Classical Composer Reacts to Aja (Steely Dan) | The Daily Doug (Episode 246)

#SteelyDan #Aja #SteelyDanReaction
In this episode of #TheDailyDoug, I'm listening to Aja by Steely Dan. It's been years since I heard this tune, and it is just as awesome and fun a listen as I remembered...especially the dual drum solos near the end of the track. I hope you enjoy this first entry by Steely Dan on the channel as much as I did.
Reference Video: • Steely Dan - Aja
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[@Keith_KC8TCQ]

The entire Aja album is epic.

[@MrBruinman86]

Same with The Royal Scam. Both albums are top notch.

[@markcox2663]

Great record love all the songs and its production cant be beat, but my favorite SD record is Can't Buy a Thrill

[@Keith_KC8TCQ]

@@markcox2663 to be honest, I don't think they put out a bad album.

[@ChuckvdL]

@@Keith_KC8TCQ yep, at least the first 6 of 7 were solid. They were the soundtrack of my high school years.

[@Keith_KC8TCQ]

@@ChuckvdL Bands like Steely Dan, Yes, Genesis, Camel, ELP, King Crimson and Moody Blues were what got me so deeply into music as not just something for background noise, but for serious listening. They also had huge impact on my playing, as a drummer when playing original songs with different local bands, I started paying more attention to the song as a whole, and rather than trying to see how many hits I could get into a song just to show that I could play, I started looking at the dynamics of the song, the mood, the lyrical content, the subject matter....

[@nrich5127]

How good is/was Steely Dan ... you can listen to a tune of theirs 44 years later and still be blown away by it's sophistication.

[@chuck482]

Mostly because of them and who they were. The rest explained by the sad fact that people like them are not "allowed" to exist anymore to entertain the planet. We can thank mostly stupidity, and some amount of greed and thievery.

[@duanewilson3941]

You got that right, they're in a class all by themselves.

[@ec1628]

I teach sophomores. I play all types music between classes. I played Home at Last a few times last month. Numerous kids shazamed or asked me what was the name of the song. Kids born in 2006 are loving this music. That speaks volumes. Good music transcends generations.

[@rubbersole79]

Steely Dan; You're favorite bands favorite band.

[@ssgwright7419]

Facts!!

[@pthaynes]

Fagen doesn't have the best voice, but he has the perfect voice for Steely Dan.

[@bjornnordstrom]

Ha-ha, exactly, there is nothing exceptional about it, but still so cool!

[@EdDunkle]

Yeah, honestly, Fagen's voice was the weak link. But still a great band.

[@Mouser21]

I wouldn’t say weak link at all..just as unique as the band themselves

[@drdalewisely]

Perfectly put. He was famously reluctant to take on vocals. But now, hearing any other voice singing these songs is unthinkable to me.

[@christianthomassen8420]

Amazing and very unique voice

[@bmac1205]

This song exposed many people to jazz without knowing they were exposed to jazz

[@stevesincock941]

Very true

[@heathercollins4432]

And yet "Google" has it listed as "Yacht rock.." WTF???!!!!!

[@321snoot]

@@heathercollins4432 Huh?!? That the f_ck is Yacht Rock? Geez...some non-musician probably gave it that name, or some empty suit in the music business who also knows nothing about music. What a world.

[@heathercollins4432]

@@321snoot - Sirius XM runs a channel in summer called "Yacht Rock Radio" Seriously..you can't make this stuff up... although to their credit, they do play lots of Steely Dan...lol

[@321snoot]

@@heathercollins4432 "Yacht Rock Radio", eh? Oh, boy. Well, somebody made it up (!?), but I'm glad it wasn't me! (I'd be embarrassed to take credit!) Thanks for the info, Heather. Man, I'm getting old (63). There's so much stupid sh_t these days, sometimes I feel like I'm on another planet.

[@kristdodaro7926]

Fact: Stevie Gadd laid the drums down in one take. Just let that sink in … one take, done. Insane.

[@Ironmaidenrules1]

Never knew that! But also not surprised 😂. What a masterful player.

[@Bryman1970]

I also remember them saying that Steve wasnt even the original drummer on this one. He was hanging around and they just decided to have him try out a take.

[@peterh1353]

@@Bryman1970 Don't agree. They tried out several drummers and musicians on most of the tracks. There is a video available on KZbin about making the album. Time when music was making big bucks and you could hire musicians by the day for peanuts.

