Sunday Reads

Someone was burned to death at the annual freakfest at the Black Rock Desert, but it is not known why he went into the fire of the effigy.
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Obituary: Guitarist and Steely Dan co-founder Walter Becker has died at the age of 67:

Becker met his longtime musical collaborator Donald Fagen when both were attending Bard College. Becker and Fagen formed a band in college that included Chevy Chase on drums. Becker and Fagen then became songwriters in New York City. The duo became known for their cerebral wry lyrics and sharp cultural observations.

In 1971, the partners moved to Los Angeles and formed Steely Dan in 1972. The band’s music was a unique blend of rock, jazz, soul and pop. Becker at first was the bassist and then switched to guitar. During the 1970s the band became a commercial success. They toured early in the 1970s and then became a studio band until they broke up in 1981.

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