Gerry was amazing. "Right Down the Line", "Get it Right Next Time", "Sleepwalking", "Night Owl"... strangely, one of his most musically complex song is also his shortest - the hauntingly beautiful "Look at the Moon". RIP Gerry Rafferty.
The whole album is a classic and worthy of a full album reaction. “Home and Dry” was also a modest hit, but the hidden gem is “Whatever’s Written In Your Heart.”
@@markmiwurdz2248 I kinda figured that. Such a great song. My third favorite song from this absolutely brilliant album, after Baker Street and Right Down the Line.
Doug, thank you, this video is timely. I am a recovering alcoholic. Gerry Rafferty was a heavy drinker and died of complications from alcoholism (liver failure). I listen to Gerry Rafferty every year on January 4th to commemorate his death.
Nice to see Gerry getting some attention.He really was a brilliant singer/songwriter.Night Owl,Shipyard Town (great celtic tune),Garden of England,Moonlight And Gold...all amazing songs.Thanks Doug for giving Gerry some love.
From the opening notes, you can tell that this song is a product of the late 70s. That smooth folk-rock sound is so distinctive and so tied to the era. "Right Down the Line" is definitely of its time, and as opposed to other songs that may sound dated, this one has aged very well. This album was all over the airwaves in '78, and for very good reason.
Gerry Rafferty was most known for "Baker St.", but he's well worth listening to his whole production. From the same album I recommend "Home & Dry", and many from the subsequent "Night Owl". Even if in a sort of "folk rock environment", his specialty was what I call "harmonic twists" (typical of symphonic prog). You can hear an example in "A Dangerous Age" and "North & South" from the "North & South" album. Gerry was an accomplished author, and he's sorely missed. I've been lucky to meet his arranger, Graham Preskett.
Daily Doug, thanks ever so much for reviewing one of my all-time faves! Around @5:00 you described a change as "pretty", and I think that is the sweetest description of Right Down The Line! Proud to say I OWNED City to City on vinyl, and wore it nearly out!!
It's a beautiful song from beginning to end, the lyrics, the message of the lyrics, the mix, the cadence, the progression of notes, the musicality, the imagination, the calm and maturity, the key chords, the voice, the vocalization , simplicity and finally a song that makes you want to dance with someone. And more could be said that I didn't say it because I simply can't find the words.
Mattie´s Rag is also a very nice song. It's about seeing his daughter Martha (Mattie) again when returning home when she was just a little girl. But the whole album is a absolute gem
Great reaction Doug!! The bass groove on this song is SO infectious! For me, it drives the whole song (and really makes it easy to dance with your significant other!). Lyrics, guitar, keys - it's all there! Such a perfect and beautiful love song! HIGHLY recommend The Ark from this same album! Honestly the entire thing is incredible. But thanks for bringing Gerry (RIP) back! Cheers!
One of my all time favourite albums and one of the best produced albums ever made. He was unhappy with his (often forgotten) solo debut album, which preceded Stealer's Wheel (and has some great tracks on it - "Syncopating Sandy" being a standout), so he was merciless in the studio perfecting every detail. It's like a warm fireside and a glass of port on a winter's evening. Maybe skip the port in favour of hot chocolate, if you have alcohol addiction issues!
I highly HIGHLY recommend "Whatever's Written In Your Heart" by Rafferty, it is a genuinly hauntingly beautiful piece of music that holds me in a somber trance every time i hear it
I'm not so sure that it's that I love this song or Gerry Rafferty especially but I go somewhere listening to this and it's to a place I wish I could go back to for real.
It’s a kinda magic, isn’t it? Whenever I need a pick-me-up, this is the goto album. I just feel gooood when it’s playing. Even the more sad songs. They may be sad but they’re victorious. And I feel alright again. Thank you, Gerry
Hey Doug, recently discovered your channel through your reviews of video game music. Glad that you got to listen to the Distant Worlds version of Dancing Mad! If I might make a suggestion continuing in the tradition of video game music, I think you might REALLY enjoy Ludwig the Accursed & Holy Blade from Bloodborne. It's a phenomenal piece!
