How Do You Listen To Steely Dan Music?
Walter Becker and Donald Fagan formed Steely Dan in 1972, after becoming disaffected with the traditional pop and rock bands with whom they’d been working. Their style includes elements of jazz and rock, along with ironic and often enigmatic lyrics. To get the most from the music of Steely Dan, listeners should listen for their complex signature chords, and focus on the lyrics. Choose a Steely Dan album. Most people have a favorite, but Becker and Fagan see “Aja,” released in 1977 and containing hits including “Peg,” “Deacon Blues” and “Josie,” as the highpoint of their musical careers. Their latest album, 2003’s “Everything Must Go,” is reminiscent of their earlier work but includes different rhythms and a more cynical tone. Make sure that you have time to listen to the entire album without interruption. Turn off your phone and cell phone, and close your door. Steely Dan’s albums aren’t random collections of songs. They are songs carefully chosen to work together to make an album a si
