The Royal Scam TRILOGY: Steely Dan - Don't Take Me Alive + Green Earrings + Haitian Divorce | YES!

[@brianmcfarland1764]

The best Steely Dan song is whichever one you're listening to at the time.

[@TheCybertiger9]

Love the Dan, such a acquired taste. Innovated compositions of music.

[@LeOhio817]

💯

[@patricksterling927]

It’s actually true 🤷‍♂️

[@truthseeker3063]

Absolutely: what other group can you say that about?

[@MarkBurgessrealtor]

Larry Carlton is unmistakable. The fluidity and soulful lines of Mr. 335 are legendary.

[@siemonblidener652]

It's Denny Diaz at the first solo and Elliot Randall at the second, I think

[@danielmccann8325]

@@siemonblidener652 I think he means in Don't take me Alive.

[@snoopstp4189]

@@siemonblidener652 and Dean Parks on vox box

[@Gerard-yt3dz]

Mr. ES 335 Gibson "F" hole body git tar!

[@SwedestThing]

@@Gerard-yt3dzbut how does he get such a gritty sound out of it for this song?

[@buckstraw925]

😂 You didn't even get 30 seconds into Green Earrings before you thought it was better than Don't Take Me Alive after saying it was the best Steely Dan song. We all told you right after Peg that you were stepping into a deep hole of fantastic music. You're not done yet.

[@masapell]

Yes, a deep hole it is! Wait until the Fagen solo albums (all are stellar!) and “Two Against Nature” and “Everything Must Go”….. a ton of material to get through!

[@NicknLex]

Yep, you were all correct! Thanks for sticking with us and best wishes for the New Year! ❤️, Lex

[@martyemmons8692]

Donald Fagen continues his love of fantastic music, his latest creation that is on my playlist is "H Gang".

[@TheCornishCockney]

@@martyemmons8692 Cousin Dupree is a bit creepy lyrically but yet another creative masterpiece.

[@biskygiver]

Their music is akin to your favorite bowl of ice cream and each spoonful gets better and better as the ambient room temperature makes it creamier and creamier over time.

[@richkurl]

"I'm literally having withdrawals..." I mentioned early on in your Steely Dan adventure that they are musical opium, highly addictive. Love you guys.

[@alldayadventures5418]

"musical opium" Sounds like a great Becker lyric....

[@roymoore3156]

Awesome term, “musical opium”...and not a single bit off true center....

[@figgybass]

Every Steely Dan song is like a great meal.

[@rayeckert242]

"Black Cow" is a sonic gem from "Aja". You two are a major hoot! It's a thrill to watch young people discover music from the most incredible decade in music history. Steely Dan is a gift to mankind...

[@michellecalling]

So true, so true.

[@deanslater9876]

Is there anything more fun then watching a younger generation go into shock when they hear SD songs for the first time. Lol. You can see their emotions flip out. They get it, wink wink. There isn't anything in music to compare to Steely Dan, period. It Christmas, every time. The Title track from Royal Scam is divine. Makes you glad to be alive in order to hear it.

[@52ndWarhawkGerbil]

I am so happy that you both got around to listening to Green Earrings. It's by far one of the most slept on Steely Dan songs in terms of youtube reactions and I wish more channels would check it out. The first time I heard the drum break in the song before the guitar solo my jaw dropped to the floor. I don't know why, but those few basic drum hits were so impactful on me when I first heard it.

[@katrinagrigg6647]

One of my top 3 favorite guitar solos

[@briangray00]

The backing track(without vocals and lead guitar) *is stellar* Check this out!!!!: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eGTVdYSLeK2hg6s

[@eileendobbs8009]

It's been my favorite for 30 years and it just gets better every time I listen

[@garymcghee2249]

Indeed. This just soars, never tire of listening to it after 40 years.

[@dbhammond]

It’s an incredible tune. One of my favorites of theirs since the album was first released.

[@keefmack]

That opening guitar solo on Don't Take Me Alive is stellar. So fluid and tasteful and tone for days.

[@stevemd6488]

Reelin in the Years opens with a guitar solo as well, ofc.

[@smp135796872]

...Elliott Randall masterpiece..