[@Fnberg744]

It was Chevy Chase maaan

[@lesliesterling826]

it was two takes, but he played it almost exactly the same way the second time, including a little place where he hits the drumsticks against each other that Fagen thought was a mistake the first time!

[@jonathanhenderson9422]

IMO Steely Dan are the pinnacle of what I'd call "accessible sophistication." They consistently made music that was catchy, groovy, and very easy to listen to, which is why they achieved mainstream success and popularity; but they also made quite sophisticated music that appealed to musicians and aficionados. It's remarkable how well and seamlessly they mixed pop, jazz, blues, rock, and R&B. Aja might be their masterpiece, but really their entire discography is stellar without any real weak links. Despite their success I still feel like they're kind of underrated, perhaps because so many music critics hated them back in the day so they were never really "hip." I don't know, but they're rarely mentioned in the same breath as other 70s titans like Led Zeppelin, Queen, Pink Floyd, etc., but I think they're very much in that same class.

[@TheLochs]

I absolutely agree. My favorite band ever. And I'm a musician.

[@howardstenlund2324]

That's because Steely Dan is in a class by themselves.

[@McDoucheVonDouche]

My litmus test for an album is simple. Do I want to skip any of the songs? With Steely Dan, I can't find any song I would skip in the entire discography. You can't say that about many bands.

[@rubicon-oh9km]

@@McDoucheVonDouche Pink Floyd: Between Meddle and Animals, never even think of skipping a track. That's four albums worth of perfection. Five if you count Obscured By Clouds.

[@jonathanhenderson9422]

@@McDoucheVonDouche I'm a big fan of listening to albums all the way through in general. It's actually rare I skip songs for bands/artists I really like, though there are a few bands/artists where I'm content with making playlists of my favorite songs.

[@AudiophileTubes]

Steely Dan = CHILLS. Their music often bring me to tears, it's so perfect and gorgeous!

[@alexanderwes5204]

I recognize that and totally agree!

[@RoeLuv1]

If in the right headspace, Deacon Blues can bring tears to my eyes it’s so beautiful

[@jsnugbear]

Tears of joy for me too

[@Mouser21]

And I also…

[@OldassBoomer]

It’s beauty

[@billbrandine5857]

I've heard this 1,000 times...I'm still amazed. Musical genius.

[@tswrench]

Everything Steely Dan had put out up to that point carried with it an air of greatness or mastery--their albums never disappointed. But, aja--whoa! Aja is sublime, a quantum leap where it seemed none could be made. I've listened to aja hundreds of times, and it still moves me in much the same way as it did in '77, when I rushed home on my bicycle with a copy purchased from Tower Records, unwrapped the vinyl, and began a lifelong reverence and awe fest for how astonishingly great a work it truly is.

[@RushTrader]

It's nice to see Steely Dan's hard work and attention to detail still being analyzed and appreciated so many decades later by music lovers. Thanks for this reaction!

[@chuck482]

Commentary about this band will be going on well after we are all dead.

[@RushTrader]

@@chuck482 Yes and talented musicians will always perform it as we've done with Beethoven, Bach and all other timeless classics.

[@WhizMitchell]

And by all rights it should be...this song and album is sonically perfect.

[@davidkirby8236]

The entire LP is damn near perfect...but this tune, at once defiantly formless and utterly cohesive, is an absolute miracle.

[@mrreemann3739]

When Wayne Shorter snarls as Steve Gadd's solo builds it's pure synchronous improvisation.

[@fayesouthall6604]

My favourite part of it. I heard this record when I was about 13 and it blew my mind. Love jazz as a result!

[@pepebotijo8]

It doesn´t matter the musical genre, this is one of the best albums ever recorded.

[@georgeerhard1949]

In a hundred years "Aja" will be considered a classical composition in and of itself.

[@SGtem]

I don’t know if pop music will ever reach this level of musicianship ever!!!

[@fayesouthall6604]

Ironically I first heard Steely Dan on a pop station in the early 1980’s. Now it is on Pop, jazz and rock stations 😊

[@johncourtright1632]

I once heard Steely Dan in concert play every song on this album from start to finish. A-side. Intermission. B-side. Done. Amazing! Hypnotizing! Perfect!

[@walterstevens3874]

The perfect concert!

[@carolschneider7830]

Me too!! Perfect is right...

[@brianruppert1071]

Geez, you are SO fortunate. Wow.

[@dr.josephe.margaroneiiidds6844]

Me too. They had several evenings at the Beacon Theater in NYC, doing a different album start to finish each evening. Truly amazing!

[@johncourtright1632]

@@dr.josephe.margaroneiiidds6844 Awesome! When I saw them perform Aja, it was at Ravinia Festival, in Highland Park, IL (25 miles north of Chicago). Delightful!

[@rickpaul4216]

When Steve Gadd slaps his sticks together at the end of the first drum break surprises me every time. When he goes to the ride at the end it puts a smile on my face. God this is good.

[@WhizMitchell]

I took that as an heir of confidence from him....like, he's telling Becker and Fagen : "Yo, I got this...piece o' cake!"

[@uncleremus5046]

The Dan is the best of the best. If the Dan picked you to play you were simply an upper tier studio ace!

[@83169]

Kind of like a gig with Frank Zappa or Stevie Wonder; hacks would be sorted out pretty quickly...

[@uncleremus5046]

@@83169 For Sure!!

[@gsprings43]

@@83169 you could add james brown to that,i heard he would fine band members if they missed a note

[@Fnberg744]

A banyan tree is equally as quirky as the Dan

[@cindynull6362]

Im currently 63....Aja has always been my favorite album I ever purchased. Still listen to Steely Dan to this day.

[@manifestgtr]

Aja is *easily* my favorite Steely Dan cut…it’s progressive and jazzy but relaxing and trippy. Michael O’s piano is divine, Gadd’s drumming defies criticism, Larry and Wayne are equally brilliant…marimbas and traffic whistles. It’s just a masterpiece from start to finish.

[@fayesouthall6604]

Hard agree. It’s my favourite steely Dan song of all time

[@timoseppa9124]

One of the best albums ever. I doubt you'll go there, but Fagen's Nightfly record has some great songs. Thought to be a top album from an audiophile perspective as well.

[@johnhughes3214]

Yes. IGY, please.

[@TheLochs]

Nightly is awesome, great record

[@williamtaylor506]

I second that; The Nightfly is arguably the best concept album of all time.

[@chuck482]

Thank you for reminding me I need to listen to this album. I remember reading about it when it came out.

[@murraywestenskow2896]

@@johnhughes3214 - such a great song - I put it on loop while I work. Helps me concentrate.

[@vangledosh]

Steely Dan were obsessed with production quality and mastering, this album clearly shows that. Under a quality audio setup, it sounds phenomenal.

[@markkelly3859]

that's why if you saw them in a place with lousy acoustics, it just wasn't the same. Fagan once commented on venues that "turn music into garbage."

[@johnryan3913]

That is fine but this is what makes it ear candy more than great music. Coltrane is great music. Or the Stones. Who names themselves after a dildo?

[@markkelly3859]

@@johnryan3913 Who cares?

[@robertweilmuenster1178]

There's perfection.... and then there's Steely Dan.....

[@bmac1205]

Wayne shorter cofounding member of weather report...any WR album

[@huron531]

It blows me away to listen to a person who really understands the intricacies of music to be awed by this music. The praise that this album has received has been validated by many over the last 45 years.

[@cyclopsmovies]

So glad to see you do some Steely Dan, Doug! There's no other band like this.

[@stanleymasterson1135]

I laughed when he said "These guys really are pros" LOL.... Buddy, youre listening the the single GREATEST band EVER. Steely Dan is WORSHIPED by all of the greatest artists. No one is on their level

[@bobsbigboy_]

theres only one problem. YES existed

[@stanleymasterson1135]

@@bobsbigboy_ YES was a great band, I had all their albums in the 7'0's and 80's, but they were nowhere near the same league as Steely Dan. The saying is true... "Steely Dan is your favorite band's favorite band"

[@liontone]

You and Beato have the 2 best analysis pages I've seen. Great stuff. The MIXING is amazing on AJA. Would love to see you do Yes' Endless Dream. :)

[@Paulnap]

With all respect, I think RB is more engaging. He talks about production, time signatures, emulates instrumentation playing it himself, analize isolated tracks back to back and at the same time keeping it simple for non-musician people. Both are amazing though.

[@cozmicpfunk]

Interesting, I like them both for different reasons. DD is super friendly to the viewer as if I was sitting in the room with him (being in his home helps). Really only discuses the MUSIC itself which is very refreshing not having other commentary to distract. Appreciate that Dr. Doug approaches a true Reaction where RB has heard everything well before hand (except for the Spotify 10 pop lists etc.) I can't compare both of them, and each are masters and pros in their own. Having choices of Apples and Oranges is just great. Love Dr. Doug- thanks for the great videos

[@rogerhennie8939]

Why doesn't anyone react to Focus? Focus 3 or Hamburger Concerto.

