Michael League x Nate Smith: A London Performance That Hits Hard

There is an easy kind of magic that happens when Michael League and Nate Smith share a stage. From the first tune you can feel how comfortable they are together. Michael is on what looks like a vintage Fender P Bass running into a Markbass rig and it gives him this warm punchy sound that fits Nate’s groove perfectly.

The show runs a little over an hour and it never drags. Michael spends plenty of time holding down the pocket but he also breaks out some tasty effects work. The sub octave moments hit especially hard and add a whole new layer to the band’s sound. It is fun to hear where he chooses to bring that in and how it shapes the vibe.

Mostly this performance just feels good. Nate is doing what Nate does and Michael matches him with lines that feel grounded and playful at the same time. There are stretches where the band lifts off and others where they sit so deep in the pocket you almost sink into your chair.

It is one of those shows you can leave on and enjoy from start to finish. If you love watching great players interact in real time this one is well worth the hour.