The tone I don't know why, reminds me of Gerry Doucette and his song mama let him play. If your not familiar with this Canadian artist, he is worth delving into.
Enjoy your videos, Seems you like most of the music that I listen to. Funny thing is also all those albums on view behind you. I've got in my Massive Collection. You MUST hear The Moody Blues : On The Threshold Of A Dream in 5.1 Sounds like a totally different album. Great seperation.
I was so surprised to find out Gerry wasn’t the guitar hero I thought he was, he was actually the singer songwriter. That guitar solo on Baker Street, I thought it was him. Your typical gifted shredder. He wasn’t, and I liked him all the more for that. He made music so that others could shine. Not all heroes wear capes. Still, a ruddy good solo that. Starting off at the… seventh it was? Bend it up to one, mate, nice! Jump right in, make it scream! I wonder who that was, now. Jeff Beck would’ve been proud of that one. There was a time when the most impressive solos were played in a very dry, almost background but still distinct sound. We should bring that back, it worked well.
You obviously enjoy clever modulations, Dr Helvering, as do I. Some time ago, you featured a piece which included a little Jacob Collier in the mix. It's certainly overdue for you to listen to and review Collier's Mahogany recording of his song Little Blue. I particularly look forward to seeing your response to his unique key changes on the guitar.
Excellent song that goes by way too quickly. That bridge is genius. I consider the chorus as the "right down the line" tag on the end of the verses. GR was a great songwriter, and an even better singer. Sort of in the John Lennon mold. It's a shame how it all ended for him, but we have this classic album to always enjoy. Here's another vote for "Get It Right Next Time", and also "Home and Dry" from the next album.
I love Rafferty's style, beautifully produced and perfect for his voice. Is does not work for everyone though. He produced Richard and Linda Thompson around this time. They never released the album at the time but some tracks have been released since. They are good but a little too polite compared to the frankly harrowing versions on Shoot Out The Lights.
I never noticed those little bits of percussion in the left and right ear. What the hell is that? The one on the right almost sounds like someone clucking their tongue. Sounds really cool. I guess I never listened to it on headphones before. Edit: Glen Le Fleur is credited with tambourine and clave on the song, so I guess that answers that.
Doug, maybe those courses are bridges. AABA? Like Dolly Parton's "Here You Come Again". But, I think she fades out on the verse part. What do you think?😊
Doug, It just strucked me, that you didn't do any video about Jeff Buckley and/or his album Grace. No real connection with Gerry, but I'm 100% sure you would say "Holy bucket!" a few times there ...
Gerry was amazing. "Right Down the Line", "Get it Right Next Time", "Sleepwalking", "Night Owl"... strangely, one of his most musically complex song is also his shortest - the hauntingly beautiful "Look at the Moon". RIP Gerry Rafferty.
Gerry was one of those very few fortunate people with perfrect pitch. Never sang a wrong note.
The whole album is a classic and worthy of a full album reaction. “Home and Dry” was also a modest hit, but the hidden gem is “Whatever’s Written In Your Heart.”
"Mattie's Rag" is another great one from that album.
10 incredibly awesome songs
Gerry wrote “Mattie’s Rag” for his daughter Martha.
I like "Home and Dry" a lot. "...Gotta See You, Gotta Be With You..."
@@markmiwurdz2248 I kinda figured that. Such a great song. My third favorite song from this absolutely brilliant album, after Baker Street and Right Down the Line.
Doug, thank you, this video is timely. I am a recovering alcoholic. Gerry Rafferty was a heavy drinker and died of complications from alcoholism (liver failure). I listen to Gerry Rafferty every year on January 4th to commemorate his death.
Nice to see Gerry getting some attention.He really was a brilliant singer/songwriter.Night Owl,Shipyard Town (great celtic tune),Garden of England,Moonlight And Gold...all amazing songs.Thanks Doug for giving Gerry some love.
Such a beautiful and heartfelt song. This album would make a wonderful Extended Play Lounge.
From the opening notes, you can tell that this song is a product of the late 70s. That smooth folk-rock sound is so distinctive and so tied to the era. "Right Down the Line" is definitely of its time, and as opposed to other songs that may sound dated, this one has aged very well. This album was all over the airwaves in '78, and for very good reason.
My band plays this song. I love it so much I made a cover of it for my wife for our anniversary.
Baker Street and Right Down The Line are etched into my very soul. It's one of the albums I was raised on.
I remember listening to this song on repeat when I found it
That’s me right now 👌🏼 amazing piece of work
This album is a "Must have" in every good record collection.
When I had my record collection I had this. Great album.
I agree. City to City is also excellent. They both sound great on vinyl.
This song hits me hard in the feels. You can hear how genuine his love is. Perfectly crafted and executed song. One of my absolute favorites.
Gerrys albums from city to city till sleepwalking are all masterpieces and should be owned by all music enthousiasts.
Gerry Rafferty was most known for "Baker St.", but he's well worth listening to his whole production. From the same album I recommend "Home & Dry", and many from the subsequent "Night Owl".
Even if in a sort of "folk rock environment", his specialty was what I call "harmonic twists" (typical of symphonic prog). You can hear an example in "A Dangerous Age" and "North & South" from the "North & South" album.
Gerry was an accomplished author, and he's sorely missed. I've been lucky to meet his arranger, Graham Preskett.
I love this song. Such a heartfelt tribute to the special women in our lives.
Gerry Rafferty was an excellent songwriter. You need to do Get It Right Next Time 👍
I agree! That propulsive bass-linbe gets me every time.
A little gem of a pop song, perfectly produced.
This whole album is a wonderful listen, so many excellent songs. This is one that might be worth a complete album reaction
You are absolutely right!! And with that great opening song The Ark....
This was a song written to his wife and thanking her for sticking with him and helping him through his alcoholism.
sadly the booze have really ruined him through most of his life.
Phenomenal album, reminds me of my boarding school days in the late 70’s/early 80’s. Love Gerry, left us too soon 🙏🏼
Daily Doug, thanks ever so much for reviewing one of my all-time faves! Around @5:00 you described a change as "pretty", and I think that is the sweetest description of Right Down The Line! Proud to say I OWNED City to City on vinyl, and wore it nearly out!!
Amazing. I was listening to this song yesterday and thought - I wish Doug would react to this, I think he'd love it.
An absolute classic, and it grooves more than I remembered! I'm going to have to learn to play it now
It's a beautiful song from beginning to end, the lyrics, the message of the lyrics, the mix, the cadence, the progression of notes, the musicality, the imagination, the calm and maturity, the key chords, the voice, the vocalization , simplicity and finally a song that makes you want to dance with someone.
And more could be said that I didn't say it because I simply can't find the words.
I love the chords in the chorus, and how you reacted to and explained them.
Love the technical breakdown of a song I've loved for so long.
Such a beautiful song.
That's the song my wife and i had our first dance to when we got married! Also, Gerry and I are from the same town.
Me too - Paisley buddies
@@aldo34 Buddies indeed! Moved away 20 years ago to live in Ireland, but i'm over frequently to visit my parents etc...
After watching you my friend critique these videos…. I’ve come to realize I have wasted my life by not studying music. I appreciate what you do
This song is a master class in song writing.
Thanks, I really enjoy watching and learning with you! And your reactions! 👍🏼
Mattie´s Rag is also a very nice song. It's about seeing his daughter Martha (Mattie) again when returning home when she was just a little girl. But the whole album is a absolute gem
I just love this song, its so understated and cool!
You're right, Doug. tasteful.
Its wonderful
Great reaction Doug!! The bass groove on this song is SO infectious! For me, it drives the whole song (and really makes it easy to dance with your significant other!). Lyrics, guitar, keys - it's all there! Such a perfect and beautiful love song!
HIGHLY recommend The Ark from this same album! Honestly the entire thing is incredible.
But thanks for bringing Gerry (RIP) back! Cheers!
Glad you did this one after Baker Street. Good one Doug 👍
Whenever I hear this, the word that comes to mind is SMOOTH..
One of my all time favourite albums and one of the best produced albums ever made. He was unhappy with his (often forgotten) solo debut album, which preceded Stealer's Wheel (and has some great tracks on it - "Syncopating Sandy" being a standout), so he was merciless in the studio perfecting every detail. It's like a warm fireside and a glass of port on a winter's evening. Maybe skip the port in favour of hot chocolate, if you have alcohol addiction issues!
I lived around the corner from the Rafferty’s in the 70s…..
Gerry Rafferty yes yes yes and again I say YES!!!
Love this song. He started with Billy Connolly in the Humblebums
This record reminds me of my mom and I sitting and listening to this while she cooked dinner. Warm fuzzies...:)
I was 13. A great time for me also.
@@dottiegillespie8067 This song is way too short in my opinion! I am so blessed to have a mother who had good taste in music! Have a good day
One of my favorite love songs
I highly HIGHLY recommend "Whatever's Written In Your Heart" by Rafferty, it is a genuinly hauntingly beautiful piece of music that holds me in a somber trance every time i hear it
This was a nice surprise. I was enamored by this song especially the guitar solo in the 70s.
Night owl. is my favourite from Gerry. He's my mum's favourite.
Check out - That's the Way it Always Starts - Rafferty vocal on a Mark Knopfler song from the movie Local Hero soundtrack. An incredible song.
I really enjoy the bassline on this song.
Some nice chill yacht rock
As said below, "Home and Dry" was his next single off City to City, and his follow up album had the song "Get It Right Next Time," you'll love it.
"but it was you...woooo-mon....riiiight down the line" is the chorus. "Just wanna tell you" is the B section (ok, the Bm section!)
Love his music. No rock ‘n roll nor any synth though. Good old Hammond 💪🏼
The whole album is a fantastic piece of work
Joyous. Whatever written in your heart please
This whole album is perfection. Not a bad track on it.
Bonnie Raitt covered This Song marvelously, It is worth checking
Yep! With a nice semi-reggae feel to it.
He is a great writer. Love the song.
I also love his song ‘Welcome to Hollywood’ - it’s a lot of fun
I'm not so sure that it's that I love this song or Gerry Rafferty especially but I go somewhere listening to this and it's to a place I wish I could go back to for real.
Yeah, that three to one thing got my attention too
Love Gerry Rafferty’s hits and what I think izthe’McCartney-seque ‘quality to his songwriting andvocal style !!!!
Gerry Rafferty was once in a duo with comedian Billy Connolly, Billy saying Gerry was the talent and he was the comic relief 😂
The Humblebums.
Genius full stop.
It’s a kinda magic, isn’t it? Whenever I need a pick-me-up, this is the goto album. I just feel gooood when it’s playing. Even the more sad songs. They may be sad but they’re victorious. And I feel alright again. Thank you, Gerry
Gerry wrote some great songs. Could you react to Whatevers written in your heart please?
Hey Doug, recently discovered your channel through your reviews of video game music. Glad that you got to listen to the Distant Worlds version of Dancing Mad!
If I might make a suggestion continuing in the tradition of video game music, I think you might REALLY enjoy Ludwig the Accursed & Holy Blade from Bloodborne. It's a phenomenal piece!
My favorite off that album.
This is a rock song you can actually dance to. (Well...I couldn't, but someone else could.)
Thanks Doug!
I first heard Gerry when he played in the duo The Humblebums with another great Scot, Billy Connolly who is a fantastic banjo player.
I had no idea that Billy Connolly was a musician... He's a fantastic comedian.