[@liontone]

@@cozmicpfunk I love them both. I'm a lifelong musician, 24 years professional. I really enjoy their takes. DD, Beato, Jens Larson, and Tim Pierce. My 4 for musical stuff. Jens and Tim are more guitar centric.

[@EdDunkle]

Beato is interesting and knows a ton, but his overall taste in music is so conservative. On the other hand, The Daily Doug has expansive tastes.

[@davidgranger6617]

SICK drum break/solo! Rick Beato called it the drum solo that changed popular music.

[@jamesrawlins735]

Gadd is such a giant. Consider that he came up with the drum part on Paul Simon's Late in the Evening in one take. No wonder they said Gadd is God.

[@josephgallagher945]

Steely Dan got me into jazz. I was drawn to them by their rock songs, but this album blew me away. This song especially.

[@ColinJarrett]

Dan is a gateway drug.

[@nunwalksinabar]

Thanks for the reaction. This album is a Masterclass in music. The track Black Cow has a special place in my heart.

[@vincentgoupil180]

When Doug recited "When all my dime dancing is though I run to you" I though of 'Black Cow'. Ah, unrequited love. :)

[@robthomson916]

Absolutely love Steely Dan, simply brilliant. There are some heavy cats on this song. Great stuff, love the channel.

[@livenhfree]

Anyone catch the one moment when Gadd clicks the drumsticks together? ;-)

[@rwefree9469]

Yes and obviously intentional.

[@mattzobian]

At 9:42

[@mrtyreus0]

I had the opportunity to play with a briefly existent Steely Dan cover band on keys. We played Live in America in it's entirety. Learning the tunes mostly by ear, and playing them with well educated musicians is on my top 5 gig experiences. Wish we had kept going. I learned more preparing for that band than little else. Also, from what I recall your analysis is absolutely spot on. If I had your ears it would have saved me so much time 🤣 I so appreciate what you do and what you share. I live for these in depth harmonic reactions.

[@mikestillwagon5675]

I had a friend who did that too. The band was called The Steely Damned.

[@Doug.Helvering]

The voicings are where they make their money…quite difficult to pick up by ear.

[@roebuckmckinney]

@@Doug.Helvering Fagan gave a great deal of credit to Victor Feldman for his understanding of chord voicings. As you mentioned, he's on this track (I think on percussion, maybe keys as well) and he's also the only musician other than Fagan and Becker to play on every (classic) Steely Dan album.

[@chuck482]

As an experienced musician with a lotta time under my belt, their damned voicings are super advanced for both voices and instruments. I can't imagine someone saying to me "you're replacing so and so in a week".

[@mattrussillo4587]

FAKE.

[@witzendoz]

I was a late listener to steely dan, this was the track that got me, never tire of listening to it. The album is also one of the best recordings you will ever hear

[@72seeker72]

Brilliant! Genius! Amazing! Gorgeous! You name it.

[@denizinan979]

I predict, this album will admired and analyzed for its uniqueness forty years from now.

[@markhammer643]

The brilliance of the tune and production is how it manages tension and release. The drum solo over a held chord and unusual beat-pattern is part of what establishes the tension, and after the first solo there is an almost palpable exhale after it has built and built and built over a near stubborn chord they hang onto like a terrier with a rat in its mouth. The tune holds up over 40 years later because it is so well thought-out, planned-out, and of course performed. There are little things that some musicians do to establish tension, that we tend to overlook. I'm quite fond of slide guitar player Derek Trucks. There is a thing he does to insert tension into his playing where he gently glisses his slide downwards on the lower strings, prior to a more emphatic phrase, in a way that sonically mimics the deep inhale an operatic or gospel singer might have, prior to a vocal crescendo. What he follows with is always exciting in itself, but the "slide inhale" makes it seem moreso. I don't know what other instruments could do to achieve a similar effect. Solo begins around the 5:00 mark here but starts to build more seriously around 6:30. kzbin.info/www/bejne/bHjOlXafpth5i6s Enjoy.

[@PaulChillage]

You are the Hammer we've been waiting for. Bravo Mark!

[@loonytunzz]

I have always regarded this album as SONIC PERFECTION in every way. the musicianship is second to none and the level of production is IMHO BRILLIANT!!!!

[@Charlesdeluca]

RIP Walter Carl Becker, may your work be appreciated 4ever

[@bmac1205]

Doug, ​Anything with Wayne Shorter, Larry Carlton or Steve Gadd is worth exploring....hint, hint, hint..

