Hey guys glad to be checking out some more Steely Dan with you guys!! What song should we do next?! Go to our Instagram for your chance to get an ‘S-Tier Only’ shirt!! Only making 10!!! Cheers friends!! 🔥🤟🏻 @AndyAndAlexOfficial
Dudes, I am 75, and so appreciate your take on music of my day. I met Elliot Randall in a pool in Aruba, and told him that I bought the single of “Reelin’ In The Years” because of the guitar work. He invited me and my wife to an SNL after-party where he was the band-leader at the time! I have been blessed meeting him, and having been a founding member of Blue Oyster Cult.
I’m a 61 year old retired music teacher who’s listening to you broaden your horizons. At 3 in the morning yet! Your open-mindedness, earnest attempts at listening deeply, curiosity, and enthusiasm all warm my heart. I would’ve loved having you in my classes, for my sake too! Your joy is infectious. Thank you for having fun and being authentically you here.
@@blackfender100 I'm 59 and remember hearing reports direct from Woodstock live as a child. Also the hype around the release of The White Album! Rock on.
I'm a musician and let me tell you....Steely Dan are musician's musicians. Everything is tight and done to perfection........thanks boyz, hanging with you rocks!
@Rodzilla This album still had the original 'band' for the most part. New drummer(s), but not the revolving cast of studio musicians on later releases.
I'm over 50 years old, and I'm not gonna lie guys: Nothing gives me greater pleasure and satisfaction than seeing you boys experience the sophistication of the timeless, perfectly orchestrated tunes that are the magic of Steely Dan. I would not render this elevator music, even "classy" elevator music. Rather, as you said, it would suit someone sitting in an upscale lounge, glass of fine spirits in hand, celebrating an accomplishment or contemplating a fantastic future endeavor. Cheers, gentlemen!!! Oh, try "My Old School" next, for something really uplifting!
In my generation music separated our parents from us, it's so gratifying to see these young guys grooving on the fabulous music of the 60s and 70s, our music, and how great it is. Music is something that actually ties my grandkids and me together.
My Old School, though not as polished as other much better SD songs, still remains my favorite song. And 40 years later, Adele copies the style and makes a career of “shout-singing” lyrics
One of the first 45s I ever bought. I was just learning the trumpet and could not get enough of the "raw" and "ready" sound of the horns on that recording.
..I’m 72 and own everything The Dan has ever done in pretty much all formats. Their music all the way back to Can’t Buy a Thrill never sounds dated...always current, always relevant. They are unquestionably my favorite band of all time..love seeing youngsters discovering just how amazing their music truly is..
About time for more SD. Now! How about "Kid Charlemagne", "Black Cow", "Deacon Blues". You fellas are really just scratching the SD surface. This band has another 20+ "A" songs in their catalog. Americas greatest band.
All three are great.... Time out of Mind and Aja should be added to the list, though. Let's get together and dissuade them from doing "Do it Again" before any of these.
I’m a huge Steely Dan’s fan but this song is for me in my opinion, their best! Every time I listen to the song and it’s a lot it just makes me happy. This is such an amazing freaking song, musically, and lyrically.
That's what I've said before, too. It's like [cruising around the swank night club scene, late night, in a white limo with some party girls, checking out the action], music.
When I was a kid walking through Target with my mom, this sounded likely 'easy listening' elevator music too. Didn't take much longer to recognize how brilliant this is in every way.
Man, they haven't done ANYTHING off Royal Scam. Kid Charlemagne, Don't Take Me Alive, Haitian Divorce, Caves of Altamira, the title track. That whole album is gold.
Every time Donald Fagan sings "but if you have a change of heart" I love the increasing reactions by the guy on the right. Every time. Perfect. Such a great lyric.
@@gregsteele806 Hello. I live in Arizona now. However I visit Virginia, as I have a lot of relatives there. Riding motorcycles now and Jeeping it in the mountains. Cheers!!!
Andy: They never slack or go cheap on the guitar work or tone, dude. Alex: That solo, I don't even know what you're doing. Kid Charlemagne: Hold my beer
Saw them play this gem live on a Sunday April 21, 1974 at the U. of Toledo campus. So lucky to have seen them when Jeff "Skunk" Baxter was still in the band. One of the most talented and charismatic lead guitarists ever. I don't know how you even transcribe his solos on songs like this or "My Old School."
The piano bass line in the intro is borrowed from a famous jazz tune called Song for My Father, which was a hit when it came out in the mid 60s. Donald Fagen would have known this tune because he was so schooled in jazz. Steely Dan is, in a sense, rock music in the chordal language of jazz. If you guys want to check out some great jazz then definitely check out Song For My Father. Horace Silver was one of the greats of jazz. I second those who say do My Old School next.
Peaceful Music Yeah it’s basic but creative enough that its source stands out, especially because it’s used as an intro, just like in Song For My Father, and in both songs it repeats later on and sets the rhythm for most of both songs. A lot like you know right away that Vanilla Ice got his Ice Ice Baby base line intro from Queen. Basic but very memorable with an undeniable source, repeats later on and sets the rhythm for both of them.
The beginning of the song is Thrilling because it lets you know a Classic Rock Song is on the Way. And they left it out! Still I love to see the Boys have the same Sensation we had when we heard it for the first time in 1974.
Two things about this song: The guitar solo is by the great Jeff “Skunk” Baxter. The drummer is Jim Gordon, who was one of the most in demand drummers of the late 60’s through much of the 70’s. He was part of Derek and the Dominoes, and you’ve heard him on “Layla.” Sadly, he began suffering from schizophrenia, and in the early 80’s, murdered his mother. He resides to this day in a mental institution In I believe, Maryland.
