I tell ya, the idea that Justin NEVER stops the song to make a comment makes me look forward to this. He feels the groove and the feeling of the song as it should be. Well done Justin. So good to see your reactions.
It’s incredible that this album got finished too. Walter got hit by a car and was laid up for half a year, he had increasing addiction problems, his girlfriend died of an overdose and her family sued for wrongful death, the band and two record labels had a three way legal battle over the rights to the album, their favorite track in the album was accidentally erased by an intern (it’s on UA-cam as a demo, the second arrangement), and when the album was finished, Keith Jarrett sued them for plagiarism! Kind of it’s but just grateful that they made it through and gave us this!
You could have Post-it notes all over a wall with Steely Dan songs on each one and throw a dart and whatever song the dark lands on is going to be a good one, guaranteed
Steely Dan! What's not to like? Another great song, everything they recorded was so perfect in every way, l believe that at least 42 musicians were used on this album, and it took a year to record. I still play all their albums regularly, have been for nearly 50 years, and hope to listen for a few more 😏
Gaucho was Steely Dan finishing with the West Coast. The two were delivering their last album in the original seven album run and filled it with ultra slick songs aided by Wendell, a drum machine created by engineer Roger Nichols. Becker and Fagen had written a bunch of songs that have never been released, including the legendary Second Arrangement, which was accidentally erased and never resurrected. The demos are brilliant and are easily found on UA-cam. Walter was messed up on drugs and got hit by a car in New York, suffering a broken leg. This was the end of the first phase of the band.
It's not just the singer/narrator using someone, but the realization that he's also effectively taking advantage of himself, too. Nobody wins, and he knows it, but can't stop.
Steely Dan was an all studio band. They had full time focus on music. Band’s that had huge concert schedules along with writing had a tough job keeping up. I can only imagine what would happen if EL&P or other constantly touring bands I love stayed in studio and focused only on the music. However, not being able to experience those bands live, would be at the same time sad!
This was when Donald Fagen's perfectionism was at a high point. He mixed this song 274 times before he was satisfied, but found he didn't like one bass note, so he flew the tapes from N.Y. back to L.A. to have the note re-done.
Sophisticated, but underhanded is such an absolutely perfect way to put it. And as a serendipitous footnote to this morning's song, yesterday my father handed me a Washington Post article about a family friend, Chuck Redd, a jazz drummer who played with jazz guitarist Charlie Byrd, also a very close family friend, and Chuck's mom, Dalphine became close friends with one of the kings of jazz Dizzy Gillespie and during their long friendship how Bernard Purdie was part of the entourage of musicians that drifted in and out, the way musicians do when Dizzy would stop by the Redd home for breaks between gigs for gatherings and meals because Dalphine was such a supreme cook. I met Dalphine just once, but Chuck I've known for years. Had I known all this that poor fellow would've heard an earful of ❓' s from me, but I've always been the quiet unobtrusive guy. I'll see if I can find that article online. www.washingtonpost.com/local/dizzy-gillespie-thanksgiving/2020/11/25/b575bdb4-2f46-11eb-96c2-aac3f162215d_story.html
Yes! Gaucho is an amazing album, maybe my personal favorite of theirs just because of nostalgia reasons (not like I think it’s better than any of the others). I think you will really love it! The playing and lyrics are really great, one of their masterpieces
@@IDriveAnAudi Agreed. That guitar solo on “Third Word Man” is just so slick. Fits the song’s melody perfectly. Those guys are just incredibly creative. True genius.
@@mikewritz It’s a fantastic solo that has a certain mood to it. I’m a guitar player so can appreciate it for the superb technique and pacing let alone how it makes me feel.
You can easily research the meaning of this song. I believe the lyric "that love's not a game for three" is key. The first time I really heard this song I was in my twenties, driving home in the early morning after a night of partying with friends and it just hit right, it slayed me.
Your reaction captures the feelings I had when I first popped this on the turntable, fresh from the record shop, in 1980. Three long years since Aja, and this lead track did not disappoint. The vocals, the horn arrangements, so smooth, so groovin’, so fine... When they did this live in 93 (first tour in 19 years), Shoreline erupted. Euphoric. And now that you’ve opened the Gaucho box, you have to chase down “The Second Arrangement.” The famous lost song. You can find it on YT.
Great song, you can't fault 'The Dan'. The stories of the lengths they go to to get their music, their way, are legendary. There's so many elements to this, and all pretty much flawless. A great tune, that slow groove with those underlying reggae-style chops on guitar, just beautiful. And the vocals, Don's unique voice, and delivery, magic. Musical storytelling at its best. I can't think of many other bands who can add such atmosphere to their songs as SD can.
In case you don’t know what “Santa Ana” wind is, it’ not any old wind, it’s blowing hard off the southern California desert. It will dry you out ! Great metaphor.
Now that you've begun this part of the journey : go directly to Glamour Profession - pretty sure you'll love it so much that you'll decide to do the entire album .
Steely Dan are on a completely different plateau; one of my favorite songs featuring Bernard Purdy, great reaction as usual, been waiting for this one for a while now !!!!
This is my favorite album by the DAN. Love your critiques of the music. Fun fact: As Seinfeld fans may know, the DAN is Jerry Seinfeld's favorite band and when he performed at MSG he insisted that only Steely Dan music would be heard in the lobby or whenever the crowd was waiting for Jerry. Genius can always recognise other geniuses.
Dang, everything Steely Dan does is great. I'm right with you--I recently checked out this album because Aja and Kid Charlemagne just leave me wanting more! The lyrics caught my ear, especially "Tell me I'm the only one," since I was wondering what sort of reference to Babylon they were making. I just added a little comment about this on Genius Lyrics, because I'm fairly certain they're making a reference to things said about Babylon by the Prophet Isaiah. The chorus is of course referring to pursuing the illusion that ephemeral pleasures and beauty will last forever. But why "Babylon sisters"? Babylon was a city (cities were often referred to as feminine in those days) known for extreme decadence and for going out to consume all the surrounding nations. In Isaiah's last prophesy against Babylon (Is 47:7-8) it is written: "You said, 'I shall be mistress for ever,' So that you did not lay these things to heart Or remember their end. Now therefore hear this, You lover of pleasures, Who sit securely, Who say in your heart, *'I am, and there is no one besides me;* I shall not sit as a widow Or know the loss of children'..."
