"Piercing the Veil Through the Zen of Steely Dan"
45th Anniversary of Can't Buy A Thrill
40th Anniversary of "Aja" by Newsweek (REDUX)
35th Anniversary of The Nightfly
5th Anniversary of Sunken Condos
Cheap Xmas: DF Complete on CD & LP; Kama on Vinyl
DF Tangles with Insurance Co.
DF Interview on Irish RTE Radio / Apple Podcast
Another Perspective: "Reconsidering Steely Dan"
Uncut Magazine's Ultimate Music Guide to SD
SD Salutes WB at Baltimore Show
Gov't Mule Pays Tribute to WB
SD Soldiers On
Billboard on Baltimore Show
"Uncut" Review of London O2 Arena Show
"SPOILER": 29.10.17--London, 02 Arena
RE: "SPOILER": 29.10.17--London, 02 Arena
"SPOILER" Dublin Gig
"SPOILER" Maryland Show
"SPOILER" Wallingford, CT Show
"SPOILER" Winsdor, ON Setlist
"SPOILER" Michigan Show
"SPOILER" Thackerville

RIP, Miles Porcaro

====

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

As I regularly remind subscribers, some people have problems with delivery of the Dandom Digest, usually because of their spam filters, firewalls, etc. That's why this sort of notice is posted here--so you are aware that you should have received the latest edition. Heck, if you want, email me privately that you did get it. With email filters and spam what they are today, there can be some issues beyond our control. For example, many work-place email servers reject email that it scans as having a naughty word.

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

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

For the record, the Dandom Digest is a fan newsletter with content written by and for the fans of Steely Dan. The newsletter and its content is independent of, nor to be confused with, the glorious and much more glamorous official newsletters from steelydan.com, walterbecker.com, donaldfagen.com and other sites of Steely Dan and associates. (Please note: I have no idea if Donald Fagen's official newsletter is currently active. It's been a few years since I've received anything from it.)

---

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

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

Fly about as low, be so cool,

Jim


Date: Thurs, November 16, 2017, 10:10:10 ET
Posted by: NYB,

But Donald said he had been fighting an illness "for at least 5 years", and we all saw the changes in him over the last few years. Maybe he was fighting one problem when this thing appeared...

At least it took him in 4 months, I remember watching Frank Zappa die from cancer and it was excruciatingly depressing to watch an Icon and somewhat Steely Dan relative go like that. He and Steely Dan were the two intelligent sources for Rock fans at the time. Walter's life always seemed to drop some tragedy on him... first his father when he was a kid, then his girlfriend in New York, at at the very end a parting gift of tragedy... but he never let on to anyone about any of it. I knew he was strong, I didn't realize he was THAT STRONG.


Total Hero.


Date: Thurs, November 16, 2017, 09:13:17 ET
Posted by: PopeGreg, MKE

Though it's really none of our business, I'm glad WB's Number One Fan was able to share the cause of death with us.

Esophageal cancer is a rare cancer but rates are in the rise. I lost my uncle to this about 15 years ago. And now I have a friend has this. She completed the chemo and had the surgery about 2 months ago. She is doing well now but still has a ways to go in her treatment and recovery.

Alcohol use and especially smoking are risk factors. However the type of the esophageal cancer known as Adenocarcinoma is becoming more common. This is what my friend has. It's caused by untreated GERD (acid reflux). So anyone suffering from chronic heartburn REALLY needs to get that checked out and under control because it can lead to serious health issues. (End of public service announcement).


Date: Wed, November 15, 2017, 16:12:08 ET
Posted by: STEELYFEZ, CT/NYC

Great letter by his wife. RIP Walter


Date: Wed, November 15, 2017, 12:22:30 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Beautiful letter from Walter's No.1 Fan.

Bringing tears to my eyes to read the details.


Date: Wed, November 15, 2017, 12:51:23 ET
Posted by: BC Bill, fuckit

oh man

"Walter Becker's Widow Details Swift Illness, Death"


http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/walter-beckers-widow-details-swift-illness-death-w511838


Date: Tues, November 14, 2017, 22:04:09 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

Huge thanks to Matt and Hoops for putting up that website. I finally sent in the clips I have, but the stuff already there is excellent. Many things that have not been available in the usual spots for a while, or ever. What a wonderful tribute.


Date: Tues, November 14, 2017, 20:21:34 ET
Posted by: KD, asdf

I'm not being chased off by two anonymous dudes.

I put my email address out there after like three people in a week said they were having trouble coping with Walter's death. I'd just spent a week emailing back and forth with strangers, I thought we helped each other out, and I thought I'd try it here.

Two guys on here jumped on my shit and I don't know why, outside of now-laughed at notion that cynicism works past a certain age.

Once again, there is my email address if anyone is having a rough time, particularly overnight. If you want to talk about why, per the Rig Rundown video, he kept going back to the humbucker guitar from TvN during later recording sessions or just vent to someone that you know is up and emailing back, that's it.

Straight up the kilt.

And, yes, Hoops, as I've been saying since 2001 -- MAKE THIS A PASSWORD PROTECTED WEBSITE. Make it so people have to be here under specific home/mobile tags.

Response from hoops:
We've had the passwords. The posting goes down to a couple of times a week and trolls figure their way around it, even more so now that there email accounts you can get that exist for only a day or even minutes.


Date: Tues, November 14, 2017, 15:24.34 ET
Posted by: Gene, Glen Mills, PA

I couldn't find a clip of Fagen ever sitting in on Helm's cover of Bruce's Atlantic City. But I did find a youtube audio clip of Springsteen covering Ruby Baby.


Date: Tues, November 14, 2017, 15:05:26 ET
Posted by: hoops, Aside from a little social media, I'm still recovering

I've been a bit under the weather the past ten days--save for laying in bed with a few Facebook/Twitter things.

Regarding Matt's comment, "In the content vacuum, we fall back to infighting".

No.

There's not infighting. What it is is that there are two posters that like to cause problems. They troll hoping to rile up people so that they can get their jollies and hopefully kill the forum, or least lock and it down with passwords or discourage people from posting. Even when Walter died they posted such nasty "infightful" posts, but I simply deleted them quickly, usually in within minutes so most did not see them. The difference is that I have been unable to monitor the BlueBook the past ten days.

I used to think what was wrong with here. But actually, it's everywhere. Even Facebook has it. The only forum that really manages it well IMHO is nytimes.com reader comments.

I request your assistance in two ways. 1) Please ignore and do not address such trolls in your posts, even to deny or admonish them. They get off off on on any attention or acknowledgement, just like people who make prank phone calls. 2) Post something positive. One of those trolling very successfully got M/O/D/P to do what they wanted, which was for M/O/D/P to quit posting (or so the troll claims). I'm more disappointed in M/O/D/P not sticking it out and ignoring it.

To be continued...


Date: Tues, November 14, 2017, 07:57:38 ET
Posted by: OrangeTom, No longer back woods

That Port Chester clip is pretty amazing. A lot going on. Doesn't stop after Walter's "rap".

And yeah I'm also still missing him like crazy. Such a vacuum.


Date: Mon, November 13, 2017, 21:20:52 ET
Posted by: Matt, Chattanooga, Tennessee

In the content vacuum, we fall back to infighting. I guess this band gathered enough denizens of the deep and dark corners of this life to be all happy and shiny.

Anyway, we've posted a couple of new clips to the rap database, for those so inclined.

2007 London - http://www.dandom.com/hey19/items/show/90

2015 Austin - http://www.dandom.com/hey19/items/show/88

2011 Atlanta - http://www.dandom.com/hey19/items/show/87

2015 Atlanta - http://www.dandom.com/hey19/items/show/86

2016 Port Chester - http://www.dandom.com/hey19/items/show/84

2009 Merrillville - http://www.dandom.com/hey19/items/show/81

And that's just the last two or three days. I think we've got around 85 shows up, either video or audio. Don't forget you can sign up, sign in, and comment too.

