Steely Dan’s 'The Royal Scam' Returns on Vinyl June 2025
Steely Dan’s iconic fifth album, The Royal Scam, is set to make its vinyl comeback on June 6, 2025, through Universal Music Records (UMR). This 1976 release, renowned for tracks like “Kid Charlemagne” and “The Fez,” marks the conclusion of Universal’s extensive Steely Dan vinyl reissue campaign. Fans can now complete their collection with all seven albums from 1972 to 1980 available on high-quality black vinyl.
The reissue of The Royal Scam honors the album's sophisticated production and intricate musicianship. Produced by Gary Katz, the album features exceptional guitar solos by Larry Carlton and the rhythmic prowess of drummer Bernard Purdie. Michael McDonald’s soulful backing vocals add depth to the tracks, while the songwriting of Donald Fagen and Walter Becker showcases their signature blend of sharp wit and complex musical arrangements.
Audiophiles will appreciate the technical excellence of the reissue offerings. The standard edition is pressed on 180-gram vinyl at Precision and runs at 33 1/3 RPM, remastered by Joe Nino-Hernes at Sterling Sound from high-resolution digital files. For those seeking an elevated listening experience, a limited edition premium 45 RPM Ultra High-Quality Vinyl version is available, remastered by Bernie Grundman from the original analog tapes and pressed at Analogue Productions, the in-house reissue label of Acoustic Sounds. Additionally, The Royal Scam will be issued on Super Audio CD (SACD), catering to enthusiasts who demand the utmost fidelity.
Critical acclaim for The Royal Scam has grown over the years, with Rolling Stone awarding it five stars in a 2004 Hall of Fame review and Stereogum ranking it as the second-best Steely Dan album. Described as their “fiercest, funkiest record,” the album transitions Steely Dan from smooth yacht-rock to a groove-oriented sound with a darker edge. Tracks like “Haitian Divorce,” which achieved a top 20 hit in the UK, highlight the album’s enduring appeal and sophisticated craftsmanship.
This vinyl reissue not only celebrates the enduring legacy of Steely Dan but also provides a meticulously crafted listening experience for both longtime fans and new listeners. With attention to detail in both the audio quality and the preservation of the original album’s essence, The Royal Scam reissue stands as a testament to Steely Dan’s timeless influence in the realm of sophisticated rock and jazz fusion.
