FEEDBACK

When you talk about tribute bands, there are essentially two camps. There's the lookalikes
(Beatles, Abba, and Queen) and the soundalikes. Some bands achieve the former with relative ease
(and a good wardrobe department) and often arrive at a passable level as far as sound goes.

But when you reach the soundalike camp, it's a whole new ball game. Technical excellence comes into play
and this requires a great deal more than a few yards of spandex and needle and thread. You don't just need
top-notch musicians to play it, but equipment and back up technicians who know the music equally well, and
what effects are required to get just the same, original, live sound. This doesn't in any way denigrate the
technical ability of the Lookalike camp, but generally, their music is fairly standard 4/4 time and is well known
and documented stuff.

Now, to try and look like Steely Dan would be a joke. For a start, Steely Dan were never more than two East
Coast college grads (Walter Becker and Donald Fagan) who looked like, well, college grads really. Introverted
and totally disinterested in image, they always put total emphasis on their music. And they did it with a
passion and in such a way to cock a snook at any would be copyists. (Tribute bands aren't copyists: they exist
, as their genre suggests, as a tribute to great bands who either tour infrequently, not at all, or are no longer
with us). Complex time signatures, key changes where you shouldn't get key changes, challenging lyrics, and
a unique sound born of fusing Jazz, Rock and Blues in a way no one had ever done or has done since. Becker
and Fagan were the ultimate in technical excellence and they knew it. In terms of musicianship they were a
step or three above any band that ruled the airwaves of fledgling FM radio in the seventies.

So what barmy bunch would possibly try and offer a tribute to that? Who would have the gall to form a band
playing music that was written NOT to be played by anyone but Becker & Fagan and their own carefully
selected group of top-notch session players? The Danny Steel Orchestra, that's who, and they're not barmy.

DSO were formed in 1996 in Birmingham by drummer and "Dan nut" Martin Hopcroft. And what a labour of love
that has turned out to be. To even try to recreate such music live, you need at least two guitars, bass, Drums,
Electric piano, additional keyboards, horn section, backing vocalists. Oh, and a singer who can sing well
enough to emulate someone who doesn't actually like singing and does it with a fair degree of indifference
anyway! The DSO have captured that nicely thanks to Chris Brighton, who's lugubrious looks do offer a passing
resemblance to Mr Fagan himself.

I caught them in September 2002 playing at the venue they first performed at X years ago, The Old Mill,
Northfield, Birmingham. The signs were not good! A tiny stage, barely big enough to support a duo, let alone a
veritable orchestra. The Sound guy perched, with a not inexpensive array of equipment, precariously close to
the fruit machine where some drunken hopeful could easily have pressed a button, hoping to win his nights
drinking money, but in fact plunging the entire band into total silence. But as soon as I recognised the opening
bars of The Boston Rag, with that familiar slide up the neck of Glynn Davies' lead guitar, I knew this was going
to be good night. I knew this was going to be as close as I would get to see Steely Dan live for some years,
possibly forever. Moving through the Steely Dan back catalogue, and with particular emphasis on "the classic
album" Aja, the DSO just sit back and play making the impossible look effortless. Black Cow featured a superb
sax solo from Paul Hughes and on Dirty Work, one of the few SD songs that didn't originally feature Donald
Fagan on lead vocals, we were treated to a clever reworking utilising the talents of backing singer
Debbie-Lee Richardson.

Reelin' In The Years and Rikki Don't Loose That Number are good fodder for those not overly familiar with Steely
Dan music, and IGY shows the DSO are equally happy to tip their collective hat to Fagan's solo work. The band's
penultimate number was a blistering recreation of Night By Night from the Pretzel Logic Album, tight as a
button, and well appreciated by the DSO's faithful Midlands following. A quick nod of approval from mine host at
the witching hour, and the band launched into the last number Don't Take Me Alive. 14 songs in total
(start earlier lads, we want to hear more!) a varied representation from the cannon of two of rock music's
enigmatic non-stars, laid back music for a sultry September Sunday night, played with a subtle mix of skill and
deference.

Simply awesome, nuff said!
Penno WJAZee andy_pennington@btinternet.com
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thanks for the gig at the Dog & Trumpet in Coventry on the 31 August.
Great night. I took some freinds (highly talented musicians). Waiting around for ages in Coventry for a band they
didn't know may have brought the worst out in them..."this better be worth it Dave..."
Few bars in and they were yours. No surprise there.

Don't really want to single out anyone in the band as there seems to be no weakness in the line up to me.
However, as someone who these days is VERY bored with lead guitar breaks I feel I must comment on Glynn
Davies' considerable talent. Just about anyone can learn to do the impressive super fast thing - very few can
make it as musical as Glynn does.
Keep up the good work and thanks again.
Dave Kingston DDaveKingston@aol.com
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Gents
I have just about stopped "buzzing" from the gig .........I lay down
in a dark room after the "review" - superlatives take it out of a man !! You
do realise there's a distinct poss that you may never play Pretzel Logic better ??????
But then again I'm sure you will try.................

"You know- there was fire in that hole.
I stepped up on the platform, the man gave me the news…………….The Band, (He actually said “Steely Dan”
- understandable confusion) aren’t on for another two hours , BUT there IS a support act ????? Oh and it gets
worse - The bar’s not open yet, Howabout you go round the corner to my mates converted church/bistro and
come back @ 09:15 - Anyways two/three V expensive lagers later - I spent a lot of money and I spent a lot of
time……….

We duly return to The Hall of ROCK and sand (AKA Dog & Trumpet Coventry) “The support”
(I never did get their name) are having a few musical differences and even more amp problems – somethin’ to
do with ins , outs BUT no shake it all abouts !!Never fear tho’ The DSO, heroes that they are, sort out two tin
cans and some string to get the show on the road (well, on the verge anyways) No way was Neil’s 1100 note
amp gonna get violated by teenage angst …….

A well meaning, but too long set ensues – highlight - Lady vocalist shouts out to her Mother over by the bar
“shut the f*** up talkin’ …this one’s for you Mom …I love you………..

Anyways, on to the Main course , Suddenly the music hits you; it's a bird in flight that just can't quit you.
You got to come on, man, and take a piece of Mister Hopcroft's band……..

Fingers my old friend step on in and let me shake your hand So glad that you're here again………. Brilliant set
as always - Mr Hughes' Alto Sax was sublime, an honour to behold, truly !! Glynn 47 out of 10 (even after you
let Penno touch the magic axe – pics to follow) Hey who was that loud mouthed drunk who requested
“Pretzel Logic” ? – errrr…… that would be me then !! I'm not one to look behind, I know that times must change

, BUT I have NEVER heard that track done better !!!! You All - Made alive a worldly wonder Often told but never

seen. Next time Paul make sure there’s tape running !!!!!! Please ………"
The trip we made to Coventry is etched upon my mind

Like the band so much I'm going to bring them home.
I am donating a full sound and lighting rig and wagon with 2 crew for
their forthcoming Irish tour in 2003.............as long as they play AJA.!

Sent: Tuesday, August 27, 2002 6:17 PM
Eric Kelly eric@rigsforgigs.ie RIGS FOR GIGS (DUBLIN)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Like the band that much.......... I married the sax player. No, not the short bald one!!! Saves on paying to see!
Steve Joiner smilerjuk@yahoo.co.uk

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Rather belatedly to say "great effort". Much enjoyed and a great performance, particularly considering you had
about 3 square feet for the lot of you.
Took along 4 new to The DSO, and hopefully converted them.
Good luck with future gigs
Rovert rovert@supanet.com

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
WE WERE NOT WORTHY ...........usual rambling on the Steely Dan Guest Book.... I was inspired but
hungover !!
Two more converts in John K and Penno ............did he really say that to Glynn lmfao ?
............................
Beerberian Adrenalised

…….. And it came to pass that water flowed from the Rocky Mountains down to Golden Colorado U.S. of A
and the Brewmeister took this eau de vie and he nurtured it lovingly …… in the fullness of time a golden liquid
ensued and t’was transported o’er the sea to This Sceptred Isle , wherein the disciple, (our hero) took the elixir
and gently laid it upon a silken cloth , he had, aforethought, placed within his chariot (with me so far?).
The road was long and winding, (and mainly, one way lol) but, it lead to a door - there was a tavern ( In The Town)
Where we raised a glass or two ( or three or six) How we laughed away the hours and dreamed of all the great
things we would do … Hell No to dreaming !!! The Axeman had cometh, the “faithful” were gathered, The Church
of Dan was assembled !!! and Lo, it was F****** Mighty ……….. The Silken cloth became a Rag (MA) and that
was Double Mighty !!! If you listened you could hear it , the laughter in the street, the motion in the music and
the fire beneath our feet. HIGHlights ?? I couldn’t possibly single out JUST ON . But I wished I WAS a
bookeepers son, and that She really would come Home …at last …..or just call me DB and Leave me
Reeelin’.
The DSO ..Damn Special Oh YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS

What a beautiful world this will be What a glorious time to be free

Ian (Beerberian) Monckton steelyd@talk21.com
July 12, 2002 The Steely Dan Fan Guest Book, Under The Banyan Trees
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

One more thing ...... you guys rock .... or should that be swing (in the Jazz sense)

Top gig my sons (and daughters). Reckon I was the youngest there at a spring chicken-like 18 years old!
How on Earth did you all fit into that place?
First time I've seen the band, I've seen your rivals in the past (mention no names) but they can be rivals no longer,
they don't even come close.
Each band member has their own personality! Very suave looking bass man, thought he was gonna topple over!
Seen your Tenor player and Trumpet man on the Big Band circuit, great players.
Such a smooth voice from your lead guy, and what about the all-singing and dancing girls?

Picked up a flyer, so I'll be seeing you again! I closed my eyes, I was there!

N. Jones N.J.Jones@wlv.ac.uk

Let me take you back to My Old School..........1970's ...remember the sound track to the era .......a little
fuzzy perhaps ??
Save your brain cells - The sound CAN be recaptured live...www.dannysteelorchestra.co.uk
I have seen these Boys & Girls live several times now (and will again July 11th, Tamworth, Tavern In The Town,
Staffs, UK) - they are everthing they say........ Superb Musicians AND real Nice people..........