Peace.


Date: Mon, November 13, 2017, 18:15:24 ET
Posted by: Nicholas Urfe, Phraxos

Word is that Don Breithaupt and Monkey House begin recording on their follow-up to Left in December.


Date: Sun, November 12, 2017, 18:15:08 ET
Posted by: BCBill, outside van city

Thanks, Doc -

this is the only one I found-- I recognize a few.
https://www.instagram.com/titusfagen/

I thought I saw a corner of WB with boogie board??(!!) and one or two two-head shots (were those with wife? kids? Libby?). In any case this is very helpful...if you can call something that almost brings me to tears "helpful". Thank you kindly. Is there anyone else out there having a hard time with this? Can't really explain it. iI can't shake a few ideas that....oh,better just leave it aloneI just hope he didn't suffer.. Thanks againl Doc and all of you - I hope that in-show tribute made it through a few thick skulls bound to be in the audience -- people can be so insensitive sometimes...


Date: Sun, November 12, 2017, 15:39:13 ET
Posted by: Kenny, C

Anyone know Levon Helm ever played Atlantic City (the song) with Fagen sitting in?


Date: Sun, November 12, 2017, 14:46:38 ET
Posted by: notBCBill, at the shows

Bill:

https://www.instagram.com/titusfagen/

Many photos rom that feed. Walter with kids and wife Elinor. Emotional moments during otherwise upbeat gigs.


Date: Sun, November 12, 2017, 00:26:02 ET
Posted by: bcbill, not at a show

Couldn't get to an October SD show -
does anyone have any decent or near decent shots of the pictures used during Walter's tribute?
Or a few of them even? All I've been able to see are crummy little corners of th screen taken from the right of Latayna, which is sort of maximally frustrating. Sure would like to see those family pics, and what people there got to see. The performance of the song sounds quite moving - would like to take part in the full 'tribute experience if that makes sense, If you have something but don't feel comfortable posting, you can email to me, or dropbox.

don't know if this would matter, but somehow I still don't feel I've gotten any closure on Walt being gone...still grieving hard.

thanks everybody


Date: Fri, November 10, 2017, 05:47:49 ET
Posted by: Bren, Pointer

Great review Darren...Thanks for the heads up...untouchables they truly are...


Date: Thurs, November 09, 2017, 12:11:02 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Cheap Xmas on Vinyl. After missing Kamakiriad on vinyl in 1993, now here's a chance to get it again, not to mention the bonus disc of material that has been in "The Nightfly Trilogy" and "Cheap Xmas." (Vinyl versions of Kama have been going for over $200.) I may be wrong, but I suspect that only the outter sleeves of each album will be reproduced--no liner notes, special innersleeve. Just my guess. Hope I'm wrong.

https://www.amazon.com/Cheap-Xmas-Donald-Fagen-Complete/dp/B075KN11WK/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1510247129&sr=1-1-fkmr0&keywords=cheap+christmas+donald+fagen+complete


Date: Wed, November 08, 2017, 22:43:37 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

"Those chords"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tnf_Brn-zdA


Date: Wed, November 08, 2017, 20:40:11 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Mr Sam, while I understand your point, I can't imagine Walter would be that upset.

Sometimes you just have to let shit like that go. I mean, it is a funny line---it's just the timing that was unfortunate.


Date: Wed, November 8, 2017,  15:36:34
Posted by: Peter & Luke, Facebook

"Introducing� The Ultimate Music Guide: Steely Dan"

"Uncut" magazine's Steely Dan Tribute edition. Order here;

http://www.uncut.co.uk/blog/introducing-ultimate-music-guide-steely-dan-102278


Date: Tues, November 7, 2017,  19:39:23 ET
Posted by: Denise, Hinktown

Jim and Mark, thank you for efforts on the Hey 19 site. It brings back a lot of memories. So sad we won't hear that voice again.


Date: Mon, November 6, 2017,  14:03:34 ET
Posted by: Steve M, Hinktown

My youngest daughter alerted me to this in a 'hey dad, this sounds like the kind of thing you like' sort of way

She's right too, sounds like something off Sunken Condos!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Py1YlFOpX78



Date: Sun, November 5, 2017,  13:19:11osted by: Darren, London, England

A review of the London show:

https://twilightdawning.com/2017/11/04/steely-dan-still-a-power-house/




Date: Sat, November 4, 2017,  21:24:56 ET
Posted by: Mr Sam, SSE

I finally got around to streaming the episode of Modern Family that aired on Oct 11th. Phil and Claire had tickets to a Steely Dan concert in LA. Phil asks Claire what time the concert starts and learns it is at 3pm, shoots her a look, and Claire says, �they�re not young men�. How fucking insensitive of the Modern Family producers to air that 5 weeks after Walter passed. Of all the people who work on that show, there had to be at least be a few who knew about Walter�s recent death, and may have raised the question of whether or not to air that piece. Totally irresponsible.


Date: Sat, November 4, 2017,  11:00:00 ET
Posted by: Darren, London, England

Here's a review of Steely Dan's London show. Hope you enjoy!

Darren

https://twilightdawning.com/2017/11/04/steely-dan-still-a-power-house/




Date: Fri, November 3, 2017,  08:44:34 ET
Posted by: JoeM, CT

Wow! What a great job folks! And what an excellent tribute to our favorite guitar player, song writer and raconteur.

Thanks much for this - a perfect and genuine labor of love and semblance of respect for our once and forever hero - the one and only - Mr. Walter Becker.

It made my week scrolling through these precious and utterly unique musical archives.


Date: Thurs, November 2, 2017,  20:00:32 ET
Posted by: hoops,

Many thanks to all of you who have pointed the way to clips of Walter Becker's Hey 19 raps.

THANKS MOST OF ALL TO Matthew Kerns who has done a great deal of programming. We thank Matt for his talents, time and devotion in all of this.

Here's a test of how things are shaping up...

http://www.dandom.com/hey19/

And if you know of clips that are missing...especially if you have them on your smartphones, etc., please contact myself or Matt or use our Google form: https://tinyurl.com/WBHey19RapsDB

Matt will add some additional comments and points, I'm sure!



Date: Tues, October 31, 2017, 21:24:45 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

Here ya go:

�It�s been pretty rough. He was a brother, a brother for 50 years.� Donald Fagen is reflecting on the weeks since the death of Walter Becker, his partner in Steely Dan. The group�s mix of breezy tunes and sharp, subversive lyrics � from Do It Again to Deacon Blues � turned them into the most popular cult band in the world. �It wasn�t completely unexpected, but then we had thought he was getting better. So it was a shock.�

Becker, 67, died on September 3, and while no cause of death has been announced, it�s known he struggled with hepatitis C.

Fagen has declared that his mission now is to keep Steely Dan�s music alive. So, as we talk, he�s about to head off on a Steely Dan Orchestra tour that crosses America before coming to Dublin and London.

Fagen says he is not sure how he will pay tribute to his absent partner. �I don�t know. I have no stagecraft, but we�ll be playing one of his songs from a solo album.� He hasn�t decided which. �We don�t usually sort out the set list until the sound check.� Jon Herington, the 12-strong band�s long-time lead guitarist, will take on Becker�s guitar parts.