Gaucho is a really sophisticated album. Don and Walter mixed the old 70's complex ideas with a new, futuristic and uncertain point of view, the golden 80's. The band went on a long hiatus after this. Still my favorite Steely Dan album to date. (btw, cotton candy: cocaine)
Really? I always thought "Cotton Candy" was a reference to underage girls. And continuing on with an illegal sexual relationship (ie; statutory rape) with these "Babylon Sisters" was not only "Playing With Fire" (You're gonna get burned) but wrecking yourself socially if you get caught ("As he watches his bridges burn.") Tell me what you think AliothSenator.
Great reaction, JP! I love this song and everything about it that you mention in your reaction. I can’t understand why someone would “thumbs down” any of your videos (at least without an explanation)
Yesterday morning first thing UA-cam recommended was your review of Mood for a Day, this morning its a Steely Dan piece... Great way to start the day... You should start a 'Mornings with Justin' show.
This might be jumping the gun as you've still got some Dan left, but when you've completed the catalog, you've got four extraordinary Donald Fagan solo (with a lot of help) albums that are just as good. And they're all "concept" albums.
Yass! My favorite Steely Dan album. So excited you are exploring this album. I agree with you the electric piano is spot on...classic Steely Dan sound! A little side anecdote...I realized I made it in life when I was listening to this song cruising down the road at sunset in my new 1999 Pontiac grand prix...lol!
Tom Scott's LA Express played brass on several Joni Mitchell and Blues Brothers albums, a host of other great artists, Steely Dan's Aja and this album, too!
It’s been a hot minute, since you’ve done Steely Dan. They are my all round favorite artists. You will love the whole album. Glad you are listening to them, on your own time, (not on the show) as well. The way you described their underhanded sarcasm and aloofness was brilliant. Love you ❤️
Also, in a documentary.......the back up singers were asked the meaning of Steely Dan songs. They replied “Steely Dan writes songs, about people, with Alternative lifestyles, and the seediness of L.A.”
I think that's true of my favourite album, Pretzel Logic, only two songs over 4 minutes. Short songs like Through with Buzz, Parker's Band, Barrytown and With a Gun. Even after listening to that album since it was released, l still love it, and each track makes you feel you want more.
@@keithjones6023 Pretzel Logic was my first Steely Dan album. I purchased after hearing "Rikki" on the radio based on how fantastic that song was constructed. I played that album over and over again and will always be my favorite for sentimental reasons. So many eclectic musical moments! Night by Night...OMG!. It's on my iPhone now....again for the 1000th time. Peace.
@@mikeloomis687 Pretzel Logic was my first Steely Dan album as well. I've got hundreds of albums, but that one is up there with the best. I was disappointed with the last couple of albums, particularly with Everything Must Go, maybe it's me but they seemed to be going for a more sophisticated sound, and it lacked the great melodies of the earlier stuff. Royal Scam, Countdown to Ecstasy and Aja are fantastic as well, but PL will always be the one!
Just so cool..........! Hope you can do some more Gaucho, however don’t pass on the last two albums, ‘Two against nature’ and ‘Everything must go’. for all its brilliance, Gaucho has a kind of world weary feel about it as if they left their enthusiasm and any brightness back in the 70s. ( not really surprising given all that was going on) however In the new albums in the 00’s the music and the lyrics were if anything, refreshed by the extended break and a little more upbeat if still as incisive and cynical.
That is one of my favorite Dan lyrics (admittedly there are many) 'The kid will live and learn as he watches his bridges burn from the point of no return.'
Yes this is my favorite Steely Dan album a great song this album was perfect after Asia it was the next logical step can’t wait for your enjoyment and love and reaction love you
I bought the vinyl LP of Gaucho back in 1980 and it still gets a regular listen, along with the entire catalog of Steely Dan. I can't name another sound that mystically fits with every day, month and year of the past 5 decades and still sounds crispy fresh and relevant, while still remaining in their time. I've tried to understand why and how they pull this off. Maybe it's the classy production, the fine musicianship, the lyrics or the variety of genre sounds they fill each album with and I've come to the conclusion that I still don't know or even care anymore.......and that suits me just fine. I heard once, a contemporary jazz musician from the '50's say that (paraphrase) 'the style adds some sophistication to a bleak and broken time and place' ...............and maybe that's the style of Steely Dan, coz at their rock/country/pop core is pure jazz with a curiously clever wide appeal......that's art.
What are we doing ? I'm often working while listening to your channel. I discovered Steely Dan on your channel. Thanks for all these discoveries. I loved the groove on that one.
I love that you love your journey through the Steely Dan landscape. I have been a fan since the first album Can't Buy a Thrill in 1972. Frankly there have always been folks who just don't get Fagen and Becker and it is their loss. A fun suggestion of some really great funky, jazz, fusion that will blow your mind is Snarky Puppy Lingus. I know you won't be disappointed.
Chuck Rainey and Bernard Purdie, bass drums respectively. I would highly recommend Michael Omartian's White Horse or Adam Again. another Steely Dan session guy. Although to be fair Omartian has several Grammy's of his OWN. He's not a big name guy. His voice is reminiscent of Peter Gabriel mixed with the progressive jazz/rock of the Dan. I think you'd like it. Just trying to keep great music alive.
Sunday morning coffee in the workshop, and I had no idea I needed a Purdy Shuffle to really get things moving. Gaucho turned out fine, but its backstory is quite interesting.
