It's not a sitar. It's a guitar called the Coral "Electric Sitar". But it's just an electric guitar with a bridge that has a wooden piece under the strings that makes them buzz like a sitar (on a sitar it's called a jawari). Sitars are a completely different instrument altogether with completely different number of strings which are used for different purposes. This guitar has six strings EADGBE, and frets just like every other guitar.
@@eximusic ...Didn't I say I know what it is? I called it an electric sitar because it's in the name. I understand it's not actually a sitar, doesn't look anything like one.
Steely Dan literally did not record a bad song. This initial effort was spectacular and sounds like musicians who have been at it a lifetime. And to your comment about feeling jazz/fusion was superior, nothing can be as good, remember Mark Twain's saying: this music is much better than it sounds.
@@benne7531 It's not getting in my top 20, but I love EGTTM; I'd certainly never skip it. My worstest is Through With Buzz and I'd leave that to play 80%.
Steely Dan is definitely my "stuck on a desert island" group, I NEVER get tired of listening to their music. Can't Buy A Thrill was their first LP and Donald Fagen did not sing lead vocals on all the tracks. I first heard them on AM radio in the rural midwest when I was still in HS (Reeling In the Years), and they were like so unique, so gifted. Never boring, always changing, listen to all their music, you can't miss.
David Palmer’s vocals on Dirty Work are beautifully sublime. There’s an early demo where Donald Fagen sang lead on it, and it sounds bizarre… Alas, Palmer was let go once Fagen felt comfortable enough to take the reigns…
You two look absolutely radiant upon return from Mexico. The rest and vacation fun seems to have served you well. Great pick for a return video. I hope you like it. It's not quite as polished as Aja. But a very good album nonetheless.
Lex, you are probably going to have a few more of those “I know this song” moments if you continue to explore the SD catalog. SD had a lot of hits. That’s why some people were so incredulous when you guys first said you were unfamiliar with their work. 🙂
The shift in the grocery stores and department stores from Muzak to classic rock ‘n’ roll hits has put music into the minds of people without their even knowing it.
Hey guys. I was fortunate enough to see Steely Dan at Red Rocks 6 rows from the stage about 15 years ago. AMAZING! Dirty work was sung by the female back up singers in particular Caroline Leonhhart. Gave it. Whole new meaning.. life long Coloradan and life long Dan Fan..
David Palmer who sings the lead on Dirty Work was an original member of the band. Jeff "Skunk" Baxter who shared lead guitar with Denny Dias (the electric sitar solo on Do It Again) brought in Palmer because Fagen was not confident in his vocal abilities. After the first album, Fagen took over the vocal duties and Palmer left to pursue a solo career.
This was the first Steely Dan song I ever heard, their first hit. I’ve been a huge fan ever since. This whole first album is still one I play quite a lot. Never get tired of it. This and Aja are my two faves.
Welcome back guys you look refreshed Don’t forget Green Earrings of Royal Scam and FM no static,,,,loving your Dan journey ✌️ps Dirty work was used in Suicide Squad trailer
I got to see the Dan live three times, fortunately all were before we lost Walter. At one show Donald announced that the were going to go way back and the band started Bodhisattva. The crowd went wild. Then Fagen yelled "WAY BACK!" and they started Dirty Work. And the entire audience, myself included, in unison gasped. Damn. So glad I was there for that.
Larry Carlton has sessioned with over 100 artists and bands, as well as solo work and fronting one of the preeminent jazz bands - Fourplay. He is, to me, the finest jazz/fusion guitarist on the planet.
Great to see you back..you are glowing! and Steely Dan is always great to see a reaction to...i was in 9th grade when this album came out and it still holds up today..keep em comin' my Rocky Mountain friends.,,Kent
Wow! I haven’t listened to this song in years. With fresh ears, I’m amazed at the complexity of the keyboard solo after the electric sitar solo. Thanks for all listening!
Just binge watched all of your Steely Dan / Donald Fagan stuff - I feel stupid for having tears in my eyes at you folks loving this stuff. I honestly don't think there's anywhere else on RUclips you can "see" someone discover Steely Dan - amazing. There is no other band like them anywhere. I discovered them through a combination of my Dad being a fan and me never taking it seriously and my wife being a big Michael McDonald fan (he's their backing singer on a lot of stuff - also his solo stuff is amazing). Steely Dan itself is not just a band, they epitomise a culture - once you are in (and I think you are) you become obsessed. And you can't explain that to others - they don't get it until it clicks. You are clearly very musical people (rather than music lovers) because as they say Steely Dan is the musicians musician - the more you listen, the more music genius you hear, you single out instruments and are blown away again and again. Lyrically they are on another level too - people endlessly debate the meanings of the lyrics. This is not a train you can get back off - if there's a downside, Steely Dan makes the production of other artists pale into the distance - there aren't many who stand up to this level even today with all the tech. You have a new subscriber! My recommendations: (as you clearly love guitar) definitely Kid Charlemagne (epic solo) and Don't take me alive (one of the only pop songs ever to start with a guitar solo) Also check Michael McDonald (different style but very influenced by them) and Donald Fagan did a concert with Michael and Bozz Scaggs called The Dukes of September - many said it was the closest to Steely Dan live you'll ever get - awesome! Another channel to check out: Brooklyn Charmers - best Steely Dan cover group I've ever seen!