The lead guitarist Glynn Davies "Out-Carltons" Larry. The Horns are Sweeeeeet, partic Paul "Wu Wu" Hughes
complemented in all that is Aja by Sarah Kirby, Stuart Howes & Andy Hughes - did someone say Flugel ?.
The authentic, with a capital A, sound of The 'Dan is perfectly reproduced by having two fine keyboard pilots
- Chris Watts & Paul "Fingers" Shotan .
You get just enough hi-hat from founder member Martin Hopcroft mix it with "sound as a pound" bass lines from
Neil Thompson, back it up on the vocals with Debbie "dirty work" Lee Richardson & Linda Tilley and ..... finally
front it up with Chris Brighton (Rocks) lucky for him (and us) he has Fagen's vocal talent but not his looks !!!!

The DSO cover the whole range of Dan - from Buying a Thrill to Battlingagainst Nature with an accomplished
equanimity, bordering on the sublime (what ???) 10+ out of 10 ............. California HAS tumbled into the sea
..... I am going back ..... and I urge you all to join me

Regards in Dandom
Ian Monckton (AKA Beerberian) steelyd@talk21.com

Nice to meet you at last, unfortunately this is the first time this year that we have been able to make one of
your gigs, but what a corker!
There have been quite a few changes since the last time that we saw you which I think was at The Old Mill
last year, but the lead guitarist is something else. Looking forward to the new CD.

"Beers" here ...... I'm the "two" in the blue check shirt... What does he mean "dancing" I was Reeling in the
Beers . I can confirm that the gig was a PERFECT 10 !! Duncan's review tells it as it IS , me, I just enthuse
& ramble ...... looking forward to July 11th Tamworth .... Now where the hell did I put that tub of Slimfas
(does it work mixed up with beer d'ya think?)
Ian Monckton steelyd@talk21.com

A report of the DSO in York follows...
Scroll on if you like.
I'm not sure I'll ever get over this weekend, for various reasons.
The exact details in time I may forget, so I'm posting them here so that, in the future, I can say ''I WAS THERE''

BLUEPRINT…for the perfect weekend.
Stay off work Saturday morning, Have a lie-in or get up very early & rush "rashy boy" to the hospital ?
You decide.
Travel slowly to the fine city of York listening to one of your favourite Singer/Songwriters live on Radio 2
(Dean Friedman) http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio2/shows/jonathan_ross/150602.shtml

Arrive in York around 11.30am @ wonderful hotel http://www.churchillhotel.com
Dump bags in room & toddle down town to find a pub to watch the game in…
3 hours later, 3 goals later & a couple past 3 beers later head out into the fine English sunshine for a spot of
shopping & tea, Arriving back at the hotel around 5.30 for an afternoon snooze.
Order morning papers & breakfast in bed, shower & change & we're off…

Wonder slowly down to the venue, arriving around 7.30pm, just in time to hear The DSO performing the last
soundcheck…..Seems they also watched the match that afternoon before setting off !!!

Linda & I take our place at the bar, IT'S HOT. We start with a couple of fruit juices, we have a couple more.
It's early….!!!!
We spend an hour catching up with the Ladies & Gents in the band, I explain that Linda's never seen them
before & ohhh how we all laughed.
I tell them all about dragging her to Wembley & her ''gassing'' all the way through to her friend because she's
never heard any of Steely Dan's songs.
We spend the hour catching up with gossip, Making up gossip, meeting wives & girlfriends.

"Beers" (Ian Mockton) arrives & we all say hello …..First thought... Christ it's StAl.!
The band arrange to take the stage at 8.45 for the first section.
The audience sort of turns up…
The band warm us up with a couple of verses of the England song…
The beers are flowing at this time, Linda's on Archers Cranberry, only after 5-6 did she realise it's alcoholic !!!!
The crew from South Shields arrive, it's a party now.

I must have been to over 250 shows in my life, various bands but I swear I've never heard anything like this
before, the sound coming from every person & every instrument is absolutely spot on.
I can find no fault with the songs performed. In fact they where better than the recordings.
A strange thought came over me during the first half of the show, Why go & see "the boys" again…?

All the way through Linda's shouting to me "I love this one" or "this is my favourite…"
Chris B. gives us a shout out… we blush
Chris assures me that he is playing during a piss break at half time ( he's behind a pillar )
The Ladies singing do the most fantastic job on backing vocals Special shouts to Debbie who took the lead on
Dirty Work..............despite the overactive smoke machine (it was funny though)
Glynn's fault he was ON FIRE.
(Glynn's kids …..''Daddy don't play like that in York no more'' )

It was not my intention to have so many drinks…
But because of the lack of audience I made a decision to boost the bar takings on behalf of the band.
So that they ARE asked back.
I remember now why I don't dance. Having made my way onto the dance floor during some of the slower
numbers I found myself trying to dance whilst Glynn tore into his guitar during Kid Charlemagne … I've seen all
the great guitarists but that solo stopped me dead, I've never seen anything like it before, a spontaneous round
of applause swept through the room during the song!!!!
I stood there with my mouth open…I wasn't the only one, jaws were hitting floors all over the place, even on
stage. Neil you where so fucking right !!!!!
Unbelievable………

We spent an hour talking to "Beers & Co, Steely John, Sue & crew. Everyone was smiling, there was only 40
odd in the audience but we made friends with them all................. it was a fantastic night.

