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Big Fun Variety Entertainment Magazine
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4 BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • SEPTEMBER, 2009
6 Entertainment
6 Seattle Symphony
Jazz Alley
Federal Way Symphony
Puyallup Fair
7 Broadway Center
Variety Entertainment
8 Teatro ZinZanni
Comedy
Pantages Theater
Parlor Live
Action
Dockyard Derby Dames
Art & Wine
Orting Pumpkin Festival
Wine
10 Wine Tips by Lori Newby
Dining
11 Sax Restaurant
Art
12 Art House Designs
Fashion
13 Looking Good Fashion Tips
by Mr. mac
Music & Business
14 Dean McNeal
Cover
16 Mercedes-Benz
2010 E-Class
NW Jazz Profile
18 Darren Motamedy
20 Thomas Marriott
22 Kareem Kandi
23 Steve Kim
25 Fon Morcus
26 Cole’lition
Emmanuel del Casal
27 The Collective
Blues
28 Randy Oxford
29 Maia Santell
Kimball Conant
Stickshift Annie
INSIDE
SEPTEMBER, 2009
EMAIL: info@bigfunmagazine.com
253-473-1866
BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • SEPTEMBER, 2009 5
Photo Credits:
Mercedes-Benz courtesy Mercedes-Benz of Tacoma at Fife
Mr. Mac Special Promotion supplied by Mr. Mac
Lyle Lovette by Michael Wilson
Dockyard Derby Dames by Dave Poole
18
20
28
ENTERTAINMENT
Seattle, WA – Seattle Symphony’ s Beethoven
& Wine Festival pairs the finest in Northwest
wines with popular Beethoven classics. Each
night begins with wine tasting in the Samuel &
Althea Stroum Grand Lobby, arranged by
renowned Northwest sommelier David
LeClaire and features wines from SageCliffe
Cave B Estate Winery and other local
vineyards. Following wine tasting, Music
Director Gerard Schwarz will lead Seattle
Symphony in hour-long performances of
Beethoven’s music, presented without
intermission.
Wine tasting begins at 6:30 p.m. each
evening, followed by a performance at 7:30
p.m. On Wednesday, September 9, Seattle
Symphony will perform Beethoven’s
Symphony No. 7 in A major, Op. 92, and
Piano Concerto No. 1 in C major, Op. 15, with
Sara Buechner. On Thursday, September 10,
the program will feature the Egmont Overture,
Op. 84, and Symphony No. 3 in E-flat major,
Op. 55, Eroica. On Friday, September 11, the
Orchestra will perform the Coriolan Overture,
Op. 62, and Symphony No. 5 in C minor, Op.
67.
Ticket Information
Concert tickets starting at $9 can be
purchased by calling the Seattle Symphony
Ticket Office at (206) 215-4747 or toll-free at
(866) 833-4747, faxing the Symphony at (206)
215-4748, ordering online at
www.seattlesymphony.org with the Select
Your Own Seat option, or visiting the Seattle
Symphony Ticket Office in Benaroya Hall at
Third Avenue & Union Street.
Seattle Symphony’ s
Beethoven & Wine Festival
Festival Runs September 9–11
Federal Way
Symphony
Dr. Lonnie Smith
September 8-9, 2009
Dave Brubeck Quartet
September 10-13, 2009
Season Premiere Concert 2009
Sweet ‘n Savory Strings
Sunday, October 4, 2:00 pm
Seventeen-year-old, classical violin prodigy
Justine Lamb-Budge will perform Mozart’s
Violin Concerto no. 5 in A major. She will also
join Concertmaster Yuriy Mikhlin for Bach’s
Concerto for Two Violins in D minor.
December Concert, 2009
The Color of Coloratura.
Sunday, December 6, 2:00 pm
Guest artist Megan Chenovick, renowned
local vocalist, joins the Federal Way
Symphony with coloratura arias, classical
music by Mozart and his contemporaries and
holiday favorites.
Both concerts will be held at
St. Luke’s
515 S. 312
th
St.,
Federal Way, WA 98003
Tickets for each concert: Adults, $25,
Senior $20 (65 & older). Students 18 and
under are admitted free. Tickets are available
at the Symphony office (253-529-9857) and at
the door. www.federalwaysymphony.org.
Justine Lamb-Budge
Megan Chenovick
Jazz Alley
Seattle, WA
This season, Maestro Gerard Schwarz’s
exciting work with Seattle Symphony enters
into its 25th year.
Puyallup Fair
Dave Koz &
Brian Culbertson
Special Guest Peabo Bryson
Thursday September 24, 7:30 pm
6 BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • SEPTEMBER, 2009
Broadway Center
Tacoma, WA
Pantages Theater
Thursday, October 8, 2009 at 7:30 p.m.
Hailing from Portland, Oregon, Pink Martini is the ‘little orchestra’ with a
colossal sound. Melding jazz, rhythm and exotic vocals, Pink Martini’s
eclectic splash of world music features songs in Spanish, English,
French, Italian, Japanese and Croatian. Pink Martini has been featured
on hit television shows like The Sopranos, Desperate Housewives, and
The L Word. Tickets: $48, $68 and $88
Pink Martini
Broadway Center’s 2009-10 Season Opening Night
Pantages Theater
Sunday, October 18, 2009 at 7:30 p.m.
Together Lyle Lovett, one of the all-time great American singer/
songwriters and John Hiatt, who has been nominated for eleven
Grammy’s will perform a rare acoustic show in the intimate Pantages
Theater. As two of the most revered musicians of the last century this
is one show not to be missed!
Tickets: $59, $79, $99 and $129
$129 tickets will include the best seats in the house along with a
complimentary pre-party from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. in the Pantages
Mezzanine before the show!
Lyle Lovett, John Hiatt,
Two legendary names, one stage.
BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • SEPTEMBER, 2009 7
PUBLISHER / EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
DAVID JOHNSON
Accounting / Editorial Traffic: Rose
Murphy
Proofreaders: Se’Lene Sakellis
Photography: Sean Cummings, Walter
Atkins, Richard Baker
Advertising Sales:
nwjazzprofile@yahoo.com 253-473-1866
David Johnson and Gary Grape
BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE is
published 12 times a year. The views expressed in BIG FUN
ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE are those of their
respective contributors and are not necessarily those of its
publisher, editors, or staff. All images in advertisements and
advertorials/special promotions are supplied by the advertiser.
Advertiser guarantee they have the legal right to publish all
images supplied to BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS &
LEISURE GUIDE.
Copyright 2009 BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE.
EMAIL: info@bigfunmagazine.com
253-473-1866
5226 Tacoma Mall Blvd., Tacoma WA 98409
BIG FUN
ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE
GUIDE
Will Durst
and Chris Bliss
Pantages Theater
Sat, November 14, 2009 at 7:30 p.m.
The Dockyard Derby Dames roller derby
league is a not-for-profit organization run by
the skaters. Founded in 2006, DyDD has
changed from a small group of women with a
dream to skate competitively to a four-team
functioning league.
Who are the Dockyard Derby Dames? As
individuals, they work as teachers,
accountants, mothers, lawyers, nurses,
machinists, social service workers, journalists,
designers, students, business women, sales
associates, hairdressers, and engineers.
Together, DyDD is composed of over fifty
passionate, professional, and athletic women
who range in age from 21 to 49 and are
devoted to fostering sisterhood and good,
clean competition.
SEE THEM IN ACTION
BOUT 5: Saturday September 12 at Soccer
Center 2610 Bay St E Tacoma, WA
Doors @ 5 PM
CHAMP BOUT: Saturday October 24 at
Soccer Center 2610 Bay St E Tacoma, WA
Doors @ 5 PM
Pantages Theater
Tacoma, WA
Dockyard
Derby Dames
Bottega ZinZanni
All Dressed Up with Some Place to Go
Liliane Montevecchi and Frank Ferrante
Now playing through October 11
An artistic collaboration with International
Fashion Designer Luly, Bottega ZinZanni – All
Dressed Up with Some Place to Go is an
affectionate send-up of the world of high
fashion. Now playing through October 11.