Regarding Jeff “Skunk” Baxter, after his time with the Dan and Doobies and Spirit, he developed an interest in defense technology and counter terrorism, becoming a critical instigator of adapting the USN Aegis missile platform for ballistic missile defense.
@@gasaholic47 Sorry if it came across as correcting you, not my intention. I’ve been a fan of Jim Gordon’s since becoming a drummer in the mid 70’s and it saddens me incredibly that a personal hero and such a phenomenal talent was lost to mental health issues and as a result had been in the California penal system since June 1983.
So you dudes are really getting IT. When Steely Dan is knockin your socks off, you are becoming a music aficionado. Kudos! OH, and lyrically this tune is about a guy attempting to impress a girl by name-dropping Eric Clapton and hinting at his heroin addiction and being aware of Eric’s dealer.. “Ricky don’t loose that number”... early 70’s rock ethos.
Excellent selection, guys. "Do It Again" is another good choice and I am sure you will enjoy it. It's a little bit different of a sound than what you have heard from them so far, but it still has the same great vocals and outstanding musicianship. After that I would suggest "Deacon Blues" (my personal favorite) and "Kid Charlemagne". Stay safe!
Jim Croce, I’ve got a Name, Time in a Bottle, Bad Bad Leroy Brown, basically any Croce song! Also if y’all haven’t heard Dr Hook, Cover of the Rolling Stone it’s a must. Seriously
Steely Dan was once described by a critic as--there is nothing stranger but likely nothing better. From Day 1 thru Aja, the guys nailed it and just created music to listen to. I would recommend Your Gold Teeth from Countdown to Ecstacy (not to be confused with Your Gold Teeth 11). One of the coolest songs I think Steely Dan did.
Name any other song about Owsley Stanley, the California Acid Cook who "crossed a diamond with a pearl" which also Includes Larry Carlton's guitar solo; nearly steals the show. Never gets old.
So glad I found you guys … this song blew my mind back in 1974 and I haven’t stopped drooling with my mouth and eyes wide open listening to this beautiful classic , cheers guys !! 👍🏴
Jay, I turned 77 this past Sunday ( 9/25 ). As you said in your previous comment, " We've had our time. ", and I feel blessed that we've lived this long to see 'our music' passed down to Alex & Andy! We knew it was quality back then, but until now I don't believe I appreciated just how great it truly is.
@@jaycorby well said , we don’t just share a name jay , we clearly have a musical affinity as well as pride that a new generation are picking up the baton passed from ourselves and are finding these masterpieces and wondering as we once did if it gets any better than this . 👍🏴
@@jaymacgee_A_Bawbag_Blethering Perhaps I'm stuck in a 'time warp', but I don't think it got any better later on. 'Rikki' came out in '74, and there was still plenty of excellent music to come throughout the remainder of the 70's and into the early 80's, but I'm of the opinion that things began to cool off after that. When do you think the high water mark was reached, musically speaking, back then?
@@jaycorby your not stuck in a time warp Jay , it’s just growing up etc , in my case I’m a daft old punk ( 60 now ) and everything that went before punk became irrelevant to me as music for my mum n dad 😆 but punk was so fleeting over here in uk , perhaps 2 years at best and I was do disillusioned by the banal crap that came after it that I just gave up with contemporary music after that and got on with career , girls, mates, mortgages etc it was only after the UA-cam started that I began looking at what I’d been influenced by before punk and to my absolute delight it turned out I HAD been listening to and been affected by some wonderful artists like Steely Dan, Carole King , Wings, Stevie Wonder,Led Zeppelin and a host of others not the least of was The Beatles , I’d been too young to notice them when they were at their height but rediscovering them was a pure joy . Of course there’s been good music since 1979 but in my case it was here n there hits , whereas before that it was all around and I just needed a nudge to reconnect with it all . Basically what I’m saying is I’m a crusty old fkr that likes what I like 😆 👍🏴
Guys Steely Dan were a big light in the fad driven music world of the 70's and 80's. You must listen to Kid Charlemagne and Don't take me alive,King of the World, Aja (the drums Mr Gadd) I am so pleased to see you guys realising how superior they were.
“Don’t Take Me Alive” would be a good next choice. Imagine a short, concise, iconic guitar solo OPENiNG a song instead of being stuck in the middle, and having the song form around it.
I'm a 67 year old dude who grew up with Steely Dan (amongst many others). It's gratifying to see two young guys blowing their, proverbial load over music I blew much the same thing over, some 40 - 50 years ago. Love your work. P.S. Try Pretzel Logic title track of their 3rd album. Black Friday from Katy Lied and, my personal favourite, Black Cow from Aja.
I call Steely Dan songs "python songs"... they envolve you, wrap you slowly and before you realize you are trapped and can't escape. Just let the music engulf you!
They keep doing all the "pop" Steely Dan. I'm really looking forward to when they hear the art-house stuff by Steely Dan (like Deacon Blues, Aja, Time out of Mind).
YES! Another Steely Dan reaction. I look pretty much every day for new SD reactions, glad you guys hit them again because you guys can appreciate the sophistication of their music, the layers, the fine production. There's hardly a bad song in their entire catalog. Try 'Babylon Sisters' or 'Bodhisattva' or 'FM' or 'Jodie' next.
I feel so lucky to have grown up with the music of the 60s & 70s.There was always amazing new bands popping up that had their own unique sound and style. Good to see you guys enjoying it !
If you like Steely Dan, you probably would also like the Alan Parsons Project. I see a lot of parallels between the two; SD a little more jazzy sound, APP a little more towards progressive rock sound.
The Alan Parsons project we’re so good , a couple of the guys out of Pilot joined up with them, you remember them , they had a hit with” oh oh oh it’s magic” Alan Parsons project , that’s a great call.👍
@@bradleybyrne7691 The Alan Parsons project, like Steely Dan, was primarily the work of 2 core musicians (Alan Parsons and Eric Woolfson) who brought in a wide variety of studio musicians to help record most of their songs. Similar to the roles played by Walter Becker and Donald Fagen.
