DKO The Darren Kramer Organization
Concerts • Clinics • CDs • Charts • Commissions

This exciting group has capitalized on creating the next generation of crossover jazz and brings this high-energy music to people all over the world through their inspiring performances, educational workshops and exceptional recordings.  

All DKO recordings feature original high-energy Funk, Jazz & Latin performed by world-class artists
Michael Brecker, Eric Marienthal, Rick Margitza, Jerry Hey, Gary Grant, Gary Willis,
and many more.

"Fresh, innovative funk by a brilliant upcoming trombonist and the tune ‘Turbulent Altercation’ - WOW!"
-Michael Brecker

Listen / Download ALL DKO CDs on iTunes
All Music & Lyrics Composed, Arranged & Produced by Darren Kramer

DKO The Darren Kramer Organization
In The Now Pt.II (feat. Michael Brecker)
Contingency (feat. Eric Marienthal)
Ballade (feat. Rick Margitza)
Turbulent Altercation (feat. Jerry Hey & Gary Grant)
Quench! (feat. Jym Britton)Not Far From Here (feat. Darelle Holden)
A Cask Of Thousands (feat. Pat Bianchi)
DKO is one of the most polished and exciting bands I have ever heard in this genre. Their enthusiasm is overwhelming and inspirational. Great charts and wonderful performances from everyone in the group!
-Randy Brecker
Your CD "In The Now" sounds very good indeed. Great playing and writing...interesting textures and sounds. Keep up the good work!
-Bob Mintzer
DKO has its own vibe!!! Excellent writing, soloing and ensemble playing. Congratulations Darren! It's great to hear a band with a fabulous horn section...but of course I'm partial!
-David Garibaldi
Darren's compositions are the perfect balance of emotion and intellect...they stir deep feelings as they simultaneously challenge your mind...both as a player and as a listener!
-Rick Margitza
There's no question that a lot of time has been put into this project. This is high-class "fusion" at its best with a lot of heart and true human energy...authentic grooves, great solos and ensemble work, and Darren...you sound very good on that impossible instrument!"
-Dave Liebman
It's quite an operation you have going. Very ambitious! The tunes are clever, well-arranged and certainly well-played by everyone. I am more than impressed by it all!
-Bobby Shew
Darren, Just a note to tell you how much I enjoy your CD. Very Impressive in every way. Great Charts, Band, Playing, etc. I love what you are doing with the electronics!! Keep up the GREAT INNOVATIVE Work!! Good Luck, with your WONDERFUL Direction!
I will follow your career!!!!
-Justin DiCioccio
Chairman of Jazz Dept
Manhattan School of Music
Darren, I am blown away by your “Quench!” CD but you've really topped yourself with “In The Now”! Wow, great writing, incredible performances and kudos to the production as it is 1st rate and very creative. There are so many highlights, I can't say enough about it. This is the next Tower of Power, Blood Sweat & Tears, Chicago, and Cold Blood rolled into one.
10 Stars!!!!!!!!!!!!
-Gary Lindsay
Director of Studio/Jazz Writing
Univ of Miami
Darren Kramer is a rare mix of great trombone playing, fine composing/arranging abilities, and wonderful leadership skills. It's no wonder that his DKO is so successful. Darren has a giant tone, great chops and a gift for the melodic line. Wrap all of that up into a down-home knowledge of funk and you have a potent talent indeed! I really enjoy hearing the trombone in such a prominent spotlight on his DKO projects. Bravo!
-Steve Wiest
Assoc Prof of Jazz Studies
Univ of North Texas