PRETZEL LOGIC

This may seem odd, but growing up especially with vinyl, you almost have an aerial shot view of any album and the direction it took for both sides. Always different and with CD's as well to a lesser degree. The interesting thing about Pretzel Logic is I think of it like a twin brother or sister to Countdown To Ectasy so almost identical in the path it took but the weaker of the twins. Not by a longshot, this is still an excellently crafted piece of work, perfectionism rising above almost everything else as a priority, resulting in I am sure manic frustrations from the session players. Rikki Don't Lose That Number is the most commercial track off Pretzel Logic. Night By Night is another solid track with lush vocals from Fagen and some excellent guitar riffs. Any Major Dude is a typical Steely Dan number similar to their brand sound of the early to mid 70's. East St. Lois is basically the guys just havin some good old fun, a jazzy instrumental returning the 30's featuring Duke Ellington as guest. One of my personal favourites is Parker's Band which has a great groove throughout folowed closely by the title track. This is the highlight on the album with some fantastic playing from Walter Becker. Excellent drumming too from I think Jeff Porcaro. All in a great album, very short, close on 30 odd minutes long but a very necessary addition to your Steely Dan collective. Money well spent. Three and half stars.