My high school teacher one day was talking about insanity. He asked our class if we had ever heard Don’t Take Me Alive by Steely Dan. Instructed us to listen to the guitar solo to understand insanity.
I heard this brand new Steely Dan song at an Eagles concert playing before the show started. Joe Walsh made his début as an Eagles band member at that concert...but back to Steely Dan... On those huge concert speakers...to hear Caves of Altamira ring out was spine chillingly good. Later that night I went straight to Tower Records where their newly released album had just been put on sale. To this day one of my personal favorites.
Funny you should say how it only works to hold the marimba back until the end. The song actually starts with a marimba solo. Most versions found online are the "radio-friendly" version, I suppose, without the marimba, which has a really strange timbre. It sounds like the percussionist is playing it with bathroom slippers for mallets, and the lines he plays sound like they were generated electronically by a random tone generator. It's a bizarre intro. Look for the version clocking in at 4:32 duration.
I've listened to music since the 1960s, and after watching you two for months I think I know the perfect song for the both of you to audition: FRANKENSTEIN by The Edgar Winter Group. There must be a lot of requests for it. You will come away stunned with the BIGGEST smiles. Someday, guys...
I am 57 y/o and it is awesome to watch you guys absorb the awesomeness of these songs, Your reaction, the impact of these songs are deep, you guys need to keep this going, So Cool!
Aja the title track might be my favourite Steely Dan song. The lyrics and music are spot on. The duet of Steve Gadd on drums with Wayne Shorter is so good. Breathtaking actually.
Love, love, love Steely Dan! Check out the Album "Countdown to Ectasy"- Bodhisattva, The Boston Rag, Your Gold Teeth, My Old School and my favorite King of the World.
There is no band like Steely Dan. Cerebral music at its finest. I know you have gotten a lot of recommendations, but one of my favorite SD songs is "My Old School" off of the Countdown to Ecstasy album. Keep up the good work.
I keep watching your Steely Dan reactions. They’re priceless. If you dove into each album, you could spend a month or two doing their songs. Keep it up.
Hey guys, glad you listened to this track. This was the first 45 my mom bought me in 1974 when I was 13 and had just started playing guitar. To this day Jeff Skunk Baxter's guitar is one of my favorite solos ever. Happy to be a Patreon and I agree, Kid Charlemagne is the next best choice among many.
"hey ninteen", "Don't take me alive", and "FM" would be my recs of what you could think about next. All great, But they are so album deep. Too many great ones.
I know there’s like 50 other comments requesting Kid Charlemagne and Black Cow and literally any other Steely Dan song, but pleeeease react to Kid Charlemagne and Black Cow and Deacon Blues etc!!
I grew up listening to Steely Dan, I'm a 70's child and Steely Dan was a staple in my home. While I love all of their music, till this day, this is still my favorite song. Such a jam! this band is amazing, the musicality, the lyrics, everything!
Guys, there are sooo many frickin' classic Steely Dan songs. Having listened to 3 is not even scratching the surface. Do It Again is an obvious great choice...but i'd also suggest Black Cow, Aja, Dr Wu, Bodhisattva among many many otheres... take your pick and enjoy the ride! Liked your review.
Of all the Steely Dan songs I'm hoping these kids check out, Aja tops the list. It's just so unlike anything else. My personal favorite piece of music, and even I'll admit it's not for everyone, but it's something every musician should try. Steve Gadd did only two takes on the drums, BTW. Amazing.
Alex, thank you so much for talking about dynamic range in drumming. (One of the best at that is Bill Bruford, of Yes and later of King Crimson.) The bass riff at the beginning is taken straight from a famous jazz song called Song For My Father by Horace Silver. I mean it’s completely unmistakeable, and so blatant as to be impossible to be accidental. There’s nothing sneaky about it because any jazz aficionado knows the tune. You’ll find their later material even more sophisticated and still with great production. Much harder to follow harmonically but that won’t bother you. Kid Charlemagne, My Old School, Dr. Wu.
Aw, man, I'm 60 and this was one of the soundtrack tunes to my teen years into my twenties. "S" tier for this old fart. You guys keep doing this...and there's a bunch of great suggestions below, but Don't Take Me Alive is one of the only songs I know of that has the guitar solo at the beginning. Then incredibly tasty fills after. And, same album, "The Royal Scam" has, as mentioned by lots of good folks below, Kid Charlemagne.
I thought it was Ricky Scaggs they were singing about; having, allegedly, asked him to join them and he said no. I could be entirely wrong tho, I am willing to say, upfront, that I could be. Tho now Rikki Lee Jones name has been thrown into the ring, I wouldn't rule that out as apparently to know her was to love her...and then write songs about her. Love from Isolation Island which is not at all splendid and the cabin fever is starting to take a hold of all of us... N.B. Warren Zeavon, please?
Can't do enough Steely Dan... Please keep it up. I always heard Steely Dan described as the band that great bans kick back and listen to after they've performed.
How lucky you two are to still have up to 60 years of treasure to find… all from your sofa !! 😀. I’ve had my time and it’s just wonderful watching you two discover all this wonderful music for yourselves , it’s like I’m living my youth vicariously through your reactions to classic music I found decades ago in sone cases . Thank you for entertaining and validating an old Scottish guys tastes , preciated bros ! 👍🏴
Hey guys glad to be checking out some more Steely Dan with you guys!! What song should we do next?!
Go to our Instagram for your chance to get an ‘S-Tier Only’ shirt!! Only making 10!!! Cheers friends!! 🔥🤟🏻
@AndyAndAlexOfficial
Don't Take Me Alive, Deacon Blues, Babylon Sisters, Kid Charlemagne, Night by Night, Black Cow, Josie, My Old School are all awesome!
