In the summer of 1970, Denny Dias placed an advert in the Village Voice which read ‘Bass and keyboard player required, must have jazz chops. No assholes need apply.’
From this simple, poignant entry in the music press, a superior band was born. The rest is, as they say, history.
It’s a bit like that with Nearly Dan. When Gary Davies first heard the recordings of the ‘jazz chops / no assholes’ group called Steely Dan he was struck. He taught himself keyboards, and began a love affair with the group.
Nearly Dan are well crafted, honed and with that natural understanding that doesn’t come from adulation, but from something deeper.
This is no ordinary tribute band. They know Steely Dan fans don’t want that. You want intricacy, you want dedication and you want loyalty. With Nearly Dan you get that. The 10-piece Nearly Dan play Steely Dan with a remarkably similar in spirit as well as sound. Less tribute and more homage, Nearly Dan is saviour to the growing legions of Steely Dan fans.
The Picturehouse Cafe Bar is open beforehand for delicious food and drinks.