Radio Venice S08.E16 Archives

DARDEN is comprised of Clarah, the guitarist; Havi on mandolin, Tabbi, the bassist, and Josiah on drums.
The girls are vocalists in the group, focusing on harmonies and musical blends.

Raised on the California Coast in a family of musicians, the band grew up surrounded by musical influences from almost every genre. In the early 2000’s, their parents piled them into an RV, and together they embarked on several singing tours around the U.S., traveling as far east as Ohio. Originally their vocals were backed by their Grandpa Joe Tatar on honky-tonk style piano, but eventually, each decided on an instrument, and when the Darden family came off the road in 2008, the sisters began to hone in on forming their own musical entity. It was only natural that their brother Josiah join the group, and he now backs the girls on drums.

Everyone is a songwriter in the group, now playing several instruments each. Since coming off the road, they have developed a sound which is their own unique spin on all the music they grew up on. Leaning towards an Alternative, Modern Americana feel, DARDEN presents an experience of crystal clear harmonies, angelic melodies, and modern versions of classic songs and styles.

The band currently resides in Orange County and they can be seen frequently performing around Fullerton and Southern California.

“Music has always been our first love, and our goal is to share that love with as many people as possible!”

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Darden on Radio Venice

Radio Venice S17.E09 – July 11, 2021
Radio Venice 5 Year Anniversary Show – September 20, 2020
Radio Venice S14.E01 – May 10, 2020
Radio Venice S08.E16 – July 8, 2018
Radio Venice S03.E07 – June 19, 2016
Radio Venice S03.E04 – May 29, 2016

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The highly regarded singer/songwriter and funky piano player, Alfred Johnson, is considered by some as one of this century’s most animated and original songwriters. His energetic style of playing the keys brings a wonderful compliment to his music.

Alfred co-wrote three songs with Rickie Lee Jones on her Platinum Grammy Award winning premiere album containing the hit single ‘Chuck E’s In Love’. Alfred’s songs have been covered by Diane Reeves and Ernie Watts. Recognized as a true craftsman of his art, his musical influences include: Taj Mahal, Leon Russell, Dr. John, Randy Newman, Danny O’Keefe, David Wilcox and Bill Champlin.

He is best known for his amazing lyric-driven tunes that will keep you captivated. Alfred’s musical style is quite diverse and encompasses Funk, New Orleans, Pop, Rock ‘n’ Soul, Gospel, “Rhythm & Bluegrass,” and music that will have you wanting to dance. The emphasis is always on the lyric. Alfred has written about 900 tunes, and at least 70 of them are published. He loves co-writing and has written several songs with Jodi Siegel. Alfred’s been playing the circuit of live venues around Los Angeles for nearly 40 years. Recently, Alfred had a wonderful reunion with Ricki Lee Jones opening for her at the Coach House and that is apparently going to happen again!

The NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SONGWRITERS is quoted as describing Alfred Johnson as “…a talent of this caliber is a rare treat…”, but most everyone else just knows him as an amazing person and prolific writer with unique spirit and drive.

“Alfred Johnson is one of those writers writers who, like Cole Porter, Marie Caine and Stephen Soundheim, takes your breath away with the sheer craft of it, and makes you proud to be in this often under-acknowledged profession of songwriting.” – HARRIET SHOCK, 1993

“I think he is a genius lyricist, and I really enjoyed his singing. And if that’s him playing the piano, my hats off to [him] in that department, too.” – DAVID FRESHBERG