Andy & Alex Hello Gentlemen! Would really love a reaction to “Truckin” the Grateful dead! Lovin’ the reactions!✌️ ☮️
Hey Nineteen!!!!!!
BODHISATTVA! Trust me. Killer guitar solos. Tons of sauce.
.Next 🍄🍄🍄Do it Again
FM
Deacon Blues
Black Friday
If Steely Dan was a band from today, they would STILL be ahead of their time.
Is there any music made today?
Yup! Love this band so much
Great line
100 percent
That wouldn't actually be much of an achievement.
Dudes, I am 75, and so appreciate your take on music of my day. I met Elliot Randall in a pool in Aruba, and told him that I bought the single of “Reelin’ In The Years” because of the guitar work. He invited me and my wife to an SNL after-party where he was the band-leader at the time! I have been blessed meeting him, and having been a founding member of Blue Oyster Cult.
I’m a 61 year old retired music teacher who’s listening to you broaden your horizons. At 3 in the morning yet!
Your open-mindedness, earnest attempts at listening deeply, curiosity, and enthusiasm all warm my heart. I would’ve loved having you in my classes, for my sake too! Your joy is infectious. Thank you for having fun and being authentically you here.
Excellent comment and so true.
Definitely the best music reaction duo.
Can they drink whiskey in class?
I'm 60 yrs old I traded for this 45 record in the 8th grade music class.Think I traded cover of the rolling stone for it LOL.
@@blackfender100 I'm 59 and remember hearing reports direct from Woodstock live as a child. Also the hype around the release of The White Album! Rock on.
How does their music just get better and better with age? Timeless and classy, always
I'm a musician and let me tell you....Steely Dan are musician's musicians. Everything is tight and done to perfection........thanks boyz, hanging with you rocks!
@Rodzilla you are correct sir...
I dont think they were better musicians than Gentle Giant I`m afraid mate.There were no musicians better than them.Give them a try.70`s though lol
@@KT123Caton will do...be well
@Rodzilla This album still had the original 'band' for the most part. New drummer(s), but not the revolving cast of studio musicians on later releases.
@@KT123Caton Absolutely! Apples and oranges stylistically but I love them both. Have AnA reacted to GG yet?
Steely Dan is the kind of music you'll listen to for the rest of your life. It's timeless.
I'm over 50 years old, and I'm not gonna lie guys: Nothing gives me greater pleasure and satisfaction than seeing you boys experience the sophistication of the timeless, perfectly orchestrated tunes that are the magic of Steely Dan.
I would not render this elevator music, even "classy" elevator music. Rather, as you said, it would suit someone sitting in an upscale lounge, glass of fine spirits in hand, celebrating an accomplishment or contemplating a fantastic future endeavor. Cheers, gentlemen!!!
Oh, try "My Old School" next, for something really uplifting!
Deacon Blues, we've all wanted to drink scotch whiskey all night long, learn to work the saxophone... and die behind the wheel
I'm 56 and I'd gladly play this in an upscale lounge or an elevator.
Technicians of their craft. No question.
In my generation music separated our parents from us, it's so gratifying to see these young guys grooving on the fabulous music of the 60s and 70s, our music, and how great it is. Music is something that actually ties my grandkids and me together.
Yes, Steely Dan sets a groove and they stay in it. It's about flow. This is frustrating to some.
"My Old School" by Steeley Dan a must listen.
Yes!
Played My Old School in the band I used to play sax with. It was beyond fun
My Old School, though not as polished as other much better SD songs, still remains my favorite song. And 40 years later, Adele copies the style and makes a career of “shout-singing” lyrics
One of the first 45s I ever bought. I was just learning the trumpet and could not get enough of the "raw" and "ready" sound of the horns on that recording.
Holy moly!! College students loving Steely Dan????!!!! I'm overjoyed!! There's hope for the music world! You guys are great!😍
I know I'm nit-picking on Alex and Andy but 'Rikki' is a girl, not a dude.
..I’m 72 and own everything The Dan has ever done in pretty much all formats. Their music all the way back to Can’t Buy a Thrill never sounds dated...always current, always relevant. They are unquestionably my favorite band of all time..love seeing youngsters discovering just how amazing their music truly is..
FM (No Static at All), long version has great guitar and sax solos.
The song “FM no static at all” from the FM soundtrack.
Yessssss absolutely should be the next one they listen to.
FM
Great Choice!
Great pick, sure brings back memories
and the movie FM. Go watch it.
About time for more SD. Now! How about "Kid Charlemagne", "Black Cow", "Deacon Blues". You fellas are really just scratching the SD surface. This band has another 20+ "A" songs in their catalog. Americas greatest band.
"Drink your big Black Cow and get outta here"
All three are great.... Time out of Mind and Aja should be added to the list, though. Let's get together and dissuade them from doing "Do it Again" before any of these.
Black Cow!!!!!
Definitely Kid Charlamagne or Don't Take me Alive, anything by The Dan is just Sonic sophistication!
FM is another SD classic.
I’m a huge Steely Dan’s fan but this song is for me in my opinion, their best! Every time I listen to the song and it’s a lot it just makes me happy. This is such an amazing freaking song, musically, and lyrically.
I think that Steely Dan is best played while driving late at night, just cruising the city.
Dawn Young, I spent countless hours cruising in my old Saab driving around at night listening to Steely Dan in the ‘70s. 😊
Smoking a joint, playing it on vinyl, sitting on a rug, barefoot in front of a good stereo system but with good headphones on.
Top down on the convertible and cruising to Steely Dan on a summer's night....one of my best memories.