As a guy who has ‘done your dirty work’ a couple of times in my youth, I love the lyrics of this song. It captures how you are like a fly trapped in a web you want to escape from but there’s an overpowering temptation to stay, knowing the potential doom that awaits! Musically superb as always with that melancholy sax solo summing it all up!
i cannot for the life of me understand how music aficianados dont know the legendary Steely Dan. Seriously. But its good to know they appreciate his style of music and surreal lyrics. It's Fagen's art form. Here they are accepting the grammy for ALBUM OF THE YEAR! ruclips.net/video/6XzvRwSg3M0/видео.html
Great catch on the Dirty Work harmonies sounding like the band America. I hear Crosby Stills Nash & Young as well. Of course ultimately everything they do is uniquely and satisfyingly Steely Dan. Dirty Work was prominent early in the great 2013 movie American Hustle with Christian Bale, Jennifer Lawrence, Amy Adams et al.. Steely Dan is a musical act, but also a deeply addictive narcotic.
Yes, a different vocalist on "Dirty Work." His name is David Palmer. I believe he only sang two songs for them. His backing vocals are on a few more tracks of the album.
@@steve55sogood16 He did a little work on "Countdown to Ecstasy." And worked with Carole King on "Jazzman" then formed a band that didn't have any success. From the turn of the century, he worked in digital photography.
You guys are Precious...I was in High School in Utah when this came out, Steely Dan became part of the fabric of my entire life...all the great bands, start at their begining and go thru there discograpy in order, when you grow up with it is what we had to do, wait for the next one, You are blessed because you could consume all their albums in one day...that is so trippy to me, like Led Zep, was a journey back then , you to wait a while between albums! Well Done, as usual! Love you guys!
Oh wow ( i am a fairly new subcriber of yours, just about 6 days ago, more or less) and my first ever Steely Dan album is "Can't But A Thrill ", and " Do It Again " one of my favouriten song . I love your " reactions" , I was a young teenager in the 70ish, and love your enthusiasm of the music era I was brought up in , I love 60ish music too due to my older brothers influence ( brought up in the Netherlands , now living in the UK ) I feel privileged to know all the old music , massive fan of prog music (and Led zeppelin too that goes without saying) Sorry for my rambling on! I just wanted to say that I really think you are great, you two make me smile!
p.s You know that there are a few (edit: "good" Dutch 😉) Dutch progressive rock bands ,and rockbands, around!? For instance: Dutch band Focus with "Hocus Pocus " ruclips.net/video/MV0F_XiR48Q/видео.html They are brilliant and entertaining LIVE Same track , two tracks really ( Sylvia/ Hocus Pocus) 1973 on TV show LIVE: The Grey Whistle Test BBC: ruclips.net/video/TV-X-5CcfYY/видео.html
@@danl.909 Agree. I would count myself in that group that likes CTE and TRS better than AJA. Hell, I like Pretzel Logic and Can't Buy A Thrill better than AJA too!
Yea. Aja is sooooo slick! If it was the only SD I knew of, I'd be excstatic. But it's perhaps a little too sanitary when compared to their earlier work. And Goucho, as lovely as it sounds, needs more fizz.
I'm so glad that you are finding these true gems. I grew up with such a plethora of fantastic songs and musicians it makes me happy to see you appreciate and enjoy their beauty. Cheers guys. Plenty more to come as you're 'Reelin in the Years." 🤘😎👍🍁🎵🎵❤
I would love for you to do “My Old School” next. It’s another one of their earlier hits from when they were a group rather than a duo. Very witty lyrics, a kick ass horn section and a fantastic guitar solo are highlights of this song.
Forgive me for calling you two kids, but you're younger than my son. Don't let the nay-sayers get you down and keep up the good work! I enjoy seeing a younger generation embrace what I and others did so many years ago.
I enjoy all your videos. I’m 63 so a lot of the music you review is music I love and grew up with. I see all the guitars each time and I’m not the only person who would like to hear a song from you guys ❤️
In the Army 1972-1975. Taking an evening college biology class. After class, me and my buddy from Montana would smoke a little, put on Steely Dan, and drive to the local fast food and purchase a chili dog with onions and mustard. Fond Fond Memories!
You make me so happy! Coming back home, looking radiant and beautiful, and playing STEELY DAN - a marathon! Oh, I’m thrilled. And yes, jazzy and Funky, but elevated pop Rock too. The musicianship and the choices are high-brow. Fagen grew up in the jazz clubs of NYC and loves Miles and Coltrane and Dizzy. But they add the Funk and the catchy aspects of Pop Rock but with so many ear-candy touches of percussion and tasty solos. Eventually, you’ll discover the (sometimes) dark lyrics. Do It Again ( IMO) is about doing something over and over (You go back, Jack) even though it doesn’t work for you - like addictions ... to violence (1st verse), difficult relationships (2nd verse), gambling (3rd), etc. Dirty Work gives me Beatles or even Badfinger vibes with the harmonies. Thanks so much. So glad you appreciate Steely Dan. Like I said, Don’t deprive yourselves just because of the fans. Other reactors have had the same complaints. Nobody’s lying. We just don’t know that we’ve heard something (in passing) until we listen. But then, there’s so much more to hear beyond the catchy parts. Steely Dan has remained on my playlist for decades! And they just toured!!! I sent a CD to you from that tour just for kicks. Ok, I’m so busy but had to say all this ... and more ... later. Hugs ✨🤪
Welcome to my freshman year of High School. Yes, they played this song on radio. Even AM stations, at least those trying to compete with the fast growing FM listening audience.
I can remember when 'Can't Buy a Thrill' came out - first record I owned where I loved every single track on the record! Most of the songs are lesser known than these two and 'Reelin' In The Years' but those lesser known ones are still gems.