222 Mercer Street in the heart of Seattle
Center’s Theatre District. For reservations,
call 206.802.0015 or visit zinzanni.org or at
the box office at 222 Mercer Street.
Teatro ZinZanni
Seattle, WA
Parlor Live
Bellevue, WA
8 BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • SEPTEMBER, 2009
ENTERTAINMENT
COMEDY ACTIONVARIETY
If you enjoy fine wine and local art, then the
Fall Art & Wine Walk is the place for you to
be this October. The Puyallup Main Street
Association’s Art & Wine Walk is held
twice-annually—in spring and fall—and is
attended by over 5000 people. The event’s
main sponsor to date is BECU and
everyone is once again expecting a great
turnout this fall’s event. Guests will also be
able to peruse the local artists’ art market
and shop for reasonably priced pieces of
art and jewelry.
The Fall Art & Wine Walk, taking place
Saturday, October 3 from 3:00 pm to 7:00
pm will be in historic downtown Puyallup.
This season’s event theme “Come
Together,” takes its cue from Beatles’
“Come Together”
at the Puyallup Art & Wine Walk
inspired piece titled “I Am Saved” created
by Jack Widmann, Vice Principle at Kalles
Jr. High. This never-before-shown piece is
comprised of 190 pen and ink drawings
that took Widmann five years to complete.
In a response to the Beatle’s fifth album
“Help,” each drawing represents the artist’s
impression of one Beatles’ song.
Assembled together, all 190 drawings form
yet another composition, which is a classic
silhouette of the Fab Four.
Over twenty downtown merchants will be
participating in this popular event.
Attendees may stroll through the shops of
downtown Puyallup sampling fine blended
wines while feasting their eyes on works of
art created by members of Valley Arts
United and Arts Downtown. This season the
Fall Art & Wine Walk will also be
supporting MultiCare’s Grannies’ Attic
through a children’s clothing and toy drive.
Merchants will be
accepting
donations of new
or gently used
clothing or toy
items to assist this
organization’s efforts
in supporting many
children and health-
related community
programs.
Tickets for the event
are $20/person and
will go on sale in
September. Tickets
are limited and you
must be at least 21
years old to
participate. Tickets can be purchased online
at www.puyallupmainstreet.com or at
several participating merchants.
Semiannual event takes
place Saturday, October 3rd.
Those attending can enjoy an assortment
of food with pumpkin as the main ingredient
including pumpkin Sloppy Joe burgers,
pumpkin cheesecake, pumpkin pizzas, etc.
Of course, other food will be available for
enjoyment as well. Adults and children will
have the opportunity enter their carved
pumpkins into the Third Annual Pumpkin
Glow with a three dollar entry donation;
carved pumpkins will all be lit at once at
sundown. Festival goers can also enjoy free
entertainment, the Little Pumpkin Pals
Parade, arts and crafts vendors, a car show,
a pumpkin pyramid, and even a beer garden
with pumpkin flavored beer! This is a great
event to enjoy some family fun.
For more informat ion on the Or ting
Pumpkin Fest, visit www.ortingnews.com,
or TacomaEvents.com under the Pumpkin
Fest tab.
Orting Pumpkin Festival
Saturday and Sunday,
October 10
th
and 11
th
, the
City Of Orting will host the
Orting Pumpkin Festival.
BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • SEPTEMBER, 2009 9
Salutation: Courtesy
of
Valley Arts United/
Arts Downtown
With thousands of grape varietals in the
world, there will be many you have probably
never heard of before now. Some have
different names because of the country they
are grown in or the language that is used in
that country. A great example of this
confusing lingo is Syrah and Shiraz; same
grape, different location. In the Northern
Hemisphere, it is called Syrah, and in the
Southern Hemisphere it is Shiraz.
First, we will introduce you to four
white grape varieties:
Auxerrois is a slightly fuller, less acidic
version of Pinot Blanc widely planted in the
Alsace region of France. We have good
examples of the grapes varietal from
Adelshiem in Oregon and from Gray Monk in
Canada. A cooler climate grape it likes the
Northwest but is not widely grown ion this
area.
Muscadelle is one of the three grapes that
make up the famous Sauternes from
Bordeaux. This variety of grape is in decline
in this area, but there is still a lot in the Entre
Deux –Mers region of France. It is also used
to make the rich, dark fortified wines of
Australia known as Tokay, not to be confused
with Tokai from Hungary.
Siegerrebe is a relatively low yielding grape
from Germany, famous for its high ripeness
levels. There is a great example of this grape
grown here in Washington State on the
property of Whidbey Island Winery.
Trebbiano is a grape variety that probably
makes more white wine in the world than any
other. It gives good yields, but makes
undistinguished wine at best. It can be fresh
and fruity, but doesn’t keep long. Its high
acidity makes it important in cognac
production. Also known as Ugni Blanc,
Hermitage White, Saint Emilion in France
and White Shiraz in Australia. Some of
the best known producers of wine using
this grape are Farnese, from Italy.
And now, four red grape
varieties:
Aglianico varietal is admired for is deep,
dark garnet graphite scented grape and
it’s found on the Campania region of
southern Italy. Some of the most
recognized wineries in Italy producing
wine from this grape are Feudi di San
Gregorio and Terredora DiPaolo.
Counoise is a grape variety from the
Rhone Valley in France. Used as a grape
for blending, this grape is now being
grown in California and Washington.
Known for its peppery flavor and high acidity,
it is a rare ingredient in the famous
Chateauneuf-du-Pape wines.
Maréchal Foch is named after the French
marshal Ferdinand Foch who played an
THE UNKNOWN GRAPE
BY LORI NEWBY
important role in the negotiation of the
armistice terms during the closing of the First
World War. It is a very early ripening French
hybrid grown in Canada, New York and
Oregon. Some great examples of this often
vibrant, deep purple color, light-medium
structure and dark berry fruit grape are Amity
Vineyards and Eola Hills in Oregon.
Pinot Meunier is a variety of black wine
grape most noted for being one of the three
main grapes used in the production of
champagne (the other two are Pinot Noir and
Chardonnay). Until recently, champagne
makers did not acknowledge Pinot Meunier,
preferring to emphasize the use of the
other noble varieties, but now Pinot
Meunier is gaining recognition for the
body and richness it contributes to
champagne. It is believed to be a mutation
of Pinot Noir. It is called a “miller’s” vine
because its leaves are dusty white
underneath.
I hope you have enjoyed learning about
these somewhat obscure grape varietals.
There are many, many more to research
and enjoy.
Cheers!
Lori Newby may be contacted at
Corkscrew Cellars,
116 East Stewart Ave
Puyallup, WA 98372
Phone: 253-770-9463
Email: wine@nwlink.com
10 BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • SEPTEMBER, 2009
WINE
People are always telling me that Tacoma
needs more places to go hear live jazz. I hear
it all the time; ‘Where can I go to get a nice
meal, have some drinks and listen to some
good jazz?’ Well, go check out Sax Restaurant
and Lounge on Sixth Avenue and let them
know you’re glad they are there. As the
newest spot to present jazz on a regular basis,
Sax is doing a good job offering a variety of
quality players a place where they can
showcase their talent to an attentive
audience. The restaurant is booking straight-
ahead jazz, smooth jazz, funky jazz and a
sprinkling of R&B and blues throughout the
week, so there is something for most folks to
get into. Puget Sound’s top Smooth Jazz artist
Darren Motamedy just finished a month-long
run on Wednesdays, and Tacoma’s Kareem
Kandi hosts a Tuesday night jam session that
draws a wide variety of musicians, from
seasoned pros, to music students who are just
entering the scene.