[@-R.Gray-]

Guitar on "Don't Take Me Alive" - Larry Carlton (same as Kid S.), "Green Earrings" - 1st solo Denny Dias (the guy who's band they "joined"), 2nd Elliott Randall (who played on their first big hit "Reelin' In The Years"), "Haitian Divorce" - talk box guitar Dean Parks, altered by Walter Becker. Did you know there's a relationship between a lyric from this album and The Eagles "Hotel California" ? On the S.Dan song "Everything You Did" it says "Turn up The Eagles, The neighbors are listening." (implying that the "nice sounding" Eagles music would drown out an argument. The Eagles replied with "They stab it with their steely knives, but they just can't kill the beast."

[@hurricane1951]

Possibly the finest guitar intro in history.

[@FriendlyProd]

It's so awesome when new people discover my favorite band. You guys are so cute, Nick's face melting is hilarious and Alexia's love for the music really shines through. Keep at it guys, it's fun to watch.

[@maxoftheearth8327]

I'm SO happy that you're having the same Steely Dan awakening that I had 3 years ago. .. It's unparalleled, the spiritual awakening to the Dan. Every song is a discovery.

[@ronvaught6919]

I just watched your post about Steely Dan's FM ,my favorite BTW. Don't know if you're interested but there was a movie - FM that has a live performance by Linda Ronstadt and that also had a double album soundtrack that is awesome. Check them out and I'd love to hear what you think.

[@stevecurtis9886]

A bit late getting to this, but your reactions reminded me: I was in my teens and early 20's when SD were putting their albums out and when some of my friends would be like, 'That's not for me," and I would be left wondering what are they not hearing!!! Glad you love this band as much as many of us here watching!

[@masapell]

And the greatest Purdie break ever at 16:50 IMHO. Green Earrings is one of my favorites for that stellar groove….

[@jdw5678]

The funny thing is, you haven't yet gotten to "The Fez", the song from this album that was released as a single (along with "Kid Charlemagne") and became a minor Top 40 hit for them. The B-side was "Sign In Stranger," another solid tune. Truly, The Royal Scam was packed with amazing songs.

[@mikenichols3965]

Ditto!

[@lesliesterling826]

I am very fond of the Fez! It pops into my head at funny times.

[@williammckay9229]

I was thinking this also. And all through the years " the fez" pops up in my head a lot.

[@parshakamarsh]

"Haitian Divorce" was the single released in the UK and I believe it became their best ever selling single over here

[@stevegirardmedia2255]

Listening to this with you guys for the 3rd time… and Lex, gotta tell u that SD’s 1st album was one of the first two I ever purchased on my own - I was 15 - and the other one was the Doobie Brothers “Captain & Me”. I bought every Dan album that decade the day it came out - and as much as I love Katy Lied, and Countdown to Ecstasy & Pretzel Logic… Royal Scam is an absolute masterpiece. They show mastery of many styles and it just sparkles through all the sarcasm and weird stories they tell. 45 years this album has been giving to me. I literally don’t know what I’d be without Steely Dan. They literally change you, grow you musically, for sure.

[@richardhooser5096]

It is so gratifying to know that their music will live on through you and others like you that can appreciate the pure genius. In a weird way it feels like my generation passing the torch. I’m turning 70 next month which likely brings thoughts like these. No matter, just keep enjoying the gift of this incredible music! Love you two.

[@robertfitterman3777]

You are now going to have to react to the title track: The Royal Scam. There is also an excellent song by them that literally no one reacts to: Here At The Western World. It is not on any of their studio albums, but on a couple of their compilation records. Trust me, it is a great song!

[@darrylhinko5568]

Knock twice, rap with your cane

[@geonerd]

@@darrylhinko5568 Indescribabe sensual (musical) pleasures await you.... behind the Red Door! (Thanks, Ruthie!)

[@jaysonbiggs8979]

I love Here At The Western World. It was left off The Royal Scam album.

[@robertfitterman3777]

@@jaysonbiggs8979 no one is reacting to it. I mention it all the time.

[@stevegirardmedia2255]

It’s on the Citizen compilation, which they have.

[@1957PLATO]

The music of the seventies was just stellar. Nobody with ears could dispute this and Steely Dan today are still relevant and fresh sounding. It’s great that people who love music can acknowledge this.

[@bradwatson1048]

Doctor Wu off the Katy Lied album… Jeff Porcaro’s sexy drum work, another killer sax solo, and everything Fagen does = sublime. And those lyrics… I’ve never found anyone else who had such a gift for placing the right word in the right place.

[@bradwatson1048]

And I think what Donald Fagen has as a vocalist (songwriter, producer, keyboardist... everything) is an astonishing sense of the character he's portraying in each song. Whose story is he telling... what would his voice sound like... how does the guy speak...