The bar closed but I wanted to stay up forever… we said our goodbyes.
Linda & I made our way home to the hotel giggling like children .......to find that the hotel bar was still open.
Cigars where smoked, Brandy was drunk & a toast was made to the most dedicated & hardest working tribute
band in the UK.........The Danny Steel Orchestra...clearly 'Dan

I came to the York gig on Sat 15/6 (a DSO virgin) and have to agree with Ian Monckton that it was absolutely
fantastic (the guitarist blew my socks off). Went to the very back of the venue for the second half as the sound
was much better / clearer from there.
I was a bit of a late starter with Steely Dan (first album I bought was Two Against Nature, having heard a few
tracks played on The Bob Harris show on Radio 2), but given that I was only 4 years old when Gaucho was
released....!
Over the last couple of years I've picked up everything I could lay my hands on that they've released, and they've
really become a big favourite.
It pleases me to know that there are people out there playing this music live to such a high standard, as I think
the chances of seeing the real thing in the UK are slim - but who needs the real thing when you can hear
The DSO doing it so convincingly, and at £6 a go you can't go wrong!

Big Big Salute for last night !! Awesome as ever .. Perfect end, to the perfect day and as Lou would have said -
"I'm SO glad that I spent it with you " and the fabulous DSO.
Top marks for all !! Glynn was perfection plus with knobs on !! Special thanks for PLogic - Cracking version.
Shame we couldn't see the horns in t'back of cave but certainly heard 'em SPOT and ON would be the verdict
there !! Two more converts, in Lemmie & Jill brought to the church of Dandom - I'm SURE you'll be seeing their
faces again
I have a few blurry pics (it was the camera HONEST !) will send from my work email tommorrow if you want ?

Once again thanks for a fantastic night in York last night - for my money the best yet of the gigs we've made it to.
Whilst loathe to single out anyone on stage after such a performance, I'm duty bound to say that the guy on lead
guitar (Glynn Davies) sounded more original than the original Dan recordings - if you get my meaning. Lorraine's
a laid back character but even she leaned across during the Kid Charlemagne solo & said "he's brilliant"!

Try to play Sheffield again - I can probably guarentee 6 in the audience, get Ralph & Irene down that makes 8
- if not we'll catch you elswhere.
A BIG thanks once again - you guys bring so much pleasure to Dan fans.

Message to any Dan fans out there in the UK who have yet to see these guys.
You don't know what you're missing. I had the delight of seeing them for the third time (in York) this weekend,
and the music just gets better. After a performance such a the one they delivered it's unfair to single out any one
musician...but...I can't pass over the chance to praise the new guitarist (Glynn Davies) who, if anything, sounded
more like the original than the original recordings (if you follow me). Note perfect, and I speak as a Dan fan going
back to the early 70's who having played each LP, casette, CD a zillion times knows every track inside out,
upside down, back to front.
So if you haven't yet made the effort to step into the car, drive an hour or so to wherever The DSO are playing -
make the effort next time. You won't regret it.
And should any member of the band read this message - we were not worthy.

Great to see you in Arnold on Saturday - pity about the attendance - but what a great performance!
Totally knocked out! Even Mrs P. was tapping her feet! Ears have just about recovered now!
I've been trying to see the band for some time now and this is the nearest you've ever got to Grantham so it
was an opportunity not to be missed. I only picked up about the gig on Thursday which wasn't enough time to
round up my other Dan friends. Maybe next time eh when we can swell the numbers?

All the best. John Parsons john-parsons@ukgateway.net
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Saturday night - what can I say - memorable certainly !! My own "personal" show !! And what a show!!

Forget all that tho'... This band rocks !!... Personal faves "Old School", "Rikki" , Dr Wu and ALL the "AJA" numbers
were note perfect - Incredible horns , Spot on keys and Mr Davies, well he KNOWS he's good - in the best possible
way (o.ne thing Glynn if I may, If the wind changes do you really want to get stuck with those faces??). The whole
ensemble adds up to be clearly 'Dan. Homework required for myself - Sorry I was not lyric perfect - Does Chris give
private lessons ?
I have taken the liberty of rewriting some B&F (sacrilege I hear you cry !) but ..

"You shunned this great band down in Nottingham. Now you'll never see them live !"
Apologies for the inane drivel I spouted after the gig - Budweiser and Adrenaline is a heady cocktail indeed }:>
Right now I'm off to spread the word and gather a posse. Intent on return ASAP

THE OFFICE, South Shields, Tyneside, Sunday May 6th 2002

The lines have been jammed since your mind blowing gig at The Office!
The 3 people who were in my company that night have been well and truly won over and are co-opting a few
more for the next one.
Also, I got a few e-mails from fellow Steely Dan fans, including one from The States, desperate to see The
DSO and the local ones volunteering to help promote the next gig. So I think you were right.There are a lot of
Steely Dan fans out there who still are unaware of you and, what's more, are missing out on hearing you!
Anyway, we are thinking of coming down to York so when you can perhaps you can confirm the line up and
time of gig as some poor sucker will have to drive!!

Speak to you soon.
Regards Don Heelbeck DONHEELBECK@aol.com
P.S. What was 'The Boston Rag?'
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hubba, Hubba, Hubba. Omigawd. Just had one of the greatest gig nights of my life - honest.
I have spent most of my adult life addicted to music, seeing all the major and minor acts i've wanted/needed.
There is no one left alive that I really have to see. Peter (see his comments) drags me from Durham to The Office
to see an Orchestra! Can't remember seeing one of those before.

You were all awesome. I can't pick out my favourite bits, because I never stopped singing along and drumming
the table to remember them all, and I was sober!
Stay cool and see you all again. You were all magnificent.

Richard Turner mrichardturner@btopenworld.com
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

What a fantastic night you and the guys gave us all. Another brilliant Office
gig.You were right about Glynn 'blowing us all away'! There was one time in
the second set when I noticed quite palpably that he seemed to inspire you
all to previuosly unseen heights. And did we not enjoy that!!
From the moment you casually played the intro to 'Boston Rag' a la Don & Walt
at Glasgow, I just knew it would be a special night. 3 of our party had not
seen you before and they were completely 'knocked out'. This will obviously
have a knock-on effect. The sound was the best and the only downer was that
the night had to end! I tried to contact Khalid today to express my thanks to
him but no joy (I'll keep trying). Also I'll try to get a hold of Terry Kelly or
maybe somebody from The Chronicle. When you get the next gig sorted maybe it
would be wise for me to contact all Steely Dan fans in the N.E. via The
Evening Chronicle. We'll see, with your permission of course. Also I think it
was a good idea to have the gig on a Bank Holiday.
Anyway a very big thank you via you to all the band from us all up here.
I thought hearing that magical music 'Days have gone forever.....over a long
time ago' but it's alive and very well......courtesy of The DSO.
Don
P.S.Chris Watts' debut in the N.E....brilliant. Paul Hughes Sax on Dr.Wu............Mesmeric!

Don Heelbeck DONHEELBECK@aol.com
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I was at The Office gig on Sunday having heard about your band from a friend (he was there too).
I was expecting a club type band who played SD songs. I was not expecting the band to be so talented, so
enjoyable, so entertaining! I have seen the Dan 3 times (96 twice and 2000). There were parts of your gig,
many parts, that I enjoyed more than seeing the real thing. Perhaps a cruel thing to say but true, probably the
biggest reason being that the guitar solos were truer to the actual record (I'm not saying that SD should not be
allowed to deviate from the record versions but you have to admit that some of the lead guitar work in 96 and
2000 was a bit of a let down eg the solo in Bad Sneakers). Talking of solos still, I thought the ones in Peg and
Don't take me alive (your versions) were spot on. Where do I stop with the praise? Your second set was better
than the first, you obviously got warmed up and your choice of songs was very good - I thought you were very
full and together on Night by Night and Pretzel Logic - you really bashed them out.

I consider myself to be somewhat of an expert having been listening to SD since 1972, thru the university years
the attraction grew until 76 when I really felt it with Scam then Aja and then Gaucho was rarely off the turntable
1980 -85. Things quietened down until the Revue in 91 when I felt that stirring again, just in time for Kamakiriad.
Yes I am a huge Dan fan!

I notice that Glynn is not a regular member of the band. Will he be playing at the gig in York?
I am thinking of going to that. Hope to hear from you but if not then good luck.
Thanks for a great night.
Steve LAtki64869@aol.com
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Bank Holiday weekend in the UK
(That means we get an extra day off work)
The Sun's shining here, everywhere.
What to do with a small boy & a fantastic wife.
I know, let's go to the seaside (again)
Why don't we drive north to South Shields….
What a fantastic place...... fun fair, lovely parks, clean beach & the mouth of The Tyne also.
What could be a better way to spend the day….
Hmmmmm….Linda
''The Danny Steel Orchestra are playing here tonight''
But….But… we can't get a baby sitter…
''Never mind we'll go along to the venue & listen to the soundcheck''
''We'll be home before you know it''
Afternoon in park …Ice crème…candy floss…& KFC.
Enter venue about 4.30pm The DSO eating lunch / tea.
Retire to change nappies & eat KFC… ( I managed a snooze in the car….Bonus)
Join ''Fingers ''& the rest of the band around 5.30…Soundcheck.
Nice venue 30x75m seating about 250
BAR
STAGE (too small for DSO)…..God help them when they roll into York!!!...........Fibbers

"1-2, 1-2" "
''no wonder they never tour''
''no wonder it takes so long to record''

We where TREATED to 2 hours of '' too toppy'', - "too loud'' - ''no brass'' - "too much brass''-
"lady singers...what lady singers?" - special mention to new guitarist Glynn (a *)…a pr
…wishing we could stay.

We spent 3 hours there through the soundchecks & and got more from it than a show…
These guys & girls are not in it for the money …I can vouch for that…
They do it for LOVE
The ''Circus'' bit was a dream.
Duff notes, dodgy leads, faulty mikes, wrong levels,"5?, no I'm in 7, no I'm in 9…"
Girls.. Guys..Leads…fucking hundreds of leads….
A ''Flugel'' for Christ's sake …What THE FUCK IS A FLUGEL'?
This is all during The Boston Rag…warm up
We sat / stood there for 2.5 hours and witnessed the birth of greatness
I swear it was like being at the birth of a baby..
Starting with 1-2 right through to the finished version of Boston Rag it was one of the most
fantastic afternoon's I've ever spent, Dan loved it & Linda too….''Result''
I swear we all listen to this stuff & I'm as guilty as the rest it just comes off the cd straight in to your ears…..
But to actually PLAY this stuff live takes GUTS, Discipline & LOVE.
I urge everyone in Britain to see the BEST & hardest working (& lowest paid) Steely Dan tribute band
http://dannysteel_orchestra.tripod.com/
looking forward to Fibbers, York
Duncan Butterfield duncan.butterfield@ntlworld.com
Dear Duncan, Linda and little Dan
It was great to see you ....a real blow that you couldn't catch the show. But I'm so chuffed that you
enjoyed the behind the scenes, fly on the wall, nitty-gritty preview!!!
It's another side that folks don't get to see...the sweaty gear shifting, spaghetti lead unravelling prequel, the
piss-taking comaraderie... the warty essence of a weekend away with your friends in The DSO.
lovely to meet you Linda and Dan. See you very soon...........Paul, and all in the band
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Jeeeez! FINALLY I got to see you guys at South Shields after the aborted attempt at Xmas 2001
(the ONLY really bad weather night of the year)!

The Dan have been my band of choice since '73 - I missed em' in '74 (they were due to play Newcastle City Hall)
because of Donald's throat problems! ..so I guess I'm as well placed as anyone to offer an opinion on your combo.

The Gig was superb! - anyone as crazy as me about The Dan will undoubtedly have wondered if other musos could
cope with D&W's undoubtedly complex arrangements ..no problemos for The Danny Steel Orchestra!
Both mates who accompanied me to the gig (who, like me, have seen The Dan twice) were similarly blown away.
High points? ..er' where do I start? ..the Guitarist!! ...the Sax player! ... the vocals! Oh dammit the whole kit and
kaboodle was excellent. I could bore everyone with a track-by-track critique but I guess that would be too much
even for this site, but I have to single out some of my faves .."Kid Charlemange" was crackin'! "Night By Night"
actually improved on the studio version ..! "Don't Take Me Alive" was superb and as for "Bad Sneakers" &
"My Old School" oh MAMA! (n.b. that horrible moaning sound some of "The Office" audience may have heard was
in fact my attempt at backing vocals during "Bad Sneaker" ..er' sorry everyone.
Right now I'm contacting my muso mates to gauge the possibility of a DSO gig in Sunderland / Durham, mebbes
just mebbes ....Thanks to everyone in the band for a great evening.

Peter Johnson jetjohnson4@btopenworld.com , Durham
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Well what can I say except, thanks for yet another great show!!! The new line-up was better than ever.
We thought after your horrific journey in December that it might have been your last!
The content of the show and the delivery makes an advance ticket price ridiculusly cheap.
I enjoyed the chat after the show and I hope that your talk with the boss this morning means that you'll be
back soon...here's hoping!
The shows wouldn't be the same either without your number 1 fan, John in the audience.

THE WORCESTER PARK CLUB, Worcester Park, Surrey, March 31st 2002

Hi chaps!

UTTERLY STUNNING

I left Worcester Park as high as a kite - really, really high on happiness.
Great music but so much better to hear it live. I'm a total Steely........!
Have you ever thought of playing at Cranleigh Arts Centre or Chiddingfold club? They are really classy venues
with discerning, partying musical audiences? Would love to see you there!
cheers and see you again very soon

Michael Atkinson matkinson@seymac22.cix.co.uk
PS where did you get that guitarist from???????!!!

Caught the show on Sunday at The Worcester Park. A better turn out than last time, so please come back again!
The second set in particular was a belter....Peg, Kid Charlemagne and especially My Old School were unreal.
As for the stand-in axeman, in 30 years of gig-going I've not seen better...who is that man?!?
Thanks to all concerned for a marvellous evening.

Geoff Rees geoffrees@lineone.net

THE TORRINGTON, North Finchley,. London NW12. March 2nd 2002

I saw your gig at The Torrington last night - superb!! A great show and fantastic sound.
I've been a Dan fan since the early days, "Countdown To Ecstasy" etc. I saw Steely Dan at Wembley a few
years ago and I can honestly say the sound you reproduced last night was better!!
Quite an achievement to have 12 musicians so well rehearsed and all great players!
If anyone has any doubts about seeing this band - don't. You will not be disappointed.
Looking forward to seeing you next time you're in Finchley.