Lex reaction was priceless when she realized she had heard the first song . For all of the doubters, just look at her reaction. It was like she just got caught with her hand in the cookie jar 🤣
Always a fan of Steely Dan. Love that you're back and feelin' good and back for more reactions! Hope your live one is coming up soon. Missed talking to y'all! Peace! 🎶🎶🎶
What a great way to discover the music of Steely Dan. You will find absolute perfection, even on the ones you don’t like the fist time around. You will eventually succumb to the brilliance of their lyrics and unparalleled musical arrangements. You won’t be disappointed … 😎🤘🏼
Really enjoyed watching how excited you were to discover this music for the 1st time. As a fellow music lover I know that feeling so well. If I remember correctly Fagan initially didn't think he was a good enough singer so they had a different vocalist on some of the songs. In time they decided Fagan could sing his own material better than anyone else, even if he wasn't a technically great singer as you said. Some of my favorite artists aren't technically great singers, but I find being able to convey emotion through your vocals much more impactful.
I think the reason it is hard to believe is that they have so many great jazz artists playing for them that it is like how could you not have been familiar with them since you're into jazz artists?
I’ve been listening to all Steely Dan’s complete albums since 1971, when this came out, so I always knew all their music, but my friends in High school didn’t make that connection. So, it was a common thing, even back then.
Modmary…”Can’t Buy A Thrill” came out in Nov. of ‘72… I remember it like it was yesterday because I bought it the day it came out. As a kid, I happened to have been in the store as I watched the Peaches Records employees hang the promo poster and I just loved the cover artwork. The guy behind the counter said I’d love it, because he heard the 4 song promo EP…I used all my allowance money on that 1 record… It’s still in my stacks…along with every single Steely Dan 45, vinyl, Cassette, CD, and yes, even digital downloads… I guess I’m obsessed, but I know what I like…
@@twoblacklabs904 My older Brother bought that album, and we both listened to it together, but I forgot the exact year. Thank you for correcting me. I was 10 years old. 😊 We’ve both been obsessed with Steely Dan ever since.
So glad you've discovered Steely Dan. You have a lot more to look forward to. I'm 61 and was blessed to grow up in the 60s and 70s - the best time for music. I feel sorry for young people today. They don't get that anticipation of waiting for new LPs to come out, pre-ordering because you knew you would love every song on the album!!!
I'm SO glad that you recognized these songs. Your fans were right all along! Personally, I was not aware that Dirty Work was from Steely Dan!! I admit it, ha ha! Awesome true reaction!. That's why people love you guys so much. Love dad 😉
When I heard this song in 72/73 for the first time, I thought at the beginning: oh a new Santana song, because of the latin rhythm, but when the singing started, I realized it's a new band and after the song they said what it was. I liked it from the very beginning and it's always been one of my Steely Dan favourites.
I first heard ‘Reelin in the Years’ it was 1973.. I was 19 and working on a North Sea oil rig….. I got onshore, bought ‘can’t buy a thrill’ and have been a Dan lover ever since.
What you really need to do with Steely Dan is not worry about which song to do next, but just schedule a couple of songs every week or so and run through every song on every album in order. They’re all good.
I suppose you could describe it as a bossa nova beat. The stringed instrument you can hear is an electrified sitar. On Dirty Work, the vocals are by David Palmer who was only on the first album. This song was used in a memorable scene in The Sopranos. I've always said the brilliant muscianship is a given but what people tend to forget are the vocal harmonies. I'd put them up there with CSN and Fleetwood Mac in the harmony department. You'd love Babylon Sisters, so funky with the Purdie shuffle by the incomparable Bernard Purdie. I was lucky enough to see them back in 2019, obviously without Walter, in Birmingham (England). It was a great gig, unfortunately no Babylon Sisters (which they'd done in Manchester the previous night). Stevie Winwood supported, who was also great, and came on later to do Pretzel Logic with Dan. I thought I'd died and gone to heaven.
It's not a sitar. It's a guitar called the Coral "Electric Sitar". But it's just an electric guitar with a bridge that has a wooden piece under the strings that makes them buzz like a sitar (on a sitar it's called a jawari). Sitars are a completely different instrument altogether with completely different number of strings which are used for different purposes. This guitar has six strings EADGBE, and frets just like every other guitar.
For those of us there "back in the day", this was the very first thing we ever heard from the Dan of Steel. (Never looked back since then.) Oh, and that "fish instrument" is called a guiro. (The lead vocalist in Dirty Work is David Palmer.)
I’ve seen Steely Dan three times. Had tickets for Atlanta in 2021 but it was postponed of course. Been a fan for 40 years. Favorite band ever and it’s not even close. Hope Donald stays healthy and keeps touring. We won’t have him forever. I will absolutely cry when he leaves us. Thanks for the video!
Welcome back. Steely Dan isn't the proverbial "rabbit hole" - they are a deep mine shaft with many oblique side tunnels to explore. There are lots of suggestions below, but if you want a track that is completely different from their norm, check out "Haitian Divorce": ruclips.net/video/dKMCz1b2RxE/видео.html
Thank you for another superb reaction. If you're half as nice in person as you are on the videos I highly doubt you're even capable of making a convincing lie. Having heard a song in the background is not the same as knowing it and denying it. "Reeling In The Years" is a rocker that you'll probably recognize, too. But it's so good. "Kings" is awesome. "Midnight Cruiser" (not sung by Donald Fagen) is awesome. Rock on, Nick N Lex!
it's so much fun to watch new generations discover Steely Dan. i heard this album when it came out and ran out to buy it. I bought every other album after that. great compositions, superb arrangements, and consummate musicianship were always the hallmarks of any Steely Dan record.
Great video ! These 70s sound and bands were awesome back in the day growing up in the 70s and 80s . I remember this because I have a record and cassette when this came out in the early 70s.
