With this being the first new release since 1980's "Gaucho", Steely Dan have not missed a beat!  Actually, Becker & Fagen are even more innovative in this release.  "Almost Gothic" is so good its  almost hypnotic in the smooth relaxing delivery as only Donald Fagen can  sing it.  "What a shame about me" is a unique song as the lyrics  are as enticing as the music.  "Negative Girl" shows an even  deeper jazzier side that was prevalent in the Fagen solo albums. My  favorite release on the album as most of the fans who have written reviews  on this CD has to be "Jack Of Speed" as Steely Dan gets really,  really FUNKY!  Also, "West of Hollywood" brings back some of the  classic Steely Dan flavor on a new track.  THERE IS NOT ONE BAD SONG ON  THIS CD!  THIS CD IS UP THERE WITH "AJA"!  This is a MUST  HAVE for all Steely Dan fans.  You will not be disappointed.