WEEKEND MARATHON: Steely Dan - Rikki don’t lose that # + Pretzel logic + Gaucho | COUPLE REACTION

Thank you for joining us! Feel free to leave your thoughts in the comments and don't forget to like and subscribe if you enjoyed this. We're open to suggestions/requests, so if you have one leave in the comments and include #nicknlexrequest for your chance to get a reaction!
This is from the album Pretzel Logic (1974) by Steely Dan & Gaucho (1980) by Steely Dan
Get it here:amzn.to/33XV75C
And Gaucho here: amzn.to/3IKcqFZ
PATREON (Consider joining for access to exclusive KZbin-blocked content):
/ nicknlex
ABOUT US:
If you'd like to get to know a bit about us, check out our story/background here:
ow.ly/GdRJ50DBbT0
If you'd like to request a song/album or show support to our channel, you can now do so by going here: www.buymeacoff...
Mailing address (THANK YOU!):
Alexia Flores
9615 East County Line Road
Suite B-531
Centennial, CO 80112
MIXTAPE:
If you'd like your customized mix tape like the one you see in the background, visit:
www.amourprint... & enter promo code NICKNLEX for 10% off!
RE: PAUSING, EXPRESSIONS & AIR-INSTRUMENTS:
Please be mindful that we will pause (we prefer to react in the moment & to avoid copyright strike), we will react with enthusiasm, smiles, tears, conversation, exchanged looks and air-instruments. We are expressive by nature and are truly very quirky in every sense of the word. This is who we are and this is what we’ve got to offer. We understand it may not be for everyone, but here's to hoping you all enjoy and we absolutely love positive comments and feedback.
RE: LIVE VERSIONS vs STUDIO:
Check out why we haven't uploaded any live versions... yet. They will be coming, we promise!
• WHY WE HAVEN’T UPLOADE...
For more updates on us, you can follow us here:
Twitter: / nicknlexfilms
Facebook: / nicknlex
Instagram: / nicknlex
OUR MERCH (new!):
www.NicknLex.com
Our equipment:
Our headphones: amzn.to/3dapHta
Microphone: amzn.to/37l1nTg
Tripod & lighting: amzn.to/2OKqXuJ
Remote shutter button: amzn.to/3u8bMvm
Headphone splitter: amzn.to/2NsACW5
Outro music by Karl Casey @ White Bat Audio.
No copyright infringement intended. We do not own the music we are reacting to. This reaction constitutes Fair Use.
Notwithstanding the provisions of sections 106 and 106A, the fair use of a copyrighted work, including such use by reproduction in copies or phonorecords or by any other means specified by that section, for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching (including multiple copies for classroom use), scholarship, or research, is not an infringement of copyright.”
This video and our KZbin channel in general may contain certain copyrighted works that were not specifically authorized to be used by the copyright holder(s), but which we believe in good faith are protected by federal law and the FAIR USE doctrine for one or more of the reasons noted above.
If you have any specific concerns about this video or our position on the fair use defense, please contact us at [e-mail] so we can discuss amicably.
Thank you.
#SteelyDan #Pretzellogic#Gaucho

[@cometogether999]

This Pretzel Logic is making me thirsty!

[@NicknLex]

😂👏

[@taylortyler1867]

@ Come Together Not that there's anything wrong with that.😂

[@cometogether999]

@@taylortyler1867 😂👍

[@nataliemarcus2002]

Hilarious!

[@blueshorecreative3146]

I mean, this guy. This guy's funny.

[@linkjones4535]

You are the first reaction video broadcasters to play this song's album version with the strange intro making it 4:30 as opposed to 3:58 from the edited single version. Thank you for being the first to play the full song!

[@chad9017]

All musiic should follow tenor sax solos

[@OuterGalaxyLounge]

I've been binge-watching your journey through Steely Dan and the joy of that discovery. It's like seeing an un-sighted person seeing a sunrise and sunset for the first time.

[@michelemichele3375]

Brilliant analogy. And our joy watching their discovery is immense. Thanks ✨🤪

[@kenthomas1845]

I’m doing the same a year later. I love these guys!

[@michelfroggy56]

It is so much fun watching you two enjoying a band I have been listening to for decades. I remember anxiously awaiting the release of each of their albums. I am 65 years old and enjoy them today just like I did back then, I hope you take them with you through your own years too, thank you for the fun videos and I look forward to watching you discover more great music from the 70's and 80's

[@alberthilt]

Right there with ya Michael... I turn 65 this March, and have "grown up" with SD... and I love hearing ANY SD song just like it was the first time!!

[@garyrasp511]

@@alberthilt Same here. I'm 65 and still enjoy this stuff every bit as much as I did when it originally came out - maybe more. And yes, it's a pleasure seeing the youngsters have such appreciation of wonderful music that has no shelf life!