Becker and Fagen met as kindred spirits in Bard College, New York, in 1967. For two wisecracking outsiders whose lyrics traded in irony, perhaps the biggest irony is that the Steely Dan name can sell out arenas 50 years on. �Maybe,� says Fagen. �We didn�t think of it as a career. There was no plan. When we started we just wanted to entertain ourselves.�

Their songs, which have proved so durable, were hardly typical Top 40 fare. Bodhisattva parodied religion; they sang about a fascist rally (Chain Lightning) and a stock market crash (Black Friday); Time Out of Mind took a thinly disguised ode to heroin use into the American charts. Their more obtuse verses still spark online debate and they have gathered some non-typical pop fans. When Two Against Nature appeared in 2000, after a 20-year layoff, the album came with endorsements from William Gibson, Roddy Doyle and Elmore Leonard.

�The best times were in the studio working out ideas,� says Fagen, who disbanded the original touring line-up of Steely Dan after only two years in 1974. �It was a good band, but it was put together quickly and we needed other musicians to achieve what we wanted to do. On tour we were staying in bad hotels and supporting heavy metal bands. It wasn�t right.�

I still think about music; there are songs; there may be another album�

So the pair retreated to the studio to become obsessive perfectionists. Eight guitarists were auditioned to play the solo on Peg for the five-million-selling Aja album. On Gaucho Mark Knopfler played guitar through the night for what turned out to be a barely audible few moments of Time Out of Mind. Mixing the 50-second fade-out to Babylon Sisters took 60 attempts before Fagen was happy.

Of course another band who tired of touring and made the studio home was the Beatles. �I wouldn�t make that comparison,� says Fagen. �Anyway, I think their best work was before Sgt Pepper, around Rubber Soul.�

Perhaps only the offbeat Steely Dan could have nurtured a talent such as Jeff �Skunk� Baxter, who has gone on to make his name in an entirely different field. The lead guitarist was fascinated by the digital software coming into the music industry. Prompted by an ex-forces neighbour, he began looking at potential military applications and is now a sought-after expert on missile defence. Fagen sounds unimpressed. �He was a very clever guy with all sorts of interests, but some of his recent statements suggest he has moved to the right.�

Fagen is happy to chat, but his sardonic worldview tends to be the opposite of sunny. He thinks that Americans who grew up in the 1960s were the last to receive a decent education. �My parents encouraged me to read deeply.� Like Becker, he loved Nabokov, Kurt Vonnegut, William Burroughs. In a dig at the smartphone generation, he adds: �And we listened to music on good loudspeakers.� His staple listening is still the jazz music he grew to love in his teens � Monk, Miles, Mingus, early Ellington. Their records possess a �humanity� that successors don�t match.

Educationally, the rot set in with Reagan. �He invented hip-hop � young kids protesting at the lack of opportunities.� Fagen believes young people today aren�t aware of the possibilities in life, don�t think hard enough � and then there is Trump. �Yeah, we�ve reached rock bottom.�

I mention that the last time The Times spoke to him, in 2006, he observed: �When you�re young you want to live for ever. But the way the world is now, when you get to be my age it seems to me the human lifespan is just about right.� He was 58 then, he�s 69 now; has the onrush of twilight given him pause? �No, I�d stand by that.�

So what makes Fagen, who is married to the songwriter Libby Titus, get out of his New York bed each morning? �I still think about music; there are songs; there may be another album.� What�s the lyric he is most proud of? He thinks for a moment and quotes some lines from his 1993 futuristic song cycle Kamakiriad. They are in Snowbound: �For seven seconds it�s like Christmas Day. And then it�s dark again.�

After the death of someone else close to Fagen � his mother, who had suffered �horribly� from Alzheimer�s � he responded by writing a darkly funny song. Godwhacker, which appeared on Everything Must Go in 2003, describes an elite squad of assassins whose sole assignment is to find a way into heaven and take out God. (�What sane person wouldn�t consider this to be justifiable homicide?� he once said.) He�s happy to agree when I suggest it�s one of the band�s underrated gems.

What has surprised many long-time fans is the musician�s willingness to leave the studio in the past decade for the tour bus. In the 1970s Becker and Fagen dismissed presenting their intricate work on stage as �corny, boring and stupid�. In 2017 there have been two Steely Dan tours and Fagen has gigged with a young band, the Nightflyers, playing solo material, Dan songs and whatever else takes his fancy. On a good night, with good sound, there is nothing better than being in the middle of a great band, he says. �It doesn�t happen every night, but often enough.�

In the past he has been disparaging of audiences. In his 2013 memoir, Eminent Hipsters, he wrote of a show with Boz Scaggs and Michael McDonald: �The crowd looked so geriatric I was tempted to start calling out bingo numbers.� And of another gig: �They must have bussed in people from nursing homes. There were people on slabs, decomposing, people in mummy cases.�

Fagen assures me that Steely Dan attracts all ages �from young kids to 80-year-olds�. These days he gets a decent hotel bed, which helps to stave off what he calls Acute Tour Disorder, a build-up of maladies, psychological and physical, contracted from rock show touring.

However, for Fagen the audience is still a puzzling beast. �One night people can be drunk and noisy, another just quiet.� Perhaps a few people influence the mood? �Yeah, alpha opinion formers, maybe.� So how does he rouse them? �Like I say, I have no stagecraft; playing some Seventies radio hits works.� This enjoyment in his senior years of playing and singing live, of basking in the acclamation of strangers � it�s as if Fagen is living his music career backwards. The singer chuckles. �In Steely Dan we did most things backwards.�

Postscript: on the opening US dates of the new tour the Becker tune that Steely Dan have been playing is the tenderly bitter break-up song Book of Liars. �He used to be standing right here, and it�s weird for me,� Fagen told the audience in Buffalo, New York. Book of Liars contains the lines: �Electrons dancing in the frozen crystal dawn/ Here�s one left stranded at the zero crossing,/ with a hole in its half-life, to carry on.� Dan fans mull on that.
Steely Dan and the Doobie Brothers� show on October 29 as part of BluesFest at the O2 Arena, London SE10, is sold out. There are still tickets for Daryl Hall and John Oates with Chris Isaak on October 28 (bluesfest.co.uk)





Date: Mon, October 30, 2017, 05:55:44 ET
Posted by: peter j, branscombe, devon

Saw the band at the O2 last night. Strong, high energy set.

Keith Carlock really is a force of nature; Jon Herington on great form.

No "Book of Liars". Very little reference to WB. But it all felt ok..

Feels as though the Leonhart siblings provide particular support to DF. Who appeared to be enjoying himself.

Let's hope we don't have to wait quite so long here in London before we get to see "The Steely Dan Organisation" again...


Date: Sun, October 29, 2017, 11:40:20 ET
Posted by: have, no sub

there's a very informative looking piece at the Times in uk but its behind a paywall --
have pity UK friends...can you post the text for us? Please, so few places DF talks about WB loss, this looks like a big one.
thnak you gratefully, lost in theUS


https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/donald-fagen-with-steely-dan-there-was-no-career-plan-gn9fm635g


Date: Sun, October 29, 2017, 09:01:04 ET
Posted by: stephen, london

FLEW FROM LONDON TO DUBLIN FOR SATURDAY SHOW. DOOBIES HAD PROBLEMS WITH THIER SOUND, IT KEPT CUTTING OUT, ESPECIALLY AT THE END. THE CROWD HELPED OUT BY SINGING "IN DUBLIN'S FAIR CITY (ALIVE ALIVE OH).
UP THE FRONT OF THE STANDING SECTION (14,000 BODIES IN ATTENDANCE), THE WHOLE CROWD SINGING BLACK COW. DONALD LOOKED GREAT, ALTHOUGH SOME WAG SAID AT TIMES WITH HIS HEAD THROWN BACK AND MOUTH OPEN, HE LOOKED LIKE SOMEONE FROM A RETIREMENT HOME WAITING ON HIS MEDS.HE WAS IN GOOD FORM. AFTER GODWHACKER HE SAID 'THAT WAS FROM OUR ALBUM.... WHO CARES I CAN'T REMEMBER' (MEDS?)SOMEONE SHOUTED OUT 'EVERTHING MUST GO' 'YEA THAT'S IT, A GOLDEN CUCKOO FOR THAT PERSON'
SET LIST:
GREEN FLOWER ST
BLACK COW
HEY NINETEEN
NEW FRONTIER
AJA
BLACK FRIDAY
BOOK OF LIARS
GODWHACKER
DIRTY WORK
BODHISATTVA
INTROS
PEG
MY OLD SCHOOL
KID CHARLEMAGNE
ENCORE:
REELING IN THE YEARS

MY SON (30 YO)SAID THERE WERE MORE YOUNG PEOPLE THAN THE LAST TIME I BROUGHT HIM TO A SD GIG 17 YEARS AGO. I NEED THE MEDS!

