Saturday, November 24, 2012

Steely Dan

It's been some time since I've posted any Classic Rock, so figured I'd sneak some in here between the weird stuff. Steely Dan were one of the more successful rock group of the 70's, churning out what seemed to be hit after hit. Comprised of the duo Walter Becker and Donald Fagen, Steely Dan blended Rock with elements of pop, jazz, R&B and funk to create their sound. Formed in 71, the band did toured for a few years before becoming strictly a studio band. The band split up in 81 and eventually reunited in 93. During the time both Fagen and Becker stayed low key in the music business. While the band has been back together for sometime, Fagen has maintained a solo career that has produced some solid albums. 'A Decade Of Steely Dan' captures the magic of the band in their prime. This is the definitive starting point for anyone new to this band. The smart and witty listener will surely enjoy this collection.

Steely Dan was another one of those bands that seemed to be always playing when I was growing up. 'Aja' seemed to be a staple in the house for years. 'Reelin' In The Years' still remains a favorite as well, something about the guitar work on that track. Steely Dan for me has always be the smart persons choice in music. The writing has always been top notch as well as the borderline obsession with getting the perfect sound in the studio. The band once used 40 different studio musicians to make a record, yeah that's not obsessive. Still it seems to be the prefect fit when you're feeling smart.

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