[@TheCornishCockney]

That horn section is so tight,you couldn’t pull a pin from its arsehole with a tractor. Utter musical perfection.

[@gerhardbraatz6305]

That there is funny, I don't care what anybody says.

[@TheCornishCockney]

@@kbrewski1 Could be talking any number of Dan tracks,but yes,Gaucho.

[@michelle2202]

I bought The Royal Scam when it came out at age 13 and have loved Steely Dan ever since. I really appreciate your mix of pure enjoyment of the songs and intelligent comment on the musical elements. There's such complexity in this band especially compared with others of their time, so cool that you two are listening to them.

[@Naldo1264]

Nick and Lex, love you two like no others. To see you both, for the first time, experiencing this music that has scored my entire life is a joy like no other. I can still remember when Gaucho first came out and playing it for the first time in my friend Mikes room. A few friends together anxiously waiting to hear the new songs from Steely Dan. This was on vinyl and back then our rule was you had to play the whole side before repeating songs. We broke that rule for this album. You bring that all back to me so vividly. Gaucho especially has a depth of sound that is astonishing. During the chorus the chka-chka-chk of the guitar, faint but there, the back up singers highlighting just the precise right moments, so fluid and beautiful. Thank you so much, todays video brought me to very happy tears.

[@mauriciodelarosa2449]

Gaucho 👍🏽

[@pfestebanestebanruiz4325]

Steely Dan's music is a multilayered Sonic experience. The guitars, the horns, the piano and keyboards, the voices,... All glued together with fantastic bass lines, the drums leading and driving you into those beatiful and intricated melodies,... and don't forget the lyrics.. Thanks..

[@michaelscott7462]

Yall be so real! Your joy listening to The Dan is so infectuous. Continued blessings to you both.

[@mishkac4959]

I'm obsessed with Glamour Profession"s bass line! It's like a tune in itself, the way it drifts in and out of the pocket. Look forward to hearing your take on it. Great video as ever guys

[@raiderfan346]

What a treat to come home to this. This made up for having to work all week. I love the piano on Rikki and I believe it was their biggest hit single. This was a great triple play and a great way to start the weekend. Lex has the matching outfit, earrings and bracelet. Now you're just showing off. Fabulous!

[@PeterBuwen]

One of the most beautiful guitar solos I know in Rikki don’t loose that number.

[@cobbycaputo3332]

I always ranked it in my top ten favorite guitar solos. Not so much because of the technical brilliance or the difficulty of it, but because it is just perfect in the context and tone of the song.

[@PeterBuwen]

@@cobbycaputo3332 I absolutely see it this way too. It's just beautiful in the context even if there are other guitar solos that are technically more brilliant when viewed in isolation.

[@steved525]

@@PeterBuwen I totally agree with you Peter. It fits so well in the song with no embellishment needed to make it any better.

[@rbruce92]

Played by Jeff "Skunk" Baxter.@@cobbycaputo3332

[@michelemichele3375]

So it’s the marathon you hinted at doing, so I knew it was coming. 😁 And by now, you’ve heard the many stylings but somehow the same, identifiable sound of Steely Dan. Happy you’re here for all of it - you’ve passed the test and are officially “fans.” Sure, we have favorites but the gems keep catching our attention. So much info already offered in these comments. JC1967 wrote a thesis ⬇️ of great background info. And yes, Pretzel Logic starts very “Doors,” uses Blues but leans towards Jazz too. And I hear Donald’s “Oh, yeah” as very Beatles. Thank you for marathons! Great job 👏🏼✨🤪

[@sooutrageous007]

"Why is he standing in your spangled-leather poncho with the studs that match your eyes?" 👀 Oh boy,, had to be Walter!

[@michelemichele3375]

@@sooutrageous007 “And your elevator shoes.” When you get dissed by Fagen, watch out. “I’ll drop him by the freeway. Doesn’t he have a home?” Donald wants him OUT, whoever it is. Walter did get a little out of control with substances but do you think the “bodacious cowboy” is his friend or connection? 🤷🏻‍♀️ lol ✨🤪

[@sooutrageous007]

A somnabulant Walter was most definitely persona non grata and almost certainly (high) in the Custerdome... peering too intently into that mystical sphere from Lhasa will get you a nasty dragon bite if you're intemperate. LoL

[@michelemichele3375]

@@sooutrageous007 lol. I know about “peering.” I’d recognize that stare. Lol 😝 (Edit: not to mention the dragon chase). Ha. Nite. ✨🤪

[@brendaatry428]

Wickedly smart band. My favorite passion is a weekend alone with the headphones on.

[@jimbricker4982]

"Why is he standing in your spangled leather poncho, with the studs that match your eyes?" - such a GREAT line with a savage undercurrent

[@michelemichele3375]

Pure shade. A total diss. ✨🤪

[@steelyd2]

Have you ever realized the lyrics in the chorus don’t rhyme? It’s so weird. I probably listened to that song a thousand times before someone said “isn’t it weird the words don’t rhyme in that part”? I never noticed but they pull it off

[@BrennanYoung]

protagonist is furious his special friend got bedazzled by a cheeseball, even though he thinks hanging out "high in the custerdome" is the height of sophistication. The whole scenario is hilarious. Tom of Finland meets Midnight Cowboy.

[@JC19676]

The start of Rikki is nicked from Horace Silver's Song For My Father. They never forgot their jazz influences. So not only has Steely Dan been sampled they have sort of sampled themselves. More on that later. There is an almost sinister edge to the tone of the song. Fagen's take could be defined between benign and stalkerish. It depends on one's interpretation of the song. In the end, it garnered them a top 5 US hit. Steely Dan group member Jeff Skunk Baxter did the solo on this one. Remember when he was in Steely Dan? Then he joined The Doobie Brothers later on. Horace Silver's Song For My Father: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eYjIiYKjaZ6ee5I The highlight of Pretzel Logic live was Michael McDonald singing the vocal part after the solo. That live take really added something special to the song and gave it a deeper context. Walter Becker played lead on this one, one of his first leads on a Dan album. The song Gaucho has a poignant duality to it. It first deals with the male lover of the man in the song the so called Gaucho. How dare he bring this South American gay man to the Custerdome. In far more a subtle context, it is the story of Becker and Fagen's relationship. Becker was doing a lot of drugs,had tons of bad luck and was the less stable of the two partners. You can see the loyalty of the two and the downward spiral of Becker in the song. The message of getting rid of him is from the suits to Fagen with regards to Becker. Donald and Walter always put great importance on these lyrics. They were not only musical perfectionists but great storytellers to boot. Fagen was of course a big fan of jazz, even modern jazz. He let it slip in an interview that he was influenced by Jan Garbarek and Keith Jarrett's song, Long As You Know You're Living Yours. That is the biggest influence on the song Gaucho. So Rikki was not The Dan's only nick/homage. As a result, Keith Jarrett got song writing credit on the song. The Jarrett/Garbarek group performs it kzbin.info/www/bejne/iX6WZ6yhmciWqbM A comparison of the two songs kzbin.info/www/bejne/d5e5hH-am7Vkj5o Remember how Lexi liked the bassline on Glamour Profession? Well the bass player of that track Anthony Jackson originally played bass on this track. In true Steely Dan tradition and their perfectionist bent, they erased his part! Becker rerecorded it and did a fantastic job on this doing double stops and did some nimble playing on it. Walter played lead guitar here as well.

[@michelemichele3375]

Wow. You gave it to us. Great info. Thanks. ⬆️ What JC1967 said. ✨🤪

[@michelemichele3375]

Fagen supposedly quipped that they were “the robber-barons of Rock & Roll.” They sampled before it was called “sampling.” He admitted his influences. And it was common practice - compare Led Zeppelin to the Blues tunes they “borrowed.” Lol. I don’t have a horse in the race or a writing credit to dispute, but I’ve appreciated the rampant “borrowing” that kinda birthed Rock. It is interesting though. And I appreciate all the info you dropped. ✨🤪

[@JC19676]

@@michelemichele3375 Thank you for your kind words.. I bought Gaucho the week it came out and have loved that album ever since. Led Zeppelin's first album aren't just nicks, they were outright song thefts! Page stole other people's songs lock,stock and barrel. I am a Zeppelin fan but The Dan's homages were far far fewer than anything Zep ever did.

[@michelemichele3375]

@@JC19676 Yes, agreed - there was some “illegal,” but fun (under the sun) borrowing ... but I have gained so much because of it. I’ve always thought that the English Invasion of the 60’s came to the U.S. reworking our own music and feeding it back to us. But for some listeners, it was maybe the first encounter with Blues or Rockabilly ... until the passion was ignited and we went back to discover the roots. It certainly helped my early musical education so I’m not too mad at it. And artists were awarded a few wins with writing credits. But then, I wasn’t robbed ... because yeah, some be blatant af lol. Thanks again. ✨🤪

[@masapell]

Beautiful write up…thank you so much!

[@topgazza]

When they hit a melody and lyrics they hit it like no one else. Their high standards and immense talent and the musicians they use makes them quite unique. Rarely make an average at worse song

[@55montypython]

Rikki has one of my favorite guitar solos

[@bruzewill7081]

Amazing music. It never gets old, but I am. Gaucho gets me every time. With its triplet over two beat lyrics, syncopated beat jazz chords, all while maintaining a catchy funk strut groove....... Amazing.

[@alanparsonsfan]

Ahhh....you hit the title tracks for both Pretzel Logic and Gaucho, which round out my top 6 SD pieces. So fun watching you groove to the some of the best of 'your favorite band's favorite band'. Especially seeing the talented musician in Nick just shaking his head, hold his hands up and going, "Wow1" during Gaucho. Whatever did we do to deserve such perfect composition, engineering and performances? I can't think of a single thing. I don't recall seeing your doing Third World Man from Gaucho; maybe it's buried in one of marathons. But if not, #nicknlexrequest Third World Man. It's utterly unlike anything else they ever did. Brooding masterpiece.

[@kitrawlins7949]

Gaucho is an unbelievable song, truly life changing

[@markdrechsler5660]

You must listen to “Night By Night” and “Any Major Dude Will Tell You” from Pretzel Logic. The rest you can finish on your own. “AMDWTY” will certainly remind you of the Eagles again, and curiously, it inspired Genesis to write the song “Squonk” (which also deserves your attention.)

[@cometogether999]

I hope they do "Squonk."

[@eileendobbs8009]

I know. I love Night by Night. Reminds me of a song that should be in a 70s tv cop show

[@hog7203]

Gotta listen to "Night by Night" and "Any Major Dude". Also "With a Gun". That's a good one. Love the lead guitar in "Night".

[@SmashedBottleMan]

Interesting fact. I'm not familiar with the AMDWTY influence on the writing of Squonk. I've always heard that Kashmir influenced Squonk; although, interestingly, all three songs are written in the key of D Major.

[@kevinlakeman5043]

Steely Dan does NOT sound like The Eagle, FFS. The band that gave us lame "Desperado", "Life In the Fast Lane", or psuedo country like "Lyin' Eyes". Please. The Dude would agree with me.

[@willsullivan3]

Fagen did "Nightfly" on his own, and then "Kamakyriad"...but he asked Becker to help produce that second one; they were mending fences by the late '80s. Becker had gotten clean and sane in the interim (after a series of tragedies/mishaps) on his Hawaaian avacado farm, and had produced some other bands. Then they decided to tour--weird, b/c Fagen had been adversely affected by both stagefright and the roadgrind in the Dan's early days (plus there's their perfectionist bent and their penchant for "picking the best--and different-- studio musicians for every part in every song" didn't seem like it might translate well to putting together a static, stable touring band, on the road every night. But, it ended up working. Album of the Year Grammy for "Two Against Nature," at the turn of the millenium. Both Fagen and Becker each have two solo albums in the '90s & 2000s. Plus the Dan's "Everything Must Go," which I personally think is better than "Two Against Nature." You kids have a LOOOOOOONG way to go, you lucky so-and-sos! And, we'll be along for the ride...enjoy!

[@vitusdoom]

Pretzel logic is an incredible album. The song Night by Night off it, oooof!!!! "It's a beggars life, said the Queen of Spain But don't tell it to a poor man" Fagens voice is the best. Love you guys 🙏🤘🏻❤️

[@mauriciodelarosa2449]

Night By Night 👍🏽

[@diogenesagogo]

Night By Night. My favourite Steely Dan track. Listening to it I can see New York, feel it, smell it.

[@vitusdoom]

@@mauriciodelarosa2449 🤘🏻👍

[@vitusdoom]

@@diogenesagogo I get that feeling too!

[@roymoore3156]

Really nicely said!

[@Nastyfinger1444]

My favorite from Steely Dan. From my freshman year in high school. Brings back good memories.

[@MisterWondrous]

Ears to Year Two! Can't wait to hear Charlie Freak, Any Place I'm Welcome to, Barrytown, Bodhisattva, and Gold Teeth 1 and 2. I'm pretty sure I speak for everyone, at least in this county, when I say that I'd like to see y'all dancing to the songs that call for dancing. Maybe not to D.O.A. or "The End" or "Several Species of Small Furry Animals Gather Together In a Cave and Grooving with a Pict", or "Heavenly Music Corporation", but something like "Rikki" fer sher. No one else seems to be doing that, and I have to say, whatever y'all are doing is paying off. I find that I am at my personal healthiest and most radiant when I dance regularly. T'ai chi too and yoga of course. All to music.

[@cometogether999]

The Daily Doug (Helvering) did "Several Species..." and was blown away. 🤯🤯🤯

[@astrosjer822]

Show biz Kids is a classic and a real sonic treat of a song

[@T.B0ne]

Walter on Bass and Guitar on Gaucho and the Great Jeff Pocaro on Drums, also Steve Khan on Guitar, Tom Scott sax.

[@cobbycaputo3332]

This was my go-to song to use to test out audio equipment before I would buy it. Just such clean production values, and lots of dynamics to test the speakers/amp/whatever.

[@marcgordon6604]

Eventually I switched to AJA.

[@joeniedbala]

As someone has probably noted already, The Eagles Timothy B Schmitt sings on "Rikki". Part of the reason, though that the song has that Eagles feel is that Jim Gordon is drumming on it. Gordon, one of the great 70s drummers, made use of his toms in a very similar way to Henley. He was known for paying attention to their tuning and made use of them in a very melodic manner.

