The Passing of Walter Becker

I'm really at a loss on this one.

I was out of town over the weekend, and didn't even know he died.  When I heard, it hit me really hard.  Probably harder than the loss of any musician to this point in my life.

I'm not sure why.  I do love Steely Dan - they're perhaps my favorite band.  Aja is easily in my top 10 albums of all time.  Maybe that's why.  Maybe I'm mourning never being able to see them again.

Becker had his demons.  I hope they didn't catch him again at the end.  In the meantime, he left us some gifts.

Enjoy his guitar work on this first one - really tasty:



I'll also miss Becker's musicianship as he produced one of my favorite albums (Flaunt the Imperfection) from one of my favorite bands (China Crisis) of all times.

Here's a taste:



Rest in peace.