Welcome back you two! That was a pure joy to watch! I listened to this growing up and it's wonderful to watch you get into it...it does the ol' heart good...Love It!!! Peace and Love ☮ (Lex, the hair looks great!) Nick, I want to see you play some "gee-tar" one of these days!
The singer is David Palmer. I have listened to them since this album was released, I was 21 then, and have never stopped listening! Got to see them live twice in the the last few years, sadly Walter died just before, which was heartbreaking for all fans, so I never got to see the complete band live, but it was still magical to witness the brilliance!
The Singer on this song is David Palmer. He was brought into the sessions for this album, mainly on the insistence of their record label. After the album was released he was fired mainly for his alcohol use and the fact that Donald Fagen and Walter Becker believed that he could he couldn't interpret their music
Where to start on Can’t Buy a Thrill? You can’t miss with any of the songs. Different styles and singers 😎 Reeling in the Years is a staple , I say couple that with ‘Only a Fool Would Say That’ as your next two Steely Dan songs .
It’s so nice that you are enjoying steely Dan’s beginnings. I remember when I first bought this album and played it many many times, and I still enjoy listening to these great songs. 👍🏻🎸🎹
Love how the ride cymbal in the background, keeps a constant straight 4 beat, subtly holding it all together, and keeping a solid groove. Great review guys!
David Palmer - lead vocals on "Dirty Work" and "Brooklyn", backing vocals Donald Fagen - acoustic and electric pianos, plastic (YC-30) organ, lead vocals (except on "Dirty Work", "Midnite Cruiser", and "Brooklyn"), backing vocals Jeff "Skunk" Baxter - guitar, pedal steel guitar, spoken word on "Only a Fool Would Say That" Denny Dias - guitar, electric sitar Walter Becker - electric bass, backing vocals Jim Hodder - drums, percussion, lead vocal on "Midnite Cruiser", backing vocals
That solo where you said 'I don't know what it is', that's an electric sitar being played by Danny Dias and it kicked absolute butt.
Thank you, I was wondering myself.
It's not a sitar. It's a guitar called the Coral "Electric Sitar". But it's just an electric guitar with a bridge that has a wooden piece under the strings that makes them buzz like a sitar (on a sitar it's called a jawari). Sitars are a completely different instrument altogether with completely different number of strings which are used for different purposes. This guitar has six strings EADGBE, and frets just like every other guitar.
@@eximusic ...That's exactly what I was referring to, the Coral Electric Sitar.
@@buddystewart2020 Yes, it's not a sitar. It's a guitar despite the name.
@@eximusic ...Didn't I say I know what it is? I called it an electric sitar because it's in the name. I understand it's not actually a sitar, doesn't look anything like one.
Steely Dan literally did not record a bad song. This initial effort was spectacular and sounds like musicians who have been at it a lifetime. And to your comment about feeling jazz/fusion was superior, nothing can be as good, remember Mark Twain's saying: this music is much better than it sounds.
Well… There is ”Everyone’s Gone To The Movies”…
@@benne7531 I hear you, couple less than stellar songs on that album and also the Pretzel Logic album. But they were still great songs.
@@benne7531 It's not getting in my top 20, but I love EGTTM; I'd certainly never skip it. My worstest is Through With Buzz and I'd leave that to play 80%.
They have two in my opinion. But that's still pretty dam good.
@@theivory1 indeed
Steely Dan is definitely my "stuck on a desert island" group, I NEVER get tired of listening to their music. Can't Buy A Thrill was their first LP and Donald Fagen did not sing lead vocals on all the tracks. I first heard them on AM radio in the rural midwest when I was still in HS (Reeling In the Years), and they were like so unique, so gifted. Never boring, always changing, listen to all their music, you can't miss.
Hard to believe this album is 50 next year! Still sounds amazing.
Another must listen: "Bodhisattva" from "Countdown To Ecstasy", the ultimate driving song!
Bodhisattva is the BEST! Love that whole second album though too!
Fantastic guitar solo in that song.
Yes! That and the best post-apocalyptic driving song from the same album, "King of the World!!"
It is a very cool song and album! Toto actually did an amazing cover of Bodhisattva you might want to check out. Cheers.
@@williammanns9927 Denny Dias did all the best solo's for SD, especially his work on Your Gold Teeth II is amazing.
Singer on some of the songs is David Palmer who was with the band for an album or 2
Bought this album in 73 Wore it out
David Palmer’s vocals on Dirty Work are beautifully sublime. There’s an early demo where Donald Fagen sang lead on it, and it sounds bizarre…
Alas, Palmer was let go once Fagen felt comfortable enough to take the reigns…
You two look absolutely radiant upon return from Mexico. The rest and vacation fun seems to have served you well. Great pick for a return video. I hope you like it. It's not quite as polished as Aja. But a very good album nonetheless.
I thought the very same. Very relaxed, healthy, and full of energy.
Lex, you are probably going to have a few more of those “I know this song” moments if you continue to explore the SD catalog. SD had a lot of hits. That’s why some people were so incredulous when you guys first said you were unfamiliar with their work. 🙂
Some of us older people remember when songs like Do It Again were all over the radio stations.
And, they have been sampled, probably more than any other writers.
The shift in the grocery stores and department stores from Muzak to classic rock ‘n’ roll hits has put music into the minds of people without their even knowing it.
Hey guys. I was fortunate enough to see Steely Dan at Red Rocks 6 rows from the stage about 15 years ago. AMAZING! Dirty work was sung by the female back up singers in particular Caroline Leonhhart. Gave it. Whole new meaning.. life long Coloradan and life long Dan Fan..