[@glawnow1959]

Jim Gordon! "Layla," "What is Life," "You're So Vain," "Jump Into the Fire," "Apache," "I Am Woman," "Billy Don't Be a Hero," "Sundown," "Chevy Van," "Diamonds and Rust," "Rich Girl"....God, he was great.

[@mikeloomis687]

The rest of Pretzel Logic is SO good! "Night by Night" and "Parker's Band" are just special. "Barrytown" telling a story about the Moonies is so good too. You guys are great! Enjoy!

[@jimled50jl49]

NicknLex > Steely Dan > triple play - What more do you need to know ? Brilliant ! Nuff said !

[@T.B0ne]

Amen Nick, henley is greedy$$$. Listening to a new Steely Dan song is like opening a Christmas present. "That's so good" I hear Nick say that a lot... lol, Have fun Guy's

[@jacksonmorganfroghin4815]

And check out the Second Arrangement

[@golfbn]

The guitarist in this song Jeff "Skunk" Baxter went on to play with the Doobie Brothers,, and then working as a defense consultant and chairs a Congressional Advisory Board on missile defense. There is a good piece on him on youtube worth a watch.

[@alanparsonsfan]

Yep, brilliant man, and great piece on him on KZbin as you've said. Brian May of Queen went on to get a PhD in Astrophysics and was the president of a college. There've been some truly top shelf minds in rock! Becker and Fagen just poured all of their genius into their music and lyrics.

[@juniorjunior4087]

Its a whole new perspective watchin musicians listen to ur fav songs in comparison to random bloggers.

[@vincerussell6893]

Even though I discovered "Stelly Dan" (Aja") over forty years ago, I am hearing songs for the first time, I am down this Rabbit Hole(Journey) right with you guys! Love what you do, Love who you are.....

[@vudhichaiswintara2874]

Gaucho...many great movements. Drums, Bass, Saxophone, Keyboards - They 're all terrific and also background vocalists..Excellent.

[@rayburn2007]

Timothy B Schmidt bass player from the Eagles sang background on Rikki

[@MichaelTrogdon1990]

The next album after Pretzel Logic is Katy Lied. Great album start with the song “Black Friday”.

[@parshakamarsh]

There's some great songs on there, love that album

[@katylied24]

Love Katy lied album.

[@keithdixon6595]

@@katylied24 Now I didn't like that so much when it came out. A couple of great tracks, but it sounds kinda 'thin' (apparently they didn't like the recording themselves - some new gear didn't work properly but the album was pressed anyway.) Also, it's very short!

[@michelemichele3375]

@@katylied24 You love Katy Lied? It’s a good thing because, you know, your name. 😆 Just me being silly. I love it too. Some tracks embody their sound perfectly. Cheers ✨🤪

[@charlesh946]

Wow! You all got the Steely Fever for sure! Btw Pretzel Logic about Time Travel! How cool is that?!!

[@glenndespres5317]

Love these marathons! I’m going to join the chorus chanting for Night By Night. Just love that song. But what a great trio of Dan here. Gaucho is amazing is it not?

[@ericmeredith8754]

😀 so much fun! Songs i have fallen in love with already! And my great friends hearing them for the first time! This band is a treasure! As are both of you to me! Love the Dan and love you both too!

[@MichaelTrogdon1990]

Jeff “Skunk” Baxter played the guitar solo on Rikki and Walter Becker played the guitar solos on Pretzel Logic and Gaucho.

[@robertjewell9727]

I looked up the solo on Pretzel Logic and credit's given to Walter for the solo, saying it was his first for Steely Dan.

[@MichaelTrogdon1990]

@@robertjewell9727 Corrected. Thanks.

[@robertjewell9727]

@@MichaelTrogdon1990 , you're welcome. 👍

[@chrislegner4816]

Rikki is a track that simply never gets tiresome. Pretzel Logic also a great track. And you will love Night By Night" once you explore the album further. Great stuff as always.....

[@SlwRpr]

Hey young people, enjoyed a couple of your videos. Great music stands the test of time. I am 65 and listen to songs on the radio today what i heard on the radio when i was in high school!

[@petepiraino3135]

Ricki is one of many songs that is the soundtrack of my senior year in high school, and it invokes very fond memories of closing one door (high school) and another one opening (college). When I hear it now, I might as well by 18 again! Great choice guys!!

[@willsullivan3]

The sound of "Gaucho"--that sax--is reminiscent of SNL at the end of the show, the leadout--maybe you're thinking of that. That sax. That hot/cool sax.

[@cometogether999]

I was delighted to see a second upload today and further delighted that it's another Dan marathon! Pretzel Logic contains one of my favorite Steely Dan lyrics: "I stepped up on the platform The man gave me the news He said, You must be joking son Where did you get those shoes? Where did you get those shoes?"

