Marian McPartland's Piano Jazz with Steely Dan cover

Marian McPartland's Piano Jazz with Steely Dan

Marian McPartland · 2005

53 min · 16 tracks · swing · post-bop · bebop

A seamless blend of jazz improvisation and lyrical sophistication featuring intimate conversations between a legend and modern icons.

Why this album works

This album is significant as it represents a unique cross-pollination of jazz and rock, reflecting the evolution of both genres. The collaborative nature brought new audiences to McPartland while also celebrating the sophisticated songwriting of Steely Dan, contributing to a resurgence of interest in jazz interpretations of popular music.
Best for
intimate conversations between tracks melodic improvisation with subtle twists reflective moments of exploration
Context
By the time 'Marian McPartland's Piano Jazz with Steely Dan' was released in 2005, Marian McPartland had established herself as a prominent figure in jazz through her long-running NPR show and numerous recordings. This album marked a continuation of her innovative approach, showcasing her ability to bridge traditional jazz with contemporary influences, particularly through her collaboration with Steely Dan’s Donald Fagen and Walter Becker.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 [conversation] 1:38
  • 2 Limbo Jazz 2:42
  • 3 [conversation] 5:07
  • 4 Josie Standout 3:50
  • 5 [conversation] 3:06
  • 6 Mood Indigo Standout 3:07
  • 7 [conversation] 2:41
  • 8 Star Eyes 3:19
  • 9 [conversation] 3:38
  • 10 Hesitation Blues 3:26
  • 11 [conversation] 5:17
  • 12 Things Ain’t What They Used to Be 3:46
  • 13 [conversation] 1:41
  • 14 Chain Lightning 4:44
  • 15 [conversation] 1:50
  • 16 Black Friday Standout 3:30

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata