Steely Dan’s “Gaucho” Makes a Grand Vinyl Comeback!
Steely Dan : Gaucho – returns to vinyl after a 15-year hiatus. This 1980 masterpiece, which includes timeless tracks like “Hey Nineteen,” “Babylon Sisters,” and “Time Out of Mind” (featuring the legendary Mark Knopfler on guitar), will be available from December 1 2023.
Released in 1980, “Gaucho” stands as Steely Dan’s seventh studio album, wrapping up an era of unparalleled creativity for the band. This album, which took almost two years of meticulous crafting, was not just their final release under MCA Records but also marked a pause in their studio recordings for two decades.
The album is a testament to Steely Dan’s commitment to musical excellence. Despite facing numerous challenges, including lost recordings and personal setbacks, the duo, Walter Becker and Donald Fagen, collaborated with over 40 top musicians of the era. Notable contributions include Michael McDonald’s backing vocals and Mark Knopfler’s guitar prowess on “Time Out of Mind,” and Bernard Purdie’s iconic “Purdie Shuffle” on “Babylon Sisters.”
The Legacy of “Gaucho”:
Upon its release, “Gaucho” not only achieved platinum status but also earned critical acclaim, with accolades from major publications like Rolling Stone and The New York Times. The latter even crowned it as the best album of the year. Its track “Hey Nineteen” remains one of Steely Dan’s most enduring hits.
Over the years, “Gaucho” has been celebrated by various media outlets and artists alike. Joni Mitchell, the legendary singer-songwriter, has often expressed her admiration for the album, emphasizing its musical and storytelling prowess.
What’s Next for Steely Dan Fans?
This vinyl reissue is part of Geffen/UMe’s broader initiative to bring back Steely Dan’s classic ABC and MCA Records catalog to vinyl. Spearheaded by Donald Fagen, this series began in November 2022 with the band’s iconic 1972 debut, “Can’t Buy A Thrill.” Vinyl Fans can also look forward to other releases, including 1975’s “Katy Lied” and 1976’s “The Royal Scam.”
The reissue of “Gaucho” has been meticulously remastered by Bernie Grundman, ensuring that fans experience the album in its full glory. Additionally, for the audiophiles, there’s a limited edition 45 RPM version on Ultra High-Quality Vinyl (UHQR) from Analogue Productions.
Eager to add this classic to your collection? Pre-order “Gaucho” here.
Steely Dan, with its blend of jazz, rock, blues, and impeccable pop songcraft, has left an indelible mark on the music industry. With the reissue of “Gaucho,” fans old and new can once again immerse themselves in the genius of Walter Becker and Donald Fagen.
Gaucho Track List (33 RPM Vinyl)
Side A
1. Babylon Sisters
2. Hey Nineteen
3. Glamour Profession
Side B
1. Gaucho
2. Time Out of Mind
3. My Rival
4. Third World Man
Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine
