From the hypnotic grooves of “Black Cow” to contributions from jazz legends Wayne Shorter, Steve Gadd, and Victor Feldman, Steely Dan’s 1977 masterpiece Aja reigns amongst the best—and best-produced—albums of all time. In this episode, Peter and Adam break down Fagen and Becker’s jazz-infused harmonies, their precision recording process, and the album’s audiophile-worthy engineering. Tune in for stories, stem breakdowns, and a brand new segment where Kaleb Kirby and Bob DeBoo join us to play through Aja hits. Whether you’re a Steely Dan devotee or just here for the yacht-rock controversy, get ready to kick off the new YHI season with one of the 70s’ most iconic sonic journeys.
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show notes:

(00:00) Intro & avoiding nautical references

(03:11) Introduction to Aja (1977) and its Grammy nods

(06:01) "Black Cow" keys analysis (Joe Sample & Victor Feldman)

(07:36) Isolation of Paul Humphrey's drum tracks

(11:01) Breakdown of Victor Feldman's Rhodes solo

(14:37) Deep dive into title track "Aja"

(18:11) Analysis of Wayne Shorter solo w/Steve Gadd "comping"

(25:49) "Peg" analysis

(27:27) Breakdown of McDonald's background vocal arrangements

(30:23) Album sequencing discussion

(31:31) Chuck Rainey's bass contributions across the album

(33:11) "Home at Last" analysis

(35:35) "Deacon Blues" discussion

(39:44) Snob-o-meter rating

(42:34) Preview of Open Studio member exclusive content

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Check out AJA by Don Breithaupt
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/steely-dans-aja-don-breithaupt/1100758984