So who else but Donald Fagen is gonna stick the word Kirschwasser in a song? Their brilliance and the way their music stands the test of time is really amazing. Patti Austin, one of the backup singers had a pretty good solo career BTW. You know you want to listen to the whole album, DOOOOOO IT! Enjoyed the review. 🔥
Hey Justin! Love it when you do the Dan! I wrote the following on another reaction to this song. I thought you might enjoy it. Okay, so lyrical interpretation on this one gets to be a lot of fun. First, "Babylon by the bay" is another name for San Francisco, and San Fran is mentioned in the song, so, "Babylon sisters" is thought by many to be a pair of sisters from San Francisco, and a love triangle, hence the "love's not a game for three." Some have even suggested they might be twins. Others believe the Babylon Sisters are the two cities themselves of San Francisco and Los Angeles. Others still believe both to be true and Fagen meant Babylon Sisters to be a double entendre. That's my belief. Fagen really is a master, and it makes WAY more sense if he meant Babylon Sisters to be both the cities themselves, AND two ladies with whom he had 3 way. The song opens, however, with a drive down Sunset Blvd. towards the ocean--one of the true delights to drive in L.A. or so my friends from there tell me. It's debated whether Fagen is talking about already being with one of the sisters? Or both? Is he about to have a menage-a-tois? "Close your eyes and you'll be there... It's everything they say, the end of a perfect day" suggests, IMO, that yes, he's about to have a three way with a couple of sisters from San Fran while the girls sing to him "tell me I'm the only one..." Next he describes the events... "jog with show folk on the sand" is a reference to hanging out with the famous people in LA on the beach, drinking Kirschwasser, which is a clear, colorless cherry brandy, San Francisco Show and Tell is him showing off the two ladies/sisters from San Francisco. The next line "I should know by now it's just a spasm" refers to orgasm... and one he could just as easily have had with hookers in Tijuana because in both cases, there's a price to pay "it's cheap but it's not free." In TJ you paid cash. With this threesome, the payment comes in hurt feelings, a realization that he's "not what [he] used to be" and that love's not a game for three. "My friends say no, don't go for that cotton candy" does not make sense to me as cocaine, especially not with the lines that follow. Instead, I believe "cotton candy" refers to "very sweet candy" in the form of young women--probably right in line with "Hey Nineteen." (It's worth noting Gaucho featured both THIS song AND "Hey Nineteen.") His friends say "no, dude... don't go for the young stuff! You're playing with fire if you do!" "The kid will live and learn as he watches his bridges burn" seems to me to be an obvious allusion to him messing around with women that young and how he'll have to learn that's not the best way to go. It's not politically correct today, but it's worth noting back in the 70s, relationships with girls in their mid teens was not nearly as frowned upon as it is today (Ringo Starr even did a song about a relationship with a 16 year old and how an older guy would be able to brag about it called "You're 16"), so it's possible the girls were maybe as young as 16 since that was the age of consent back then in many places.... That makes more sense to me especially when referring to "cotton candy" as I could EASILY see someone referring to 16 year old girls as Cotton Candy, and no offense Daniel, but 16 year olds are not really emotionally ready to be in relationships with people in their mid 20s to mid 30s--which is why being in such a relationship would be "playing with fire." Of course, the line "so fine so young" is also repeated throughout the song, so that may be just another clue. Anyway, that's my take on it. I'm glad you got to this because the lyrics, to me, are just cryptic enough to be fun!
@@MissAstorDancer Yep. I wrote it on Dicon Dissecational Reactions (aka Daniel) reaction to this song. A lot of the individual things are scattered about the net. I just consolidated them.
@@ArtofFreeSpeech I don't remember seeing your comments on Daniel's channel, but I have done almost obsessive research on SD lyrics since the advent of the internet, so.....yeah. Anyway, I find I agree with "your" interpretation of this song! I have always loved cryptic lyrics, and SD were masters at that!!!!
Back in 1964 when prog hadn’t been heard of a Scottish band called 1-2-3 played around various clubs and pubs and had some following. They started to explore the standard pop music of the time with superior playing and stretching out to make longer tracks. They moved to London and played the legendary Marquee Club where amongst others David Bowie really dug them but they had little success and I think might have made1 album which bombed. So they disbanded for a while but reformed and changed their name to Clouds. They signed to Island records and made two albums Watercolour Days and Scrapbook which were critical successes but didn’t sell. They finally drifted apart just as prog began to take off. Despite being managed by the same people as Jethro Tull and being on the legendary Island label whose roster was the finest in the UK they missed out really. ua-cam.com/video/rpeBkw7tfb0/v-deo.html Is a link to the first Clouds Album. I think they fell between pop and prog so were hard to classify. Anyway you can judge for yourself whether they were any good. Bear in mind, they were one of the first ever bands to play this type of music which had some virtuosity and interesting lyrics. Incidentally if you get the chance, look up on Wiki Island Records, Harvest Records, Charisma Records and Vertigo Records. These labels had virtually every important band and artist in the late 60’s until late 70’s that existed in GB. Island, although no longer independent, still have had some of the best modern music too, Amy Winehouse is just one example.
Really enjoy your Channel you do it right ...don't interrupt the song... and break it down nicely. One question did you take music theory in college... Or are you just that smart😉
My dad was a high school band director so I grew up in a music family.... have a great love for music. But I really enjoy how you break things down you do a very good job a lot better than most of these idiots doing these videos LOL by the way do me a favor check out Dan Fogelberg and Little Feat you won't be disappointed. Take care and have a great holiday season
The Gaucho album, as a whole, hasn't as aged as well as other SD albums, save two songs," Time Out of Mind", and " Babylon Sisters". Lyrically, a warning about midlife crises, burning the candle at both ends, bittersweet nostalgia.( some say this is about a man trying to have two relationships, and is regretting doing so, fair interpretation). Musically, still fresh, part jazz, part blue eyed soul, a portion of R&B/Motown. Lovely.
Wonder how they know my name? Huh. LOL Actually, I have moved from the east coast to San Fran twice and lived there for a year each time. I love that you nailed the part about the dirtiness of the city (born and raised in Baltimore, but moved to the beach in DE. to raise my five sons). BUT am a city girl at heart and SF fulfilled that perfectly, which is why it's my moniker.
Great reaction. I had heard they redid the mix on this song dozens of times to get it all to sound right (pre-Pro Tools). The subdued, sparse opening, builds over the song, and at the end, its so full (and a good bit louder) than the beginning. Subtle details - the wind chimes that sneak into the mix right after they sing about the Santa Ana winds coming again, along with the swelling volume of the horns give it a 3D feel. Some people feel they got too slick, to "perfect" on this album, but it sounds great to me. Steely Dan has a very NY (east coast) identity, but on this album, it's more of a character study of late 70's Los Angeles.
The backstory for this album is worth looking into, it almost did not get made. The Dan took years to make it, seeking the ultimate perfection, multiple takes, changing musicians, etc. I also believe there is another album worth of material from the sessions that is on youtube (maybe a CD, don't know) of the outtakes that did not make it onto this album. I think there is another video on youtube of Bernard Purdy explaining the Purdy Shuffle and how the interview with him for this album went and how his shuffle was selected for Gaucho and Babylon sisters.
I don't know if the lyrics are meant as a blob-by-blow retelling of events so much as perhaps a "feeling" or "collage" of things. Both Becker and Fagen were English literature majors at Bard. Their lyrics feel like bits and pieces of a poetic and often times, dingy, landscape. Purdie is fab on the drums with his unique, swaggering style and the wandering trumpet throughout, with its muted undercurrent, makes for a playful jubilance. Finally, I've read by some that the back-up singers steal the show here (and to a LARGE degree they do) but I still think I'd call it a tie. Fagen's distinctive voice (underdog, lonely, yearning) stretches defiantly here, with its own smug charm.