Particularly "Midnight Cruiser "
That's what I've said before, too. It's like [cruising around the swank night club scene, late night, in a white limo with some party girls, checking out the action], music.
Dudes this is a great song but i'll say it again. The Dan-My Old School.
Great guitar solo on that
Yep, what he said
The guitar in that will blow their minds.
I heard this song for the first time when I was 13. Immediately knew it was golden. That's how great Steely Dan is
ditto
“Do it again”. Put the headphones on, push play, close your eyes and drift away.
yep. the imagery of an older guy getting used by the wild younger chick is deep.
Yes, yes, yes!!!
Oh yeah. That electric sitar solo.by itself is enough for me
Smoke a couple doobies
"Last glass of whiskey" sounds like an awesome title for a blues song
When I was a kid walking through Target with my mom, this sounded likely 'easy listening' elevator music too. Didn't take much longer to recognize how brilliant this is in every way.
SD-“My Old School”, “Deacon Blues”, so many good ones! Digging the show!
Kid Charlemagne next!
Man, they haven't done ANYTHING off Royal Scam. Kid Charlemagne, Don't Take Me Alive, Haitian Divorce, Caves of Altamira, the title track. That whole album is gold.
If they do Kid Charlemagne, they should do it with a "lyrics" version. That song can't be properly appreciated without the background to the song.
@@HollowGolem ... I'm with you...also Katy Lied...all gold as well!
YES Kid Charlemagne, one of the best guitar solo'sv
Larry Carlton's guitar solo is sublime! Fits the chord changes perfectly and is just so melodic and dynamic. Great choice!
Deacon Blues, Do it again, Don't take me alive, FM, and Kid Charlemange.
yeah man...........
Agree. All of them.
Every time Donald Fagan sings "but if you have a change of heart" I love the increasing reactions by the guy on the right. Every time. Perfect. Such a great lyric.
46 years ago, I would pop this 8 track in, while driving my 67 GTO. Listen to it stoned while driving down the roads in Virginia.
Same here. '69 GTO Judge. Classic times.
I was doing the same thing except driving around Dallas in my 65 Ford Galaxy.
I knew a guy with a GTO. His name was Glen Thomas Owens. He always told chicks that he had the car custom made with his initials on it.
Hi from Virginia.
@@gregsteele806 Hello. I live in Arizona now. However I visit Virginia, as I have a lot of relatives there. Riding motorcycles now and Jeeping it in the mountains. Cheers!!!
"Deacon Blues"........AWESOME TUNE
Reelin' in the Years has everything I love about music in it. Gotta be my favorite. Looking forward to Do It Again whenever it comes around.
Yeah, Do It Again is far more engaging than this. Which reminds me, there's a great Kinks song called Do It Again.
@@CCDzine the Beach Boys also have a good song called Do it Again
Those are 2 of my favorites!
A must listen for them
@@alrivers2297 Covered by Wall of Voodoo, the electronic version.
KID CHARLEMAGNE off my Fave SD album "The Royal Scam." BEST guitar solo ever.
Andy: They never slack or go cheap on the guitar work or tone, dude.
Alex: That solo, I don't even know what you're doing.
Kid Charlemagne: Hold my beer
Saw them play this gem live on a Sunday April 21, 1974 at the U. of Toledo campus. So lucky to have seen them when Jeff "Skunk" Baxter was still in the band. One of the most talented and charismatic lead guitarists ever. I don't know how you even transcribe his solos on songs like this or "My Old School."
Any major dude will tell you, "Any Major Dude Will Tell You."
THAT is a great Dan song...like so many
Feh. Only A Fool Would Say That ;)
finally someone else said it! thank you! i been saying this every time they've done an SD song.
Let's hope with that comment you've made a major breakthrough.
58 major dudes agree
The piano bass line in the intro is borrowed from a famous jazz tune called Song for My Father, which was a hit when it came out in the mid 60s. Donald Fagen would have known this tune because he was so schooled in jazz. Steely Dan is, in a sense, rock music in the chordal language of jazz. If you guys want to check out some great jazz then definitely check out Song For My Father. Horace Silver was one of the greats of jazz. I second those who say do My Old School next.
yes, but thats a pretty basic bass line. i like where they took the basic idea to.
Peaceful Music Yeah it’s basic but creative enough that its source stands out, especially because it’s used as an intro, just like in Song For My Father, and in both songs it repeats later on and sets the rhythm for most of both songs. A lot like you know right away that Vanilla Ice got his Ice Ice Baby base line intro from Queen. Basic but very memorable with an undeniable source, repeats later on and sets the rhythm for both of them.
"Steely Dan is...rock music in the chordal language of jazz." Spot on.
You are absolutely spot on!
Donald Fagan later apologized to Horace Silver for stealing part of this from his composition.
One of my favourites. Gives me shivers. Every. Single. Time
The guitar solo is frigging amazing
The beginning of the song is Thrilling because it lets you know a Classic Rock Song is on the Way. And they left it out! Still I love to see the Boys have the same Sensation we had when we heard it for the first time in 1974.
Two things about this song: The guitar solo is by the great Jeff “Skunk” Baxter.
The drummer is Jim Gordon, who was one of the most in demand drummers of the late 60’s through much of the 70’s. He was part of Derek and the Dominoes, and you’ve heard him on “Layla.” Sadly, he began suffering from schizophrenia, and in the early 80’s, murdered his mother. He resides to this day in a mental institution In I believe, Maryland.
Regarding Jeff “Skunk” Baxter, after his time with the Dan and Doobies and Spirit, he developed an interest in defense technology and counter terrorism, becoming a critical instigator of adapting the USN Aegis missile platform for ballistic missile defense.
@@submandave1125 I'm guessing his new remarkably diverse change in career was a real blast!
