You'll Hear It

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._____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🟠 Open Studio Members -> Nerd NookTry OS Membership today! → https://osjazz.link/aboutLooking to drop a question? Want to listen to the audio pod? Look no further!https://youllhearit.com/Check out AJA by Don Breithaupthttps://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/steely-dans-aja-don-breithaupt/1100758984

Bob DeBoo, a contributor to Upright Citizens, joins Adam Maness to explore their favorite live albums from the legendary Village Vanguard jazz club. They reminisce about the venue's unique acoustics and intimate atmosphere while discussing the groundbreaking performances of jazz legends like Sonny Rollins and Bill Evans. The duo also delves into the exhilarating dynamics of live sessions, the evolution of John Coltrane’s sound, and the improvisational brilliance of musicians like Joshua Redman, capturing the vibrant spirit of jazz.

The discussion highlights ways to weave music into daily life without falling into burnout. It explores setting goals and the value of silence for a richer musical experience. There's a focus on reflecting on past journeys to foster growth, with actionable planning for the future. The importance of evaluating progress as the new year approaches is emphasized, alongside how rewarding practices can boost motivation and the joy of music while encouraging performances that give back to the community.

Dive into the world of tunes that double as educational tools for musicians! Discover how specific songs can enhance your skills and repertoire. The hosts explore jazz harmony and the importance of blues structure, revealing insights from bebop pieces. There's a humorous take on the C minor pentatonic scale and what accuracy means in music. They also dissect Thelonious Monk's 'Round Midnight' to uncover lessons in jazz ballads, along with exploring modal techniques and voicings that will enrich your playing.

Ever felt a song tug at your heart? The hosts dive deep into music's unique power to evoke emotions, sharing personal stories about the unforgettable impact of Oscar Peterson's tunes. They explore how specific chord progressions can create moods of hope or melancholy, analyzing the production choices that make pieces feel tender. Lively discussions on lyrical storytelling showcase how different interpretations can trigger personal memories. Prepare for an emotional journey as they uncover the magic behind the music that resonates deeply with us all.

Explore the brilliance of Art Tatum, the jazz piano icon whose innovative techniques transformed the instrument. Discover his remarkable journey from 1933 to 1949, filled with personal anecdotes and insights into his stylistic evolution. Enjoy a humorous look at the cultural contrasts of his era through film and TV. Delve into Tatum's intricate piano skills and his iconic piece 'Willow Weep for Me,' showcasing his unique performance style. Reflect on Tatum's lasting legacy and influence on modern musicians and genres.

The hosts dive into holiday classics that have lost their sparkle, critiquing overplayed tunes like overcooked steaks. They humorously explore the quirky charm of songs like 'I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas' and question modern arrangements. A critical look at a 1984 charity classic reveals its problematic themes, while reflections on 'Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer' highlight its cultural significance. Join the festive banter as they navigate the charm and flaws of holiday music!

The hosts dive into their top seven jazz GAS standards, unraveling their unique musical structures and cultural significance. They discuss classics like 'Autumn Leaves' and 'Embraceable You,' highlighting the evolution of jazz harmonies and the transformative power of improvisation. Personal anecdotes add color as they explore iconic compositions and their emotional depths. A fascinating detour into the changing meanings of language is also on the table, enriching the conversation with humor and insight.

Black Friday is upon us! Go to https://openstudiojazz.com/blackfriday for our biggest savings of the year. Think you can teach somebody a lesson in 60 seconds? Join Adam and Peter as they reminisce about their journey teaching in a short format.Check out all our shorts at our Open Studio channel Looking to drop a question? Want to listen to the audio pod? Look no furtherhttps://youllhearit.com/Have a question for us? Leave us a SpeakPipeCheckout courses from Adam, Peter and more at Open Studio🎹 Head over to our YouTube channel for a better look 👀.Follow us on Instagram

Dive into a lively discussion about music playlists that inspire creativity. The hosts share light-hearted banter and personal anecdotes, touching on everything from the decline of formal attire in public to the joys of contemporary jazz. Get insights into the beauty of Kenny Kirkland's 'D'Ende' and the impressive talents of Quartet Ebene. Plus, explore the nuances of improvisation in jazz and reminisce about past collaborations with Memphis pianists. It's a mix of humor, music appreciation, and intriguing reflections!