Steely Dan – The Royal Scam

Steely Dan - The Royal Scam (LP, Album, San) (ABC Records, ABC Records - ABCD-931, ABCD 931)
My copy, like one of the other commenters, sounds a bit loud and a tad distorted on side A. Side B sounds gorgeous.

Question regarding vinyl pressings for anyone in the know... My original U.S. ABC pressing runs too fast - it's not an enjoyable listen. Looking through the U.S. MCA reissues, they all seem to utilize the ABC master matrix. Does that mean all U.S. issues run too fast? Was the 1985 Steve Hoffman remaster that runs at the proper speed and has better fidelity ever used for a vinyl pressing at any point? Are there any vinyl pressings that run at the proper speed?

Sounds great. A bit noisy at parts. One of my favorite records to play loud. Green Earrings & Haitian Divorce seem slightly sped up, but as someone whos listened to this album a million times in different formats, i dont mind it at all.

We found this to replace an earlier purchase (Santa Maria Pressing) that had a needle jump near the end of Sign in Stranger. This plays flawlessly, though the sleeves need repairing.

Have this except my matrix in deadwax are A4 and B3. Sounds fantastic so not sure why some reviews have a bad sounding copy. maybe other issues. This sounds as full and dynamic as any Steely dan album should.

The Exact Audio Copy (EAC) extraction report for my disc (MCAD-37044 2T 11) reflects a set of track Peak Levels that match the values for a Mastering 3 as per the the threads for this Title in the Steve Hoffman Forums.

Steely Dan's The Royal Scam (1976) is a captivating journey through the band's signature blend of jazz-infused rock, cynical lyrics, and immaculate studio production. Released at the height of their creative powers, the album showcases their ability to craft intricate arrangements and deliver them with a cool detachment that has become synonymous with their sound.

The Royal Scam is an album of contrasts. The music is often upbeat and catchy, with infectious grooves and soaring guitar solos, yet the lyrics paint a picture of urban decay, disillusionment, and the darker side of the American dream. This juxtaposition creates a unique tension that is both fascinating and unsettling.

The album features a stellar lineup of session musicians, including guitarists Larry Carlton and Elliott Randall, drummer Bernard Purdie, and saxophonist Pete Christlieb. Their contributions, combined with the meticulous production of Gary Katz, create a sonic landscape that is both detailed and expansive.

Standout tracks include "Kid Charlemagne," a funky and energetic tribute to the notorious LSD chemist Owsley Stanley, and "The Caves of Altamira," a haunting ballad that explores themes of history and memory. "Haitian Divorce" is a cynical take on love and relationships, while "Don't Take Me Alive" is a dramatic tale of a desperate criminal.

The Royal Scam is not an easy listen. It's an album that demands attention and rewards repeated listens. Its complex arrangements, cryptic lyrics, and masterful musicianship reveal new layers with each playthrough. While it may not be as widely celebrated as Aja, The Royal Scam is a crucial piece of the Steely Dan puzzle, showcasing their unique blend of cynicism, sophistication, and sonic brilliance. It captures the band at a pivotal moment, reflecting the anxieties and uncertainties of the mid-1970s while pushing their musical boundaries.

My favorite Dan record. This one really rocks out. The pressing is mastered by LB and is ok. Vocals get a little shouty when played loud. Also soundstage does compress a little bit. Look for a master cut by Steve Hull for the best cheap option.

Fantastic album, every song is a keeper. Arguably they're best songs. Sound is clear, dynamic and punchy. Guitar tone is great, as well as vocals, bass and drums. Hard to imagine a better version exists out there.

I enjoy this pressing. Fantastic midrange. Bass sounds tight. Soundstage is there. This can be a demanding record on your sound system. It's going to push some things to the limits and show you any weaknesses. Mastered by Brian Gardner for Allen Zentz mastering as indicated by either the flower or seagull.