Nice reaction. You hit everything. And I appreciate that you felt a little condescension from Fagen. I’ve felt it in many interviews. I’m kinda cool with it, but nobody needs to be like that. I get that he’s a genius, but he needs to relax into his “host body”
That song would be great when you walk in the night, in a city after a rainfall. I don't know why, it's just a feeling I have of the lights reflecting on the wet streets and puddles.
Well you know Everything about Steely Dan is perfect.....no one complains about them......I am a little surprise that their album Aja is not in the Top 200 of the Billboard charts. Because among the young they are extremely popular.
My taste in music has changed. As a teen, I HATED Steely Dan! Now, LOVE it! This is my favorite song they do. Drumming and backup singers put this one over the top! 👍🏻👍🏻
Try "Ruby Baby" from Donald Fagen's solo album (or the whole darn thing) The Nightfly. As I understand it, it was supposed to be a Steely Dan album but Walter Becker was involved in a serious car accident (be careful people!) so Donald had to finish it as a solo effort. And if you haven't reacted to Toto yet then what the H*ll! (LOL). They were among the best studio musicians of the 70' and 80's (members played on hundreds of albums) and all were highly regarded and respected. Toto IV is one of the best albums ever. Rosanna (about Steve Lukathers ex-girlfriend Rosanna Arquette) and Africa being the two main numbers on the album. Great guitar solo's by Steve Lukather on Rosanna. You must hear them! Do it! Do it now! O.K. I got a little carried away.
Spot on about Steely Dan. The musicians in the band are carefully picked and it results in exemplary rock/jazz sound unmatched by anyone else. If you want to continue with Steely Dan, I'll recommend "Royal Scam Album; Title track, Kid Charlemagne, Caves of Altamira, and Haitian Divorce are all pearls!
Great review as always. Always enjoy your insights. For all the polish and sophistication of Gaucho, for me, The Dan are starting to get over ripe, post-Aja (their zenith) like an apple that’s not quite crisp enough anymore. Earlier albums, maybe Pretzel Logic, have more bite imho.
I've always thought that Steely Dan like some other great bands, recorded their best stuff on the early albums. My favourite album of theirs has always been Pretzel Logic, l love it for the short snappy songs which make you want more. Just listen to Through With Buzz and the superb With a Gun, well, say no more!
Like Hemingway, Fagan would write and rewrite endings hundreds of times to get it perfect. This could be Fagen's Old Man and The Sea. What perfection and grace. Right up there with Deacon Blues and Glamour Profession.
It's been a long time for me cause I bought the album the day it came out. In order to add to my extensive mky collection of records(Not MP3 digital re-re-compressed recordings)
Walter was not as involved here because he was in the hospital and even though he was in communication with Donald who was in the studio the heavy load was on Donald and therefore lacked the same energy.
It is an okay album that is spotty at best and the majority of Steely Dan fans and the critics agree with me. Part of the reason is that Donald worked on most of this album without Walter who was recuperating in the hospital when the album was being produced and that is a fact! I stil like some tunes though it just does not live up to their previous monumental albums!❤️☮️
@@joelliebler5690 One thing that really bothers me about SD fans is that everyone is expert. I don’t give a foggy bog what critics and some fans think. Nobody is right, nobody’s wrong. Just simma down na.
The beauty of Steely Dan is they sing about such dark scenarios and flawed human shortcomings. Yet, deliver it in such a polished fashion.
Bernard Purdy is so brilliant in this track. He’s driving it, all the way through and showing off his “Gaucho shuffle” Stunning!
God, I wish I was hearing Babylon Sister for the first time.
I tell ya, the idea that Justin NEVER stops the song to make a comment makes me look forward to this. He feels the groove and the feeling of the song as it should be. Well done Justin. So good to see your reactions.
Ty MV! Can't stop good music🤭
You said it!!!
the most sensual background vocals you'll ever hear on a record
The drums absolutely drive this song. Just a great tune from a great album. Don't forget the reggae rhythm coming from the guitar.
It’s incredible that this album got finished too. Walter got hit by a car and was laid up for half a year, he had increasing addiction problems, his girlfriend died of an overdose and her family sued for wrongful death, the band and two record labels had a three way legal battle over the rights to the album, their favorite track in the album was accidentally erased by an intern (it’s on UA-cam as a demo, the second arrangement), and when the album was finished, Keith Jarrett sued them for plagiarism! Kind of it’s but just grateful that they made it through and gave us this!
Holy Shnikee's........you know your Steely Dan history! Saahhh- loot!
@rubbersole thanks! What with quarantine, having a lot of free time, binging on Wikipedia 😂
You could have Post-it notes all over a wall with Steely Dan songs on each one and throw a dart and whatever song the dark lands on is going to be a good one, guaranteed
Sounds like a fun idea!
Steely Dan! What's not to like? Another great song, everything they recorded was so perfect in every way, l believe that at least 42 musicians were used on this album, and it took a year to record. I still play all their albums regularly, have been for nearly 50 years, and hope to listen for a few more 😏
Up to the recording of Gaucho, I believe it was the most expensive LP ever produced.
As soon as you hear steely dan, time seems to stop.. Brilliant song
Gaucho was Steely Dan finishing with the West Coast. The two were delivering their last album in the original seven album run and filled it with ultra slick songs aided by Wendell, a drum machine created by engineer Roger Nichols. Becker and Fagen had written a bunch of songs that have never been released, including the legendary Second Arrangement, which was accidentally erased and never resurrected. The demos are brilliant and are easily found on UA-cam. Walter was messed up on drugs and got hit by a car in New York, suffering a broken leg. This was the end of the first phase of the band.
This was one of the album constantly on my turntable during summer in my uni-days.
Hey Justin, Time Out Of Mind from this album is also fire. Great analysis of Babylon Sisters
Ty Kev!
It's not just the singer/narrator using someone, but the realization that he's also effectively taking advantage of himself, too. Nobody wins, and he knows it, but can't stop.
True!
Steely Dan was an all studio band. They had full time focus on music. Band’s that had huge concert schedules along with writing had a tough job keeping up. I can only imagine what would happen if EL&P or other constantly touring bands I love stayed in studio and focused only on the music. However, not being able to experience those bands live, would be at the same time sad!
This was when Donald Fagen's perfectionism was at a high point. He mixed this song 274 times before he was satisfied, but found he didn't like one bass note, so he flew the tapes from N.Y. back to L.A. to have the note re-done.