[@chuck482]

I will admit, I don;t absolutely love ALL projects those cats did. But each one of them is priceless on their own.

[@murraywestenskow2896]

Don't forget Bernard Purdy.

[@LucilleBrawl17]

Yes...

[@frankmoscarelljr4624]

Absolutely correct 😎👍

[@seorsamaclately4294]

It's one of my favourite bands since the 1970s when "Ricky don't lose that number" came out. Steely Dan is a genre of its own.

[@sjd5750]

Never get tired of SD, or Steve Gadd..Gadd has been my favorite drummer for about 40 yrs. now..There are/were a lot of great ones along the way, but he's just a few notches above everyone else, imho...You said it..Tasteful, is the best word to describe SD's music...Thanks for the great review.

[@markmorningstar5374]

Most definitely for SD and Steve Gadd. Gadd played with Bob James and Chick Corea on the Maynard Ferguson album "Primal Scream", especially on Cheshire Cat Walk (lots of Chick Corea and Bob James influence with synths) and that special Steve Gadd groove. Funky Fusion Fantastic! kzbin.info/www/bejne/qHu3Y398jMeFb8U

[@reXdownhamOG]

Steely Dan is where perfection goes to recalibrate.

[@carolschneider7830]

Have been a Dan Fan for nearly 40 years - and haven't missed a tour in over 30 years. When I go - am having AJA played at my funeral (not for a while, I hope). Their first tour after Walter's death left me a little sad as their mojo seemed to be missing - but saw them again last week in Stamford and WOW! Back on form and better than ever - despite the fact that, with the exception of their excellent new, young guitarist (I missed his name), they are all old enough for Social Security! The Dan rules. Then, now and always.

[@tamarakonczal6350]

I remember listening to this album while I was doing homework when I was a senior in high school. The sophistication, indeed. I know there's a lot of good music these days but Steely Dan's Aja and indeed so much of the music from that era stands alone.

[@al1665]

I remember listening to this album in a walkman while jogging in my first year of college. The sophistication.

[@downesdesign]

It makes me so happy to know there are others out there that appreciate these guys as much as I do. I don't have the formal training to follow all the music theory, but my ear is good, and I love listening enthusiasts with more knowledge break these tracks down and showcase the brilliance of these musicians. Thanks for making the effort.

[@cometogether999]

There you go, Doug. This is the stuff. Beautifully crafted song. Just pure ear candy.

[@leomilani_gtr]

I've been asking Steely Dan forever!! TKS!! Next time You can analyze Glamour Profession and its weirdest of all harmony!

[@thembill8246]

Fun fact: the album art for Aja was designed by comedian Phil Hartman while he was in art school. (Edit: apparently he did not.)

[@rsm3t]

Didn't know that. I did know that Becker and Fagen were in a band at Bard College with Chevy Chase on drums.

[@dshand9641]

Never heard of him. NEXT!

[@thembill8246]

@@dshand9641 The voice of Troy McClure on The Simpsons, among many others. He was also on SNL in the '90s, and Newsradio. Had he not been horribly murdered in 1998, he was also supposed to voice Zapp Brannigan. RIP, you magnificent bastard.

[@dshand9641]

@@thembill8246 yes I’m sorry that was my attempt at a tribute of his SNL Sinatra character

[@thembill8246]

@@dshand9641 oh Jesus. You knew him even better. I haven't thought about that in a very very long time

[@tonyrogers5709]

The incomparable Steve Gadd on drums. He continues to be one of the most influential drummers of all time. His drum pattern at the beginning of Paul Simon’s 50 Ways to Leave Your Lover, confounds drummers to this day!

[@jamesrawlins735]

Plus coming up with the drum part on Late in the Evening in one take.

[@ikkenhisatsu7170]

The way Steely Dan put their songs together, using whatever where the best musicians for each song turned out to be, is why they are the best American supergroup ever - way out of the Eagles' league. The Dan never did a bad track - let alone a bad record. RIP, Mr. Walter Becker.

[@tonyefc8423]

I admire that you can break down such a piece of musical perfection, like "aja". To write, and record a tune this good, takes the mind of a genius, in my opinion. God bless Donald Fagen, Walter Becker and all the wonderful session players who shared the fantastic skills with us on this mind blowing album.

[@mdhj67]

When this album was released I heard this song constantly. This was the first time I ever HEARD it. Thank you.