[@MrHisperia2001]

Steely Dan is a very special band. Simply the best guys 💫❤️☝️ thanks for the reaction and you will like all their albums 💫☝️

[@mikeminer1947]

Larry Carlton is such a legend. His live album "Last Nite" has been a favorite of mine for years and captures his remarkable playing in a club atmosphere. Interesting story, Larry was shot in the neck by a burglar in 1988 and miraculously he survived, albeit with injuries. Hearing about it was such a shock at the time, but I'm so grateful the man is still here with us today! Happy New Year to the both of you and everyone in this community! So grateful to be able to share this music during these strange times.

[@VG-iq8xq]

Holy cow didn’t know that!

[@biskygiver]

As an individual he is such a pleasant and considerate person to be around.

[@shermanpeabody5512]

I remember that! So happy it didn’t claim his life. He released his first acoustic LP right after that and it has a comment about being shot. I first listened to LC records at the public library because I thought the album cover (Strikes Twice) was cool. I only later came to learn that I’d been listening to him for years but on other people’s (SD’s) records. I was an album credit junkie at the age of 13 and I’m convinced that I’m the better for it.

[@wallihaley5194]

@@VG-iq8xq, I didn’t know about that either that’s amazing! Glad Larry Carlton survived!

[@MonsterSound.Bradley]

Glad to hear that a lot of the negative troll commenters have left. I remember how close you came to NOT doing anymore Steely Dan because of them and how many of us fans were, "NO NO No nono no - don't give up on Steely Dan. There is so much you will miss!" … And you listened to us. 🎵🤘😎👍🦋🍁🎶 btw, it is true that watching your genuine reactions brings back the joy. Thanks again guys.

[@mikefeagans5044]

Enjoy your videos. Huge Dan Fan for over 40 years. As soon as I saw you were doing Green Earrings, I knew you would be blown away. The Royal Scam is known as their "guitar album. Mostly by Larry Carlton. Best wishes!

[@topgazza]

Do Steely Dan ever make a bad record ? Or even a song with an imperfection in ? Not just that but their melodies and instrumentation are peerless and unique. Thank you for doing this.

[@ljw5768]

I always think the voice box solo in Haitian Divorce is like the guitar equivalent of Donald’s vocal styling. Dark and sardonic and perfect for Steely Dan’s acerbic lyrics. It’s a great story song too. DTMA and GE are superb songs too. Carlton’s work on DTMA is top notch.

[@raiderfan346]

I just wanted to say thank you to Nick, Lex and Marley for all the hours of entertainment you provided in an otherwise bleak 2021. Wishing you and all your subscribers a very Happy New Year. Love you guys!

[@NicknLex]

Thanks for sharing this year with us and best wishes for the New Year to you and your loved ones! Thanks for all your love! ❤️, Lex

[@thecat600]

@@NicknLex I see it now. 🙂👍

[@stevegirardmedia2255]

I loved when u guys jumped into SD World with Aja… but I, and many others I’m sure, were thinking… “ahh, wait til they go backwards to Royal Scam!” This is the album a lot of us DanFans feel is the best…. Because as u guys are saying, there’s just so much happening, and flipping from style to style - while on Aja, while they’re amazing still… it was almost minimalist, musically, in comparison. Best Wishes to you for ‘22!

[@wyattjohnson4087]

Aja minimalist I don't know about that put all 52 cards on the table for aja

[@stevegirard-voiceaudiopodcasts]

@@wyattjohnson4087 Hey Wyatt... Not minimalist in terms of compositional quality or musical complexity... I guess I'm just speaking perhaps about the focus and emotionality they were aiming to accomplish with Aja. It was all cool, smooth, sophisticated, and must closer to the jazz touchstone they navigated toward. Royal Scam was jangly, edgy, brash, and of course, still searching and growing. By the time they got to the end of that initial chapter, with Gaucho, all of the hard edges were filed away, and their music was so serene - of course the lyrics were still as biting and obtuse as ever - but it was truly cerebral, sophisticated stuff that I'd be prone to putting on out by the pool or on the beach, or appreciating a long drive. Royal Scam? I still put that on when I want to shout out the words and bang along with the rhythms and percussion. So maybe minimalist was not exactly correct... maybe instead more focused and content that they had arrived where they wanted?

[@wyattjohnson4087]

I can see that

[@wyattjohnson4087]

It's all too good never a bad tune

[@richardunderwood3138]

Been listening to the Dan since 1972. Can't buy a thrill took me on such a journey. And it's still going. Keep up the awesome work!

[@danielthompson6880]

After watching this for about the 4th time I was thinking Lex's cheeks must be sore from smiling for so long. This was so much fun to watch.

[@NicknLex]

They totally were!! Hard to hold a smile with the Dan!!

[@mikewritz]

Wait till you get into the meanings of these songs. Their humor is the final element of their greatness. Cheers from your neighbor in Denver.

[@Coowallsky]

It's a study in 'Intellectual Highjinx 101'.

[@paulschirf9259]

You're right. I watch you to remember how I felt when I first listened to these songs. And again this is another example of Lex gushing feelings in her reaction. You can watch her getting so excited because she knows Nick and what he loves and obviously loves him so much that it makes her excited knowing how happy the song will make him.

[@NicknLex]

Exactly! Thanks for sharing this with us and best wishes for the New Year! ❤️, Lex

[@loisr3970]

Lord luvs ducks 1977. My now hubby Ken just got our first car. New 8 track player cracked the seal. Went for an amazing drive wow! I was 17 he was 23... We have had such an awesome musical journey. Now you two are on your way.💞🌺🇨🇦🎸🎶 Cheers

[@genecase326]

You two can talk as long as you want to before getting into the music. It's like inviting a couple of really good friends into my house. You guys, and the Rob Squad, are the only reactors I watch where I don't eventually just jump ahead to the music. We love hearing the two of you as much as your reactions! Happy New Year!

[@jossoakes2823]

What Gene said. Listening and talking about amazing music ? Great times !

[@martyemmons8692]

That's what I miss the most; sharing my love of music with the friends of my youth.

[@debrabrabenec3731]

Loved this triple dipper! I recommend you do "The Fez" as a light, fun lead in to the heavier "Royal Scam" cut. A great triple play from Countdown To Ecstasy would be "Bodhisattva",(first track) "Show Biz Kids",( just because, you'll see!) and "King of the World" (last track) in that order! I love, love, LOVE your Steely Dan reactions and look forward to many more!! Happy New Year!!🎵🎉💥💕

[@jsalisbury56]

Your reactions are brilliant and add an extra level of enjoyment to what we all love- Steely Dan , there are no others. Excellent, genuine responses

[@NicknLex]

Thanks for the kind words and support! It’s great to have you along for the journey! :)

[@summersifysummers4702]

Glad you've been blessed with these jewels of sound. Steely Dan has a rich legacy. One of many bands ( or duos with guest members) who were insistent on sound quality, chords, and tight harmonies. Perfectionists indeed with good reason. Music like this doesn't exist these days. One of my favorite!! Familiar with all albums.

[@mr.mojorisin1616]

Always a good time when you play some Steely Dan! Literally can't go wrong. Love that you do the deeper cuts instead of just what you hear on the mainstream radio.

[@mr.mojorisin1616]

i also see you have The Doors album up too! 😁

[@martyemmons8692]

I also can't contain myself when I buy an album and listen to it start to finish. There's always 'hidden gems' within innovative musical genius' creations.

[@thomaskeating7539]

This is pure musical joy, and we are all glad you can share in it.

[@elchiquifru]

You guys caught the SD spell. There’s no antidote. You’ve got it for life! Enjoy and Happy 2022!

[@NicknLex]

Exactly! Thanks for sharing this with us and best wishes for the New Year! ❤️, Lex

[@rickshoeman3771]

Having heard these songs hundreds of times, I am still amazed at the quality of the music that bands like Steely Dan put out, so many years ago. Tremendous talent. Big smiles here :) and I've been dusting off all my old Steely Dan CD's.

[@garymcghee2249]

The way they fit the words into their songs both elevates and underscores the melodies. The backing vocals are not mere background, they are integral to the excellence of the song.

[@steelyd2]

This is what I was waiting for. Royal scam is my favorite album ever not just Steely Dan album. I’ve seen them live about 20 times in Philadelphia, just back in November I saw them play the whole royal scam record live at the Met. It was an incredible show. Also saw them do the royal scam live back in 2008 or so when Becker was still alive. It’s a ridiculously amazing album and even after a million listens I still hear new stuff every once in a while. For example, the vibraphone and organ part on Haitian divorce is such a nice touch to provide the chordal harmony. I could talk about this record for hours!

[@tonyfoster61]

I love both of your reactions to Steely Dan's songs - 'Haitian Divorce' was the first song I ever heard of theirs, it was about 40 years ago - my friend played it, a 45rpm record when we were over there for dinner..... I was stunned and got him to play it about 6 more times - I was so amazed with what I was hearing so he gave me the record when we left. I have been a big fan since that day. Thanks for all your reaction videos, your passion for music really shines through. Happy New Year to you both.

[@josephdegiorgio4035]

On every album,Steely Dan paint’s a masterpiece lyrically & musically. Aja’s my favorite album but The Royal Scam is a close second.

[@chrislegner4816]

The T-shirt is fantastic. Enjoyable vid and excellent commentary as per always.

[@eileendobbs8009]

Wait until he hears Show Biz Kids and gets the Steely Dan tee shirt reference.

[@biskygiver]

During Hatian Divorce when Nick was grooving it appeared as if Donald Fagen's mouth was singing. I know weird.

[@bobbyd79903ify]

Started playing at 4y. I'm 69 today. Been hooked on SD since 60's. Solos, lyrics, melodies, vocals sound perfect now, in a highly advanced music society. Imagine how futuristic they sounded in my youth? Totally put so much other music in its place. Genius then. Genius now. Earliest rock, funk, jazz fusion i ever heard. My 1st woody was listening to SD.

[@kennethschreyer2527]

You Both have Fallen Under the Spell !!! I Was " Steely Dan - Dified " 50 Years Ago. It Never Goes Away !!! Over Time the Appreciation and Gratitude for Being Blessed with This Musical Magic Only Grows Deeper and More Profound 😍🤩😃😁

[@BrendaChristensen]

I waited 20 years to see them in concert at the LA Universal Amphitheater. As board director of an Inc. 500 tech company at the time, I cleared my schedule months in advance of the concert date. Nothing and no one - not even a meeting with Bill Gates - would keep me from seeing Steely Dan live. They did not disappoint.

[@mikeloomis687]

They used to play "Haitian Divorce" regularly on the Reggae Revolution radio show in L.A. on Sunday nights. Green Earrings is another level, the best Jazz/Rock fusion song ever written IMHO. Of course I am biased. Glad you both are enjoying this album. You will forever take it out and listen to regularly for the rest of your life. It's really hard to find any music that is better than this. Why settle for less?

[@jprph1]

I am so HAPPY you did a trilogy of Steely Dan! I had a rough night sleeping last night and was not in the best of moods when I got up. This video was the first thing I saw on my KZbin feed. I IMMEDIATELY REJOICED…Thank you so much for this !! I know Aja is great but this is one of my all time favorite SD releases too….It’s hard to pick a favorite though. Thanks you also for a year of great reactions and HAPPY NEW YEAR to you both…(January 17th (1964) is my Birthday … maybe Bodhissatva for my birthday/your anniversary?… just a thought….) you guys are the best!

[@jacksonmorganfroghin4815]

That's also Betty White's birthday and Mohammad Ali and Zooey Deshanel and Jim Carrey and Andy Kauffman. Those are fun facts about fun people. May they all rest in peace whether alive or not. Happy Birthday You. I don't know your real name. Happy Anniversary, Nick and Lex, I really enjoy you heartfelt reactions. Thanks for loving my comment also.

[@jprph1]

@@jacksonmorganfroghin4815 Thank You very much !

[@rikconverse8726]

"A Triple?! Yeah!" (Exactly!) Don't Take me alive is a favorite! (A man with my mind can do anything) Larry Carlton's distinctive guitar voice on the solo again!

[@richardunderwood3138]

It's awesome to see these young people enjoying this wonderful music. I've listened to Steely Dan since " Can't by a thrill". Bought every album as soon at it hit the shelf. I'd listen to each one front to back, while reading the liner notes. Never once did say that was a bad tune. Although there are better one than others. But, never a bad Steely Dan tune. Keep it up nicknlex. You're doing awesome. I can't name an all time best.(in my opinion) im leaning towards "Third world man "( the last tune on the "Gaucho" album ,or the "The Royal Scam" album its self. Best music ever.

[@christianbrasso8257]

Larry Carlton's guitar intro and playing throughout the song is epic! Remember buying this album back in grade 9 and playing it constantly on my Dual turntable for months/years later. Right up there with Aja as my fave SD albums.

[@cometogether999]

Steely Dan Marathon?! Yes please! I see something new, but I won't spoil it. Let us know how you like the title track when you get around to it. Or maybe you'll listen here, either way, you'll love it. Happy New Year, everyone!!!