Sax has a nice, clean, and modern
atmosphere. The lighting is low, the seating is
not overcrowded, and the place has that fresh,
new venue smell about it. Since the room
is not small, but cozy, the live music
sounds good. You get the feeling that the
musicians are playing just for you, and
that’s always a nice thing.
Owner Andy Yee is a sharp cat. He knows
that the world doesn’t revolve around jazz,
so he’s doing things to make sure his
restaurant/live music venue has something
to offer beyond jazz. He made room for a
dance floor, and after the live music is over,
he has good DJs spinning hot dance mixes
on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights.
Come on, admit it, even us jazz lovers like
to cut loose from time to time and just let
off some steam. So, if you want to enjoy
your jazz and shake your groove thing all in
the same place, Sax is the spot that has what
you want.
How are the drinks? They’re stiff! And Sax’s
seasoned bartender Rick Young has quite a
few custom cocktails that will delight your
taste buds and set you back in your seat at the
same time. He says, “I’m not stingy with my
concoctions, so take care and drink
responsibly, because I want to serve you for
years to come.”
There you have it. Now you can stop asking
where you can go out to hear live jazz in
Tacoma. Sax Restaurant and Lounge is here,
and they’re doing a damn good job of filling a
void in the city’s nightlife scene. Make sure
you put your face in the place and help keep
jazz live in Tacoma.
Menu Highlights:
Pan-Seared Jumbo Scallops - $22.00
Served with a microgreen caprese
salad.
Wine Recommendation:
Riff Pinot Grigio - $7.00
Herb-Crusted Halibut Puttanesca - $24.00
Served with garlic pasta & garden vegetables.
Wine Recommendation:
Ajello Majus Blanco Igt - $7.50
Roasted Apple-Stuffed Porkloin - $15.00
Served with herb potato caked & garden
vegetables.
Wine Recommendation:
Cono Sur Vision Series Pinot Noir - $7.50
Chicken Angelino - $18.00
Butternut Squash Raviolis tossed in a creamy
garlic & black pepper sauce. Topped with
grilled chicken, prosciutto & fresh basil.
Wine Recommendation:
Ajello Majus Rosso Igt or
Bogle Sauvignon
Blanc - $7.50
Baked Chicken
Caprese - $16.00
Topped with fresh basil,
tomatoes, mozzarella,
prosciutto & served over garlic
pasta.
Wine Recommendation:
Badia Cetamura Chianti - $7.50
Chicken Toscana - $15.00
Sundried-tomatoes, artichoke hearts, capers,
roasted garlic, lemon juice, basil, white wine
& grilled chicken. Tossed with pasta.
Wine Recommendation:
Ajello Majus Bianco Igt - $7.50
Walnut-Crusted Chicken - $16.00
Served over wild mushroom raviolis and
almond broccoli. Wine Recommendation:
Droughin Laforet Chardonnay - $6.00
Walnut & Gorgonzola Raviolis - $18.00
Tossed in a creamy gorgonzola sauce. Topped
with cranberries, sautéed pears & Roma
tomatoes.
Wine Recommendation:
Barnard Griffin Riesling -
$5.50
Parmesan-Crusted Porkloin
- $17.00
Grilled pork loin topped with basil, Roma
tomatoes & parmesan, wrapped with bacon &
SAX ON 6TH
BY DAVID KEYS
Bartender Rick Young has quite a
few custom cocktails that will
delight your taste buds and set
you back in your seat at the same
time.
Kareem Kandi hosts
a jazz jam session
every Tuesday night
from 6 to 9pm.
Sax Restaurant and Lounge is located at:
2309 6th Avenue, Tacoma, WA 98403.
TEL: 253-572-0588 – www.saxon6th.com,
MySpace.com/saxon6th
Facebook.com/saxon6th
BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • SEPTEMBER, 2009 11
DINING
Photos Courtesy of Sax Restaurant and Lounge
ART
TOP: SUNLIGHT BY DAVILA (oil on canvas) BOTTOM: UNTITLED BY CHRISTABEL PROUST (oil on canvas)
Art House Designs was initially
established as a custom picture framing
shop, offering the highest standards of
quality and care. Art House has also
provided an exceptional gallery space
with its high ceilings and spacious
natural lighting. More recently, a
performance space has been added
which hosts many different styles of live
music, theater and a conference area for
meetings and luncheons.
The gallery features a large selection of
custom framing and fine art,
representing both local and
internationally acclaimed artists.
Conveniently located in downtown
Olympia on the corner of 5
th
and
Franklin, Art House is situated with easy
parking. After just three years, it has
become a cultural center, serving the
community with art and music for people
of all ages.
Art House
Designs
Art House Designs
420 Franklin St SE # B
Olympia, WA 98501-1120
(360) 943-3377
12 BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • SEPTEMBER, 2009
There’s Nothing More Fun Than
Looking Good
For whatever reason, life just seems to be
more fun when we feel good. And whether
or not we’re willing to admit it, most of us
don’t feel as good as we’d like to when we’re
in public and we know we don’t look good.
I’m aware that the average guy is fashion-
challenged in one way or another. Hey,
we’re guys after all, and we have other
th ings on our mind. Things l ike the
mortgage, the car payment, college tuition
for our 2.5 kids, keeping a job and making
sure the wife, or girlfriend is happy. And
that’s just the tip of the iceberg. So, most
of us just don’t have time to keep up with
fashion trends. We need a way to stay
reasonably current wi thin our ever-
tightening budgets and, with as little effort
as possible, look good. Here are some tips
that will help you sort it all out.
1. If you don’t know what looks good, ask
somebody. Ask the most knowledgeable
salesperson where you shop. Ask a
trusted female co-worker. Ask a buddy
who seems to have everything under
control.
2. Buy a men’s fashion magazine at
least once each quarter. You won’t
have to look hard to find the styles
that fit your business and social lives.
Then, once you know what to shop
for, it’s just a matter of finding the
brands that fit your budget. You might not
be able to buy that $600.00 pair of shoes,
or that designer suit, but there will
always be a quality knockoff
that will get the job done at
the right price.
3. Buy one or two key
pieces at a time. Get
staple items like shoes,
shirts, slacks and suits
fi rst . Go for the
primary colors like black, brown, gray and
tan and then mix and match them for the
occasion.
4. Remember to match you leather items.
If you are wearing black shoes, match them
with a black belt.
5. If you’re not dressing for the stage, it’s
Mr. Mac’s Style Tips for the
Fashion-challenged Man
always safe to stay away from
the louder colors. If you’re
going out for a night of casual
fun, it’s ok to match a brighter shirt
with darker slacks and a jacket. If
you’re single and on the prowl, all
it takes is one showy item attract that fair
lady. Less is more.
Special Promotion
Photos courtesy of MR. MAC
1210 MLK Jr. Blvd., Tacoma, WA
253-383-2737
BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • SEPTEMBER, 2009 13
FASHION
The one thing you must realize about the music
business is... it’s not what it seems.
As a musician, you are primarily known as a
guitarist. Do you play any other instruments?
I sing, but I am “retired” from guitar playing also.
For the most part, after 20 years, it was time to
put other people to work.
Tell us about the inner working of Hit
Connections Entertainment. What types of
shows do you produce?
HCE does all types of shows, Top 40, Jazz,
Theater, Comedy, and the unusual like “Live Band
Karaoke” Star Machine Live. The Casino’s and
festivals keep things very well rounded.
How many show do you produce in a calendar
year?
WOW… Well, in 2009… I need to count. It was
roughly 348 shows. Wow. I have never really
counted. No wonder I need an assistant! It is hard
to say unless I break out the records.
Which internationally respected artists are you
working with in the coming months?
Tony, Toni, Tone‘, Joyce Cooling, Jeff Lorber, All 4
One, etcetera …
Are you performing in any of the productions?