STEPHEN A


Date: Sat, October 28, 2017, 23:51:22 ET
Posted by: tact, poise and reason, sensations that stagger the mind

I've shirked my responsibility. I seek forgiveness. I've been busy.

Great show on Wednesday evening at MGM National Harbor in Maryland. New facility just opened for concerts this year. State of the art sound system, the best I've ever heard in my life. Such a pleasure to hear this great band on an outstanding sound system. Wish you all could have been there with me. 3000 seat capacity, probably less than 200 empty seats. No opening act.

The setlist:
Intro
Black Cow
Hey 19
New Frontier
Aja
Rikki
Godwhacker
Book of Liars
Black Friday
Dirty Work (the ladies)
Bodi
Joe Tex (band intros)
Peg
School
Kid C

Encore:
Reelin
Outro

Obviously Walter was missed. DF mentioned him a couple of times. The photo tribute was not easy for me to watch, especially his kids. Book of Liars came off better than I expected though.

Every song was outstanding. Love this band. Have even more respect for Jim B. now that I could actually hear most of what he was playing. Jon worked his ass off all night, played at least 5 different guitars, killer solos aplenty. Godwhacker was quite unexpected. Really cool horn jam in the middle and Jon was great as well.

Band intros by Jon, Michael and LaTanya. LaTanya did a nice job of introducing Jim as seven-time Grammy nominee, one-time winner which I was unaware of. DF was in good spirits, strong, energetic, jamming. Carlock is a beast just in case anyone has forgotten. An excellent night, another great memory thanks to the best band in the land.

Can't wait to hear from the boys across the pond.


Date: Sat, October 28, 2017, 11:40:20 ET
Posted by: KD, asdf

Howdy, I'm not asking for subscriptions or anything, I'm just hopefully adding to the bookmarks of what will someday be a tangentially-Dan website.

I started with the title:

tsa.substack.com



Date: Fri, October 27, 2017, 19:57:59 ET
Posted by: Flatbush Chuck, That NYC

That NYC Comments: "A Little With Sugar"

Anyone here have any thoughts-- or perhaps information-- as to whether my temptation to relate this early lyric to the sparse info in circulation about Walter's mom is justified?

Also, I recall decades ago reading, in the brief Steely Dan chapter of some rock encyclopedia, that one of Don & Walt's pre-SD projects was a dance film featuring Walter's mom. Anyone know anything about that?

It's odd. Long ago I lost (really, deliberately abandoned) most of my youthful interest in the bios of my popular culture heroes (only Mickey Mantle and John Lennon were grandfathered into a lifelong recurring interest). Eminent Hipsters revived some interest in Donald; but the picture of Walter that's resolving-- wickedly smart, wickedly funny, sometimes wickedly troubled (all of which long known), but also apparently the furthest thing from wicked as a human being-- is drawing me in to an extent that I've grown unaccustomed as an adult to feeling about public figures. I kind of feel like I want to know a bit more. (It doesn't follow that I'm entitled to, of course.)


Date: Fri, October 27, 2017, 09:42:21 ET
Posted by: mike, wiltshire UK

Ticket for the boys and the Doobies at the O2 Sunday 29/10 available.
Very good lower tier practically beside the stage

Thanks
Mike
Email: homejames69@hotmail.com


Date: Thurs, October 26, 2017, 22:31:40 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Great article by Kanis. Thanks for sharing.


Date: Thurs, October 26, 2017, 17:42:34 ET
Posted by: Me,

Billboard article on Baltimore show:
"Steely Dan Salutes Walter Becker at Baltimore Show"
http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/rock/8014018/steely-dan-walter-becker-baltimore-live

Also:

Weekly Standard on DC show:
"Steely Dan Soldiers On
Walter Becker may be gone�and is definitely missed�but the band has always been more than its two leaders"
http://www.weeklystandard.com/steely-dan-soldiers-on/article/2010202



Date: Thurs, October 26, 2017, 14:08:16 ET
Posted by: Crowd Pleaser Man, uk

Would like to thank John Kanis for the link to his excellent article and for extending it. It's a good read. I'll certainly be back in November for the Tom Petty article. Regards.


Date: Thurs, October 26, 2017, 14:14:14 ET
Posted by: Security Joan, Facebook

I never realized that "Horses" (the Ricky Lee Jones song co-written with Walter) has become this huge Australian drinking song thing! Am I the only one who was clueless to this?

-----

"Why do we love Daryl Braithwaite�s The Horses?"
It�s a song that gives fans goosebumps as soon as they hear it.
THE WEST . COM . AU
https://thewest.com.au/entertainment/music/why-are-we-so-madly-in-love-with-daryl-braithwaites-australian-anthem-the-horses-ng-b88641556z


Date: Thurs, October 26, 2017, 14:08:16 ET
Posted by: Crowd Pleaser Man, uk

Would like to thank John Kanis for the link to his excellent article and for extending it. It's a good read. I'll certainly be back in November for the Tom Petty article. Regards.


Date: Wed, October 25, 2017, 14:29:52 ET
Posted by: Crowd Pleaser Man, uk

All right, my friends. This took longer to finalize and get online than I anticipated, primarily because I got tied up for a week writing my Tom Petty feature for the November issue of the San Diego Troubadour, but here you go...I doubled the length of the original 4,000 word article with a few anecdotes in the second half.

Check it out if you dare. Peace...JK

"Aloha Walter and Donald: Piercing the Veil Through the Zen of Steely Dan" | San Diego Troubadour

Crassness is contagious. Fortunately, so is intelligence�which is why listening to Steely Dan is good for you�if you don�t find 80 percent of Gaucho to be�

CONTINUES at ...

http://sandiegotroubadour.com/2017/10/aloha-walter-and-donald-piercing-the-veil-through-the-zen-of-steely-dan/


Date: Wed, October 25, 2017, 00:39:13 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol, Mtl

@Chrisnh, I can only echo your sentiments.The Windsor show was our 1st of the new era, and for me, was something to be gotten through, just to see how it would feel. Knew it would be different, and to make that difference positive, we brought the whole family. Turned out to make a strange night fun,sharing our passion with them,telling them about Walter. And regaling them with tales of Danfests past, while having one now, and of the people who make up the Greater Dandom. So for me the future looks a little brighter today. And I look forward to seeing shows where who I meet, is as important as what I hear. Because I still want it to be about how I feel when I'm there.

Peace



Date: Tues, October 24, 2017, 18:38:36 ET
Posted by: Jerry, Manchester

Over on this side of the pond we have this happening in Manchester for anyone in the area. I'll be ordering the book!

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/any-major-dudes-will-tell-you-the-genius-of-steely-dan-tickets-36253221361


Date: Tues, October 24, 2017, 15:47:56 ET
Posted by: Chris, nh

After seeing some steep discounts on StubHub I made a last-minute trip to Wallingford CT on Sunday and I'm very happy I did. If you have any doubts about seeing the band in this strange new era, put them aside and see a show if you can. It's not the same, the loss is huge, but the band still cooks.