Caroline❤❤❤
Caroline - the magical voice in Pixeleen... ❤️
David Palmer who sings the lead on Dirty Work was an original member of the band. Jeff "Skunk" Baxter who shared lead guitar with Denny Dias (the electric sitar solo on Do It Again) brought in Palmer because Fagen was not confident in his vocal abilities. After the first album, Fagen took over the vocal duties and Palmer left to pursue a solo career.
This was the first Steely Dan song I ever heard, their first hit. I’ve been a huge fan ever since. This whole first album is still one I play quite a lot. Never get tired of it. This and Aja are my two faves.
Welcome back guys you look refreshed Don’t forget Green Earrings of Royal Scam and FM no static,,,,loving your Dan journey ✌️ps Dirty work was used in Suicide Squad trailer
OMG Green Earrings is my favorite SD song. It just gets better and better as the song progresses. Soooo funky.
Yes yes yes and I would add title tracks from Pretzel Logic and The Royal Scam.
FM for Sure!!
In the Dan's concerts over the last few years, the boys had the lovely backup singer women doing all the vocals on Dirty Work. It worked wonderfully!
I got to see the Dan live three times, fortunately all were before we lost Walter. At one show Donald announced that the were going to go way back and the band started Bodhisattva. The crowd went wild. Then Fagen yelled "WAY BACK!" and they started Dirty Work. And the entire audience, myself included, in unison gasped. Damn. So glad I was there for that.
Kid Charlemagne HAS to be the next song you do. The guitar solo in it is one of the greatest all-time on any rock track, not just by Steely Dan.
For me The Royal Scam is their best album !
Larry Carlton has sessioned with over 100 artists and bands, as well as solo work and fronting one of the preeminent jazz bands - Fourplay. He is, to me, the finest jazz/fusion guitarist on the planet.
Great guitar solo on Kid! In fact a great ablum!
Everything they did was unparalleled, but "Dont take me alive" is far better than Kid Charlemagne
@@stanleymasterson1135 That opening is fuc$ing killer! Larry Carlton is great!
Great to see you back..you are glowing! and Steely Dan is always great to see a reaction to...i was in 9th grade when this album came out and it still holds up today..keep em comin' my Rocky Mountain friends.,,Kent
You're in for a long, wonderful listening experience because all their albums are masterpieces.
Wow! I haven’t listened to this song in years. With fresh ears, I’m amazed at the complexity of the keyboard solo after the electric sitar solo. Thanks for all listening!
Just binge watched all of your Steely Dan / Donald Fagan stuff - I feel stupid for having tears in my eyes at you folks loving this stuff. I honestly don't think there's anywhere else on RUclips you can "see" someone discover Steely Dan - amazing. There is no other band like them anywhere. I discovered them through a combination of my Dad being a fan and me never taking it seriously and my wife being a big Michael McDonald fan (he's their backing singer on a lot of stuff - also his solo stuff is amazing).
Steely Dan itself is not just a band, they epitomise a culture - once you are in (and I think you are) you become obsessed. And you can't explain that to others - they don't get it until it clicks. You are clearly very musical people (rather than music lovers) because as they say Steely Dan is the musicians musician - the more you listen, the more music genius you hear, you single out instruments and are blown away again and again.
Lyrically they are on another level too - people endlessly debate the meanings of the lyrics.
This is not a train you can get back off - if there's a downside, Steely Dan makes the production of other artists pale into the distance - there aren't many who stand up to this level even today with all the tech.
You have a new subscriber!
My recommendations: (as you clearly love guitar) definitely Kid Charlemagne (epic solo) and Don't take me alive (one of the only pop songs ever to start with a guitar solo)
Also check Michael McDonald (different style but very influenced by them) and Donald Fagan did a concert with Michael and Bozz Scaggs called The Dukes of September - many said it was the closest to Steely Dan live you'll ever get - awesome!
Another channel to check out: Brooklyn Charmers - best Steely Dan cover group I've ever seen!
As a guy who has ‘done your dirty work’ a couple of times in my youth, I love the lyrics of this song. It captures how you are like a fly trapped in a web you want to escape from but there’s an overpowering temptation to stay, knowing the potential doom that awaits! Musically superb as always with that melancholy sax solo summing it all up!
By the way...Dirty Work was also used in the award winning movie American Hustle.
we were so lucky to get to mainline music like this every day, it just came pouring in all the time on the radio, every day, every way
The best way to describe Steely Dan is Smooth. Nothing else needs to be said.
Dirty Work is just a pop song. “Just” yet it’s filled with so many little musical moments. And the harmonies on the chorus: perfection.
I'd bet that one of you has already heard Reeling in the years as well. One of the most iconic intros (a guitar solo!) Ever.
I believe the solo was one of Jimmy Page's favorites if not outright favorite.
One of my favorite songs by them
A GREAT solo!
That's an Electric Sitar in "Do It Again "✌
i cannot for the life of me understand how music aficianados dont know the legendary Steely Dan. Seriously. But its good to know they appreciate his style of music and surreal lyrics. It's Fagen's art form. Here they are accepting the grammy for ALBUM OF THE YEAR!
ruclips.net/video/6XzvRwSg3M0/видео.html
I didn't know who Steely Dan was when I bought "Aja" in 1977. I just thought the album cover was cool. Best blind purchase I ever made.
One of the best debut albums of all time. Not a single filler song on the album. Never gets old.
Great catch on the Dirty Work harmonies sounding like the band America. I hear Crosby Stills Nash & Young as well. Of course ultimately everything they do is uniquely and satisfyingly Steely Dan. Dirty Work was prominent early in the great 2013 movie American Hustle with Christian Bale, Jennifer Lawrence, Amy Adams et al.. Steely Dan is a musical act, but also a deeply addictive narcotic.
