As you can tell from the fact that this is their fifth appearance here, Nathan Rivera and Jessie Andra Smith are among our favorite musicians. Start with two resonator guitars and effortless vocal harmonies in a variety of languages; add some accordion, clarinet, and tambourine; top with a repertoire of original songs that evoke Gypsy jazz and Parisian cafés; and what you’ve got is this delightful duo. Love of sharing music has taken Nathan & Jessie all over the world, frequenting places like Mexico, Canada, France, New Orleans, and the Pacific Northwest. Their upbeat tunes reflect the cultural, emotional, and inspirational images of their life experience, and are rooted in the spirit of jazz, improvisation, storytelling, language, and humor.

“A gypsy sway that wouldn’t feel out of place as the easygoing, unsuspectingly bittersweet B-side to a Django Reinhardt record.”

—Pop Matters

“They swing hard and serenade gently, singing fluidly in three languages, oscillating from bittersweet jazz folk to country blues without missing a beat.”

—East Portland Blog

“Absolutely charming and skillful in every way. A delightful couple. They suck the audience in for a gala ride.… Aw-shucks simple humor that is both witty and captivating. Everyone loves them onstage and off.”

—Bob Stane, Coffee Gallery Backstage