Fagen sounded excellent, he was struggling a bit when I saw him in August with the Nightflyers but his voice was strong as ever. Setlist-wise this was one of the better shows I'd seen in recent years with several surprises. Part of this is luck of the draw but I was very happy to hear New Frontier, Green Flower Street, IGot The News and Don't Take Me Alive (the latter two being totally unexpected). They were spaced out throughout the show as well, so there was a bit of an element of surprise. Book of Liars was also excellent with a great Jim Beard solo that Fagen shouted out after the song.

Fagen himself was in high spirits. He's in a tough position, needing to address the elephant in the room while still putting on an energetic rock show. I think he did a great job. He did an abbreviated Hey 19 'rant,' greeted the audience and (mercifully) skipped the bit where he asks the girls what's in the bottle ...

Before the rant Herington took Becker's guitar solo and it felt like he was aiming for Becker's late-period style with bluesy, overdriven licks.

Band intros were handled by Cindy Mizelle (I think ... I stepped out during this part) and Jon Herington.

As Beaubo said, the sound was excellent, although I did notice anytime someone other than JH soloed it would take a little bit before they were turned up. Maybe they were working with someone new?

Interesting venue - I always assumed it was a theater in a downtown area but it more closely resembles a LiveNation shed in a semi-residential area, right down the goofy corporate sponsorships (had to laugh at the Toyota on display in the cavernous lobby...) It's a converted theater in the round so I'm not sure how the viewing angles are from a lot of the sections. But from where I sat, the sound and the view was solid.

Setlist, from setlist.fm:

Fan It, Janet
Green Flower Street
Black Cow
Hey Nineteen
New Frontier
Aja
I Got the News
Time Out of Mind
Book of Liars
Black Friday
Dirty Work
Bodhisattva
I Want To (Do Everything for You)
Don't Take Me Alive
Peg
My Old School
Kid Charlemagne

Encore:
Reelin' in the Years
The Untouchables





Date: Mon, October 23, 2017, 22:17:34 ET
Posted by: DYLYNFAN, HARRISBURG PA

Opening with Green Flower Street, fuck that's awesome! Great set lists.


Date: Mon, October 23, 2017, 10:18:36 ET
Posted by: Greg M, book of saxophones

As to why they didn't use the "beautiful, haunting sax" all over Book of Liars - you mean the soprano sax. I thought about that too. They probably felt it was too "90's" -- Too Kenny G's Christmas album-ish (which is ironic as Book of Liars has a verse about "Santa"...)

Or, perhaps Walt W or Roger R are not terribly comfortable with that instrument.

I thought I saw a "bass clarinet" marking on a recent paper setlist next to that song. Maybe it's just a keyboard pad - but that would certainly be interesting as a solo instrument on that song.

Of course, I really liked Bob Sheppard's soprano sax on that one. But when Shep moved to the tenor for the big solo - watch out. Excellent on AIA.


Date: Sun, October 22, 2017, 22:49:36 ET
Posted by: Tom. W, CT

Holy crap, really cool to see them do both Don't Take Me Alive & I Got The News. Really great show.


Date: Sun, October 22, 2017, 22:27:25 ET
Posted by: Beaubo, Cleveland

Zipped into Wallingford

Nice surprises.....
I got the news
Don't take me alive
Book of liars was a nice touch

DF very upbeat
Crystal clear sound

Thrilled that I could sneak this show in!


Date: Sat, October 21, 2017, 11:59:59 ET
Posted by: My Aye,


Winsdor, ON Set List 10/20/17, from Roger Rosenberg's copy:

Fan It Janet (Intro)
Greenflower Street
Black Cow
Hey 19
New Frontier
Aja
Green Earrings
Time Out of Mind
Book of Liars
Black Friday
Dirty Work
Joe Tex with Band Intros
IGY
Peg
My Old School
Kid Charlemagne
Reeling In The Years
Untouchables (Outro)






Date: Sat, October 21, 2017, 06:37:33 ET
Posted by: Dan,UK

From recent setlists, it appears Don is bringing more and more solo stuff. Interesting...



Date: Fri, October 20, 2017, 14:15:16 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Never mind, on what Don said before playing Book of Liars. I read what he said in that Rolling Stone piece.


Date: Fri, October 20, 2017, 13:26:39 ET
Posted by: The Dean, St Augustine Beach

Thanks for the Book of Liars link, guys. I'm having a hard time hearing Don's intro. Can anyone make out what he said? I also wonder why they didn't include the beautiful, haunting sax, that was so prevalent in the AiA version? I really dug that version.

And the last thing I want to do is get into some pissing contest about Walter's illness. But why does it matter, except to his family and close friends? It's really none of our business---unless you think there is some sort of criminal conspiracy which threatens the public.


Date: Fri, October 20, 2017, 23:01:23 ET
Posted by: stephen,

HI ALL,
ANYBODY MEETING UP BEFORE THE LONDON SHOW?
OR IS IT ALL HANDS TO THE PUBS?


Date: Fri, October 20, 2017, 10:28:14 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol, On the road

Looking forward to tonight! As usual if you see an old hippie(balding,grey ponytail) in a'93 tee,say hi.Peace.


Date: Fri, October 20, 2017, 09:22:23 ET
Posted by: Kreg, MA

Listening to songs like Down at the Bottom and Girlfriend make it seem appropriate to say that things caught up with him.


Date: Thurs, October 19, 2017, 11:59:59 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu, left of the Rio Grande


PITH: The change in Walter's body morphology we saw in later years was due to Hep C. They are often misconstrued as Type II diabetes or other metabolic disease/obesity, but are quite characteristic.

There is no conspiracy.


Date: Thurs, October 19, 2017, 20:52:34 ET
Posted by: KD, asdf

Walter Becker had been an acknowledged sufferer of G.A.S. (Guitar Acquisition Syndrome) since the early 1980s.

It's an under-reported disease, most working through its clutches typically do not want to burden their family with updates (receipts, bank statements, etc) regarding the diagnosis, and I think it's in the best interests of those that bravely faced the affliction to keep our musings private, and our headphones turned all the way up.


Date: Thurs, October 19, 2017, 18:11:54 ET
Posted by: Denise, Hinktown

Thanks for the link CJB. Sad time for Donald, no doubt. I'm glad to see them honor Walter in some way - he deserves it.


Date: Thurs, October 19, 2017, 15:02:34 ET
Posted by: Johnny , Reelin'

http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/steely-dan-honor-walter-becker-with-tender-book-of-liars-w509716


Date: Thurs, October 19, 2017, 11:13:15 ET
Posted by: The Dean , St Augustine Beach

Several friends of mind attended the Buffalo show, on Tuesday night. They all said it was a great show---and a little bit sad. Don and the band were in great form, and terrific spirits. Here's a nice review from the Buffalo News.
http://buffalonews.com/2017/10/17/steely-dan-sheas/


Date: Thurs, October 19, 2017, 05:05:05 ET
Posted by: pissing in the , what are my chances

I wish there was some way to introduce alternative stories (one might say "the truth") into various myths being made at present, without being dismissed as an anon kook. But that's the way it's gotta be, Don't mean I ain't right though,

Small example (but with big implications, if you think it out with a level heard(;
while WB wasn't particularly aging well and hadn't always taken good care of himself, it was a series of largely unrelated health issues (not things following from a single disease or illness) that dogged him in recent years. He wasn't "outrunning" anything in some fucking footrace that "eventually caught up with him" while harming his musicianship along the way. He died from a very specific and quickly developing disease.

