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Steely Dan

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Profile:
Steely Dan is an American jazz-rock band based around musicians and songwriters Walter Becker and Donald Fagen, both of whom have also released solo work. Their music is characterized by complex jazz-influenced structures and harmonies; ambiguous, narrative lyrics filled with dark wit and obscure allusions, and by their studio perfectionism. Their ability to utilize world-class sessions players has been also been a hallmark of their work, and special credit should be given to their long-time producer Gary Katz and engineer Roger Nichols.

The group's history can be divided into three stages. In its original conception, the group was a relatively conventional rock band that toured and recorded from 1972 to 1974, releasing many hit singles, including 'Do It Again', 'Reelin' in the Years', 'My Old School' and 'Rikki Don't Lose That Number'. In its second stage (1975 - 1980) the group, now consisting solely of Fagen and Becker, became a purely studio-based act whose releases showed a growing obsession with slick production values, and whose output became increasingly jazz-orientated, culminating in the highly successful 'Aja' (1977) and 'Gaucho' (1980). Studio gloss aside, Fagen and Becker continued with their obtuse and bohemian lyrical themes. The band split in 1981 following a tumultuous recording process for their 7th album, and personal problems for both members.

In the Eighties, Fagen released his seminal debut album, 'The Nightfly', while Becker, after recovering from drug addiction, busied himself in production work.

The third stage was a rebirth of sorts when the band reformed after from a 13 year hiatus, followed by a world tour. In 2000, the Grammy-award-winning 'Two Against Nature' was released to critical and surprising commercial success. Fans did not have to wait another 20 years for its successor, as 'Everything Must Go' was released in 2003.

Trivia:

Steely Dan is known for their use of the Mu Major chord, often jokingly referred to as the 'Steely Dan chord'.
The guitar solo for Reelin' In The Years is one of Jimmy Page's (Led Zeppelin) favourites of all time.
Steely Dan took their name from a series of dildos featured in William Burroughs' novel, 'Naked Lunch'.
There is a Steely Dan cover band called Nearly Dan who hail from Stoke On Trent in the North of England. This is one of many Steely Dan Tribute bands around the world.

Additional Links:

Steely Dan's homepage
Steely Dan's wikipedia article
Under The Banyan Trees with Steely Dan