Jim Gordon was arguably the greatest studio drummer of the late 60’s /early 70’s.
He is still incarcerated in California.
@@johngolden5257 I couldn't remember exactly where he was, but he's in a state mental facility.
@@gasaholic47 Sorry if it came across as correcting you, not my intention.
I’ve been a fan of Jim Gordon’s since becoming a drummer in the mid 70’s and it saddens me incredibly that a personal hero and such a phenomenal talent was lost to mental health issues and as a result had been in the California penal system since June 1983.
So you dudes are really getting IT. When Steely Dan is knockin your socks off, you are becoming a music aficionado. Kudos! OH, and lyrically this tune is about a guy attempting to impress a girl by name-dropping Eric Clapton and hinting at his heroin addiction and being aware of Eric’s dealer.. “Ricky don’t loose that number”... early 70’s rock ethos.
Excellent selection, guys. "Do It Again" is another good choice and I am sure you will enjoy it. It's a little bit different of a sound than what you have heard from them so far, but it still has the same great vocals and outstanding musicianship. After that I would suggest "Deacon Blues" (my personal favorite) and "Kid Charlemagne". Stay safe!
Jim Croce, I’ve got a Name, Time in a Bottle, Bad Bad Leroy Brown, basically any Croce song!
Also if y’all haven’t heard Dr Hook, Cover of the Rolling Stone it’s a must. Seriously
Dr. Hook might be too tongue-in-cheek for them, but I love those guys. And yes - anything Croce. It's not rock, but so much 70's music wasn't.
Thursday, One Less Set of Footsteps, I'll Have to Say I Love You in a Song.
"I've got a name"
jaketheoneeyedsnake ty I corrected it
Katherine Chapman no it wasn’t all rock, I think they would enjoy cover of the rolling stone though lol who wouldn’t?
Alex you've just discovered that your favorite Steely Dan song is the one you just heard
Steely Dan was once described by a critic as--there is nothing stranger but likely nothing better. From Day 1 thru Aja, the guys nailed it and just created music to listen to. I would recommend Your Gold Teeth from Countdown to Ecstacy (not to be confused with Your Gold Teeth 11). One of the coolest songs I think Steely Dan did.
In case someone didn’t tell you: Toto drummer Jeff Porcaro plays also on this album.
Jim Gordon played on Rikki.
Gordon played on all the tracks except Night by Night.
“Dirty Work”. Different lead singer, but a simply great song.
I love that song!
Many overlook it because of different lead singer, but I think it’s great.
It's also one of the more unique sounds for SD. I believe the song made it on the country charts back then -
i wish donald had sung it, though.
Got to do ‘Kid Charlemagne’, lyrics are awesome.
Listen to "My Old School". Most underrated Steely Dan song.
Master Class Musicians for all Generations to enjoy forever! I waa just a grade schooler when this song came out but I got it even then!!
What this is, is a perfect song within its own context. Start to end contextual perfection. I can’t express it any other way.
Kid Charlemagne or Deacon Blues - kan’t miss klassics!
Kid Charlemagne, seriously, Kid Charlemagne.
Yup!
Name any other song about Owsley Stanley, the California Acid Cook who "crossed a diamond with a pearl" which also
Includes Larry Carlton's guitar solo; nearly steals the show.
Never gets old.
Check out the royal scam , don’t take me alive , hey 19 , my old school !
Don't Take Me Alive. The guitar solo is one of the greatest starts to a song EVER.
Great selections.
Not to mention the title track
So glad I found you guys … this song blew my mind back in 1974 and I haven’t stopped drooling with my mouth and eyes wide open listening to this beautiful classic , cheers guys !! 👍🏴
Jay, I turned 77 this past Sunday ( 9/25 ). As you said in your previous comment, " We've had our time. ", and I feel blessed that we've lived this long to see 'our music' passed down to Alex & Andy! We knew it was quality back then, but until now I don't believe I appreciated just how great it truly is.
@@jaycorby well said , we don’t just share a name jay , we clearly have a musical affinity as well as pride that a new generation are picking up the baton passed from ourselves and are finding these masterpieces and wondering as we once did if it gets any better than this . 👍🏴
@@jaymacgee_A_Bawbag_Blethering Perhaps I'm stuck in a 'time warp', but I don't think it got any better later on. 'Rikki' came out in '74, and there was still plenty of excellent music to come throughout the remainder of the 70's and into the early 80's, but I'm of the opinion that things began to cool off after that. When do you think the high water mark was reached, musically speaking, back then?
@@jaycorby your not stuck in a time warp Jay , it’s just growing up etc , in my case I’m a daft old punk ( 60 now ) and everything that went before punk became irrelevant to me as music for my mum n dad 😆 but punk was so fleeting over here in uk , perhaps 2 years at best and I was do disillusioned by the banal crap that came after it that I just gave up with contemporary music after that and got on with career , girls, mates, mortgages etc it was only after the UA-cam started that I began looking at what I’d been influenced by before punk and to my absolute delight it turned out I HAD been listening to and been affected by some wonderful artists like Steely Dan, Carole King , Wings, Stevie Wonder,Led Zeppelin and a host of others not the least of was The Beatles , I’d been too young to notice them when they were at their height but rediscovering them was a pure joy . Of course there’s been good music since 1979 but in my case it was here n there hits , whereas before that it was all around and I just needed a nudge to reconnect with it all . Basically what I’m saying is I’m a crusty old fkr that likes what I like 😆
👍🏴
Guys Steely Dan were a big light in the fad driven music world of the 70's and 80's. You must listen to Kid Charlemagne and Don't take me alive,King of the World, Aja (the drums Mr Gadd) I am so pleased to see you guys realising how superior they were.
Kid charlemane about stanley owsley getting busted w car full of dose " is there gas in the car"
One of the tastiest guitar solos ever recorded!