The only way to tell more of the truth of what happened is to get in a public pissing match wth the only guy who seems to be speaking freely about WB's health problems (what a pal, huh?) and who seems to have several key facts wrong...and we all know how that will turn out for somebody in my position. Especially since a lot of the other 'Highly respected danfans" seem lately to just be taking dictation,

All I can say is: for those of you out there who think something about "the emerging story" doesn't sound right, maybe people who knew WB and was around for the last several years and just isn't sure what to think any more (because only one guy is talking)....hang on to your truth. Hang on to what you know about WB . Otherwise he doesn't have a chance in hell


Date: Thurs, October 19, 2017, 02:26:13 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol , MKE

Looking forward to reports from CasinoRama! Wondering if any Bbookers going to Windsor on Fri. Always looking forward to meeting them in person.
Peace


Date: Wed, October 18, 2017, 23:50:56 ET
Posted by: Pope Greg , MKE

Insurance companies, amiright?

http://m.tmz.com/#2017/10/18/donald-fagen-illness-lawsuit-insurance-canceled-tour/


Date: Wed, October 18, 2017, 11:25:34 ET
Posted by: CJB , YVR

"Book of Liars," vox DF: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q_Y1JIOyRQY


Date: Wed, October 18, 2017, 07:42:34 ET
Posted by: Tom W. , CT

Found Book of Liars from last night on YouTube. Not the best audio quality, but it's okay to get a feel for what it's like.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q_Y1JIOyRQY


Date: Tues, October 17, 2017, 23:57:23 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu ,

Not trying to inject politics or anything, but Keith Olbermann today cites Steely Dan at 5:05 in posing whether POTUS could discern the difference between Sudan and Steely Dan.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ounKrA5oOuQ





Date: Tues, October 17, 2017, 21:16:09 ET
Posted by: CJB , YVR

New DF phone interview prior to the Orillia, ON Casino Rama show discussing Walter's passing, current setlist, "Book of Liars
& etc. in some depth:

http://www.orilliapacket.com/2017/10/17/steely-dan-performing-thursday-at-casino-rama


Date: Tues, October 17, 2017, 20:40:43 ET
Posted by: hoops , chicago

An oldie but a goodie from around 2003 when Everything Must Go came out:

https://www.soundonsound.com/people/steely-dan#top


Date: Tues, October 17, 2017, 17:04:04 ET
Posted by: Ed VP , From Facebook

Walking to dinner before the Steely Dan show in Grand Rapids, Michigan Monday evening and whose path do I cross? Jon Herrington! He's out for his pre-concert walk but takes time to discuss with me the band post-Walter and the current tour. He couldn't have been more pleasant and down to earth.

Here are a few highlights:

After the current SD tour ends, Jon is heading to South America for a three week tour in support of Madeline Peyroux's shows.

Nothing firm yet, but another Las Vegas residency and a return to a Beacon Theater series is a possibility next spring.

What a totally unexpected and pleasant encounter with one of the modern day guitar greats!


Date: Tues, October 17, 2017, 10:22:33 ET
Posted by: SteelyDon , Cali

Thanks for the detailed update Hoops! Sounds like they are being extremely classy in how they honor WB. By the way, I really hope he keeps Book of Liars in the set. I've always loved that song and DF singing it must be a wonderful tribute. I plan on seeing them in Baltimore next week. The set list looks awesome .


Date: Tues, October 17, 2017, 08:55:08 ET
Posted by: hoops , chicago

First, special thanks to Joe!

INTRO. Fan It Janet
----
1. Black Cow
2. Aja
3. Hey 19 -- Played straight through without a "rap" about Cuervo Gold but trombone solo by Jim Pugh
Donald says it's a great crowd for a Monday night (and it was!) but it feels odd for him to be up there without his partner.
4. New Frontier
5. Green Earrings -- solos by Jim Beard and Jon
6. Rikki (guitar solo by Jon)
7. Time Out Of Mind
8. Book Of Liars --intro'd by DF as written by his partner and he's missed. A sort of photo slide show of Walter with Donald, Walter's kids and other loved ones shown in the background.
9. Black Friday
10. Dirty Work (Danettes)
11. Bodhisattva
12. Joe Tex - Michael intros the ladies; La Tanya intros Keith (who just had his third daughter over the weekend), Jim, Freddie, and Jon; Jon introduces the horns and Donald. As Joe pointed out, it was if it was passed around because no one felt comfortable filling the shoes of Walter. Very touching the way it was handled.
13. Josie
14. Peg
15. My Old School
16. Reelin'
----
17. Kid Charlemagne (encore) DF acknowledges the really great crowd creditting it to Walter up above providing the great songs for these shows.
18. Untouchables (I think)

Asked the roadies to see a paper set list so I could officially document but they were out right rude about it. (Maybe they had a good reason.)

A FEW OTHER NOTES FOR NOW:

- Except for the venue sign out in front of the arena, I didn't see or hear "Steely Dan" mentioned by Donald or anyone else in the band. I did not see any merch for sale either.

- The slide show of Walter and the intros were the most moving parts of the show. Donald was tactful, subtle, and sincere in referring to Walter several times during the show.

- At several points during the show, the ladies would go over to Jim Beard and do this cute dance which would crack him up.

- The band's mood was fun and appreciative, playing incredibly well; yet also their presense seemed slightly restrained. In ways it was like a wake for me.

I made some very amateur quality phone vids of Book of Liars and the intros--good only for getting a sense of the words and delivery, definitely not for regular viewing and listening. I will try to put them up on YouTube or maybe in the Twitter feed above for a limited time so you can get a sense those two parts.

As Joe pointed out, I have a feeling we may not see shows with this band and format after this week of show obligations is over. Just a vibe--not fact.

Addendum: In another forum, someone pointed out that there was in fact a limited amount of SD merch for sale.


Date: Mon, October 16, 2017, 16:53:23 ET
Posted by: Nicholas Urfd , Phraxos

I remember someone once commenting on the Blue that Book of Liars would be a great song for DF's vocals. Being there live for the first time that he performed it would have been a moment of realization not often equaled. I envy those who were there.


Date: Mon, October 16, 2017, 13:29:13 ET
Posted by: KD , asdf

It is Very Steely Dan of the Steely Dan band to take a song about heartbreak, one our virgin ears once thought was about love, and turn it back into a song about love. With Donald on vocals, too. Forget the slideshow, just record it. I'll pay half of what I have left in the whole of this half-life to hear it. Guess I gotta get Michigan tickets.

Every single line is appropriate. I'll leave us all to our CDs


Date: Mon, October 16, 2017, 09:14:21 ET
Posted by: Hutch ,

Paradise Cove. Josie. Sounds like Jon decided to play Walter's main solo almost note for note. A nice tribute I think.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GC4V0EyChsw


Date: Sun, October 15, 2017, 12:50:23 ET
Posted by: Dan , UK

Seeing them in London soon and can't wait!


Date: Sun, October 15, 2017, 12:40:20 ET
Posted by: Big Trev , {location error: location doesn't match other fields}

Book of Liars! Sounds like a nice tribute to Walter.


Date: Sun, October 15, 2017, 09:43:21 ET
Posted by: Steve M , Scotland

Hearing those first few bars of 'Book of Liars' would be a bit of an emotional blow to the solar plexus. I would imagine quite a few of the hardcore fans would have choked up at that. God only knows how Donald and the band felt. Nice tribute though, will be interesting so see how Donald handles the vocals if any footage emerges.


Date: Sat, October 14, 2017, 23:17:34 ET
Posted by: bobbo , back from Thakerville

Seeing the Dan at Winstar was a bit of a mixed bag--if I can say the bag was mixed with joy and easy remembrance. "Book of Liars" to begin the second act was a welcome surprise, with Donald's heartfelt introduction and a montage of Walter memories on the back screen.