Oh, no. I will leave that to the professionals.
Are you also involved in recording projects?
If so, tell us about your latest recording.
I am not involved in the creation but very much
involved in the production and promoting end of
Virginia Ashby’s next CD release.
What are your thoughts concerning the current
state of the music and entertainment industry?
It always seems that the first place people want to
cut back on is their entertainment. For example,
private events will spend $10,000 on food, and
then ask a band to play for the exposure and a
couple hundred dollars. Does that make any sense
to anyone? At the end of the event what will people
comment on the most? They talk about the
entertainment. The same goes for clubs. They all
want a band that will bring in people, but, it takes
promotions, good website, good posters and
postcards to make that happen. How do you expect
any entertainer to do that at a rock bottom price?
Entertainment priorities are way off.
What are some of the obstacles you have to
constantly overcome when searching for gigs
for yourself and the musicians you represent?
The biggest problem is finding a happy medium
between what the bands would like to make, and
what the venues are willing to pay. This is nothing
new. It’s just that when times get tough, so do
negotiations. The biggest benefit a club has for
using an agency like HCE is keeping control of
the entertainment so that they can run the venue.
The club still decides who they want and when. I
can send in a band once, and the band has to be
responsible to deliver and earn the buy back.
Which genre of music is the hardest to make
money in at this time?
If you are good at promoting and people are
interested in your product, they are all the same.
Some Jazz artists are booked every week, and
some Top 40 and Rock bands are booked every
week. It is all about who is putting butts in seats.
What are the keys to balancing the different
facets of your professional life?
I have not found balance yet! LOL! I work a lot, I’m
out a lot, BUT, when times are rough, I am happy
to be busy. Everything has happened pretty quickly
in the last 2 years; there will be time for balance
soon.
Why are you successful? What is your most
valuable attribute?
I would like to think that it is because I can relate
to both sides of the table—musicians and venues.
My entire mission statement was to keep good
musicians working. I can’t keep everyone working,
but I try to keep those who work hard, promote
hard, and make HCE look good at every event
working.
Dean McNeal
Hit Connections Entertainment
14 BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • SEPTEMBER, 2009
MUSIC & BUSINESS
ho would have thought that when
Mercedes-Benz deve loped an
entirely new class of automobile
60+ years ago that it would become the standard
by which all cars are measured. Fast forward
to the 9th generation of the groundbreaking E-
Class and you will find, perhaps, the most
technolog ically advanced production
automobile ever. It does things that up until
now you could have
only imagined. The all-new 2010 Mercedes-
Benz E-Class Sedans and Coupes a re
showcasing futuristic technology. If you are
looking into the future of the automobile, you’ll
need only to look at the current E-Class.
The 2010 E-Class model currently offers the 6-
cylinder 268 hp E350 as well as an 8-cylinder
382 hp E550 in both Sedan and Coupe. 4Matic
Sedans are available for those who need the
added confidence of a
proven all -whee l-
drive system. A
7 - s p e e d
automatic transmission adapts to your driving
style; in addition, touch-shifting enables you to
enjoy clutchless shifting as your mood changes.
Safety has always been a key component in
Mercedes-Benz technology. A look back into
history reveals a lengthy list of “firsts” including
the patent and introduction of the “crumple
zones” concept, the first crash-testing of
automobiles (now up to 50,000 crash-tested),
the co-invent ing of anti-lock brakes, the
introduction of airbags as standard safety
equipment, and the pioneering use of high-
strength, low alloy steel to reduce weight while
maintaining structural integrity and raising fuel
economy.
The 2010 E-Class has introduced
to the industry many
breakthroughs in the area of
safety. The PRE-SAFE system
can detec t an impending
collision by utilizing radar-based
sensors. PRE-SAFE activates
electric tensioners to tighten front
seat be lt s, ad just the f ront
headrests and passenger seat to a
safer position, and close the sunroof and
2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
A True Renaissance in Technology and Safety
Exceptional Class
Exceptional Class
W
E-Class Coupe
16 BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • SEPTEMBER, 2009
MAGICO
“Ultimate” Speakers - $329,000.00 /
pair
The Premium 2 Package includes Bi-Xenon
headlamps with Active Curve Illumination,
Adaptive High-beam Assist, headlamp washing
system, LED daytime running lamps,
KEYLESS-GO (providing access into your car
and starting capability without using the key),
and an electronic trunk closer.
Individual options include a panorama sunroof
(standard on the E-Coupe), PARKTRONIC
parking guidance, rear seat entertainment
system, drive-dynamic multi-contour front seats
with massage, split-folding rear seats (standard
on the E-Coupe), and full leather upholstery
(standard on the E-Coupe).
Automobile states “the brand-new E350 is the
epitome of dynamic balance, a role model for
near-perfect chassis compliance…. as far as ride
comfort is concerned, it plays in a league of its
own.” Autoweek says “until now, the only way
to experience the kind of technology featured
in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class was to buy a
Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Not anymore. Under
the distinctive new sheet-metal of the 2010 E-
Class, Mercedes engineers have loaded nearly
all of the technological wizardry found in the
top-of-the-line luxury S-Class, and then some.”
Car and Driver states “the ride is excellent,
the car tracks like a locomotive, and the exterior
styling trumps the field…no other car in this
group feel s as sol id , untwis tab le, and
reassuringly unbreakable.”
In its 124 year heritage Mercedes-Benz has been
a pioneering force in the automobile industry.
It is legendary for producing automobiles of
extraordinary durability with 88% of the
vehicles sold in the l ast 20 years and a
remarkable 75% of all vehicles ever sold in the
United States still on the road!! The all-new
E-Class Sedans and Coupes continue a tradition
of being at the forefront of an industry by
providing the public the safety, comfort,
performance, and styling it demands. Another
introduction, another benchmark for Mercedes-
Benz.
windows—all to better prepare the occupants.
No other manufacturer offers PRE-SAFE as a
standard safety system.
ATTENTION ASSIST, standard on all E-Class
models, continually monitors driving behavior
and can alert the driver with both visual and
audible warn ings if it de tects s igns of
drowsiness on long trips. Lane Keeping Assist
lets the driver know if unintended drifting off-
course is detected, by vibrating the steering
wheel. Blind Spot Assist monitors blind spots
when driving above 18 mph and alerts the driver
to potentially unseen vehicles in the next lane.
Optional DISTRONIC PLUS takes cruise
control to new levels of convenience, with the
ability to slow the car to a full halt if traffic
ahead stops, and then resume automatically.
PRE-SAFE Brake, included with DISTRONIC
PLUS, can detect an impending collision and
automatically applies 100% of the vehicle’s
braking force to help avoid and reduce the
severity of the impact. Using a camera to detect
vehicles ahead, optional Adaptive High-beam
Assist varies the headlamp range continuously,
to maximize illumination of the road without
creating glare for other drivers.
Optional Night View Assist PLUS projects
infrared beams that are invisible to human eyes,
and reads them wi th a specia l camera,
displaying a clearer view of the road during
darkness. It can even identify and point out
pedestrians.
Nine airbags are standard, including a driver’s
knee air bag, plus new pelvic air bags to
complement the dual front, front-seat side-
impact, and curtain air bags. No other car in
its class offers air bag protection in more
locations.
Inside the cabin of the new E-Class, you will
find an assortment of technology created to
make your drive a pleasurable experience,
whether it is a commute to work or a long
vacation drive. A glass sunroof, 14-way power
front seats with a 4-way power steering column
and memory system, auto-dimming mirrors,
rain-sensing windshield wipers, and digital
dual-zone climate control are all standard
features on the new E-Class. The Premium 1
Package offers a 40GB hard-drive-based
Navigation system with high-resolution color-
LCD display and a console-mounted controller,
the Harman/Kardon LOGIC7 surround-sound
system with Dolby Digital 5.1, 6GB hard drive
with Music Register for upload of MP3 files,
an in-dash memory card reader, Gracenote
media database and Zagat Survey ratings, HD
Digital Radio, iPod/MP3 media interface,
SIRIUS Satellite Radio with SIRIUS Traffic,
Bluetooth interface, heated front seats, power
rear window sunshade, rear view camera, and
enhanced voice control for audio, telephone and
navigation.