[@katyland1015]

Excellent analysis of one of the greatest recordings of all time. Thank you Doug!

[@Johnmtankard]

You're the man, dude. I really enjoyed watching you!

[@inspectorfreakafunk1448]

I know this video may not get as many views as the more metal oriented videos, but I can't tell you how MUCH I've been waiting for you to make a Steely Dan video! Every time you say how derivative is a chord progression I begged for you to analyse Steely Dan. Thrilled to see how much you truly enjoy this band. A band that, like you said, are on WHOLE other level in comparison with other rock bands. Looking forward for the next Steely Dan video

[@chrisnolte2277]

Btw… Gadd as a jazz phenomenon is his real calling. Gadd Gang, and awesome stuff with Richard Tee immediately comes to mind! Shorter was integral to Weather Report!

[@GeosterTrow]

Super stuff. I have loved this since its release. Thanks for your input Doug.

[@fords_nothere_100]

Wonderful reaction, such genuine appreciation for a classic. I've heard this tune a hundred times and never, until now, noticed the synths floating over Gadd's final, overwhelming solo. Thank you Doug!

[@stevend984]

RIP Walter! SD was a major influence on me as a musician. There'll never be another like them. Real music lasts forever!

[@PhillipLandmeier]

Hahaha. This is my favorite Dan tune. It encompasses everything they were about in one tune. And if it seems beyond you, don't feel bad. This is fine-tuned sophistication, almost inscrutable, and incredibly beautiful. That mysterious chord that puzzles you and most of us is, I believe, a minor 7 flatted 5. Steely Dan is so unique because they used whatever technique or chord was required to create the emotional sense they wanted, regardless of musical norms or rules about staying within modes. Whatever harmonic structure that created the desired effect on your nervous system is what they used for each note. Too hell with modes and rules. All music is a manipulation of your nervous system. Fagen and Becker did "nothing more" than use the tool of music to create exactly the effect they wished in the listener in every beat of the tune. This is why it's so delicious to listen to.

[@ARCADEBLOWTORCH]

You nailed it totally!!!

[@thormusique]

Excellent video, thanks! This is an incredible, genre-bending album, all of which is wonderful. And the tune "Aja" still gives me chills when I hear it. Isn't it amazing that it still sounds today as if it was just made yesterday? Cheers!

[@bernardoconnor1502]

I just came across your channel today and watched about a half dozen of your videos during lunch. I've subscribed and am looking forward to the Daily Dougs.

[@darkmagus64]

This music is next level. It’s really great listen with your ears so I know what the musicians are doing. Than you, it was a joy. Maybe you could consider giving Joni Mitchell a reaction at some point in the future.

[@TheDivayenta]

The Hejira album and the live Shadows and Light album with Jaco Pastorius and Pat Metheny would be great! And “ Help Me” just by itself!

[@darkmagus64]

@@TheDivayenta yes. I was listening to that album yesterday. It so good that you can just feel yourself going on a journey, in spirit, with Joni. I was trying to think of a song to suggest but they’re all so good.

[@TheDivayenta]

@@darkmagus64 totally agree! I love “ Coyote” too- not sure if it’s on either of those albums I mentioned. She is a musical genius IMO.

[@darkmagus64]

@@TheDivayenta Coyote is on Hejira and I’ve seen it live on KZbin with Pat Matheny and Jaco Pastorius.

[@TheDivayenta]

@@darkmagus64 I’ll check it out!!!!

[@stevemd6488]

Masters of tension and release. The listener is never led astray or questioning the direction of the song. Applies to their entire catalogue from CBAT to Gaucho. Two of the best, if not the best, composers of our time.

[@fabtone1]

weeeeeee LOVE your program , just love it !!

[@AndyB59]

I love watching you getting so much out of music and giving me new insights into my favourites. This is at the top of my favourites (along with any SD tracks)

[@richardheathcock2346]

A very astute and sympathetic appraisal with appropriate amazement and stank face! They were the masters of the jazz/rock/pop/funk fusion. A lot of music owes them a debt of gratitude for their daring and production aesthetic

[@ashenden1928]

Gracias Doug, Steely Dan fue uno de mis grupos favoritos. Aja es otra canción sobresaliente del gran repertorio de este grupo extremadamente talentoso. Gracias nuevamente por ofrecerme la oportunidad de revistar esta canción y ayudarme a entender mejor su complejidad y sofisticación.

