Steely Dan - Aja

Steely Dan - Aja (Classic Album) from 1997 is an enlightening documentary that dives deep into the creative process behind the making of Steely Dan's critically acclaimed six studio album, 'Aja.' This ground-breaking work is noted for being a blend of jazz, pop, and R&B in a seamless and innovative fashion, unparalleled in its time.

The documentary features influential personalities in the music industry, including David Fricke, a senior editor at Rolling Stone magazine, Joe Travers, a respected drummer, who is also known as the ‘Vaultmeister’ for the Zappa Family Trust, tasked with preserving and promoting Frank Zappa's extensive back catalogue, and Bruce Botnick, a notable sound engineer who is most recognized for his work with the Doors.

The trio provide their unique insights and perspectives on the musical masterpiece that is Aja. Each brings a unique perspective to the table – David Fricke as a seasoned music journalist who has observed the evolution of musical trends over the years, Joe Travers as a highly skilled musician with a deep understanding of the technical aspects of music, and Bruce Botnick as an industry-leading sound engineer with an expert’s knowledge on the intricacies of sound production.

One of the most remarkable aspects of this documentary is the manner in which it illuminates the behind-the-scenes work that went into the creation of Aja. With Steely Dan's meticulous arrangements and sophisticated harmonies, it is compelling to witness how these elements unfolded in the studio. Highlights of the documentary include detailed breakdowns of individual tracks, exploring their lyrical themes, instrumental arrangements, and production techniques.

'Aja,' released in 1977 by Steely Dan, a band comprised of Donald Fagen and Walter Becker, created waves upon release. Its fusion of jazz instrumentation and complex harmonies, coupled with rock and pop sensibilities, earned it not only commercial success but also a tremendous amount of critical admiration. It further solidified Steely Dan's reputation as musical maestros who were unafraid of pushing boundaries and experimenting with different genres.

Fagen and Becker are renowned for their perfectionism and their studio-centric approach to music – often hiring the best studio musicians for their records. Their relentless pursuit of musical excellence is well profiled in the documentary. It provides a snapshot of the duo's dedication to their craft, their musical genius, and their unwavering commitment to quality.

'Dan - Aja (Classic Album)' doesn't just delve into the manufacturing of an appealing album; it navigates the profound impact music can have on an audience. It underscores the vitality of music as a form of self-expression, the sweeping impact it can have across cultures, and the ability it has to transport listeners to different emotional planes. Consequently, the narrative is as much an exploration of Steely Dan's creative genius as it is a tribute to the transformative power of music itself.

Furthermore, in the documentary, you will be introduced to the real-life stories of the studio musicians who contributed to the album. This includes the likes of Steve Gadd, a widely respected drummer who performed the iconic drum solo on 'Aja,' the title track. These absorbing stories create a mosaic that broadens the scope of the documentary, making it a must-watch for music historians, enthusiasts, and novice listeners alike.

Director & Producer Bob Smeaton, who has a rich history of creating 'Classic Albums' series, meticulously paints a vivid, detailed, and thought-provoking journey through 'Aja's creation. His acuity for detail, along with his passion for authentic storytelling, lends the film an aura of comprehensiveness that makes it a stand-out entry in the Classic Albums series.

Steely Dan - Aja (Classic Album) thus offers viewers an opportunity to not just appreciate the band's timeless music, but also understand and appreciate the endeavor involved in creating such work. Overall, the documentary is a profoundly satisfying exploration of music, creativity, and the enduring legacy of one of Steely Dan's most revered albums. Worth watching for anyone with a soft spot for music history, inspiration, and understanding the intricacies of an artistic masterpiece.