Jim Foster is the consummate professional
sales consultant at Mercedes-Benz of
Tacoma. He has carved out, from his self-
described “mid-life crisis,” a very successful 14-
year career at Mercedes-Benz. His previous 11-
year career of climbing the corporate ladder at
Budget Rent a Car Corp. confirmed to him that a
title was not everything in life. “You have to be
able to balance your professional, family, and
spiritual life; that’s the key.” Jim is the proud
husband of 21 years to Donna, father to two
beautiful teenage daughters, Alexa, 19, and Kirin,
16, and is a long-time elder at Marine View
Presbyterian Church in Northeast Tacoma. His
hobbies include most sports, travel, singing in his
church contemporary praise band, and, most
recently, promoting music. A longtime love of the
jazz genre led him to create the successful monthly
“Jazz LIVE at Marine View” concert series
featuring the finest jazz musicians in the Puget
Sound region. “I get a lot of satisfaction combining
my love of jazz with my desire to reach out to the
community. Great music in the tranquil setting of
a church sanctuary—what a great fit.” Jim’s eager
to share his wisdom as it relates to Mercedes-Benz,
music, and life in general.
Jim Foster
Give Jim a call at 253-229-9206 or email him at
jimfoster@larsonautomotivegroup.com
E-Class Sedan
BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • SEPTEMBER, 2009 17
Darren Motamedy
Sax, Clarinet, Flute, Piano
Kent, Washington
I chose the saxophone because
my jazz band director refused to
let me play the clarinet in the jazz
band, so I had no choice.
My life wouldn’t have substance
without my wife, my children and
my music.
Why is music such an important part of
being human?
Music is an opportunity for us to emote on a
subconscious level without needing to use
words. It can allow listeners to understand how
we are feeling at any given moment, or
understand the important aspects in our lives
when we write music to define our innermost
thought.
Which internationally respected artists have
you worked with?
Ronnie Laws, The Ripping tons, Grover
Washington Junior, Kenny G, Tom Scott, Steve
Oliver, Marcus Johnson, Jeff Kashiwa, Ce Ce
Penniston, Deniece Williams, and Ernestine
Anderson.
What’s unique about your latest recording?
I’d say that the most unique aspect of the
recording is the live sound to it. Dwight
Goodman did a lot of writing with me on this
recording and he influenced the direction of the
recording in a big way. He played keyboards
and arranged many of the songs. The most
unique aspect of the recording is that it is one
of the freshest sounding smooth jazz records in
the nation at this time. John Raymond, guitarist
with Kenny G, mixed the record. He has always
been an impeccable aud io eng ineer and
guitarist, but he really stepped up to the plate
on the current CD. He played a lot of guitar,
and also mastered the record.
Which songs are getting the most airplay at
this time?
“Love You Just So Much” and “Double Cache`”
When is your next project going to be
released?
I’m almost finished with it now, although
“almost” could be three months or six months.
The older we become, the more our time
becomes valuable and the people that I work
with become busier as they become more
success fu l. Add itionally, wr it ing songs
sometimes takes minutes to accomplish, and
sometimes melodies simmer inside of us,
waiting to mature before they are recorded.
You are also a music educator. Explain the
concept of tension and release and how it
applies to jazz.
Any good song should tell a story. Jazz
especially allows musicians the opportunity to
tell a current story and build the story through
dynamics, phrasing, great tone, and building
motifs. A great solo builds from beginning to
end and the audience should feel exhilarated
when a solo is finished. It’s very similar to
love making: every time is different and should
be a journey, and a reflection of how one feels
at a specific time in his or her life. It is another
way that humans can communicate on a higher
level.
Do you feel it’s your obligation to escort a
star student into the professional arena by
showing him, or her, the ropes?
Of course, this is our job as musicians. We
want to have quality music at “our” funerals as
we pass the torch to our students. I would say,
in general, that most jazz musicians are happy
to pass on the tradition of jazz because it is an
art form that is better “caught than taught.” Jazz
education has come a long way since I was a
boy in school. Our education at that time was
to listen to records. I think that a lot of students
now read books , s tudy scales, work on
technique, yet fall short when it comes to
connecting with an audience. I host jam
sessions for adults so that they can hone their
musical skills. Additionally, I can work on my
skills as a musician and educator. I learn many
things about my playing from my students, and
sometimes they teach me little tricks, mostly
about style and how to inflect notes. Most of
the musicians who attend our jams are highly
ski lled though. In most cases, they are
professional musicians who keep the music
exciting and fresh. Josephine Howell, Butch
Harrison, Geoffrey Castle, Dominique…..just
a small sample of mus icians who are
professionals who come to our jam session every
Sunday night at the Muckleshoot Casino in
Auburn.
Is there ever a time when a teacher should
tell a seemingly hopeless or lazy student that
he or she should choose another path?
NEVER! I hope that I am clear. NEVER! I
think that we lose sight of what music is. It’s a
chance for us to experience another form of
communication. Is the main reason to be a
musician an opportunity to tell others that you
are better than them? NO! Music should be
performed because it is FUN! I play to have
fun and to relax and to meditate. When I
perform I get lost in space and time. When I
was in the 6
th
grade, I was last chair clarinet. I
was terrible! When I was in college I was the
least technically skilled saxophonist in school,
but I continued to practice, to listen, and to try
to become the best that I could be. For example,
if John Coltrane came to our jam session and
played a solo that made angels cry, and then I
played a solo that was “my best,” well, we both
would have succeeded. The intent of music is
to perform “your best” at any given time and
compare your solos to your ability. Always
NW JAZZ PROFILE
18 BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • SEPTEMBER, 2009
Continued on page30
BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • SEPTEMBER, 2009 19
Thomas Marriott
Trumpet & Flugelhorn – Seattle, WA
Tell us about your academic background.
I don’t have much of one. I went to Garfield
High School and the University of
Washington for a while.
Which internationally respected jazz
artists have you worked with?
When I moved to New York, I was on
Maynard Ferguson’s band. After that, I
worked very briefly with the Tito Puente
Orchestra just after Tito passed away. That
band had a lot of great musicians in it at the
time. I worked with Rosemary Clooney for a
bit after that. I did a couple of gigs with Eddie
Palmieri and subbed a few times with The
Chico O’Farrill Orchestra. I played in Joe
Locke’s “Wire Walker” band and I am also
featured on his newest album. I have worked
gigs with Richie “Alto Madness” Cole, Eric
Reed, Bryan Lynch, Bobby Shew, Pete
Christlieb, Kenny Kirkland,
Gary Smulyan, Dennis Irwin,
Dafnis Prieto, The Les Brown
Band, and lots of others. I
have played in bands that have
backed-up Jimmy Heath,
James Moody, Maria
Schneider, Celia Cruz, Gerald
Wilson, Natalie Cole, Dianne
Schuur, Ernestine Anderson,
Manhattan Transfer, and
some others. Lately, I have had
the pleasure of working quite
a bit with Hadley Caliman.
Tell us about your latest
recording. Who produced
it? Where was it recorded?
Who’s on it? What’s unique
about it? Include release
date and label.
My newest recording is
entitled “Flexicon.” It came out last April on
Origin Records and spent almost 14 weeks
on the national jazz chart, making it into the
top ten. I recorded it at Robert Lang studios
in March of 2008. It’s a self-produced album
that features Jeff Johnson (bass), Bill Anschell
(piano & Rhodes), Matt Jorgensen (drums),
Mark Taylor (saxophone), and Joe Locke
(vibes).