Sophisticated, but underhanded is such an absolutely perfect way to put it. And as a serendipitous footnote to this morning's song, yesterday my father handed me a Washington Post article about a family friend, Chuck Redd, a jazz drummer who played with jazz guitarist Charlie Byrd, also a very close family friend, and Chuck's mom, Dalphine became close friends with one of the kings of jazz Dizzy Gillespie and during their long friendship how Bernard Purdie was part of the entourage of musicians that drifted in and out, the way musicians do when Dizzy would stop by the Redd home for breaks between gigs for gatherings and meals because Dalphine was such a supreme cook. I met Dalphine just once, but Chuck I've known for years. Had I known all this that poor fellow would've heard an earful of ❓' s from me, but I've always been the quiet unobtrusive guy. I'll see if I can find that article online.
www.washingtonpost.com/local/dizzy-gillespie-thanksgiving/2020/11/25/b575bdb4-2f46-11eb-96c2-aac3f162215d_story.html
Yes! Gaucho is an amazing album, maybe my personal favorite of theirs just because of nostalgia reasons (not like I think it’s better than any of the others). I think you will really love it! The playing and lyrics are really great, one of their masterpieces
Ty Focus! Looking forward to more!
Do the title track “Gaucho” next. Such an amazing smooth song with the funniest lyrics I think I’ve ever heard throughout a song.
Love "Gaucho". The humor always puts a smile on my face every time. Agree, so smooth.
"We'll jog with show folk on the sand." LOL
Completely agree! I’ve had this since it’s release and Gaucho is still my favorite on the album. I also love Third World Man.
@@IDriveAnAudi Agreed. That guitar solo on “Third Word Man” is just so slick. Fits the song’s melody perfectly. Those guys are just incredibly creative. True genius.
@@mikewritz It’s a fantastic solo that has a certain mood to it. I’m a guitar player so can appreciate it for the superb technique and pacing let alone how it makes me feel.
One of their best, the backing singers in the live shows were fantastic. A very nice positive review JP.
Carolyn Leonhard has been with them for years...she is awesome
Great analysis of this song...you nailed it bro! STEELY DAN ...best studio musicians in the world.
You can easily research the meaning of this song. I believe the lyric "that love's not a game for three" is key. The first time I really heard this song I was in my twenties, driving home in the early morning after a night of partying with friends and it just hit right, it slayed me.
The drumming on the title track Gaucho is incredible. The late Jeff Porcaro puts a clinic on how to use ghost notes.
This is Purdue. Not Jeff
@@djimaging2 I am talking about the song Gaucho
As someone who grew up & spent most of my life in NYC, I always felt Steely Dan captured both the romantic & sarcastic sides of typical newyorkers.
Your reaction captures the feelings I had when I first popped this on the turntable, fresh from the record shop, in 1980. Three long years since Aja, and this lead track did not disappoint. The vocals, the horn arrangements, so smooth, so groovin’, so fine...
When they did this live in 93 (first tour in 19 years), Shoreline erupted. Euphoric.
And now that you’ve opened the Gaucho box, you have to chase down “The Second Arrangement.” The famous lost song. You can find it on YT.
I also bought this album, as soon as it came out. What a great follow up to Aja
Great song, you can't fault 'The Dan'. The stories of the lengths they go to to get their music, their way, are legendary. There's so many elements to this, and all pretty much flawless. A great tune, that slow groove with those underlying reggae-style chops on guitar, just beautiful. And the vocals, Don's unique voice, and delivery, magic. Musical storytelling at its best. I can't think of many other bands who can add such atmosphere to their songs as SD can.
In case you don’t know what “Santa Ana” wind is, it’ not any old wind, it’s blowing hard off the southern California desert. It will dry you out ! Great metaphor.
Ahh ty for that!
Now that you've begun this part of the journey : go directly to Glamour Profession - pretty sure you'll love it so much that you'll decide to do the entire album .
Donald Fagen doesn't like his singing voice, but I love it.
Steely Dan are on a completely different plateau; one of my favorite songs featuring Bernard Purdy, great reaction as usual, been waiting for this one for a while now !!!!
This is my favorite album by the DAN. Love your critiques of the music. Fun fact: As Seinfeld fans may know, the DAN is Jerry Seinfeld's favorite band and when he performed at MSG he insisted that only Steely Dan music would be heard in the lobby or whenever the crowd was waiting for Jerry. Genius can always recognise other geniuses.
Ty Jackson!
Steely Dan. Always good.
Thanks for the review.
Dang, everything Steely Dan does is great. I'm right with you--I recently checked out this album because Aja and Kid Charlemagne just leave me wanting more!
The lyrics caught my ear, especially "Tell me I'm the only one," since I was wondering what sort of reference to Babylon they were making. I just added a little comment about this on Genius Lyrics, because I'm fairly certain they're making a reference to things said about Babylon by the Prophet Isaiah. The chorus is of course referring to pursuing the illusion that ephemeral pleasures and beauty will last forever. But why "Babylon sisters"? Babylon was a city (cities were often referred to as feminine in those days) known for extreme decadence and for going out to consume all the surrounding nations. In Isaiah's last prophesy against Babylon (Is 47:7-8) it is written:
"You said, 'I shall be mistress for ever,'
So that you did not lay these things to heart
Or remember their end.
Now therefore hear this,
You lover of pleasures,
Who sit securely,
Who say in your heart,
*'I am, and there is no one besides me;*
I shall not sit as a widow
Or know the loss of children'..."
Just the most comprehensive review of any tune ever ! A Vivid and Articulate winner by JustJP !
Gaucho is a really sophisticated album. Don and Walter mixed the old 70's complex ideas with a new, futuristic and uncertain point of view, the golden 80's. The band went on a long hiatus after this. Still my favorite Steely Dan album to date.
(btw, cotton candy: cocaine)
Pretzel Logic and Countdown to Ecstasy are the best (IMHO 😏)
Really? I always thought "Cotton Candy" was a reference to underage girls. And continuing on with an illegal sexual relationship (ie; statutory rape) with these "Babylon Sisters" was not only "Playing With Fire" (You're gonna get burned) but wrecking yourself socially if you get caught ("As he watches his bridges burn.") Tell me what you think AliothSenator.
Tremendous You can sense musicians really enjoying what they're doing
Definitely having fun in the studio!
Great reaction, JP! I love this song and everything about it that you mention in your reaction. I can’t understand why someone would “thumbs down” any of your videos (at least without an explanation)
Haha thx Jay! Comes with the territory🤭
Yesterday morning first thing UA-cam recommended was your review of Mood for a Day, this morning its a Steely Dan piece... Great way to start the day... You should start a 'Mornings with Justin' show.
🤭
This might be jumping the gun as you've still got some Dan left, but when you've completed the catalog, you've got four extraordinary Donald Fagan solo (with a lot of help) albums that are just as good. And they're all "concept" albums.
Any Steely song with a prominent BASS CLARINET is a keeper. So derlicious.
This is a great song and seeing live was an absolute pleasure!!
Great song and groove from the Great Steely Dan ☝️ thanks for the reaction JP ☝️❤️
Yass! My favorite Steely Dan album. So excited you are exploring this album. I agree with you the electric piano is spot on...classic Steely Dan sound! A little side anecdote...I realized I made it in life when I was listening to this song cruising down the road at sunset in my new 1999 Pontiac grand prix...lol!
Tom Scott's LA Express played brass on several Joni Mitchell and Blues Brothers albums, a host of other great artists, Steely Dan's Aja and this album, too!
Thanks for relaxing Sunday morning classic.
You cannot go wrong with any song on this album.
Hope you had a nice Sunday!
It’s been a hot minute, since you’ve done Steely Dan. They are my all round favorite artists. You will love the whole album. Glad you are listening to them, on your own time, (not on the show) as well. The way you described their underhanded sarcasm and aloofness was brilliant. Love you ❤️
Also, in a documentary.......the back up singers were asked the meaning of Steely Dan songs. They replied “Steely Dan writes songs, about people, with Alternative lifestyles, and the seediness of L.A.”
Ty Mod!
Justin, I think all their albums leave you wanting more after listening. So true!
Haha yes!
I think that's true of my favourite album, Pretzel Logic, only two songs over 4 minutes. Short songs like Through with Buzz, Parker's Band, Barrytown and With a Gun. Even after listening to that album since it was released, l still love it, and each track makes you feel you want more.
@@keithjones6023 Pretzel Logic was my first Steely Dan album. I purchased after hearing "Rikki" on the radio based on how fantastic that song was constructed. I played that album over and over again and will always be my favorite for sentimental reasons. So many eclectic musical moments! Night by Night...OMG!. It's on my iPhone now....again for the 1000th time. Peace.
@@mikeloomis687 Pretzel Logic was my first Steely Dan album as well. I've got hundreds of albums, but that one is up there with the best. I was disappointed with the last couple of albums, particularly with Everything Must Go, maybe it's me but they seemed to be going for a more sophisticated sound, and it lacked the great melodies of the earlier stuff. Royal Scam, Countdown to Ecstasy and Aja are fantastic as well, but PL will always be the one!
Just so cool..........! Hope you can do some more Gaucho, however don’t pass on the last two albums, ‘Two against nature’ and ‘Everything must go’. for all its brilliance, Gaucho has a kind of world weary feel about it as if they left their enthusiasm and any brightness back in the 70s. ( not really surprising given all that was going on) however In the new albums in the 00’s the music and the lyrics were if anything, refreshed by the extended break and a little more upbeat if still as incisive and cynical.
That is one of my favorite Dan lyrics (admittedly there are many) 'The kid will live and learn as he watches his bridges burn from the point of no return.'
Yes this is my favorite Steely Dan album a great song this album was perfect after Asia it was the next logical step can’t wait for your enjoyment and love and reaction love you
I bought the vinyl LP of Gaucho back in 1980 and it still gets a regular listen, along with the entire catalog of Steely Dan. I can't name another sound that mystically fits with every day, month and year of the past 5 decades and still sounds crispy fresh and relevant, while still remaining in their time. I've tried to understand why and how they pull this off. Maybe it's the classy production, the fine musicianship, the lyrics or the variety of genre sounds they fill each album with and I've come to the conclusion that I still don't know or even care anymore.......and that suits me just fine.
I heard once, a contemporary jazz musician from the '50's say that (paraphrase) 'the style adds some sophistication to a bleak and broken time and place' ...............and maybe that's the style of Steely Dan, coz at their rock/country/pop core is pure jazz with a curiously clever wide appeal......that's art.
I think the best word to describe Fagen's vocal style is sardonic!
What are we doing ? I'm often working while listening to your channel. I discovered Steely Dan on your channel. Thanks for all these discoveries. I loved the groove on that one.
Awesome! Hope youre having a great day!
Great song. Rumour has it that this song was the reason they joined forces again in the mid 90ies. They wanted to hear how this song sounded live!
I get the same urban romantic sleazy feelings when i listen to Steely Dan that i get when i read a Charles Bukowski novel.
I love that you love your journey through the Steely Dan landscape. I have been a fan since the first album Can't Buy a Thrill in 1972. Frankly there have always been folks who just don't get Fagen and Becker and it is their loss. A fun suggestion of some really great funky, jazz, fusion that will blow your mind is Snarky Puppy Lingus. I know you won't be disappointed.
Ty Rodney! Lingus is a great song :D
Love Babylon Sisters and the Dan..
I’m impressed with your analysis and knowledge. 👍
Ty so much!
This is one that makes me wish I had a convertible with this emanating out of the speakers and into the universe.
Chuck Rainey and Bernard Purdie, bass drums respectively. I would highly recommend Michael Omartian's White Horse or Adam Again. another Steely Dan session guy. Although to be fair Omartian has several Grammy's of his OWN. He's not a big name guy. His voice is reminiscent of Peter Gabriel mixed with the progressive jazz/rock of the Dan. I think you'd like it. Just trying to keep great music alive.
Super smooth got this album the year it came out
Sunday morning coffee in the workshop, and I had no idea I needed a Purdy Shuffle to really get things moving.
Gaucho turned out fine, but its backstory is quite interesting.
So Larry Fine, so young.... Tell me I'm the only one.
So who else but Donald Fagen is gonna stick the word Kirschwasser in a song? Their brilliance and the way their music stands the test of time is really amazing. Patti Austin, one of the backup singers had a pretty good solo career BTW. You know you want to listen to the whole album, DOOOOOO IT! Enjoyed the review. 🔥
You are right.....Correct!!!! You got it!!!!
Please consider doing the whole album. It’s great. It’s really really great.
Hey Justin! Love it when you do the Dan! I wrote the following on another reaction to this song. I thought you might enjoy it.