[@jacksonmorganfroghin4815]

Here SD reminds me of my favorite show, The Twilight Zone. Pretzel Logic is like circular reasoning but the theme is obviously time travel. Shoes from the year 2525 might be very strange indeed.

[@lewismaddox4132]

That always reminded me of a time when a buddy of mine, a biker, came into my garage and saw my golf spikes. He said, "Lew, please tell me those are not your shoes!"

[@jacksonmorganfroghin4815]

@@lewismaddox4132 Because you don't play golf?

[@michelemichele3375]

Hello, CT. Yes, another classic Steely Dan line that gets quoted repeatedly to keep the vibe alive. Yes, there’s gas in the car and Where Did you get those shoes!! Part of the fun of being a fan. Music: ✅. Dark or sarcastic lyrics: ✅. How Walter “reads” this character in Gaucho is pure Shade. Lol. ✨🤪

[@cometogether999]

@@michelemichele3375 I've always wondered what the Custerdome is. Good to see your reply, take care.

[@1charlesallnut]

I’m trying to imagine what it must be like for you to have started your Dan journey with Aja and then work backwards through their creative evolution. Rikki and Do It Again are probably their most classic “hit parade chart topper” tracks. Both are beautifully crafted piece of top 40. Really looking forward to when you eventually arrive at Katy Lied. I was talking to a friend about our favourite Steely Dan albums, and I ranked them as follows: Aja Katy Lied Royal Scam Countdown to Ecstasy Two Against Nature Gaucho Everything Must Go Pretzel Logic Can’t Buy a Thrill

[@michelemichele3375]

It’s nearly impossible to rank Steely Dan for me. But I think: 1) Royal Scam. 2) Aja. 3) Everything else. Lol. Sea of Tranquility ranks Steely Dan studio LPs. And Steely Dan songs. And Donald Fagen LPs. Pete makes the remark that it’s all good - a solid body of work. True dat. ✨🤪 m.kzbin.info/www/bejne/hoeme3yfbNVmn9E m.kzbin.info/www/bejne/qoW0c5qMiLFgY8k m.kzbin.info/www/bejne/qp7Fh5iVaJh_Z9U

[@michaelmeagher8225]

Thank you so much for keeping the vibe alive. Very much looking forward to Katy Lied. Any major dude will tell you.

[@triscat]

Hoping to hear a discussion about the squonk's tears.

[@angiestanford672]

You should check out Boz Scaggs: Lowdown! You both will be pleased, I believe. Love watching your reactions!

[@elainemarsh5170]

Definitely!

[@sumofo9742]

Lowdown is one of my fav songs. An absolute must for all funk lovers. ☺️

[@mikepaton3307]

On the album Pretzel Logic, Night by Night is another great song

[@triscat]

3 of my favorite Donald and Walter creations. Each has a very specific emotional time period attached to my life. I know you guys have realized it, but Don has one of the great underrated voices in popular music. Music is a wonder!

[@thomaswalkowiak815]

Easily one of the most unnoticed solos. Just perfect

[@garyives8676]

I love when you react to my favorite band! Steely Dan are greatest! You guys always react to such amazing music! Once again, I love your channel! Gary

[@russellmorgan5611]

Your appreciation of Steely Dan prompts me to ask if you looked at Little Feat yet. Well worth your time.

[@kentinatl]

Sweet!...I have listened to them since 1972..they never get old ...much love and appreciation....Kent.

[@alrivers2297]

I really enjoy these marathons. You two are becoming among my favorite reactors 👍✌

[@NicknLex]

Wow, thank you!

[@rudolfbecker4313]

How long did it take you to find out ? I didn't need more than 3 videos to know that they are among my Top 3, maybe #1 ? :-)

[@m.gideonhoyle409]

Don't sleep on Katy Lied... Even with what came before and after it, it's my favorite Dan album.

[@sweetdavey]

Huge Steely fan here. I think Gaucho is truly one of their top masterpieces. The musical sophistication and innovation in the song is mind blowing even for Steely. Great reaction.

[@ldmoore7002]

You GOTTA DO NIGHT BY NIGHT--great GUITAR SOLOS !!!

[@vonyroces7878]

superb trio of songs to react to. never gets old. as always, honest reactions from both of you.

[@gasaholic47]

The drummer on this track was Jim Gordon, who played with Clapton in Derek and the Dominoes. He was a very in demand session drummer. Sadly, he succumbed to severe schizophrenia, and murdered his mother in1983. He was sentenced to, and resides to this day, in a mental facility in I believe, Maryland.

[@14gilbertst]

Timothy B. Schmit from Poco and later, The Eagles, sings backing vocals on Rikki and Pretzel Logic. He also sings on Barrytown, the whole Royal Scam album, Aja, Josie, and Home at Last.