Dirty Work is one of my favorites-absolutely love it!!
Yes, a different vocalist on "Dirty Work." His name is David Palmer. I believe he only sang two songs for them. His backing vocals are on a few more tracks of the album.
Never knew, what happened to him?
Thank you, I couldn't remember his name. I had seen a TV performance, live clip of him singing Dirty Work with Steely Dan
@@steve55sogood16 He did a little work on "Countdown to Ecstasy." And worked with Carole King on "Jazzman" then formed a band that didn't have any success. From the turn of the century, he worked in digital photography.
the whole album Can't Buy A Thrill, is worth reacting to. lots of great stuff in it
Even now when Steely Dan do this one live, Fagen usually lets the female backing singers trade vocals on it.
You guys are Precious...I was in High School in Utah when this came out, Steely Dan became part of the fabric of my entire life...all the great bands, start at their begining and go thru there discograpy in order, when you grow up with it is what we had to do, wait for the next one, You are blessed because you could consume all their albums in one day...that is so trippy to me, like Led Zep, was a journey back then , you to wait a while between albums! Well Done, as usual! Love you guys!
Do It again one of the most beautiful songs ever. An atmosphere that makes me resurface old memories. Thanks for putting it on
Midnight Cruiser is my favorite but every track is stellar. My uncle turned me onto the Dan when I was just a kid, always appreciated that.
Oh wow ( i am a fairly new subcriber of yours, just about 6 days ago, more or less) and my first ever Steely Dan album is "Can't But A Thrill ", and " Do It Again " one of my favouriten song .
I love your " reactions" , I was a young teenager in the 70ish, and love your enthusiasm of the music era I was brought up in , I love 60ish music too due to my older brothers influence ( brought up in the Netherlands , now living in the UK ) I feel privileged to know all the old music , massive fan of prog music (and Led zeppelin too that goes without saying) Sorry for my rambling on! I just wanted to say that I really think you are great, you two make me smile!
p.s You know that there are a few (edit: "good" Dutch 😉) Dutch progressive rock bands ,and rockbands, around!?
For instance: Dutch band Focus with "Hocus Pocus "
ruclips.net/video/MV0F_XiR48Q/видео.html
They are brilliant and entertaining LIVE
Same track , two tracks really ( Sylvia/ Hocus Pocus) 1973 on TV show LIVE:
The Grey Whistle Test BBC:
ruclips.net/video/TV-X-5CcfYY/видео.html
Thank you for being here and for sharing your thoughts and suggestions! :) Welkom en bedankt! - Lex
@@NicknLex Hey so cool to get a reply back, you're both welkom too, en bedankt, danke schön , gracias ! Paula!~
AJA is the best produced album but their two best albums are Countdown to ecstacy and The royal scam. The first 7 albums are near perfect.
I agree about CTE and TRS. It seems a lot of us hard core SD fans like them better than Aja, as great as it is.
Everything Must Go is incredibly underrated.
@@danl.909 Agree. I would count myself in that group that likes CTE and TRS better than AJA. Hell, I like Pretzel Logic and Can't Buy A Thrill better than AJA too!
I kind of like Pretzel Logic!
Yea. Aja is sooooo slick! If it was the only SD I knew of, I'd be excstatic. But it's perhaps a little too sanitary when compared to their earlier work. And Goucho, as lovely as it sounds, needs more fizz.
Thanks for reminding me how much I love this song and Dirty
Work has always been my favorite
Steeley Dan song
I'm so glad that you are finding these true gems. I grew up with such a plethora of fantastic songs and musicians it makes me happy to see you appreciate and enjoy their beauty. Cheers guys. Plenty more to come as you're 'Reelin in the Years." 🤘😎👍🍁🎵🎵❤
I would love for you to do “My Old School” next. It’s another one of their earlier hits from when they were a group rather than a duo. Very witty lyrics, a kick ass horn section and a fantastic guitar solo are highlights of this song.
As a guitar player, you'll love what Skunk is putting down.
In other words, every dang note of every darn instrument including every single lyric is freaking fantastic. Is that what you meant ?
You have chosen a very good group here..
Forgive me for calling you two kids, but you're younger than my son. Don't let the nay-sayers get you down and keep up the good work! I enjoy seeing a younger generation embrace what I and others did so many years ago.
I enjoy all your videos. I’m 63 so a lot of the music you review is music I love and grew up with. I see all the guitars each time and I’m not the only person who would like to hear a song from you guys ❤️
In the Army 1972-1975. Taking an evening college biology class. After class, me and my buddy from Montana would smoke a little, put on Steely Dan, and drive to the local fast food and purchase a chili dog with onions and mustard. Fond Fond Memories!
You make me so happy! Coming back home, looking radiant and beautiful, and playing STEELY DAN - a marathon! Oh, I’m thrilled. And yes, jazzy and Funky, but elevated pop Rock too. The musicianship and the choices are high-brow. Fagen grew up in the jazz clubs of NYC and loves Miles and Coltrane and Dizzy. But they add the Funk and the catchy aspects of Pop Rock but with so many ear-candy touches of percussion and tasty solos.
Eventually, you’ll discover the (sometimes) dark lyrics. Do It Again ( IMO) is about doing something over and over (You go back, Jack) even though it doesn’t work for you - like addictions ... to violence (1st verse), difficult relationships (2nd verse), gambling (3rd), etc.
Dirty Work gives me Beatles or even Badfinger vibes with the harmonies.