"My old school" and "Kid Charlemagne" from two other albums. And "Aja" for some of the best drumming in rock music ever.
yesyesyesyessyyesyes
Couldn’t have stated it better
“Don’t Take Me Alive” would be a good next choice. Imagine a short, concise, iconic guitar solo OPENiNG a song instead of being stuck in the middle, and having the song form around it.
An great song with sublime guitar work from Larry Carlton.
Great suggestion, Jim! One of my favorites as well and the guitar work is exquisite in DTMA, so.... yeah, do this next, A&A!!
I'm a 67 year old dude who grew up with Steely Dan (amongst many others). It's gratifying to see two young guys blowing their, proverbial load over music I blew much the same thing over, some 40 - 50 years ago. Love your work.
P.S. Try Pretzel Logic title track of their 3rd album. Black Friday from Katy Lied and, my personal favourite, Black Cow from Aja.
The only word I can use for steely dan is “Class! “.
I call Steely Dan songs "python songs"... they envolve you, wrap you slowly and before you realize you are trapped and can't escape. Just let the music engulf you!
Loving your Steely Dan reactions. Kid Charlemagne, Deacon Blues, My Old School and Hey Nineteen.🎶✌️
They keep doing all the "pop" Steely Dan. I'm really looking forward to when they hear the art-house stuff by Steely Dan (like Deacon Blues, Aja, Time out of Mind).
YES! Another Steely Dan reaction. I look pretty much every day for new SD reactions, glad you guys hit them again because you guys can appreciate the sophistication of their music, the layers, the fine production. There's hardly a bad song in their entire catalog. Try 'Babylon Sisters' or 'Bodhisattva' or 'FM' or 'Jodie' next.
I feel so lucky to have grown up with the music of the 60s & 70s.There was always amazing new bands popping up that had their own unique sound and style. Good to see you guys enjoying it !
Hey there. Back in the day we called the music "Lite rock" and I loved them all. I really miss those days.
If you like Steely Dan, you probably would also like the Alan Parsons Project. I see a lot of parallels between the two; SD a little more jazzy sound, APP a little more towards progressive rock sound.
The Alan Parsons project we’re so good , a couple of the guys out of Pilot joined up with them, you remember them , they had a hit with” oh oh oh it’s magic”
Alan Parsons project , that’s a great call.👍
Speaking of jazz, listen to the opening bars of Horace Silver's Song For My Father. I presume Steely Dan did.
Yes, 'I Robot'. Crazy song!!!
@@bradleybyrne7691 The Alan Parsons project, like Steely Dan, was primarily the work of 2 core musicians (Alan Parsons and Eric Woolfson) who brought in a wide variety of studio musicians to help record most of their songs. Similar to the roles played by Walter Becker and Donald Fagen.
@@elig.3075 the entire "I Robot" album is a masterpiece.
Don’t Take Me Alive, because the guitar intro is phenomenal and the lyrics are great too.
My high school teacher one day was talking about insanity. He asked our class if we had ever heard Don’t Take Me Alive by Steely Dan. Instructed us to listen to the guitar solo to understand insanity.
That's an awesome cut
Don't Take Me Alive, from The Royal Scam album. Trust me. The intro alone is worth the price of admission.
My fave guitar solo ever
If you haven't done Kid Charlemagne, YES. Then JOSIE.
Loved how you both broke out in huge smiles for the chorus. This is such a great chill out at a cool cocktail bar song.
You guys need to check out the band "Supertramp." Start with "Bloody Well Right"
No thats the girly boy wanna be channel down the hall
Fools Overture from Supertramp. 10 minutes of aural bliss. Also School.
DENVEROUTDOORMAN Oh you’re so fucking butch.
you need to be real careful around Supertramp tour like the eagles and the Beatles are big-time blockers..
Agree. Crime of the Century the album and song.
More Steely Dan: The Caves of Altamira!
I heard this brand new Steely Dan song at an Eagles concert playing before the show started. Joe Walsh made his début as an Eagles band member at that concert...but back to Steely Dan... On those huge concert speakers...to hear Caves of Altamira ring out was spine chillingly good. Later that night I went straight to Tower Records where their newly released album had just been put on sale. To this day one of my personal favorites.
One of my faves in terms of horn work
Altamira is awesome. Give it a try.
Its just such a beautifully well designed song
Funny you should say how it only works to hold the marimba back until the end. The song actually starts with a marimba solo. Most versions found online are the "radio-friendly" version, I suppose, without the marimba, which has a really strange timbre. It sounds like the percussionist is playing it with bathroom slippers for mallets, and the lines he plays sound like they were generated electronically by a random tone generator. It's a bizarre intro. Look for the version clocking in at 4:32 duration.
"Pretzel Logic" off the same album or "Aja" the song or any and everything off of that album.
“Haitian Divorce”, “Black Cow”, “Aja” and “Show biz Kids” are great and unique songs!!!!
I hope the play black cow that’s a great song
"Night By Night"
I've listened to music since the 1960s, and after watching you two for months I think I know the perfect song for the both of you to audition:
FRANKENSTEIN by The Edgar Winter Group. There must be a lot of requests for it. You will come away stunned with the BIGGEST smiles. Someday, guys...
The Winter Bros. are a must!
I've been suggesting Frankenstein for quite a while. I'm confident they'll get to it.(sooner or later)🤟⚡🔥
I've been suggesting it from almost the beginning when it was just Andy.
P.S. recommend STUDIO version. The live ones are good but aren't as great.
I am 57 y/o and it is awesome to watch you guys absorb the awesomeness of these songs, Your reaction, the impact of these songs are deep, you guys need to keep this going, So Cool!