[@russelljackman1413]

Great vid, Doug! I have loved Steely Dan since their beginning. They were always so unique, so upbeat, so "feel good." Whenever I go on a road trip, their music accompanies me. It always makes a bad day, good, and a good day, just that much better! It's always nice to listen to them with someone who TRULY appreciates what they do, and how well they do it! Thanks again!

[@txtamaman]

Love your take on all of the music on your channel...

[@smitlag]

It amazes me how far we have drifted away as a society in terms of what people can digest musically in popular music. We are lucky today to hear 4-5 chords in any pop tune. Steely Dan was the apex of sophisticated music that could be heard on regular radio stations. There was still amazing prog going on but generally it never made it on air due to time constraints.

[@stevesincock941]

Indeed. Its impossible to conceive now that this music was popular. The human race has regressed profoundly over many years. Infantalism is everywhere.

[@crusheverything4449]

@@stevesincock941 - Technology has made everyone and their dog a “musician”. In the Dan’s day, you actually had to have some chops to get a label or studio to back you and cover the cost of recording, manufacturing, distribution, etc. I think they had just enough technology in the 70s to make perfect music, which is partly why that stuff holds up so well today. Playing real instruments live in a studio was a huge part of capturing a vibe, too. There are some artists taking that analog approach these days and it shows in the final product.

[@DrewHannush]

When I was in school learning audio engineering, I suggested we study this track. It is absolutely a sonic dream - especially that drum solo. Steely Dan said this was a collection of fragments of songs they pulled together.

[@SuSiMa1lu]

There is a roomful of hands when Steve Gadd plays. Immaculate in deed. There are many to imitate but no other to create. Thank you Steve!

[@chuck482]

Doug, found you about 3 months ago, you're no joke. You've made some pretty astute comments here about their tricky chord movements. I kinda knew for years how these movements were insane and wonderful, but you've helped with understanding this. Kudos to you, sir!

[@DougRawady]

Nice reaction, Doug. You may already know this, but one of the hallmarks of Steely Dan's sound is the extensive use of the Mu Major (or add 2) chord. It's prominently featured in Aja and has a lot to do with the song's unique sound and harmonic complexity.

[@johnrpizzaguy]

Growing up in the San Fernando valley in LA as a studio rat I went to school with the late great Victor Feldman’s 3 sons and had the pleasure of working with a lot of the musicians with Steely Dan credits later on in my career. Much respect to those guys they are truly the best. Great video thank you Doug and listen to Mr Feldmans solo on Black Cow it’s so very tasty.

[@jdb8171]

Thank you SO MUCH for doing this.

[@elizabethmondulick8209]

Been a lifelong fan of Steely Dan. Your post is timely - I just pulled this album up for a listen this past week for the first time in years. Aja was released when I was in high school and remains a personal favorite along with Gaucho (which would be great to hear you play here also). Loved hearing you break it down!

[@heathercollins4432]

One of the most perfect songs ever written/performed/ recorded/ Everything about it is pristine....

[@nearlysteviedan1275]

I've been playing in a Steely Dan "tribute band" , (Nearly Dan) in the UK for over 20years. Of all the songs we play, this one caused the most puzzling head scratches.. ! Thanks for the insight Doug

[@drgruber57]

Good for you, man! Musicianship!

[@davemilnes1147]

"Nearly Dan" ! Fabulous

[@nearlysteviedan1275]

@@davemilnes1147 cheers Dave

[@alanplom8909]

I’ve only just found this analysis of Aja, and it crossed my mind how could anyone fathom out what chords they were playing! Really looking forward to seeing you / Nearly Dan at The Stables Milton Keynes (England) later this year Stevie. @NearlyStevieDan1275 Having heard this in depth dissection, my respect and admiration for the quality show you guys put on to recreate the original tunes has just gone through the roof. This music is the classical music of our generation that will be played for Centuries to come!

[@nearlysteviedan1275]

@alanplom8909 Thanks man. We've been playing Donald & Walter songs for so long & even after so long, we're still learning.

[@tylergoodguy1194]

been waiting for this one glad you covered it

[@KeithCooper-Albuquerque]

Hi Doug. I just found your channel and I had to subscribe! Your take on this tune is spot on, my friend! Great job, sir!

[@christopheryochum3602]

Thanks, Doug! I feel a lot better about my bewilderment as I try to parse exactly what those dense chords are. It's kind of cute watching your gears turn, as you say it's a "B" or a "C," but what exactly are the rest of the notes in the chord? Donald Fagen describes his method of writing "pantonal" blues, which is apropos. I can't tell what key he's in even when he's at the beginning or end of a phrase because he'll just add all kinds of extra notes for that jazzy-you-don't-know-where-I'm-going-next feel. I was making the same faces you were, which is why Steely Dan is so much fun. You can do anything else from "Aja" or "Gaucho," and you'll have a blast. Enjoyed! :)

[@andydovey7417]

One of the greatest albums ever. Sheer class.

