Steely Dan's Best Guitarists: Debating the Cream Among Session Musicians
Steely Dan is renowned for its meticulous production and the use of esteemed session musicians. Among these brilliant musicians, several guitarists stand out for their contributions to the band's iconic sound. This article delves into the debate over who was the best guitarist to play for Steely Dan, focusing on the remarkable talent of Jeff Baxter, Larry Carlton, and Walter Becker.
The Dazzling Jeff Baxter
Jeff "Skunk" Baxter played on several of Steely Dan's early albums, including Cant Buy a Thrill and Countdown to Ecstasy. His intricate solos and unique blend of rock and jazz influences have left a lasting impression on the band's sound.
Baxter's guitar work is particularly noticeable in the song "East St. Louis Toodle-oo," an instrumental track from the Pretzel Logic album. His pedal steel contributions also showcase his versatility as a guitarist. His performance in "Rikki Don't Lose That Number" is highly acclaimed, although his music on the Katy Lied, Royal Scam, Aja, and Gaucho albums is less prominent.
The Smooth Style of Larry Carlton
Larry Carlton is known for his smooth and fluid style, a characteristic that resonates with many fans. Carlton played on albums like Royal Scam and Aja. One of his most celebrated solos is on the track "Third World Man," which many consider simply sublime.
Carlton's contributions to Steely Dan are extensive and highly regarded. The solo in "Kid Charlemagne" is particularly notable, often cited as one of the best solos in rock history. His work on "Don't Take Me Alive" is also highly praised, reflecting his immense talent and influence on the band's sound.
Walter Becker: The Co-Founder and Guitar Talent
Walter Becker, co-founder of Steely Dan, is a significant guitarist in his own right. His solos on albums like "Pretzel Logic," "Black Friday," and "Bad Sneakers" were often mistakenly attributed to other notable guitarists due to the lack of liner notes. His solos are signature elements of Steely Dan's sound, occurring during hard-to-find outro sections and in tracks like "FM."
Becker's guitar playing is characterized by its signature Steely Dan influence. While his solos may not reach the legendary status of those of Larry Carlton or Elliot Randall, they are essential to the band's overall identity. His contribution to tracks like "Snowbound" and "Tomorrow's Girls," as well as his guitar work on the band's later albums, are highly appreciated and integral to the band's legacy.
A Consensus Among Enthusiasts
Enthusiasts of Steely Dan often debate the best guitarist among the band's session players. According to Rocci Disopa, Larry Carlton stands out with his outstanding solo on "Kid Charlemagne," often considered the best solo ever recorded. Both Elliot Randall and Denny Dias are also highly regarded, with Randall's solo on "Reeling in the Years" often mentioned as one of the greatest guitar solos ever.
While Jeff Baxter is a contender, his prominence is limited to a few albums. His solo on "Rikki Don't Lose That Number" is outstanding, but his music on Katy Lied, Royal Scam, Aja, and Gaucho is relatively sparse, keeping him from being a top contender.
The Indispensable Guitar Talent of Steely Dan
No band has ever assembled a more esteemed set of guitar players contributing their talents to such a high standard than Steely Dan. Mark Knopfler, a bonafide legend, also plays on some of the band's tracks. However, Walter Becker's contributions are often overlooked, adding depth and authenticity to Steely Dan's sound.
Walter Becker's guitar work, while not on par with the legendary solos of Larry Carlton or Elliot Randall, is crucial to the band's identity. His contribution to Steely Dan's later albums and co-writing of the band's iconic material makes him a vital part of the band's rich musical legacy.