Okay, so lyrical interpretation on this one gets to be a lot of fun. First, "Babylon by the bay" is another name for San Francisco, and San Fran is mentioned in the song, so, "Babylon sisters" is thought by many to be a pair of sisters from San Francisco, and a love triangle, hence the "love's not a game for three." Some have even suggested they might be twins. Others believe the Babylon Sisters are the two cities themselves of San Francisco and Los Angeles. Others still believe both to be true and Fagen meant Babylon Sisters to be a double entendre. That's my belief. Fagen really is a master, and it makes WAY more sense if he meant Babylon Sisters to be both the cities themselves, AND two ladies with whom he had 3 way.
The song opens, however, with a drive down Sunset Blvd. towards the ocean--one of the true delights to drive in L.A. or so my friends from there tell me. It's debated whether Fagen is talking about already being with one of the sisters? Or both? Is he about to have a menage-a-tois? "Close your eyes and you'll be there... It's everything they say, the end of a perfect day" suggests, IMO, that yes, he's about to have a three way with a couple of sisters from San Fran while the girls sing to him "tell me I'm the only one..."
Next he describes the events... "jog with show folk on the sand" is a reference to hanging out with the famous people in LA on the beach, drinking Kirschwasser, which is a clear, colorless cherry brandy, San Francisco Show and Tell is him showing off the two ladies/sisters from San Francisco. The next line "I should know by now it's just a spasm" refers to orgasm... and one he could just as easily have had with hookers in Tijuana because in both cases, there's a price to pay "it's cheap but it's not free." In TJ you paid cash. With this threesome, the payment comes in hurt feelings, a realization that he's "not what [he] used to be" and that love's not a game for three.
"My friends say no, don't go for that cotton candy" does not make sense to me as cocaine, especially not with the lines that follow. Instead, I believe "cotton candy" refers to "very sweet candy" in the form of young women--probably right in line with "Hey Nineteen." (It's worth noting Gaucho featured both THIS song AND "Hey Nineteen.") His friends say "no, dude... don't go for the young stuff! You're playing with fire if you do!" "The kid will live and learn as he watches his bridges burn" seems to me to be an obvious allusion to him messing around with women that young and how he'll have to learn that's not the best way to go. It's not politically correct today, but it's worth noting back in the 70s, relationships with girls in their mid teens was not nearly as frowned upon as it is today (Ringo Starr even did a song about a relationship with a 16 year old and how an older guy would be able to brag about it called "You're 16"), so it's possible the girls were maybe as young as 16 since that was the age of consent back then in many places.... That makes more sense to me especially when referring to "cotton candy" as I could EASILY see someone referring to 16 year old girls as Cotton Candy, and no offense Daniel, but 16 year olds are not really emotionally ready to be in relationships with people in their mid 20s to mid 30s--which is why being in such a relationship would be "playing with fire." Of course, the line "so fine so young" is also repeated throughout the song, so that may be just another clue.
Anyway, that's my take on it. I'm glad you got to this because the lyrics, to me, are just cryptic enough to be fun!
You know, I like you interpretation on this one! Nice work Art!
Art of Free Speech - I've read "your" interpretation somewhere else on the internet. I like it!
@@MissAstorDancer Yep. I wrote it on Dicon Dissecational Reactions (aka Daniel) reaction to this song. A lot of the individual things are scattered about the net. I just consolidated them.
@@ArtofFreeSpeech I don't remember seeing your comments on Daniel's channel, but I have done almost obsessive research on SD lyrics since the advent of the internet, so.....yeah. Anyway, I find I agree with "your" interpretation of this song!
I have always loved cryptic lyrics, and SD were masters at that!!!!
Back in 1964 when prog hadn’t been heard of a Scottish band called 1-2-3 played around various clubs and pubs and had some following. They started to explore the standard pop music of the time with superior playing and stretching out to make longer tracks. They moved to London and played the legendary Marquee Club where amongst others David Bowie really dug them but they had little success and I think might have made1 album which bombed. So they disbanded for a while but reformed and changed their name to Clouds. They signed to Island records and made two albums Watercolour Days and Scrapbook which were critical successes but didn’t sell. They finally drifted apart just as prog began to take off. Despite being managed by the same people as Jethro Tull and being on the legendary Island label whose roster was the finest in the UK they missed out really.
ua-cam.com/video/rpeBkw7tfb0/v-deo.html
Is a link to the first Clouds Album. I think they fell between pop and prog so were hard to classify. Anyway you can judge for yourself whether they were any good. Bear in mind, they were one of the first ever bands to play this type of music which had some virtuosity and interesting lyrics.
Incidentally if you get the chance, look up on Wiki Island Records, Harvest Records, Charisma Records and Vertigo Records. These labels had virtually every important band and artist in the late 60’s until late 70’s that existed in GB. Island, although no longer independent, still have had some of the best modern music too, Amy Winehouse is just one example.
Glamor profession is my favorite, I've loved that song since I was toddler
Really enjoy your Channel you do it right ...don't interrupt the song... and break it down nicely. One question did you take music theory in college... Or are you just that smart😉
Ty Jim! I know nothing formally about music; never had a class or lesson in my life lol
My dad was a high school band director so I grew up in a music family.... have a great love for music. But I really enjoy how you break things down you do a very good job a lot better than most of these idiots doing these videos LOL by the way do me a favor check out Dan Fogelberg and Little Feat you won't be disappointed. Take care and have a great holiday season
The Gaucho album, as a whole, hasn't as aged as well as other SD albums, save two songs," Time Out of Mind", and " Babylon Sisters". Lyrically, a warning about midlife crises, burning the candle at both ends, bittersweet nostalgia.( some say this is about a man trying to have two relationships, and is regretting doing so, fair interpretation). Musically, still fresh, part jazz, part blue eyed soul, a portion of R&B/Motown. Lovely.
Wonder how they know my name? Huh. LOL Actually, I have moved from the east coast to San Fran twice and lived there for a year each time. I love that you nailed the part about the dirtiness of the city (born and raised in Baltimore, but moved to the beach in DE. to raise my five sons). BUT am a city girl at heart and SF fulfilled that perfectly, which is why it's my moniker.
Gaucho has some of my favorite SD songs. Check out Glamour Profession. Babylon is one of the only SD songs without a guitar solo in it.
Great reaction. I had heard they redid the mix on this song dozens of times to get it all to sound right (pre-Pro Tools). The subdued, sparse opening, builds over the song, and at the end, its so full (and a good bit louder) than the beginning. Subtle details - the wind chimes that sneak into the mix right after they sing about the Santa Ana winds coming again, along with the swelling volume of the horns give it a 3D feel. Some people feel they got too slick, to "perfect" on this album, but it sounds great to me. Steely Dan has a very NY (east coast) identity, but on this album, it's more of a character study of late 70's Los Angeles.