[@NicknLex]

Thanks for sharing this year with us and best wishes for the New Year! ❤️, Lex

[@randyo.6138]

You guys sound exactly like my friends and I did as 11th graders in 1976 hearing this album for the first time. I'm 62 now and have probably heard this album 200 times and I still hear something new in it upon every listen. Steely Dan worms thier way into your brain and you can't get rid of them.

[@TheCornishCockney]

Who’d ever want to get rid of Steely Dan? I’m 67 and they are my favourite ever band,and I’m British so plenty of choice my side of the pond. It’s a sweet addiction that I don’t want an antidote to.

[@danielthompson6880]

When Don't Take Me Alive ended and you said My Lord, I busted out laughing. They're just so good. As much as you can't wait to hear the next Steely Dan Song, I can't wait to see your reaction to the next Steely Dan song. Larry Carlton plays on a lot of songs on Donald Fagen's solo album The Nightfly.

[@NickS-zv7py]

One of the greatest bands period. Innovative, creative that can’t be categorized in just one style of music. They influenced so many bands around the world. Got a chance to see them live a few times and love them.

[@albertsmith9315]

What a way to end the year! You guys actually "react"... not just go thru the motions. Love Steely Dan, and to see virgins get to experience it for the first time makes it new again for me too. Have a great 2022!

[@alberthilt]

"Don't Take Me Alive" is SO amazing!!! I am so glad you guys loved it, as well as Green Earrings and Haitian Divorce. This is a special album.... But then, WHAT 'SD' ALBUM ISN'T!!!?? Thank you for all your fun videos... I/We appreciate them (and YOU) so much! All the best for the new year! ALinCAL

[@michelemichele3375]

Yay! Yay! You know I’m living!! And “That Solo!” thumbnail behind you for Kid Charlemagne is to honor Nick’s solo. And now, “Don’t Take Me Alive” and 2 more. I’m not halfway through the first song and Yes! Love it! 😜😍🤪 Rumor has it: They brought Mark Knopfler into the studio for over 10 Hours of tense recording - and they only used a 15-second clip in the intro to this tune. Sorry for that snub, but love them anyway. Even with the dark (and sometimes rough) lyrics, I play Steely Dan. “Sue me if I play too long.” Haha. ✨🤪 Great reactions. Thanks thanks thanks. 🥂 Cheers to all! 💗

[@SwedestThing]

The Boys were not impressed that Knopfler could not read the charts 😂

[@mellotronin54]

Steely Dan came to my attention in 1978 it took awhile but then when I "got it" I spent years listening every day . Not so much now but when I do I am still immersed and hear new things. The arrangements are utter genius one line be it vocal or instrumental flow from one to the other creating a seamless melody and they always groove. Genius band. Thank you for the reminder of how I felt at the time.xx

[@ragjamrock]

Happy New Year! I hope 2022 brings you more of the Dan!🎶🌴

[@mikeburr3441]

Oooomg, this is the song for me. I've been Obsessed with Steely Dan since I was a wee lad. I'm about 10 years too young to have been a fan when they peaked. I'm glad it's still catching for younger-yet generations! This song is my fav. The lyrics are a whole nuther aspect that you can explore pretty much forever. > Now we dolly back/Now we fade to black... Get it??! What has driven me insane about this song ever since my first listen is that NO ONE manages to hear what sounds to me exactly like an old Casio watch alert (beep-beep) about 30 seconds before the end of the track (exactly at 5:22 on Spotify version.) I play it repeatedly; no one hears it. I hear it distinctly every single time. It makes me think that I'm going crazy (in a good way). I would love to unravel this mystery. My hope is that some session musician had their watch go off and they just left it ;-) You're forgiven for not hearing it on the first pass, but give it a listen again sometime and affirm my sanity if you don't mind. Thanks for the awesome content. 👍

[@mikeburr3441]

Oh. To clarify: I'm referring to Haitian Divorce. I ff'ed directly to it!

[@cardmantheman]

I’m so happy that you and lex love Steely Dan,thank you so much for your comments on these songs.love it.nick and lex are awesome 👍

[@cardmantheman]

The Royal scam song,Sign in Stranger Best album 👍

[@gerhardbraatz6305]

So glad you guys are enjoying Steely Dan. I grew up with their music, such a talent. Not a single song sounds the same and they are ALL winners. Have a Happy New Year Guys!

[@H4CK61]

Welcome to my world when I was 15 years old and got this album which I still have I am now 60 years old and its one of my all time favourites.

[@timeout8928]

I enjoy watching you guys react to these songs. I was there in the 70’s and still love listening!