"Hey Nineteen," done pretty much like the record for the first time in recent memory, was a genuine tearjerker for present company and myself at the time. Band and Danettes were in fine form, and Donald was on the edge of jocular from the early middle part of the show. He literally "signed off" before the encore with a crazy, cross-eyed Benny Hill kind of salute. Obviously soldiering on in the face of a new phase in Walter's absence...His hold-down-the-3rd-and-5th noodling certainly left little holes in the arrangement of a few tunes, for sure.

Overall, best full band show in some time. Was nice to share things we know and love with good, good company. So glad they're still around and doing it for us--see 'em while you can.


Yer Pal,
Bobbo


Date: Sat, October 14, 2017, 21:34:17 ET
Posted by: tact, poise and reason , crawling like a viper through these suburban streets

Not really surprised, but thrilled, that New Frontier made the setlist. The Nightflyers version was fantastic in Port Chester and on all the youtube videos I've seen. Got tickets for the 25th. Can't wait!


Date: Sat, October 14, 2017, 17:36:12 ET
Posted by: DK , BacK from OK

The highlight of the show for me was Book of Liars with Donald on lead vocals. The arrangement was very similar to Book of Liars on Alive In America which in turn was a looser, live version of Walter's studio version. During the performance, a montage/slide show of photos of Walter flipped across the backscreen.

The band, consisting of all the members of the Steely Dan Orchestra from earlier this year in April and May, was the same. There were no guest musicians. Jon Herington solely handled guitar.

However, of special note, looking at the stage from the audience, Jon was in his usual place at the left side of the stage and Donald was towards the right as usual. The space on stage center/left where Walter would stand was left empty.


Date: Sat, October 14, 2017, 17:36:12 ET
Posted by: It has begun , OK

THANK YOU, IHB!

[List from Setlist.fm has an error...see Doc Kelly's post below which is accurate and verified by SD official setlist.]


Date: Sat, October 14, 2017, 13:56:28 ET
Posted by: KD , asdf

To everyone at this and all future Steely Dan gigs:

Don't overthink it, just dance a bit. Play the blues, it works over everything.

Love y'all, have fun at these shows.


Date: Sat, October 14, 2017, 13:55:44 ET
Posted by: steve gennarelli , tampa, fl

THANK YOU, Steve!

[List from Setlist.fm has an error...see Doc Kelly's post below which is accurate and verified by SD official setlist.]


Date: Sat, October 14, 2017, 03:18:09 ET
Posted by: Doc Kelly , On the road...

Set list... Thackerville, OK

[Matches the official paper printed set list from the band after the show "dashes" are from the official SD set list sheet. Thursday's setlist was the same.]
1. Fan It Janet
----
2. Black Cow
3. Aja
4. Hey 19
5. New Frontier
6. Rikki
7. Time Out Of Mind
----
8. Book Of Liars
9. Black Friday
10. Dirty Work (Danettes)
----
11. Home At Last
12. Bodhisattva
13. Joe Tex (introduction duties shared by Michael, La Tanya & Jon while Donald took 5 minutes off stage)
----
14. Josie
15. Peg
16. My Old School
17. Reelin'
----
18. Kid Charlemagne (encore)
19. Untouchables

An excellent show! and WB was missed by all!!!

Jon was the only guitarist.

It's rather late and I have a 7 hour road trip home... leaving early in the morning... I will have a few more observations/comments after I get home...


Date: Sat, October 14, 2017, 00:14:18 ET
Posted by: The Dean , St Augustine Beach

I'm really looking forward to your report on the show, casual. The show was killer in St Augustine. But I imagine this one is bound to be "special", in some way.


Date: Fri, October 13, 2017, 23:15:30 ET
Posted by: Bingo , sittin' in front of my laptop.

New videos of Steely Dan performing at Paradise Cove last night are now on YouTube. There's about four of them so far. Donald's keyboard has been moved toward the center of the stage. Tempos sound a little bit slower than usual. Makes me sad. Almost in tears. It just isn't the same without Walter.


Date: Fri, October 13, 2017, 21:33:33 ET
Posted by: Don Patrol , Mtl

Reports/setlists?


Date: Fri, October 13, 2017, 20:40:30 ET
Posted by: Bingo , listening to Circus Money

Steely Dan has never been a band that wallows in sentimentality. I think they will try to inject a positive approach even in wake of a tragedy. They might show video clips of Walter's raps at the beginning of the show. They would want to keep the vibe upbeat with some sly humor. That's the way Walter would probably want it. Humor was always an important aspect of a Steely Dan show.


Date: Fri, October 13, 2017, 12:29:33 ET
Posted by: hoops , Chicago

Great show by Catherine Russell at Chicago's Jazz Showcase last night. She will be appearing for two shows a day through Sunday.

Don't miss it!

More details and tickets at www.jazzshowcase.com


Date: Fri, October 13, 2017, 11:02:03 ET
Posted by: Doc Kelly , Here at the dude ranch

Heading out from KS to see tonight's show!! wondering if any regulars will be there...


Date: Thurs, October 12, 2017, 14:00:01 ET
Posted by: casual fan, orlando

The relationship between fan and a band is an odd one. We all respect them and try to understand and know about them and their lives, but, with some rare exceptions here, we can't say we know them.

So when DF and the SD Band take the stage tomorrow night for the first time since WB passed, it presents an odd thing to look on from afar. How will DF handle it? How will the band handle it? Will it be more like a tribute, or "on with the show"? I am conflicted and imagine most long time fans of the duo are, as to which I think is best.

But in the end, just because it will never be the same, doesn't mean it can't also still be great.






Date: Wed, October 11, 2017, 13:20:07 ET
Posted by: Steve M , Scotland

On the subject of China Crisis Walter produced album 'Flaunt the Imperfection'. The band are playing a special hometown gig at the Epstein Theater in Liverpool in February next year where they will play the album in its entirety.

They did this previously about 2 years ago and included a lot of Walter anecdotes, photo slides etc. It was a great night in a great theater. I would imagine that this coming gig might be all the more poignant because of Walter's passing and will hopefully contain a lot more stories.


Date: Tues, October 10, 2017, 20:37:43 ET
Posted by: Tom W. , CT

Hi there all,

I wasn't sure whether this was post-worthy or not, but I'll say it just for the sake of having the information. I just contacted Mr. Carlton about possible appearances on the upcoming dates, but he said he's not booked for them. I thought I'd ask just because he's been on all of their previous dates from the Greenwich Town Party onward (I think).


Date: Tues, October 10, 2017, 22:22:22 ET
Posted by: Nicholas Urfe , Nicholas Urfe

FFD2, I had heard that lyric in Gaslighting Abbie a million times, but you post prompted me to Google those words to see what they meant. Up pops the information that Jay and the Americans did a cover of a song by that name. I may be the last person on the blue to know that, but go figure.


Date: Tues, October 10, 2017, 22:15:07 ET
Posted by: Nicholas Urfe , Nicholas Urfe

CJB, that is way cool. Thank you for the tip.


Date: Mon, October 9, 2017, 19:23:21 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu ,


Anybody else hear a Walter influence in Boz Scagg's Sarah from dig?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YT2GQpzyxTg&index=2&list=PL94gOvpr5yt1BwUKZJX6tVrF14RoVo-E7




Date: Mon, October 9, 2017, 18:18:36 ET
Posted by: hoops , Chicago

Last week, I received the newly expanded version of China Crisis' Flaunt The Imperfection just arrived. Nice essay that talks extensively about Walter. The essay was written last spring. The second disc contains demos, live versions, and alternate takes which, when considered along side the original album, provide a lot of insight into Walter's role on the album as well as on his own and SD albums.

The deluxe version of the album was crowdfunded earlier in the summer. I ordered back in July or August, but I'm not sure if they still have copies left or if it's limited edition. They autographed the cover. (That is two of the bandmembers, and of course not Walter.)