Rick Gordon rgordon@ukpi.com

Thanks to all of you for a great night on Saturday. Nice to chat to Chris, West and Debbie before the gig as,
despite the length of the journey, I was early. Good to hear IGY in the set- nice job. Even with a 2 hour set,
it must be hard to know what to leave out- shame that FM missed out this time!
I spoke to Martin on Saturday who said you should be back in Winchester in October. I'll definitely look out for
that. The sound quality was great there before, even if the Tower Arts Centre lacked the 'earthy' quality of
some of your other venues!

Barry Terry terryb@essex.ac.uk

Long one this!!!_______________________________________________________________________

Was a fantastic weekend� I think
Started Friday night with a flying visit to the pub to meet my mates (only slightly excited at this point)
Bed early, busy weekend ahead.
Up @ 7.00am / shower, pack, coffee x2, into car by 7:25am
Travelled to Swadlincote to call in on my old workmate, tell's me it's 10 years since I left.
''How's your lad now Bill'' = He's 20yrs old & at work I hope
Tea x2, Wee x2 back onto the M1
Arrive at digs about 12:30pm, unpack & have lunch with old workmates (again)
Only 3 years since seen them................ he came to our wedding.
Caught Rugby highlights, missed football
Had tea (vegetarian) & ''pop'' NO DRINK AT ALL IN THIS HOUSE
Dave arrived about 7.30pm with some tin's of Stella Tortoise thank God!!
Tony & Paul cancelled!!!
Set off for "the Torrie" about 8.05pm
Walked there about 1.5 Miles!!!!! (No taxis in London?)
Arrived in pub about 8.00pm
Crossed pub to bar, passed Dano by 2 paces (nice red shirt)
Backed up 2 paces ..............Dano?
''Iye big man'' De yi want a drink?� Fuck I dooo !
Tom & Dave head into the venue back room.............�7.00 entrance (too cheap lads)
Finished drinks & head to stage area, Introduced to Paul Shotan on way in, cross to bar introduce Tom & Dave
to Dano & reverse.
Couple of drinks, venue has about 30-40 in at this time 8.45pm
Man comes on stage............ 10mins to go till showtime.
Time for a couple more round's & a quick wee (nervous excitement at this point)
9.00pm band announced onto stage
12 band members leave audience & make their way stage ( I'm thinking where's the crowd going)
We four stood by the bar (mistake in hindsight)
I'm the youngest there (not counting the cornet / trumpet player who looks about 18, later found out that sax player
next to him is Dad!!!)
There's Ladies on stage too (Bonus).............start smiling & laughing at this point

Set 1
Boston Rag...............''Speechless'' (opening cords & hook nearly cause me to faint / drop pint )
Black Cow ...............( I will probably never hear this live in my life)
Jack Of Speed.......... (awesome)
Home At Last ............(was not one of my fav's.......... is reproduced perfectly here............ Now is !)
Josie .........................sounds fresh)
Green Earrings .........(bit of foot tapping here)
Dr Wu .......................( gently swaying now)
I.G.Y. ........................(Christ!!!! Definitely never hear this live again)
Dirty Work .................( Ladies taking the lead vocal mainly)

THUNDEROUS APPLAUSE from the now swelling audience

Phone Linda (wake her up? 9.45pm) play her Dirty Work over the phone!

Set 2
Reeling In The Years ........( traditional rather than AJA version)
Rikki ..................................(I'm dancing now)
Deacon Blues ....................(beautiful)
Peg ...................................(fantastic)
Night By Night ...................(again not one that I've ever been partial to............ until tonight)
Cousin Dupree ...................( Tom this is a ''new one'' best single of 2000 you know)
Black Friday ......................(sounding funky)
Kid Charlmagne ................(great!!)
Paul thanks Dano & I for coming from Ipswich? (we get a round of applause, At last my 15 mins)
My Old School ..................(infectious audience participation, people dancing everywhere at this time)
Refreshment break.. Tom, Dave, Dano & Me having a fantastic time the audience still swelling at this point as
the main bar closes ( we have an extension till 12.00)

Encores
Don't Take Me Alive ...........(sounding great, fantastic solo performances )
Bad Sneakers .....................(bealter / dooser)

Time for a few more ''swift ones'' before Dano leg's it home
Tom & Dave are now ''Fans''
Purchase CD, Nick the set list & poster from wall !
Embarrass band into signing poster for Dan.
Say our sweet goodbyes & head off into the night / Indian Restaurant
Spanish inquisition from T&D about Steely Dan .. promises made to send tapes & CD's
Head home full & happy about 3.00am

Awake on floor about 9.30am
Sore head, ringing in ear's, light wallet (I paid for the meal apparently)
Promises for CD's remembered.
Addresses taken
Loiter around drinking coffee till 1.00pm
Drive 250 miles home in 3.5hrs (very good)
Put CD on for Dan, stick poster up in his bedroom, bath him, go to bed.
Twitchy night!!
Monday morning = confused but OK

Big THANKS to
Tom, Dano, Dave, the band, the venue, the venue bar staff, the crowd, Shell petrol, Ford Galaxy, BASF tapes,
The Torrington, KFC, The Restaurant staff, Maddie & Lulu, TESCO, The GOV for de-commissioning all speed
cameras on the M1, Stella Artois, Boddingtons, Nescafe, Nurofen+ , Diet Coke Blu-Tak, Marker pens & Linda xxx
THE DANNY STEEL ORCHESTRA.