[@alanparsonsfan]

You're such a lovely, happy, fun, loving couple. What a joy watching you enjoy the masterpieces we've enjoyed for so long. The Dan, The Floyd, Pat Metheney.... etc. etc., So much good music to go through together! I love, and loved your reactions to, Don't Take Me Alive, etc.. But as good as these 3 songs are, they still haven't prepared you for the dark, brooding complexity that is The Royal Scam. Horns at once like a marching band, and also muted trumpets as jazzy as it gets. The resounding, repeating deep piano chord, piano as a percussive instrument. The merging and melding of instrument in Scam is...tight. That's the word to keep in mind when you fire up Royal Scam. Tight, and foreboding.... Only barely edged out by AJA--battle of the two title tracks...

[@Sander12348]

What a new years gift!😊🎆

[@elig.3075]

Wooo happy new year from germany! You are my favorit steely dan reactors :) you really feel and notice the gems within the songs. Since we are now getting deeper into the repertoire consider "your gold teeth" from countdown to ecstasy. Maybe underrated but so hypnotic and grovey, it grows on you with time.

[@MrPolleyr]

Hey Guys, Happy New Year. Thanks for the great reactions. I love seeing new hearts and spirits coming to appreciate some of the best music ever written. May this year be even greater. 😍

[@PSGott]

You two make staying in, being quarantined, enjoyable!

[@jeffreyscroggs3878]

And now for your Aniversary of 1 year after the Pandemic ...Congradulations ! What a Wonderfilled Blessing to have these Memories Together on Record for 50 years later when you've shared a Lifetime together! This will keep you Happy What a Gift Even to be a part of it as a witness...soooo Happy for he both of you and How Lucky are we all ? Heres to 50yrs!

[@georgetaxi8179]

I love your Steely Dan reactions. You can see the pure joy on your faces every time you discover a new tune. One other thing about Steely Dan (like Rush) that is genius, is the lyrics. They are actually quite funny. Especially Haitian Divorce. Happy New Year's

[@kategillooly9039]

I’ve been a Dan fan for many years, and just had the honor of seeing them live perform this entire album as well as many of their other fabulous songs. It was an amazing concert and left me with a Steely Dan high for many days! Every time I listen to one of their songs, I have a new appreciation of their brilliance as songwriters as well as the delivery of each of these amazing and masterful tunes. There aren’t enough superlatives in the English language for this band!! 💞

[@poweredbyjoymusic]

Love you guys, your insights, enthusiasm, innocence and of course your deep appreciation of Steely Dan! Thank you so much for daring to go on this journey and sharing it with us.

[@eileendobbs8009]

What a nice NYE gift. I always always always ask for this song. I'm so glad you like it. It's soooo funky. Happy New Year. Good luck in 2022. Stay healthy. Don't leave out The Fez. It's too fun to skip.

[@universal-zy5bh]

Well now - aren't you two a couple of the coolest people on the planet?! Seriously. You guys are born for this reacting business! Instant sub for me. Thanks for all your Steely Dan reactions and welcome to the Dan Club. You are now 'Dan Fans'. Don't forget their first album (1972) - 'Can't Buy A Thrill', which was the one I got first introduced to SD by back in the mid-70's. Some great guitar work on 'Do It Again' in my opinion! But all the songs on that album were excellent, too. looking forward to checking out all your videos!!

[@artbyvince]

It's really great to see you guys enjoying this brilliant group!

[@paulsimpson9275]

Thanks for reminding me how awesome the Royal Scam album is. The guitar solo at start of don't take me alive is unequaled. You have to review the title track as it one of their most original and unique recordings. Happy 2022 guys and thanks for your output.

[@chucklogan3133]

I'm loving your reactions, and there's not much I can add... but I wanted to mention that Walter Becker plays a solo on Joni Mitchell's "In France they Kiss on Main Street" which I think ranks as the most concise guitar solo ever. (Seriously it's like four measures long.) These guys' talent just doesn't quit.

[@billwalbek1911]

What a GREAT trilogy! You guys reaction is priceless, The Royal Scam really is a masterpiece.

[@ElfinMadness]

You’ve been spiritually elevated! That t-shirt is going to connect you to the millions that love SD. I can see you getting nods, thumbs ups, approving smiles, chats . . . Yeah. Welcome to the club.

[@CHWBAKA450]

Thank GOD for another new year! Otherwise we wouldn’t see your reactions to the reactions to all the music I love. I already know I love this music. To see you young people embracing the tunes is like time travel. Keep on keeping on!

[@joeschmo8862]

At 29:48 he was really feeling it. Same way I feel when I hear. It's a great overwhelming feeling. Love your guys reviews. Please do more 3 song blocks. We don't mind how long the videos are as long as it's Steely Dan lol.

[@jirimondo]

Agree that multi-song blocks are better. Look at this trio and it shows how, in one album, SD made great music in different styles. It's the difference between eating a course and a well-constructed meal. Each dish/song sits in contrast to the other. That dimensionality doesn't come out when you listen to a single songs.

[@joeschmo8862]

@@jirimondo that is a great comparison. Ill have to borrow that.

[@martyemmons8692]

ABSOLUTELY! This video is starting off my New year joyfully. I hope for more to come.

[@funkster007]

Fagan has one of the most recognizable voices, but how it fits with their music so seemlessly is what blows me away. Great reaction to these awesome tunes. I have this album on cd. I think I'll start the new year by cranking it up so my neighbors can enjoy it too. :D

[@michaelakkerman407]

Don't take me alive has always been my favorite DAN song. I know people will say there are better, but I love the story, the guitar work and the backing vocals. It's just a perfect song to me...

[@debrabeck9630]

Thank you for your reaction AND for your wonderful sound system. I’m not a musician or any kind of authority, but I have been listening to Steely Dan since they began. I think their song stylings vary with the content of the lyrics of each song. Don’t Take Me Alive is probably my favorite of this these three songs, and it’s as much to do with the lyrics as it is to do with the music. The song reflects the inner turmoil of the protagonist of the song; leading in with the guitar solo sets the stage. “I hear my inside, the mechanized hum of another world.” What a concise revelation of the mind at the center of this song.

[@happymethehappyone8300]

Haitian Divorce Always Makes Me Automatically Think Of,, 10CC "DREADLOCK HOLIDAY"...Another Must Hear Classic.

[@pauldalby8549]

Happy New Year 🥳 Nick n Lex. It happens to be my 65th birthday today so you can imagine how powerful and impacting this music was for me when it first came out! Great to see you going through that same thing this last year. 👏👏👊🕺🏻❤️ have a great 22…

[@smirkingguru]

That Steely Dan "Gift That Keeps On Giving" will last a Lifetime! It's followed my life since the 1970's. Happy New Year you two ~The Smirking Guru

[@bobdelp2023]

YOU GUYS ARE TOO FUNNY, YOU'RE CRACKING ME UPPPPPP OVER HERE! :) SO I'LL SAY HAPPYYYYY NEW YEARS EVE AND HOPEFULLY A MUCH BETTER 2022 :) IN A COVID WORLD :( BUT ALSO BEST WISHES IN THE FUTURE NICK AND LEX!!! KEEP ON DOING WHAT YOU DO AND GOD BLESS :)

[@seabrook1976]

Green Earrings is one of the greatest songs ever written or performed. It's perfection all around.

[@mauriciodelarosa2449]

Don’t take me alive and Haitian divorce two of my favorite SD songs! Keep going this hole goes all the way to the center of the earth! Happy New Year to you and everyone else too! 🍾🥂🙏🏽✌🏽❤️

[@NicknLex]

Thanks for sharing this year with us and best wishes for the New Year Mau! ❤️, Lex

[@TheBham54]

Your enthusiasm is infectious! I have been a HUGE fan of the Dan for decades and it's so great to see how much you appreciate their artistry. There are no bad Dan songs.

[@randysummers9228]

The whole album is great. Believe it or not, the best song on the is still to come. The title track is the doesn’t have the solos or effects of the songs you have done. But it is the title track for a reason. The production, details and art of the song is at another level.

[@DavidHobbs]

Denny Dias and Elliot Randall are playing the guitar solos and Chuck Rainey on bass on Green Earrings. Dean Parks is playing the talk box on Haitian Divorce. I request Bodhisattva, you'll love the guitar playing.

[@glenndespres5317]

Loved it, love you guys and enjoyed this more than anything that was on tv for New Years Eve. Wish you all the best in the coming new year and thanks for doing what you do!

[@martyemmons8692]

EXACTLY! TV programming leaves a lot to be desired. I had to same horrible experience with the New year's eve show choices.

[@jirimondo]

Reeling in the Years leads with a solo. The more I hear Green Earrings the more it feels like SD doing a Crusaders riff (which has some LC DNA). Whatever style they wanted to do they nailed - they are real pros.

[@joeschmo8862]

Leave it up to SD to only out do themselves.