[@DriftAsasyn]

Wow, I didn't know that! I love Timothy B. since forever, I Can't Tell you Why. He's the best, esp. Rose of Cimarron. What a voice!

[@14gilbertst]

@@DriftAsasyn Leave it to Donald Fagen to pull Tim out of a Country Pop group and find the perfect place for his voice in the dark Steely Dan brew!

[@stevenesfield]

Hi guys another Dantastic Day of music so glad you chose Pretzel Logic. Night by Night I know you’ll love has a gritty Guitar solo When you get too Countdown to Ecstasy 1973. My suggestion for the a trilogy is Your Gold Teeth , ShowBiz Kids ( Nik will love to T ,Shirt reference in lyrics). And the amazing my Old School with the raunchy guitar lick. I’ve been a DAN Fan boy for 50yrs guys and they are my favourite from this album. As always love your knowledgeable incisive reactions to the our love of the Dan 💕. Love you guys enjoying the journey with you 🤘

[@garyking6519]

The marimba at the beginning continues through the whole song, they put it alone at the beginning so you would know it was there lol

[@davidnorman4923]

I've heard a version without the xylophone at the start!

[@garyking6519]

@@davidnorman4923 nah, you just never noticed before. And it's a marimba, not a xylophone

[@freddiem73]

I think there is a great authenticity to your videos. Well done guys. I went down a Steely Dan rabbit hole at the start of COVID in March 2020 - in reality only really knew Ricky & Nineteen. Since then they have been by far the music I have listened to most. It's amazing stuff. So different. Gaucho, without doubt in my top five SD - such an amazing feeling from that song. Even after listening to it to death!

[@rudolfbecker4313]

I didn't comment on the last Steely Dan reactions, because I think to the uncounted hymns of praise I didn't have to add anything, but this time I have to say Rikki don't loose that nr is one of my Top 5 SD songs, loved it from the very first time I heard it and still do ... now I'll listen and see how good I know the other songs

[@jotapecu]

The female chorus in "Gaucho" are simply heavenly, celestial...

[@larryclark5422]

Funny you should mention the Eagles because they had a small competition between the two bands. The Hotel California line “They stab it with their steely knives, but they just can’t kill the beast,” is a reference to Steely Dan. Steely Dan made a reference to The Eagles in their song ‘Everything You Did’, so The Eagles took a shot at Steely Dan in ‘Hotel California’.

[@jondhuse1549]

I don't think they were taking shots at each other... more of a matter of showing respect. I think at some point an Eagle or two sang backup vocals on some SD tunes...

[@InvidiousProductions]

Have you reacted to Joni Mitchell’s ‘Court & Spark’?. It is worthy of a whole album reaction. Very much on par with Steely Dan for sophistication.

[@kirkhassett8726]

YES!!!

[@billwilson7948]

@@kirkhassett8726 INDUBITABLY! Such Sweet yearning from Joni in Court & Spark.

[@garyrasp511]

Agree wholeheartedly. The entire record is magnificent, from start to finish. If you guys had to pick one song only, I would strongly suggest "It All Comes Down to You." A masterpiece.

[@luckyman6trois]

Can't wait for a Lex playing bass video, you got a great ear for basslines....

[@cindyp1033]

Any mention of Steely Dan and I’m here for it🔥🔥❤️❤️

[@Olivia-jy9jf]

Woohooo 👍 🥳 love this song. Love the way you two look at each other! ❤️💕❤️💕

[@TheBham54]

Lush, that's the word that springs to mind with songs like these from Steely Dan. Could possibly be a religion, I don't know, just amazing.

[@frannygovea6671]

The look on Nick's face when the Gaucho chorus hits. So pure. Music is the best.

[@thicklarry]

Wow, how could you not play "Night by Night"? Your loss! An amazing song.

[@thelonegroover]

I started university in 1975 and all the juke boxes in the halls (of residence), student's unions and student's pub had great tracks like this on them. When I hear this I'm back then in a moment. So glad you guys played and enjoyed this. Slainthe.

[@santellanr]

This leads into "Time out of mind". You'll love that one as well.

[@loisr3970]

Ohhh goodness Nick you had your eyes closed. Lex just glanced over throughly enjoying you loving it💞🙏 True Love!!!! Cheers

[@davidnorman4923]

Jim Gordons shuffle on Pretzel is so cool! Jeff Porcaro called Jim the shuffle king ! Jeff loved Jims playing!

[@paullacroix527]

More than 3 dozen SD songs have been sampled in over 100 tunes over the past 30yrs. Rappers are notorious for it. Most recent was Kanye sampling Kid Charlemagne. BTW those harmonies in thier songs are special. Great stuff...

[@MarkBurgessrealtor]

These songs bring back high school memories. You two are like sharing my musical inspirational memories with my children, who unfortunately, don't like the music from this era.