Thanks so much. So glad you appreciate Steely Dan. Like I said, Don’t deprive yourselves just because of the fans. Other reactors have had the same complaints. Nobody’s lying. We just don’t know that we’ve heard something (in passing) until we listen. But then, there’s so much more to hear beyond the catchy parts.
Steely Dan has remained on my playlist for decades! And they just toured!!! I sent a CD to you from that tour just for kicks. Ok, I’m so busy but had to say all this ... and more ... later. Hugs ✨🤪
Do it again is a MASTERPIECE , one single note worth more than the whole depeche mode GARBAGE! REAL MUSICIANS !
Steely Dan is my favorite. But it’s a shame you think Depeche Mode is garbage 😣
Chill on Depeche Mode already. I love Steely Dan AND Depeche Mode. That doesn't make me wrong or a bad person.Stick to the current video, thank you.
Depeche mode garbage?hahahaha
Welcome to my freshman year of High School. Yes, they played this song on radio. Even AM stations, at least those trying to compete with the fast growing FM listening audience.
This is the first Steely Dan I ever heard. Totally hooked
The intro always, I mean never fails to get me in the mood. Takes me back to my teen years…what a time warp. Thanks.
Very nice reaction, David Palmer sings Dirty Work.
I can remember when 'Can't Buy a Thrill' came out - first record I owned where I loved every single track on the record! Most of the songs are lesser known than these two and 'Reelin' In The Years' but those lesser known ones are still gems.
We would jam to this on the way to school in the 70ds. It was on the radio all the time as so many of Rhee songs were.
This is a time where you had to have raw talent to make it .what a time 😊🙏
Lex reaction was priceless when she realized she had heard the first song . For all of the doubters, just look at her reaction. It was like she just got caught with her hand in the cookie jar 🤣
Your reaction remains the mine 47-48 years ago first time listening this song.
As you can see, they were top shelf right from the get go. Such talent.....it's insane.
Both great tracks and an enjoyable reaction. Have always loved "Dirty Work" in particular.
Always a fan of Steely Dan. Love that you're back and feelin' good and back for more reactions! Hope your live one is coming up soon. Missed talking to y'all! Peace! 🎶🎶🎶
What a great way to discover the music of Steely Dan.
You will find absolute perfection, even on the ones you don’t like the fist time around. You will eventually succumb to the brilliance of their lyrics and unparalleled musical arrangements.
You won’t be disappointed … 😎🤘🏼
Really enjoyed watching how excited you were to discover this music for the 1st time. As a fellow music lover I know that feeling so well.
If I remember correctly Fagan initially didn't think he was a good enough singer so they had a different vocalist on some of the songs. In time they decided Fagan could sing his own material better than anyone else, even if he wasn't a technically great singer as you said. Some of my favorite artists aren't technically great singers, but I find being able to convey emotion through your vocals much more impactful.
I think the reason it is hard to believe is that they have so many great jazz artists playing for them that it is like how could you not have been familiar with them since you're into jazz artists?
I’ve been listening to all Steely Dan’s complete albums since 1971, when this came out, so I always knew all their music, but my friends in High school didn’t make that connection. So, it was a common thing, even back then.
Modmary…”Can’t Buy A Thrill” came out in Nov. of ‘72…
I remember it like it was yesterday because I bought it the day it came out. As a kid, I happened to have been in the store as I watched the Peaches Records employees hang the promo poster and I just loved the cover artwork. The guy behind the counter said I’d love it, because he heard the 4 song promo EP…I used all my allowance money on that 1 record…
It’s still in my stacks…along with every single Steely Dan 45, vinyl, Cassette, CD, and yes, even digital downloads…
I guess I’m obsessed, but I know what I like…
@@twoblacklabs904 My older Brother bought that album, and we both listened to it together, but I forgot the exact year. Thank you for correcting me. I was 10 years old. 😊 We’ve both been obsessed with Steely Dan ever since.
So glad you've discovered Steely Dan. You have a lot more to look forward to. I'm 61 and was blessed to grow up in the 60s and 70s - the best time for music. I feel sorry for young people today. They don't get that anticipation of waiting for new LPs to come out, pre-ordering because you knew you would love every song on the album!!!
I'm SO glad that you recognized these songs. Your fans were right all along! Personally, I was not aware that Dirty Work was from Steely Dan!! I admit it, ha ha! Awesome true reaction!. That's why people love you guys so much. Love dad 😉
Aww so glad you enjoyed! We love you, too!
One of my very favorite songs, Dirty Work. The best Steely Dan
Song
When I heard this song in 72/73 for the first time, I thought at the beginning: oh a new Santana song, because of the latin rhythm, but when the singing started, I realized it's a new band and after the song they said what it was. I liked it from the very beginning and it's always been one of my Steely Dan favourites.
GREAT tunes are appreciated WAY past the time they are written in. THAT is the definition of timeless.
❤️
I first heard ‘Reelin in the Years’ it was 1973.. I was 19 and working on a North Sea oil rig….. I got onshore, bought ‘can’t buy a thrill’ and have been a Dan lover ever since.
What you really need to do with Steely Dan is not worry about which song to do next, but just schedule a couple of songs every week or so and run through every song on every album in order. They’re all good.
I had and gave to my son every steely dan album. Sweet music glad you appreciate the art
I suppose you could describe it as a bossa nova beat. The stringed instrument you can hear is an electrified sitar. On Dirty Work, the vocals are by David Palmer who was only on the first album. This song was used in a memorable scene in The Sopranos. I've always said the brilliant muscianship is a given but what people tend to forget are the vocal harmonies. I'd put them up there with CSN and Fleetwood Mac in the harmony department. You'd love Babylon Sisters, so funky with the Purdie shuffle by the incomparable Bernard Purdie. I was lucky enough to see them back in 2019, obviously without Walter, in Birmingham (England). It was a great gig, unfortunately no Babylon Sisters (which they'd done in Manchester the previous night). Stevie Winwood supported, who was also great, and came on later to do Pretzel Logic with Dan. I thought I'd died and gone to heaven.
