There was a time in the late 70s and early 80s where there was a seeming hatred for Steely Dan and their music in the press. It’s not easy to see why, but I guess it was their single minded determination to do what they wanted and not conform to any trend. Now, the music biz is all about trends and the next big thing that they can jump to in the blink of an eye, and Steely Dan are definitely not that.
Nobody makes great sounding albums like this anymore. That knowledge is being lost as everyone thinks they can record straight to a laptop and it’s gonna sound great. Whether you like them or not, the band’s albums are sonically superb and Aja is a pure joy to listen to.
My favourite tracks? Well, I’m going for the title track first as it’s a super smooth groove and you get to hear Steve Gadd laying down some wicked drums. Also, I Got The News is where the band lay into a killer funky groove, which is something they do so well.
Everyone should own a copy of this just as an example of how good albums used to sound.
9/10 from The Grooveman.