Date: Sun, October 8, 2017, 07:58:29 ET
Posted by: FFD2, NY

Two doors down from Rudy's in NY, there's now a restaurant called Cara Mia. Maybe that can become SD restaurant row.


Date: Sat, October 7, 2017, 12:24:36 ET
Posted by: CJB, YVR

Libby Titus Fagen's public Instagram has a bunch of very candid & moving snapshots of Walter & family up right now. Not direct linking for the usual reasons, but easily found. Fly low, & etc.


Date: Sat, October 7, 2017, 08:26:13 ET
Posted by: Steve Gennarelli, Tampa, FL

Over at the Sugarmegs live concert site, they added a
2003 SD concert that includes a super rare live version of "Blues
Beach".
The band really struggled to capture the song we heard
on the CD, but Fagan's vocals on it are very strong. FYI


Date: Fri, October 6, 2017, 16:24:32 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

REMINDER: With the weekend upon us, carve out some time to help with Walter Becker "Hey 19" Raps Database

In case you missed it, Matt Kerns, myself and the greater Dandom (this means you) are responding to the Walter Becker Media Project, and are asking your help. Help us locate and document the beautiful, absurd, and often hilarious musings and writhings of Walter Becker.

Thanks to Matt and his talented, programming wizardry, we have a great interactive database taking shape at dandom.com. Our long term goal is to not only compile a collection of Hey 19 clips, but also other Walter Becker musical moments and Beckerisms. Right now we are up to about 80 clips, but there must be well over 200-300 shows where Walter graced us with his witty raps. We're kind of done with the low-hanging fruit and have moved on to some of the more esoteric corners of the internet. Sooooooo...

See a Hey 19 clip out there? Anywhere?

Let us know!

Or perhaps you are working on your own collection. Could we engage in "I'll show you ours if you show us yours"?

YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, the old BlueBook, etc.???

If you see something, say something!

Let us know by filling out this form at https://tinyurl.com/WBHey19RapsDB

If that's too complicated or techy, just email jjmckay at me.com with the info. We'll take it from there.

The video clips that you suggest via the Google form at https://tinyurl.com/WBHey19RapsDB will also be made available to others as a sort of "creative commons" of sharing to facilitate the creation of Walter Becker "Hey 19 Raps" video tributes by the public at large.

Eventually, you, the devoted members of the Steely Dan/Walter Becker fan community, will be able to edit them together to make your personal tribute to Walter.

If that wasn't enough, we're also hoping to even have some sort of film fest or Danfest come February in NYC to show the clips and all-out celebrate Walter.

Thanks for being part of the gig of love for Walter.



Date: Thurs, October 5, 2017, 18:39:41 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,

That vinyl pressing of Gaucho and later The Nightly were far better than the CD versions...until DVD Audio came out. Although often used for surround, the steer versions mixed by Eliot Schiener are fantastic.

Audiophile copies become rarer by the day.


Date: Wed, October 4, 2017, 18:33:33 ET
Posted by: Doc Mu,



Ironically, Hard Promises is arguably worth more than the rest of TP's albums. It's fantastic. Every song a virtual class. Better than Damn the Torpedoes, Wildflowers, full Moon Fever.

TP didn't compromise.


Date: Thurs, October 5, 2017, 01:56:28 ET
Posted by: moray eel, w

mike: It is difficult for me to rate the live shows completely because I love different components of each show. I've seen about 14 SD concerts plus some Fagen solo/NYRSR shows

Best Fagen vocal performance: 1996 at Pine Knob near Detroit. Black Cow and Home at Last sounded better than the CD. The sound mix was perfect.

Best band: I really like the 1993 version with Chris Potter and Drew Zingg. Poplar Creek, Chicago.

Best setlist: Rarities night in 2011 at the Beacon Theatre.

Best venue: Konocti Harbor in California, 2003. Very small, intimate venue (~2000 people?). When the concert started, the sun slowly went down; sailboats drifting out on the lake; SD playing.

Best value: DF solo show at the Chicago Theatre. Got to meet and talk with the band, photos, sit in on the soundcheck, drinks and food before the show, a bag full of Fagen/SD swag and a 2nd row seat for $150-$200 bucks.

But really, being able to hear Larry Carlton play with Donald and Walter on The Royal Scam night at The Chicago Theatre might be the best one of all. I'm not convinced that I would trade that experience for anything.

m.e.



Date: Wed, October 4, 2017, 19:32:34 ET
Posted by: Alklai, NYC

LGF, thanks for the info, I for one would gladly pay more for a better product, especially now.


Date: Wed, October 4, 2017, 07:21:09 ET
Posted by: LGF,

Tom Petty stood up to MCA when they tried pricing his album Hard Promises $1 higher as they did with Gaucho.

I remember part of the deal that SD settled with MCA was pressing Gaucho with higher quality vinyl for the first copies sold with the higher price. I think either Walter or Donald said that fans should get better quality vinyl for the extra $1. If you have a copy from this first pressing, you can see MASTERDISK stamped in the LP in the run-out ring.


Date: Tues, October 3, 2017, 21:09:18 ET
Posted by: hoops, chicago

Geo:

I largely agree. Great track.


Date: Tues, October 3, 2017, 08:23:07 ET
Posted by: Geo, CT

New York DJ Pat St. John, a huge SD fan, once commented that he thought Tom Petty's Breakdown sounded like SD.


Date: Tues, October 3, 2017, 07:25:43 ET
Posted by: NYB, Holy f*** not again

"How about a cheer for all those bad girls
And all the boys that play that rock and roll?
They love it like you love Jesus
It does the same thing to their souls..."



(Tom Petty : 1950 - 2017)


Date: Tues, October 3, 2017, 01:25:45 ET
Posted by: SS, HK

I have a great memory of seeing Tom Petty on the Damn the Torpedoes tour in December, 1979 in a venue that held about 3,000 people. The opening act was The Fabulous Poodles!

Fantastic show. I like to think it was peak Petty.


Date: Mon, October 2, 2017, 20:14:08 ET
Posted by: Alkali, NYC

not so fast HouDanFan, I believe Petty is on life support.

Don from texas, please refer to my past posts on how to properly re-write Steely Dan songs, besides that you've used a plagiarized example, that's like stealing a copy of a fake.


Date: Mon, October 2, 2017, 19:46:17 ET
Posted by: mikemLBI, LBI, NJ

hi all, longtime lurker, love reading everyone's posts about the band and music we love.

i'm trying to put together a best of live project. the best live version of every song played live. i've acquired several boots, but i keep coming back to the Steely Dan - Two Against Nature 5.1 dvd for incredible sound and playing.

what are your thoughts? have any of you made comps for the car, or for a friend?

i love the energy of the record plant 74 Bodhisattva and do it again; i'm partial to the 7/21/96 show cos i was there, and lovelovelove the larry carlton strong 2009-09-03 Chicago show, especially the KC opener.

thoughts, comments, suggestions welcome.

mikem
lbi, nj


Date: Mon, October 2, 2017, 16:19:13 ET
Posted by: HouDanFan, Houston

Damn now Tom Petty. RIP you were one helluva live performer.


Date: Mon, October 2, 2017, 16:13:19 ET
Posted by: casual fan, orlando

Reports now that Tom Petty has died. Sheesz, all those icons from the 70s ...


Date: Sun, October 1, 2017, 11:55:33 ET
Posted by: peter_j, Branscombe, Devon

Thought some of you may find this interesting. Danny Baker is a very special english radio presenter, and a huge fan of all things Steely Dan. Note the photograph he had taken at the top of this Guardian article..
https://www.theguardian.com/media/2017/oct/01/danny-baker-interview-going-on-the-turn



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