The backstory for this album is worth looking into, it almost did not get made. The Dan took years to make it, seeking the ultimate perfection, multiple takes, changing musicians, etc. I also believe there is another album worth of material from the sessions that is on youtube (maybe a CD, don't know) of the outtakes that did not make it onto this album. I think there is another video on youtube of Bernard Purdy explaining the Purdy Shuffle and how the interview with him for this album went and how his shuffle was selected for Gaucho and Babylon sisters.
The intro isn't long, but they also don't hurry you through it.
Foreplay can be a good thang........
The outtro is almost 1 minute.
I don't know if the lyrics are meant as a blob-by-blow retelling of events so much as perhaps a "feeling" or "collage" of things. Both Becker and Fagen were English literature majors at Bard. Their lyrics feel like bits and pieces of a poetic and often times, dingy, landscape.
Purdie is fab on the drums with his unique, swaggering style and the wandering trumpet throughout, with its muted undercurrent, makes for a playful jubilance.
Finally, I've read by some that the back-up singers steal the show here (and to a LARGE degree they do) but I still think I'd call it a tie. Fagen's distinctive voice (underdog, lonely, yearning) stretches defiantly here, with its own smug charm.
Great observations, and beautifully stated! Steely Dan fans are the BEST!!!
Nice reaction. You hit everything. And I appreciate that you felt a little condescension from Fagen. I’ve felt it in many interviews. I’m kinda cool with it, but nobody needs to be like that. I get that he’s a genius, but he needs to relax into his “host body”
That song would be great when you walk in the night, in a city after a rainfall. I don't know why, it's just a feeling I have of the lights reflecting on the wet streets and puddles.
I 100% agree
Well you know Everything about Steely Dan is perfect.....no one complains about them......I am a little surprise that their album Aja is not in the Top 200 of the Billboard charts. Because among the young they are extremely popular.
My taste in music has changed. As a teen, I HATED Steely Dan! Now, LOVE it!
This is my favorite song they do. Drumming and backup singers put this one over the top!
👍🏻👍🏻
^this^
Seriously disliked Steely Dan in my teens.
Oy...
What a fool believes.
Classic track. Cool as the proverbial.
Try "Ruby Baby" from Donald Fagen's solo album (or the whole darn thing) The Nightfly. As I understand it, it was supposed to be a Steely Dan album but Walter Becker was involved in a serious car accident (be careful people!) so Donald had to finish it as a solo effort.
And if you haven't reacted to Toto yet then what the H*ll! (LOL). They were among the best studio musicians of the 70' and 80's (members played on hundreds of albums) and all were highly regarded and respected. Toto IV is one of the best albums ever. Rosanna (about Steve Lukathers ex-girlfriend Rosanna Arquette) and Africa being the two main numbers on the album. Great guitar solo's by Steve Lukather on Rosanna. You must hear them! Do it! Do it now! O.K. I got a little carried away.
Just discovered your channel. Great content.
You smiled through the whole song did my heart good love you
Possibly my favorite SD song.
Spot on about Steely Dan. The musicians in the band are carefully picked and it results in exemplary rock/jazz sound unmatched by anyone else. If you want to continue with Steely Dan, I'll recommend "Royal Scam Album; Title track, Kid Charlemagne, Caves of Altamira, and Haitian Divorce are all pearls!
Ty! Ive done Kid Charlemagne 😃
Great review JP.
Tom Scott, Randy Becker, And Bernard Purdy are legends!Cool slower style!👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Babylon Sisters
Arranged By [Horns] - Rob Mounsey
Backing Vocals [Backup] - Diva Grey*, Gordon Grody, Lani Groves, Leslie Miller, Patti Austin, Toni Wine
Bass - Chuck Rainey
Bass Clarinet - George Marge, Walter Kane*
Drums - Bernard Purdie
Electric Piano, Clavinet - Don Grolnick
Guitar - Steve Khan
Percussion - Crusher Bennett*
Tenor Saxophone, Alto Saxophone, Clarinet - Tom Scott
Trumpet, Flugelhorn - Randy Brecker
Great review as always. Always enjoy your insights. For all the polish and sophistication of Gaucho, for me, The Dan are starting to get over ripe, post-Aja (their zenith) like an apple that’s not quite crisp enough anymore. Earlier albums, maybe Pretzel Logic, have more bite imho.
I've always thought that Steely Dan like some other great bands, recorded their best stuff on the early albums. My favourite album of theirs has always been Pretzel Logic, l love it for the short snappy songs which make you want more. Just listen to Through With Buzz and the superb With a Gun, well, say no more!
Frisco has been called Babylon-by-the-Sea ! Another insightful review though much surprised you did not recognize that unmistakable Purdie Shuffle lol
Justin - GIMME GREEN EAR RINGS review. Sorry for yelling. Just beyond beyond... love your channel!
Beautiful reaction and analysis. You gotta do Haitian Divorce. You will love it.
Like Hemingway, Fagan would write and rewrite endings hundreds of times to get it perfect. This could be Fagen's Old Man and The Sea. What perfection and grace. Right up there with Deacon Blues and Glamour Profession.
It's been a long time for me cause I bought the album the day it came out. In order to add to my extensive mky collection of records(Not MP3 digital re-re-compressed recordings)
A great review! Thanks
Bernard 'The Pocket' Purdy owns this song.
The song is crammed with a tawdry brand of romance - maybe a commercial dimension here.
I've been waiting an age for you to get around to this one as I knew you love Bernard Purdie.
It doesn't get any better than Steely Dan and a cup of Wawa coffee.
Great choicesA
Walter was not as involved here because he was in the hospital and even though he was in communication with Donald who was in the studio the heavy load was on Donald and therefore lacked the same energy.
Eh?!
Oh well,no pleasing some people.
Its an outstandingly perfect album and one i know every note and nuance,same with all their albums.
It is an okay album that is spotty at best and the majority of Steely Dan fans and the critics agree with me. Part of the reason is that Donald worked on most of this album without Walter who was recuperating in the hospital when the album was being produced and that is a fact! I stil like some tunes though it just does not live up to their previous monumental albums!❤️☮️
@@joelliebler5690
One thing that really bothers me about SD fans is that everyone is expert. I don’t give a foggy bog what critics and some fans think. Nobody is right, nobody’s wrong. Just simma down na.
@@-davidolivares YES, David!!! Once again - what YOU said!!!