Steely Dan Album: “Android Warehouse”

'Android Warehouse' collects most of the extant demo or pre-Steely Dan recordings made by Walter Becker and Donald Fagen, along with other musicians on some of the tracks. These recordings have proven essential for fans of Walter and Donald.

I said in the previous paragraph that "most" of the early recordings are here. There is a version of "Sun Mountain" in this collection, but two versions actually exist. The one represented here is skeletal, with Donald Fagen straining at the difficult vocal part and accompanying himself at the piano. The second, more finished version (not included) utilizes a quartet: Becker and Fagen play bass and piano, respectively, a drummer completes the rhythm section, and there is a vocalist who can handle the nearly two-octave melodic range of the song.

You must hear the alternate version of "Sun Mountain" to appreciate this lovely song. It is available on a collection called 'Catalyst: The Original Recordings (1968-71)'. 'Catalyst' costs more than 'Android Warehouse' and contains all the same music, but adds the second recording of "Sun Mountain".

A fanatic will probably need to have the 'Catalyst' release.

This is a collection of lesser known works and demos of old Dan favorites. Surprising that they would let this one slip out into the public as they were always such perfectionists.

Still, it is intersting to hear the first takes of these well known favorites, many unplugged, with that "garage band" sound.

Please note, this CD will only be of interest to real hardcore Dan fans who are thoroughly familiar with all of their studio works from "Can't Buy A Thrill" to "Gaucho".

If you own all the books and all the albums this is the next step. Its full of early and very experimental music. From the dylan-esq incarnation of Brooklyn to the 60s pop sounds of A horse in town, its very interestin to hear the beginings and musical experimentation of this wonderful band. Be warned some of the material is just plain awful though.

What a wonderful glimpse into what would become the full blown genius of Steely Dan.

As a songwriter, for me it is really interesting to me so see how things develop, and what changes are made. These songs show the bare basics of what these guys are about, and clearly demonstrate their songwriting and song structuring abilities.

I LOVE this set. I feel certain that Becker and Fagen would be furious about people having it, but even though I totally respect artistic integrity - this set is just too good to miss. Certainly for total Steely Dan fans - not for those who only want the "polished" stuff. Personally - I love it all.

What is particularly interesting to me is that the guitar player who shows up on some of the tracks is none other than Denny Dias who was reportedly a founding member of Steely Dan. How cool is THAT?

And the drummer on some of the tracks? Jim Hodder, also an early (first drummer) of Steely Dan. Also very cool.

So - summary, great set - gives you insight into the creative genius of Becker and Fagen.