What were some of the obstacles you had
to overcome to make the project a reality?
The financial obstacles are always the most
prevalent in any recording project because you
have to pay the musicians, the studio, etc.
Also, the night before we went into the studio
to record “Flexicon,” my daughter, who was
six months old at the time, kept me up literally
all night. It was a rough session!
Where do you start when you’re composing
original music? Do you start with the
melody, the harmonic structure, the
rhythm or a motif?
Sometimes, I start with the melody and try to
figure out the form and find chords that fit
the melody, and sometimes, I start with a
progression and go from there. Other times,
I will think of the type of tune I need to write—
something fast, something with even eighths,
something modal, something dramatic—and
see what comes to mind. I think to myself,
“If I were going to write this certain type of
tune, what would it sound like?” Then, I write
down some ideas and see which ones fit
together and work it out from there.
Do you ever get composer’s block? If so,
how do you find inspiration?
I am a pretty novice composer, so I get writer’s
block all the time. I usually just put on some
records I like and ask myself, “What is it about
this that I like?” Then, I try to steal that thing!
Are you involved in jazz education? If so,
what are the most unique aspects of your
teaching method?
I am not involved in Jazz Education.
Jazz represents only two percent of all
music sold. Can jazz grow a new fan base?
I think jazz can grow a new fan base by doing
what jazz musicians have always done, which
is to play compelling music and to reinterpret
the popular music of the day. I think there
are also some really amazing musicians that
are weak performers, and I think that that is
something we need to think about if we are
going to gain new fans.
In what other countries have you
performed? What was the occasion?
I have performed in Germany, France, Spain,
The Netherlands, Italy, Luxemburg, Canada
& Mexico. Mostly at festivals with various
bands I have been on, but with my own bands
a little too.
Other than your new recording, what good
things have been happening for you during
the last several months?
I am lucky enough to be working on a second
album with Hadley Caliman
which is due out this fall. I
have been busier and busier
out of town, playing with my
own band as well, which has
really been a blessing. I have
been really having fun playing
with the Washington
Composer’s Orchestra lately
too; there are lots of great
players in the band and
interesting music. It’s also a
challenge because the music
is very difficult for me.
What does success mean to
you?
Professional success would be
working all the time just
playing music that I was
personally invested in.
Give us your performance schedule for
September and October?
I am doing a tribute to Horace Silver with the
great Canadian Tenor player, Cory Weeds, in
Vancouver on Labor Day weekend. Then,
he’s coming down to Seattle and we are going
to do it again at the New Orleans on
September 6
th
with Travis Shook who will be
visiting from New York. Tula’s with Hadley
Caliman on the 18
th
of September and October
9
th
, then a few shows at the Earshot Festival
with Greg Williamson, and also with the
Washington Composer’s Orchestra. Those are
the highlights – but the full schedule is up on
my website at www.thomasmarriott.net!
“My life without music would be, in
some ways, far simpler and easier.
But as Kurt Vonnegut says, “Being
an artist is a crummy way to make
a living, but it’s the only way to live
as a human being.”
20 BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • SEPTEMBER, 2009
NW JAZZ PROFILE
Thomas may be contacted at:
Email address: tom@thomasmarriott.net
www.thomasmarriott.net
BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • SEPTEMBER, 2009 21
NW JAZZ PROFILE
22 BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • SEPTEMBER, 2009
Steve Kim
Bassist, Educator - Seattle WA
Steve Kim is an accomplished bassist, composer and educator. He currently
appears in a duo with guitarist Don Mock playing original music and jazz
repertoire. He has also performed with Larry Coryell, Alphonse Mouzon,
Carter Jefferson, Dave Valentine, Jay Thomas, Scott Cossu, and Brian Nova.
He has been commissioned to compose for the Southern Arts Council, the
Seattle Arts Commission, choreographers Bill Evans, Clay Talefero and Jeff
Bickford, and northwest filmmaker Eric Patton. In 1987 Steve served as a
cultural ambassador representing the City of Seattle in Japan, and in 1989
was honored as a Centennial Artist during the Washington State Centennial
Celebration. In 2007 he returned to Japan, touring with guitarist Brian Nova
& Vibraphonist Kiyoko Ami. He has studied bass with Ray Brown, Gary
Peacock and composition and improvisation with Charlie Banacos.
Steve Kim is faculty in the music department at Shoreline Community College,
and is an adjunct to South Seattle Community College. In addition, he has
taught at Pacific Lutheran University, The National Guitar Workshop, The
Experience Music Project and the Roberts Music Institute.
His second solo recording, entitled The Book Of Changes, was released in
the fall of 2005. Currently Steve is composing music for a recording due in
late Fall 2009.
Steve Kim
www.kimpossibilities.net
kimspeak@cablespeed.com
(206) 767-9090
BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • SEPTEMBER, 2009 23
NW JAZZ PROFILE
24 BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • SEPTEMBER, 2009
Fon Morcus
European Drum Soloist
Auditions for America’s
Got Talent
David Keys: Fon, I was blown away when I
saw your video on YouTube. Your drum solo
work is really impressive. You sound like
Buddy Rich and Louie Bellson rolled into
one with your own personal touch on top.
Fon Morcus: Thanks for saying that David.
DK: Tell me about your experience
auditioning for America’s Got Talent. Did
you make it on the show?
FM: Well, I screwed up. I got there at 7:45
am and my audition was at 4:50 pm, so I
had to wait for nine hours to see the judges.
They asked me all kinds of questions: “How
old are you? What do you do for a living?
What country a re you f rom? What
instruments do you play? Why do you think
you can win? And what would you do if you
won?” Then they looked at my video on their
laptop and asked me if I would be willing to
do my solo on the show. And here is where I
screwed up; I asked them if I could save the
solo for the last show. That was the wrong thing
to say. You don’t ask them questions. They’re
tired because they have to judge everything,
whether it’s good or bad, and all they want to
do is go home. So, they asked me to wait outside
for about five minutes and then a person came
out and explained to me that when I asked to
do the solo for the last show, I was actually
refusing to do what the judges wanted me to do
in order to be on the show. So, he told me I
couldn’t be on the show this year and said
maybe next season.
DK: You have great speed and technique in
your playing and I think if you got on the
show, you would impress the judges and the
viewers. Are you going to try again next year?
FM: I think I will try again next year and, if I
win, I’ll donate the money to animal shelters. I
love all kinds of animals. I would also donate a
lot of my time to teaching young kids to play
music.
DK: When I saw your show last November
in Olympia, you were the only one who got a
standing ovation. There were many talented
people on stage that evening, but for me, you
were the main event. Are you planning to do
a new show in the near future?
FM: I might be able to do something in late
November at the Washington Center for the
Performing Arts in Olympia. Organizing 60
performers who are dancing, singing and
playing takes a lot of rehearsal and I need
time to blend all those elements into a
smooth, professional presentation.
DK: Will you be ending the show with
another special solo like you did last year?
FM: Yes. I’ll be soloing with 2001: A Space
Odyssey.
DK: I can’t wait to see and hear it. Make
sure you let us know the date and time
for the show.
You can see and rate Fon’s drum solos on
YouTube. Make sure to add your comments. He
may be reached at 360-701-2235. Write to him
at 1030 N.E. Hens ley S treet, O lympia,
Washington, 98516.
BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • SEPTEMBER, 2009 25
NW JAZZ PROFILE
Jazz is more than just notes in time, it’s also
very stimulating and thought provoking. When
I allow myself to be completely absorbed in the
music, whether performing or enjoying fellow
artists, I am able to invoke whatever emotion is
needed at the time
How long has the Cole’lition been together?
Since 1994
Are there any new members in the band?