Doug do yourself a favour and listen to the whole album. Then look up his life story. This man had problems but was a genius. Much missed RIP Gerry
The tone I don't know why, reminds me of Gerry Doucette and his song mama let him play. If your not familiar with this Canadian artist, he is worth delving into.
Enjoy your videos, Seems you like most of the music that I listen to. Funny thing is also all those albums on view behind you. I've got in my Massive Collection. You MUST hear The Moody Blues : On The Threshold Of A Dream in 5.1 Sounds like a totally different album. Great seperation.
Can’t wait, but I will.
I always think Gerry's voice as being sonic velvet. :)
I was so surprised to find out Gerry wasn’t the guitar hero I thought he was, he was actually the singer songwriter. That guitar solo on Baker Street, I thought it was him. Your typical gifted shredder. He wasn’t, and I liked him all the more for that. He made music so that others could shine. Not all heroes wear capes.
Still, a ruddy good solo that. Starting off at the… seventh it was? Bend it up to one, mate, nice!
Jump right in, make it scream! I wonder who that was, now. Jeff Beck would’ve been proud of that one. There was a time when the most impressive solos were played in a very dry, almost background but still distinct sound. We should bring that back, it worked well.
You obviously enjoy clever modulations, Dr Helvering, as do I. Some time ago, you featured a piece which included a little Jacob Collier in the mix. It's certainly overdue for you to listen to and review Collier's Mahogany recording of his song Little Blue. I particularly look forward to seeing your response to his unique key changes on the guitar.
The Ark. Whatever's Written... Fine Songs.
Who knows what wonderful stuff Gerry could have produced if it hadn't been for his addiction. Gone from us too soon.
you have to do steelers wheel his old band, the song stuck in the middle with you. such a classic
Excellent song that goes by way too quickly. That bridge is genius. I consider the chorus as the "right down the line" tag on the end of the verses. GR was a great songwriter, and an even better singer. Sort of in the John Lennon mold. It's a shame how it all ended for him, but we have this classic album to always enjoy. Here's another vote for "Get It Right Next Time", and also "Home and Dry" from the next album.
Love this song. Another classic is night owls
Has a Moody Blues feel
I see what you call a chorus as a bridge. The title of the song appears in the refrain of the verse.
Yep, I was wrong indeed. Need to shake my memory a bit again 😁
Any Daily Doug with Doug playing along on the piano is a good Doug Daily.
Remember, Doug completely ignored that amazing guitar solo on "Baker Street."
I love Rafferty's style, beautifully produced and perfect for his voice. Is does not work for everyone though.
He produced Richard and Linda Thompson around this time. They never released the album at the time but some tracks have been released since. They are good but a little too polite compared to the frankly harrowing versions on Shoot Out The Lights.
This song is a vehicle for something deep. Not sure how that can be...
Check out his song "The Ark" sometime. I found it very moving.
I never noticed those little bits of percussion in the left and right ear. What the hell is that? The one on the right almost sounds like someone clucking their tongue. Sounds really cool. I guess I never listened to it on headphones before.
Edit: Glen Le Fleur is credited with tambourine and clave on the song, so I guess that answers that.
Please make a reaction to King Crimson - Lizard or Soft Machine - Slightly All the Time. Any of these compositions is a masterpiece.
The Ark needs to be reviewed
Doug, maybe those courses are bridges. AABA? Like Dolly Parton's "Here You Come Again". But, I think she fades out on the verse part. What do you think?😊
Nice! That's the other hit from the album that broke Gerry Rafferty.
You should try the brazilian composer master Tom Jobim. Aguas de Março is the perfect song for a composer to start (also feats Elis Regina).
Yacht rock.
That's a Steel Guitar in the Intro brother.
Would you do a review on a Larry Fast album called Electronic Realizations for Rock Orchestra.
Doug, It just strucked me, that you didn't do any video about Jeff Buckley and/or his album Grace. No real connection with Gerry, but I'm 100% sure you would say "Holy bucket!" a few times there ...
Elliott Smith next