[@danielthompson6880]

You have to remember that the first 3 albums was by Steely Dan the band. Walter, Donald, Jeff (Skunk) Baxter, Denny Dias, and Jim Hodder. From Katy Lied on it became just Walter and Donald with session musicians. Here's a piece of trivia. When they first started playing together at Bard College their first drummer was none other than Chevy Chase. I think you'll be quite surprised when you get to "Countdown to Ecstasy". Love your reactions.

[@geoffw913]

"Rikki" is another favourite song... a song that has a strong romantic connotation for me from over 40 years ago!

[@danoconnor5147]

Love you guys so much, I’ve been following you through your Steely Dan journey, a journey that started for me in the 70’s, so thank you for helping me to relive each step of that journey and see the enjoyment you both have had in discovering this truly amazing phenomenon. This Dan aka Daniel, has such an appreciation of ‘The Dan’ and for the way you guys bring their music to life each and every time you connect. I wonder if the part of gaucho you were trying to link was a part of the theme tune from quantum leap …

[@Jimi-DV]

"Gaucho" (the title track) is a pinnicle for me, where they fully realised the vision of the band. It's perfect, flawless. I'm sure others have told you this, but the opening Bass notes of "Rikki..." are taken from Horace Silver's "Song for My Father", which is an epic tune in it's own right.

[@hasltisl]

“Lose.” Loose always rhymes with noose. (Mark, the slap-happy grammarian.)😎 Nothing like a three-day weekend!

[@davidgale7384]

"Lose the o" is the saying we were taught.

[@BrennanYoung]

Loose can also be a verb, as in: "There are errors in the comments! Loose the grammarians!" (barking noises)

[@hasltisl]

@@BrennanYoung Loose the arrows at the enemy!

[@squidkid2]

Pretzel Logic is another KILLER GROOVE from the Dan. I think the one thread that runs through all of Steely Dan's music is Donald Fagan's writing and arranging. It's what makes their music great but also gives it a untiy of style from one end to another that is also never static.

[@zanohoriamazo1]

The opening bass line with piano in beginning of Rikki is direct idea from jazz legend Horace Silver’s classic composition, Song For My Father, which has album of same name.🎶

[@mikeminer1947]

You're totally right about "Gaucho" being the theme song to a sitcom! It was called "No, He Can't Sleep on the Floor". It starred Ted Danson as a wealthy banker who's visited unexpectedly by his down-and-out college roommate played by Tony Danza. It only lasted one episode and yes, I'm totally kidding.

[@cometogether999]

🤣

[@davidmaholchic6146]

Gaucho may be my favorite Steely Dan song love you guys

[@nightvid3607]

Love all the Dan love over here! Thank you guys for another great reaction! I've been listening to some Masayoshi Takanaka lately and I was wondering if you guys have ever heard any of his work? If not, he's a Japanese jazz fusion guitarist and most of his material was released in the 70's and 80's. A lot of Latin influence in some of his albums, particulary Brazilian samba. He has an album called Rainbow Goblins based off the children's book of the same name. Out of his discography this one has really stood out to me and I think the tracks The Moon Rose or Soon would be really good listens for yall! Funky and beautiful! Cheers guys!

[@Maisie9798]

Every Steely Dan song sounds different but they all sound like Steely Dan

[@Trev0r98]

If it's Steely Dan then it sounds like Steely Dan.

[@roymoore3156]

It’s been cool spending time with you guys in this mini-marathon type of programming yer music...but I was a young guy when I first saw Steely Dan at the Paramount Northwest in Portland, 1974 I think, and again in 2000 for the ‘Two Against Nature’ tour that highlighted their return to public performance...at the 🌹 Rose Garden, 2nd row center...wow! At the 2000 concert they did a song w/lyrics, “...when California, tumbles in-to the sea--...” and thousands of people screamed with delight then and there...both Fagan and Becker laughed and ADDED as their next song, “Don’t take me Alive” which has pro-Ore-E-gone lyrics....” I lost my old man back in Ore-RE-gone, don’t take me alive...” What great and awesome memories, thanks for the chance to tell you how great it was, And still is!

[@katbeaudry5544]

Super happy you did Gaucho, another of my personal favorites. It's about some guy that is friends with someone in the band, and he just irritates the hell out of the band. Pretty funny song

[@jml-rj5re]

That's Walter's first guitar solo on a Steely Dan record. Very altered bluesy. Well chosen lines by WB.

[@Doogs5150]

Friday night Steely Dan marathon…Yes!!!! What a great way to start the weekend!

[@theheepster]

I was lucky enough to buy a small vinyl collection in which 5 Steely Dan albums were on audiophile records. These records are now part of the holy grail of my collection. I can only recommend everyone to buy Steely Dan on audiophile vinyl or CD. A new world of sound opens up.

[@squidkid2]

"He said you must be joking son, were did you get those SHOES?! A classic throwaway line that only Becker and Fagen could write.