Yes, if you visit our website you will see the
caption “a whole new thang.” What that means
is that around August 30
th
, 2009, you will see a
whole new website representing the new
Cole’lition; it is, I think, the “the right mix” of
young exciting musicians and seasoned mature
musicians. We now have Chris Fuller on
keyboards, Ivan Payne on drums, and Howard
Molstrom on sax. This new band has a feel and
sound all its own and I’m very excited about
sharing our gifts.
Tell us about your new recording.
We are currently in production now. Before we
move on I just want to give honor to a fallen friend,
producer and sound engineer. Tom Phafel helped
produce and engineer our last project and was
scheduled to work on this on but was tragically
taken from us and we will miss him.
To answer your question, we are working with a
number of producers including members of Tri-
Quad productions, Chris Fuller and Michael Cole,
Jr. They have a song on Day 26’s new project
(Diddy’s new group). My friend Grady Wilkins
of the Whispers will be helping if things work out
and John Raymond will be doing some mixing as
well.
This project will be released in two phases, first a
pre-release marketing CD (4 tracks) early fall 2009
and the full project later in early 2010. It’s going
to be hot and different from anything we have done
in the past. It’s titled “The Right Mix.”
Do you have any release parties scheduled?
We are hoping to do a pre-release party in the
early fall 2009. Believe me, the word will
definitely be out and we plan to do quite a bit of
marketing in most all media.
How are you planning to market the project?
Well, definitely the internet, some print, live
performances and an important element that some
of us don’t realize is a must, and that’s why we
will be working with a record promoter to get that
precious air play on terrestrial, satellite and
internet radio. Our last CD got some good airplay
in Europe so we plan to market there also.
Will the group be touring to support the
release?
We definitely plan to tour and we have already
started laying the ground work for that. We plan
to tour locally, regionally, nationally and hopefully
internationally as well.
What were some of the obstacles you had to
overcome to make the project a reality?
Well, without a major label behind us financing,
is a challenge but we are making it. As I mentioned
earlier, we were slated to do the major live
recording at the Tank Studios but we have to find
the right room to complete live tracking. I think
we are pretty much on schedule though.
What good things have been happening for the
band during the last year?
David, I am so excited about just creating good
music. The new members have been fabulous,
performing in town. We have a major industry
contact we a working with now and that is
wonderful. Cole’lition will have a new look, feel
and sound without compromising our foundation.
I think just loving what we do and being able to
continue to share our gift is wonderful.
What is the key to Cole’lition’s staying power?
Why is the band so popular?
Perseverance and just being blessed. As far as
being popular, I can’t answer that, but we are
sincere and we bring it from the heart. We are on
a mission to make people feel good and positive
about their experience with Cole’lition.
Give us your performance schedule for
September and October.
Well David, right now it’s mainly studio work and
finishing the project, but I am sure if everyone
visits us at www.colelition.com they can see where
we will be.
Discography:
On The Move, Seventh Power, and The Right Mix
is in production.
www.colelition.com
Cole’lition
Emmanuel del Casal
Jazz and funk bassist, Emmanuel del Casal,
has been a performing and recording artist
for over 20 years. Working with notable
artists such as Grammy Award-winning
Daniel Lanois and Charles Neville of the
Neville Brothers, Emmanuel’s
musicianship has granted him extensive
musical experiences and taken him many
places around the world, from Asia to
London.
Emmanuel’s versatile groups capture the
classic and traditional idioms of jazz as
well as contemporary modern jazz.
For critical listening in a concert setting, or
creating the perfect ambient mood for a
classy cocktail mixer, Emmanuel del Casal
and his jazz groups bring everything right
in the groove. Elevate your special event
with Emmanuel del Casal.
His jazz ensembles can be enjoyed every
weekend at The Georgian in The Fairmont
Olympic Hotel.
Jazz duo featuring Emmanuel and guitarist
Dan Sales: Fridays 6pm-10pm and Saturdays
6pm-8pm.
Jazz quartet featuring Andre Thomas on
drums and Dan Sales with guest vocalists
Stephanie Porter, Makini Magee, and Keely
Whitney: Saturdays 8pm-10:30pm.
For bookings and information:
Phone: 866-771-2500
Email: emman@smoothgroove.net
Web: www.smoothgroove.net and
www.myspace.com/emmanueldelcasal
26 BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • SEPTEMBER, 2009
NW JAZZ PROFILE
The Collective, formerly The Jazz Collective, is based on a collaboration
that actually started in 1974 when Randy Wallace and W. Michael Jaap
first played music together. In a recent interview, Randy stated “Mike
Jaap has been a musical mentor and close friend for 35 years.”
In 1993, The Jazz Collective was formed with W. Michael Jaap on keys,
Kurt Kolstad on drums, and Randy Wallace on guitar. Since then, the
group has played venues throughout the Northwest with great success.
The decision to change the name of the group after all these years is
based on the fact that the group is able to play many styles of music—
not only Jazz, give clients exactly what they are looking for, and
essentially customize the event for them.
The Collective is able to draw on a “collective” of musicians, singers,
horn players of all styles and perform in any configuration from a duo to
an eight-piece horn band with a female or male lead vocalist.
Randy Wallace states, “I believe the key to our success is and always
has been client satisfaction.”
One of The Collective’s recent projects
has been recording a CD for Ron Bates,
who is an Olympia based entertainer,
well known for his Supper with Sinatra
Dinner Shows. The CD was produced
by W. Michael Jaap and features Kurt
Kolstad on drums and Randy Wallace
on guitar. There are also guest
appearances on the CD by Steve
Sarandos, a good friend and NW sax
player, as wel l as Jef f Mason on
harmonica and trombone. Ron Bates is
donating a percentage of the proceeds of his CD to our beloved friend
and brother, Kurt Kolstad, who has been suffering with cancer. In Kurt’s
absence, we have been blessed to have Garey
Williams with us on drums.
We also recently did a collaboration with
Michael Prendergast, an LA based singer by
way of Missoula, Montana. Michael will be
appearing with The Collective on October 2nd
at Baker Street Books in Black Diamond,
Washington. Also appearing will be Sidney
Wallace (Randy’s wife) who is the former lead
vocalist for Apricot Brandy.
The Collective’s focus is to provide clients
with exactly what they envision their event
to be, whether it is jazz, rock, or dance, and
to be able to do it by utilizing a collective of
the Northwest’s finest musicians.
The Collective
BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • SEPTEMBER, 2009 27
Randy Wallace Michael Jaap Garey
Williams
Michael Prendergast
Ron Bates
Randy Oxford - ‘Bone Man’
Randy Oxford - trombonist, Blues Performer
of the Year, and notorious wild man- has been
honored more than 25 times since returning to
his home state of Washington several years ago,
following a European Tour of duty with the U.S.
Army band. He has won multiple Best Horn
awards, Entertainer of the Year, Keeping the
Blues Alive, as well as induction into the
Washington Blues Society’s Hall of Fame.
Randy plays the trombone as a lead instrument,
inventing a path through the chord progressions,
sometimes mimicking the guitars around him,
and sometimes taking them with him on one of
his wild rides. Symphony conductors have
admired his tone, but he also knows how to rip
a sound or turn it into an animal call. Randy
has become a Northwest favorite—hosting
popular invitational jams at various venues in
the area and also leading his very successful
band.
Randy has appeared on more than 30 CD’s,
including four of his own. One of these, the
lively Memphis to Motown, gained recognition
as a finalist at the International Blues Challenge
in Memphis, Tennessee. His growing popularity
nationally has resulted in a regular gig as Jam
Host on the Legendary Rhythm and Blues
Cruise.
The Randy Oxford Band reflects the energy and
talent of its leader, showcasing top-notch
musicianship, daring arrangements, and an
eclectic style Randy calls urban blues. The six-
piece band features Jada Amy on vocals, Eliud
Atondo on bass, Asial Gutierras on drums, and
two gui ta ris ts—Jho Bleni s and Rafael
Tranquilino. The two guitarists back each other
during solos and, with Randy’s killer trombone,
give the band its characteristic big, rich sound.
