Watch Steely Dan: Aja

Steely Dan: Aja (Classic Albums) is a documentary film that showcases the making of the hit album, Aja, by the iconic rock band, Steely Dan. The movie features interviews with the two founding members of the band, Walter Becker and Donald Fagen, as well as the other musicians who worked with them during the recording process. Released in 1977, Aja is known for its complex arrangements and jazz-influenced style that pushed the boundaries of rock music.

The film begins with an introduction to Steely Dan and their background, outlining how they met and formed the band. The band's unique style, which blended elements of rock, jazz, and R&B, is also discussed. It then delves into the creation of Aja, which was their sixth studio album, and how the band's approach to recording had evolved since their earlier albums.

Through a series of interviews, the film explores the creative process behind each track on Aja. The band members and producers discuss how they worked together to create the distinct sound of each song, experimenting with different instruments, techniques, and recording methods to achieve the desired effect. The documentary also features rare footage of the band performing some of the album's tracks, as well as studio footage that provides a glimpse into how they worked together to create the album.

Throughout the film, there are many insights into the inspiration behind the lyrics, and how the band's personal experiences influenced the themes of the songs. It’s explored how ‘Deacon Blues’ and its examination of the nature of success, for example .

The film also touches on the impact of Aja on the music industry, and how it continues to inspire musicians today. The album's unique sound, which embraced jazz and other experimental elements, was ahead of its time and has since been recognised as a seminal work that inspired many other musicians.

The film is a must-watch for fans of both Steely Dan and classic rock music as it provides a unique insight into the creative process behind one of rock music's most seminal albums. Whether you're a musician yourself, or simply appreciate good music, Steely Dan: Aja (Classic Albums) offers an engaging and informative look at the making of a masterpiece.

Overall, Steely Dan: Aja (Classic Albums) is a fascinating and engaging documentary that offers a comprehensive insight into the making of one of the most important albums in rock music history. From the band's creative process to rare performance footage, the film is a must-watch for fans of Steely Dan, as well as music lovers in general.

Steely Dan: Aja is a 2000 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour.