The group Steely Dan contained elements of jazz, pop, blues, and R&B. They created a sophisticated, distinctive sound with melodic hooks, and harmonies. They influenced a whole new generation of young musicians and still do. Here are two new releases by artists influenced by Steely Dan.

Rosalinde Block is a singer/songwriter/keyboardist living on Manhattan's Upper West Side. Her primary musical influences have always been Carole King and Steely Dan. She finally completed her first album "Doin' On" and it is available at her website rosalindeblock.com Although the ten songs are self produced, two are co-produced with guitar great Melvin Sparks, two with Patrick Sasso and two with Roderick Kohn.

The Rosalinde Block Party is a working band. Musicians on this recording include Melvin Sparks, Baron Raymonde, Pete Levin, Keith Lambeth, Randy Landau, Bernard Davis, George O'Rourke, Danny Sadowski, Ted Lo, Hui Cox, Hugo Dwyer, Don Harris, Adam Rogers and Rob Papparozzi. Additional vocalists include Bobby Harden, Angel Rissoff, LaRita Gaskin, Nikki Armstrong, Don Hamilton, and Bill Kurz.

Rosalinde Block's songs are uplifting and life affirming. Highlights include "Doin' On", "No Frills Cheap Thrills", "Til I Make it To The Top", and "This One is The One". The Block Party continues twice monthly with co-hosts Rosalinde Block and TV personality Ilene Kristen at Prohibition 503 Columbus Ave at 84th St, on New York City's Upper West Side.

Reverend Zen
"Angels, Blues, and The Crying Moon"
Blackjak Music

Production values abound on this album by the group Reverend Zen, led by producers/composers Jack Evans and James Gerard. Jack Evans is also lead vocalist/percussionist, while James Gerard handles the keyboards. The album is one of the years most interesting as its time changes and overall excellence demands repeated listening. Musicians for this project include Chris Carter, Gil Parris, Chris Vitirillo, Nick Moroch, Rudy Feinauer, Kip Sophos, Rob Aries, Kjell Benner, and Wayne Warneke. Additional background vocalists include Soozie Tyrell, Sherryl Marshall, Vaneese Thomas, and Margaret Dorn.

Their song "Dangerous Times" was named as a finalist in the prestigious VH-1 "Song of the Year" contest. My favorite however is "The Boston Shakedown". Other highlights include "My Sigmund Freud" and "Boy Genius". If you want some adventurous, original rock music check out this album. Learn more about Reverend Zen by visiting their website at Please visit reverendzenmusic.com

Richard Ludmerer
Director, The New York Blues & Jazz Society
ricdale2@yahoo.com