The in terp lay between these performers
prov ides the audience wi th something
entertaining to watch, as well as to hear. For
more in formation about Randy, v is it
randyoxford.com.Asial Gutierras
BLUES
28 BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • SEPTEMBER, 2009
Eight years ago, Seattle veteran jazz and blues
singer Maia Santell married Gary Grape, native
Tacoman and entertainment buyer for the
Tacoma Events Commission. Little did she
know, she’d soon become part of a vibrant,
th riving South Sound dance scene — a
community of dancers hungry for live music and
a dance band a la “Dancing With The Stars.”
Thanks to the old Brickyard Bar and Grill (on
56
th
Street in South Tacoma), Santell and her
band, “Maia Santell and House Blend,”
established a fan base that flourished in 2002
with swing and ballroom dancers. Fans traveled
from as far north as Arlington and as far south
as Chehalis to shake a leg and cut a rug to the
mix of rhythms and tempos that her band offered
up.
Today, seven years later, Maia and her band are
part of a ne twork of dance events and
productions around the Northwest that pairs up
with top-notch dance coaches and instructors.
Among the many dance events they perform for
(USA Dance Tacoma, USA Dance Olympia,
Seattle Singles Yacht Club, Northwest Dance
Network, Sonny Newman’s, Seattle Sunday
Swing at China Harbor), Maia’s favorite (held
in her own backyard) is Studio 6 Ballroom in
Tacoma’s Entertainment District — founded
and operated by master dance coach, Natasha
Thayer.
On Wednesday, Sept 16
th
, Studio 6 Ballroom
and the Sixth Avenue Business Association
present the fifth monthly Progressive Dinner
— a restaurant walk that features delectable
samples and ample portions of food from
restaurants along the avenue, followed by live
music by Maia Santell and House Blend. After
feasting on tasty fares, the satisfied crowd joins
up at Studio 6 Ballroom (2608 6
th
Ave, Tacoma)
for dessert, coffee, tea and live blues, swing,
Latin , j azz standards and contemporary
favorites. You can dance or just kick back and
listen on comfy sofas and floor cushions. If it’s
just dancing you’re interested in, arrive early
for a dance lesson by Natasha or one of her great
team of instructors. Once you’ve sampled a
delicious cuisine, paired with the talents of
music and dance, you’re sure to come back for
refills!
Swingin’
On Sixth Avenue!
For booking and information on upcoming
performances contact Maia at
Santellswings@comcast.net
or see: www.MaiaSantell.com
For information on dance instruction, special
events and the Sixth Avenue Progressive
Dinner, contact Natasha Thayer at 253-905-
5301, Natasha@Studio6Ballroom.com
or www.Studio6Ballroom.com
BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • SEPTEMBER, 2009 29
BLUES
Kimball Conant
The one thing you must realize about blues
is…it’s anything but sad.
What’s in the magic
potion that makes you and
Stickshift Annie such a
successful team?
Even the lousiest gig beats
watching TV.
Other than choosing a
career in music; what is
the most adventurous or
dangerous thing you have
ever done?
Live in Paraguay for four
years.
What do you want people
to remember about you
and your music?
I played my ass off.
Stickshift Annie
The one thing you must
realize about blues is…that it is not about
making people sad or blue. Blues is really about
making people feel better by sharing their
experience and saying, “ I understand how you
feel and I have been through that too.”
What’s in the magic potion that makes you
and Kimball Conant such a successful team?
It is respect, from my perspective. I respect
Kimball’s craft; he is an excellent guitar player
and musician. I think we have a great time
performing together, and we share a common
respect for the songs we perform, the other
musicians we perform with, and the people that
come to see us play. We enjoy what we do and
have become good friends with many of the
folks that come out to see us. It gets back to that
previous statement about the blues.
Other than choosing a career in music, what
is the most adventurous or dangerous thing
you have ever done?
Bronze casting.
What do you want people to remember about
you and your music?
I hope they can see and hear that I truly love
making music, and that I am always striving to
learn and improve. There is always somewhere
else to go.
BIG FUN IS SEEKING
AD SALES PROS REPS
WRITERS,
CD/DVD REVIEWERS,
DISTRIBUTORS
253-473-1866
info@bigfunmagazine.com
Maia Santell
and House Blend
Live in September
13th China Harbor, Seattle, 8pm
16th Studio 6 Ballroom, Tacoma,
8pm
27th Johnny’s Dock, Tacoma, 5pm
30 BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • SEPTEMBER, 2009
strive for excellence. The day you don’t care
about your performance is the day that you lose.
As far as the lazy or hopeless student? Their
course will be determined by their abilities and
their determination. I can only encourage
students with “how to practice.” Their job is
to take my ideas and work them into their
routine. A lazy and hopeless musician will
probably not be a working musician. A musician
without a lot of “natural ability” is the real
challenge. How does one help that musician
achieve their goals? It all comes down to
prac tice. Excell ence comes f rom 99%
perspiration and 1% inspiration.
FAMILY LIFE
What attracted you to the love of your life?
I was attracted to Anita because she was
absolutely beautiful. Then, when I got to know
her, I came to realize that she had a mission to
raise our children and allow them to become
confident in themselves. She is an amazing
homemaker, interior designer, and a fantastic
mother and best friend. After 13 years of
marriage, she is even more beautiful inside and
out.
Tell us about your children.
I have three lovely children, Michele, 19,
Christina, 17, and Spencer, 10. They are great
people, great children, and excellent life-long
friends of mine.
What are the keys to balancing the different
facets of your professional life with your
family life?
This is probably the number one challenge in
my life, as I am a professional musician and
work three to five nights a week, and I am an
educator and work five days a week. I am the
financial provider for my family and my wife is
the glue that holds our family together. I would
have to say that balancing my professional life
with my family life is really difficult. I am
passionate about both, and there are times when
I see my children for minutes a day; that is very
hard on me emotionally. This is why I am so
proud of my wife for choosing to be a stay at
home mother. She keeps my children centered.
How often are you able to take family
vacations?
We take a cruise almost every year, although
recently we have been going to Las Vegas for
mini family tours.
Would you ever encourage one of your
youngsters to enter the music business?
I would encourage my children to become
musicians, although I would highly encourage
them to additionally study something to fall
back on. I am a musician and also a music
educator. I have been able to teach music in
the Kent School District to supplement my
performances. I think I am really lucky because
I love to play and I love teaching music and
band to my students.
What is your favorite family activity?
My favorite family activity is doing home
improvements with my wife. I would play video
games with my son, except I find that he
destroys me within 30 seconds of our play
together and I end up watching him until his
turn is over 15 minutes later. I do love going to
movies with my son, having sleepovers, and
watching our favorite movie together, Napoleon
Dynamite.
Other than choosing a career in music; what
is the most adventurous or dangerous thing
you have ever done?
I did two cross country hikes in the Olympic
Mountain Range with my best friend. We didn’t
see people for a week, and I must admit that
each step on the mountain is one that must be
perfect. One misstep, and you would fall and
bounce thousands of feet down the mountain. I
was in a constant state of vigilance while hiking
and camping in that situation.
What do you want people to remember about
you and your music?
I would like people to remember that I am a
nice man who plays music.
Discography: 1989-Mottore tt i/F ir st
Generation, 1992-Mottoretti/Square One,
1995-Peace/Darren Motamedy Chri stmas
Album, 1995-Dangerously Close, 1999-It’s All
Good, 2002-Relax Your Mind, 2005-Darren
Motamedy: The Best of Smooth Jazz, 2007-
Don’t Cha Know, 2009 or 2010 (New record
to be release)
Check out www.darrenmotamedy.com for
Darren’s performance schedule.
Darren Motamedy
Continued from page 18
32 THE FINER THINGS NW - PREVIEW ISSUE
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