1. Vinylmasters

   10

   We all should understand that music is a totally subjective experience as is a "good wine" or a great movie. That being said, I am a bit perplexed that Mack would make such bold statements and references. Steely Dan/Donald **** and Walter Becker have truly evolved. Listen to the sound changes over the years and the past three decades have been more of a polishing of a sound that is proven, secure and dynamic. I may be a huge fan but I also appreciate the depth and soul of what I consider to be one of the most important musical influences since James Brown - "on the one beat - smile! One should comment on what they understand rather than be critical of that which they do not!… Expand

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2. FrankK

   4

   Just like Dan, Fagen is at his best as a three and a half minute pop song performer. H-Gang, What I Do and the title tracks highlight an effort that otherwise embodies the overindulgent aspects of Aja & Goucho. Aside from these four songs, the rest is merely background music.… Expand

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3. Mack

   2

   I just don't get it. It mystifies me how anyone could be so enamored with this vapid, smooth jazz-esque, ready-made keyboard-solo elevator music. Plus, does anyone notice how there's very little variation or perhaps evolution from album to album? If this album was created by a young indie band, it would be given terrible reviews - but slap Donald Fagen's name on it and it's a masterpiece? If the lyrics are so good, how about placing them in something other than a lazy soft jazz setting? How emotional connection with this 'musac' is possible is beyond me. Plus, most artists receive poor reviews when they just keep making the same music over and over - yet once again, Donald Fagen could release this same album every year and reviewers would fawn over it as a treasure. Come on. It's a shame how many wonderful albums are rated lower than this granola background music. Since when has being a huge Donald Fagen fan given reviewers such great street cred?… Expand

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