If you want to explore more Steely Dan, I would recommend the "Aja" album (the entire thing). It is know as one of the best mixed productions.
Aja. Yes. Yes. YES. 👍🏻🎧🎼🥃🎤😎
Aja the title track might be my favourite Steely Dan song. The lyrics and music are spot on. The duet of Steve Gadd on drums with Wayne Shorter is so good. Breathtaking actually.
Love, love, love Steely Dan!
Check out the Album "Countdown to Ectasy"- Bodhisattva, The Boston Rag, Your Gold Teeth, My Old School and my favorite King of the World.
My favourite Steely Dan album.
There is no band like Steely Dan. Cerebral music at its finest. I know you have gotten a lot of recommendations, but one of my favorite SD songs is "My Old School" off of the Countdown to Ecstasy album. Keep up the good work.
Try Babylon Sisters. Very different style and interesting backing vocals.
Another great one... I'd put it on a list of Deacon Blues, Kid Charlemagne, Aja, My Old School, and Time out of Mind.
I'd put FM on that list too!
I keep watching your Steely Dan reactions. They’re priceless. If you dove into each album, you could spend a month or two doing their songs. Keep it up.
Hey guys, glad you listened to this track. This was the first 45 my mom bought me in 1974 when I was 13 and had just started playing guitar. To this day Jeff Skunk Baxter's guitar is one of my favorite solos ever. Happy to be a Patreon and I agree, Kid Charlemagne is the next best choice among many.
Gotta love the Dan. They have so many great songs in many different styles. Song suggestions, Hey nineteen, pretzel logic, deacon blues
"hey ninteen", "Don't take me alive", and "FM" would be my recs of what you could think about next. All great, But they are so album deep. Too many great ones.
I know there’s like 50 other comments requesting Kid Charlemagne and Black Cow and literally any other Steely Dan song, but pleeeease react to Kid Charlemagne and Black Cow and Deacon Blues etc!!
I grew up listening to Steely Dan, I'm a 70's child and Steely Dan was a staple in my home. While I love all of their music, till this day, this is still my favorite song. Such a jam! this band is amazing, the musicality, the lyrics, everything!
Love this guys. For me "Rikki " is an almost perfect pop song. 3 key changes and stunning playing and arrangement.
Guys, there are sooo many frickin' classic Steely Dan songs. Having listened to 3 is not even scratching the surface. Do It Again is an obvious great choice...but i'd also suggest Black Cow, Aja, Dr Wu, Bodhisattva among many many otheres... take your pick and enjoy the ride! Liked your review.
AGREE .....ALL OF IT WHAT YOU SAID
Shout out to "Here at the Western World!" Some of us love that song....
If you liked the guitar solo here, you'll love it from Kid Charlemagne. One of the best. And then listen to Aja. Really awesome drums in that one.
Aja is SO SO GOOD
Of all the Steely Dan songs I'm hoping these kids check out, Aja tops the list. It's just so unlike anything else. My personal favorite piece of music, and even I'll admit it's not for everyone, but it's something every musician should try. Steve Gadd did only two takes on the drums, BTW. Amazing.
Alex, thank you so much for talking about dynamic range in drumming. (One of the best at that is Bill Bruford, of Yes and later of King Crimson.)
The bass riff at the beginning is taken straight from a famous jazz song called Song For My Father by Horace Silver. I mean it’s completely unmistakeable, and so blatant as to be impossible to be accidental. There’s nothing sneaky about it because any jazz aficionado knows the tune.
You’ll find their later material even more sophisticated and still with great production. Much harder to follow harmonically but that won’t bother you. Kid Charlemagne, My Old School, Dr. Wu.
The Royal Scam album...period. Perfection. The title song first.
"they never slack or go cheap on the guitar work, and TONE!" What a great statement!!!
I'm jumping on the My Old School suggestion train.
Aw, man, I'm 60 and this was one of the soundtrack tunes to my teen years into my twenties. "S" tier for this old fart. You guys keep doing this...and there's a bunch of great suggestions below, but Don't Take Me Alive is one of the only songs I know of that has the guitar solo at the beginning. Then incredibly tasty fills after. And, same album, "The Royal Scam" has, as mentioned by lots of good folks below, Kid Charlemagne.
Rikki was a woman Walter had a crush on. It wasn't sending a joint to himself. He's stated this in interviews before.
Rikki was Rikki Ducornet, Donald Fagen had a crush on her not Becker.
I always heard that it was written for Rikki Lee Jones, the singer.
@@kevinsmith7041 Google Rikki Ducornet.
I thought it was Ricky Scaggs they were singing about; having, allegedly, asked him to join them and he said no. I could be entirely wrong tho, I am willing to say, upfront, that I could be. Tho now Rikki Lee Jones name has been thrown into the ring, I wouldn't rule that out as apparently to know her was to love her...and then write songs about her.
Love from Isolation Island which is not at all splendid and the cabin fever is starting to take a hold of all of us...
N.B. Warren Zeavon, please?
Is Rikki short for the girl’s name Erica??
Can't do enough Steely Dan... Please keep it up.
I always heard Steely Dan described as the band that great bans kick back and listen to after they've performed.
I’ve been listening to this band for decades, their music doesn’t ever get old.
Yes! Outstanding song!
Kid Charlemagne or Bodhisattva next, please gentlemen!
Have been waiting for this classic thanks guys stay safe
Wonder how many thousands of people across the world sang along to that chorus?
For me... Do It Again next.
How lucky you two are to still have up to 60 years of treasure to find… all from your sofa !! 😀. I’ve had my time and it’s just wonderful watching you two discover all this wonderful music for yourselves , it’s like I’m living my youth vicariously through your reactions to classic music I found decades ago in sone cases . Thank you for entertaining and validating an old Scottish guys tastes , preciated bros ! 👍🏴