[@claytonl5820]

I freaking love this channel; excellent.

[@davidmccar]

Great episode Doug! Great album and very cool to have it covered here!

[@quicktastic]

When people bring up the hypothetical: "if you were going to be stranded on an island and can only bring 5 albums what would they be?", Aja comes to mind.

[@gwts1171]

Great band! I'm generally a metal guy (mostly black & death), but both me and most of my metal friends love Steely Dan. Go figure. A bunch of 50-year old dudes listening to Gorgoroth and "Deacon Blues". I recently picked up a box set with all of Donald Fagan's solo albums, as well. Thanks for the video, Doug!

[@ganazby]

Cool! The Dan know no boundaries.

[@jonathanhenderson9422]

Good shoutout to Fagen's solo material. The Nightfly is a masterpiece in its own right, and maybe the best mixed/mastered album I've ever heard.

[@chuck482]

I happen to know this is a fact, that bands you wouldn't expect, would love the greats of the past. If you really dig inside the roots of the best bands, they all have great respect for intense bands of the past. I always knew as a playing musician, that when I was recording metal bands, that the best ones had an interest beyond just metal. You can't be a great musician without infusing past greatness into your own sound. That's how it usually evolves. Unless you're some insane freak like Hendrix, Bowie, Mercury, etc.

[@SteveOostdyk]

Love your analysis, Doug. Would also love more Steely Dan and other bands/songs you already know.

[@wills.1978]

Steely Dan MY FAVORITE BAND OF ALL TIME...Thanks to my Dad! Doug I've watched a couple of your vids. I loved watching you freak out over the drum solos/fills, as a drummer myself. 11:45 when you slowly devolved into doing what my old drum teacher called "clubs and tubs" put a huge smile on my face... Aja might be my favorite Dan song of all time for its amazing theme there in the middle plus all the perfect breakdowns.

[@mansakonko7777]

This is a joy to watch! Seeing a musical pro trip balls to my fave band is heartwarming and further proof that the Dan are the shit. 👊

[@stevedrums1675]

Steve Gadd recorded this track in one take - having only heard the song a couple of times before recording this. Unfathomable! My favorite Steely Dan by far remains "Time Out of Mind" - if you wanna review that one. Have a good day.

[@ddonahue3436]

Really? Can’t imagine anything on this album or by Steely Dan in general was a one take situation.

[@JonHop1]

@@ddonahue3436 Gadd recorded this in 2 takes, not 1.. Purdie, Gadd, and Rainey didnt need many takes, they were that good.

[@stevedrums1675]

@@ddonahue3436: That's the oft told story. Now I wasn't there, but it's what's been posted.

[@geoff6942]

Doug, thank you so much for this. As composers, I think they will only be truly realised in a hundred years time. I used to listen to Aja on my car cassette travelling to work circa 1981, and it took me to another place. All the Steely Dan albums are phenomenal, and have that SD sound.

[@christophercoughlin9493]

These guys were the very best of the fusion guys. Just incredible compositions.

[@xondxonderson5784]

Appreciate your commentary. To me it is the chord voicing. The 9 chords voiced with spacing of 4ths and 5ths gives it an open airy sound to me.

[@richardwatte1755]

Even after years of listening to and appreciating their music, I remember precisely when Aja was released. At that moment I knew that it won’t ever be as good as this again in the jazz/pop genre.

[@BillyBaruch]

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!!! It was great to hear you break down probably the most beautiful and intriguing song on my absolute favorite Dan album. The interplay between Gadd and Shorter between the second and third verses is amazing. I obviously have loved this since it came out (just a little after my 13th birthday), but to hear someone who can understand the why of their musical statements and choices give their take was a lot of fun!! If you get a chance, there are a lot of videos floating around where they explain the process of how they choose specific musicians for different pieces. You may have already seen some of these. Good stuff!! Gotta tell ya, pal ... I would love if somehow, someday we were able to share a good single-malt Islay Scotch and a cigar. Just talking about great music (and not a mention of our differing opinions with regards to firearms 😋). Thank you for this marvelous surprise today!!!

[@bobryan8793]

My favorite song...I really enjoyed your breakdown... Love it sir...