Normal service will now resume I think�

Dano: June 15th THE DSO, Fibbers, York............... leave the car this time
Was a fantastic weekend though
Duncan Butterfield duncan.butterfield@ntlworld.com

Ok Duncan it WAS a great night and weekend BUT..what you got up to after the show, the curry house, the untold quantity of Stella De Menthe and the great Dane can hardly be laid at the door ..(though you and it apparently were!) of The DSO! We were on stage, working if you recall..(fat chance of that).

You look considerably more healthy, alert and able to stand unaided here than at 2am Sunday morning.........good for you!

Is that Dan by any chance (middle name Steel E.?)

cheers from all in the band to the Darlington Bard

To Duncan and to Paul Shotan of The DSO - thanks to Duncan for the play by play, and congratulations to
The DSO for what sounds like a great show. Everybody raise your glass to the great society we all get to
take part in. Greetings to Dano too.
Hey Paul "Fingers" Shotan - Looks like you got yourself some new fans. That's great. Dano, it would be
great if you guys could get to Southern California sometime. We have 4 Steely Dan bands here, so chances
are great that you could catch a couple of them play during your holiday here. Keeping the flag flying proudly,
that's the bottom line. Keep it up, Shotan and Company (DSO).

Steve "Steveedan" Chernove 1winco@directvinternet.com

Duncan--ha! great color on a dooser of a weekend. Best wishes to Dano and the Dan o'Steel.

Oleander oleander1@earthlink.net

Duncan - far out story. Wish I was there for the most excellent show. Next time, you have to convince Howard
to drag himself out for the drive. Give Dan a hug from the GB.
Lisa G out.of@service

Duncan - so envious of you guys being able to do the DSO thing! Great post and to think I was scheduled to be
in London last weekend too. Alas!

I C Paul

24-02-02
Cruisin' the net looking for information on The 'Dan and saw this ace site. Grabbed a few sound bites and
wondered why I'd never heard them (The DSO) before. Can't wait to see then live and then... who should I see
crouching in the corner of the cast list but none other than my old electrical mate Paul (Baldrick) Hughes, late
of Otto Lift. Glad to see that you've seen the light and started playing some good stuff.
I'll see you at The Old Mill with a bit of luck. Keep on blowing them good sounds.

Andy 'The Wiz' Tomlinson.
P.S.
Heard anything by 'Jango'? Their Saxophonist is pretty cool bloke called Steve Nieves.

20/02/02
Message-id: <3c742fde_2@corp.newsgroups.com>

If anyone is wondering whether it's worth going to the HARE & HOUNDS to see the DSO - be assured that
it is.
Excellent bunch of musos - you won't be disappointed. The only thing wrong with the gig is that it isn't four
hours long!

Looking forward to seeing them again at Easter.
Paul. Gitfinger@nopoxyspam.hotmail.com

22-2-02
Great website. Can't wait to see the band - possibly one of your London gigs.
Chas Duckhouse dux@chasdux.demon.co.uk

The Transport Club, Rochdale 9-2-02
Just dropping you a line to say how much I enjoyed the show at Rochdale Transport Club. I thought the band
were absolutely brilliant!..........come back soon.

Dan Fielden Daniel.fielden@biwater.com

You guys need to come across the pond and play in The States.
Ryan J. Baker baker1918@hotmail.com

Irish eyes are smiling as club reopens

By Damian O�Loughlin

A NEW emerald green era is dawning in the city as one of the cornerstones of the community re~opens its doors.
After wiping away its three quarters of a million pound debt The Irish Centre is back, but with a new name. The Irish Club promises to offer the best of the old centre as well as something for younger members of the Irish community.
One of its directors Ronan Segrave, 32, said: 'There have been some noticeable changes but we have kept all the elements of the Irish Centre that were good. We want to reach out to the younger community while keeping our traditional supporters and members.
"Organisations like the Irish Welfare and Information Centre have been brought into the building which has been redec�orated as well as acquiring a fresh new line-up of quality beers".
Last year the centre was declared bankrupt. The decision was made to go after public funding and the Irish Government was contacted. It stumped up the cash and set up the Birmingham Irish Club Trading Limited and will be running the Irish Club on behalf of the city's Irish population.

Transformed

The venue will be transformed intothe IC Venue on Friday nights promising a line-up of diverse bands playing into the early morning. Local musician Steve Layton will be promoting the night, he said: �There will be specific nights for the Irish community but Friday nights will appeal to a wider audience. It will be more modern and we are hoping to get large bands, establishing the venue as one of the best around for live music.

The first night is on Friday February 1st featuring The Danny Steel Orchestra and The Trevor Burton Band. The damage on the door �10 and more information about the Club is available on 0121 622 2314.

The Birmingham News Thursday 24th January 2002

"Staggeringly Good" - Soundcheck Magazine

This extraordinary band pay homage to their heroes Steely Dan. There may be several Steely Dan tribute bands at the moment, but this outfit have the best musicianship and a superb singer who's vocals bring to life classic Dan as well as material from the new album.