Last month I had the privilege of writing for Kent Magazine about Darren Motamedy, a popular contemporary jazz artist who is also an award-winning band director for the Kent School District. I’ve interviewed him and I sat through one of his classes at Ridgewood Elementary, but I wanted to hear him play live, so a girlfriend and I went to Kona Kai Coffee Co. (4th and Gowe, downtown Kent) last night to see Darren and his band play. In a word, WOW!
I fell in love with Darren’s music the first time I heard it, but nothing can duplicate walking into a music venue and 
hearing and seeing him live. Whether he is playing the saxophone, flute or another instrument, you can see that he feels his music, body and soul. At the same time, guitarist Frank Seeberger played some soulful music as part of the group and with solo parts. Percussionist Akim Finch was in his element too with his drums, chimes, wooden frog and other percussion instruments. I tried to dislike Akim because of his Yankees’ hat (I’m a die-hard BoSox fan), but I couldn’t help but love him too.
After a set of smooth jazz, some of Darren’s students played with the band while others did solos including several very talented young ladies from Ridgewood. The show wrapped up with a jam session
featuring Darren, Frank, Akim and the seven guest students for the Kona Kai audience, packed with jazz lovers, Darren’s fans and parents looking on. The 3+ hour evening was a great way to wind down after a long week.
“We’re passing music from one generation to the next,” Darren said.
If you get the chance to see Darren Motamedy and his band play locally, I highly recommend it. You can visit his website for scheduled appearances, or see him at Kona Kai Coffee Co., Muckleshoot Casino (Auburn) and other area music venues.
To Darren and company, great show!