Thanks, I was curious who was singing the lead
It's not a sitar. It's a guitar called the Coral "Electric Sitar". But it's just an electric guitar with a bridge that has a wooden piece under the strings that makes them buzz like a sitar (on a sitar it's called a jawari). Sitars are a completely different instrument altogether with completely different number of strings which are used for different purposes. This guitar has six strings EADGBE, and frets just like every other guitar.
For those of us there "back in the day", this was the very first thing we ever heard from the Dan of Steel. (Never looked back since then.) Oh, and that "fish instrument" is called a guiro. (The lead vocalist in Dirty Work is David Palmer.)
I’ve seen Steely Dan three times. Had tickets for Atlanta in 2021 but it was postponed of course. Been a fan for 40 years. Favorite band ever and it’s not even close. Hope Donald stays healthy and keeps touring. We won’t have him forever. I will absolutely cry when he leaves us.
Thanks for the video!
By the time the album reached this song I was a life long fan
The solo instrument that was used before the keyboard solo was an electric sitar.
The '70s-you picked a great decade to deep dive into! I was lucky to live through it all, when Top 40 radio was the thing.
welcome back guys, hope you continue on your Steely Dan journey, great music ahead if you do !!!!!!
Welcome back. Steely Dan isn't the proverbial "rabbit hole" - they are a deep mine shaft with many oblique side tunnels to explore. There are lots of suggestions below, but if you want a track that is completely different from their norm, check out "Haitian Divorce": ruclips.net/video/dKMCz1b2RxE/видео.html
Thank you for another superb reaction. If you're half as nice in person as you are on the videos I highly doubt you're even capable of making a convincing lie. Having heard a song in the background is not the same as knowing it and denying it. "Reeling In The Years" is a rocker that you'll probably recognize, too. But it's so good. "Kings" is awesome. "Midnight Cruiser" (not sung by Donald Fagen) is awesome. Rock on, Nick N Lex!
it's so much fun to watch new generations discover Steely Dan. i heard this album when it came out and ran out to buy it. I bought every other album after that. great compositions, superb arrangements, and consummate musicianship were always the hallmarks of any Steely Dan record.
This album came out when I was 22. Never tire of it.
I had completely forgotten about Dirty Work. Thanks for reminding me.
Been listening to SD for 50 years. I appreciate your comparison between the organs in SD and the Doors. Both great solos.
You need to check out Donald Fagen's solo album 'The Nightfly' sheer brilliance. Great reaction again.
They did IGY already, and, of course, loved it!
Ditto!! On of the greatest albums ever put together!
Great video ! These 70s sound and bands were awesome back in the day growing up in the 70s and 80s . I remember this because I have a record and cassette when this came out in the early 70s.
Welcome back you two!
That was a pure joy to watch!
I listened to this growing up and it's wonderful to watch you get into it...it does the ol' heart good...Love It!!!
Peace and Love ☮
(Lex, the hair looks great!)
Nick, I want to see you play some "gee-tar" one of these days!
The singer is David Palmer. I have listened to them since this album was released, I was 21 then, and have never stopped listening! Got to see them live twice in the the last few years, sadly Walter died just before, which was heartbreaking for all fans, so I never got to see the complete band live, but it was still magical to witness the brilliance!
Steely Dan is always in my play list! I would recommend "Show Biz Kids" when you're in the mood for a banger!
Love your Steely Dan reactions, guys!! Hope you share with us your first reactions of the rest of the catalogue!! Totally worth it!! ¡Abrazos!
The Singer on this song is David Palmer. He was brought into the sessions for this album, mainly on the insistence of their record label. After the album was released he was fired mainly for his alcohol use and the fact that Donald Fagen and Walter Becker believed that he could he couldn't interpret their music
Thanks for the reaction. As you've discovered Dan is a class of its own. These songs are almost 50 years old yet still sound awesome.
Where to start on Can’t Buy a Thrill? You can’t miss with any of the songs. Different styles and singers 😎
Reeling in the Years is a staple , I say couple that with ‘Only a Fool Would Say That’ as your next two Steely Dan songs .
"Do It Again" was the opening song on their very first album.
Then the ride began!
It’s so nice that you are enjoying steely Dan’s beginnings. I remember when I first bought this album and played it many many times, and I still enjoy listening to these great songs. 👍🏻🎸🎹
These two songs together with "Reelin' In the Years" got me completely into Steely Dan.
Their first song from their first album... it was mind blowing
And now you know why we fell for them first listen. And then they kept on getting more innovated
Another great reaction video! You guys would be great to hang out with. You have such an awesome taste in music! Keep up the great videos. Gary
Love how the ride cymbal in the background, keeps a constant straight 4 beat, subtly holding it all together, and keeping a solid groove. Great review guys!
That fish shaped percussion instrument is a 'Guiro'.
David Palmer - lead vocals on "Dirty Work" and "Brooklyn", backing vocals
Donald Fagen - acoustic and electric pianos, plastic (YC-30) organ, lead vocals (except on "Dirty Work", "Midnite Cruiser", and "Brooklyn"), backing vocals
Jeff "Skunk" Baxter - guitar, pedal steel guitar, spoken word on "Only a Fool Would Say That"
Denny Dias - guitar, electric sitar
Walter Becker - electric bass, backing vocals
Jim Hodder - drums, percussion, lead vocal on "Midnite Cruiser", backing vocals