Nate Smith
– an artist redefining what rhythm, groove, and musicality can be in our time
When Nate Smith takes the stage at Bjørnsonhuset during Moldejazz, he does so from a position few drummers can match. Among musicians, he is widely regarded as perhaps the most exciting drummer in the world right now within jazz, funk, and beat-based music
The double GRAMMY-winning drummer, composer, and producer has established himself as one of the most in-demand musicians of his generation—equally at home in the modern groove landscape and among the international jazz elite. His acclaimed performances with Vulfpeck have introduced him to a wide audience, while his work with leading jazz figures such as Dave Holland, Chris Potter, and Ravi Coltrane firmly roots him in the forefront of the jazz scene. He has also collaborated with artists including Brittany Howard, Pat Metheny, Norah Jones, Jon Batiste, Kurt Elling, and Childish Gambino.
From his early years in Betty Carter’s Jazz Ahead program to his work with Dave Holland, Nate Smith has developed a musical language where complex rhythmic ideas meet immediate musicality and groove. Through projects like KINFOLK and Pocket Change, he has reached a broad audience, and in recent years has also become a key voice in communicating rhythm through viral videos and educational work.
With Nate Smith, Moldejazz continues to place drummers center stage at Bjørnsonhuset—following last year’s success with Yussef Dayes. This points to a clear artistic direction where rhythm, groove, and bandleading are in focus, giving audiences the chance to experience some of the most influential voices in contemporary music in a large-scale setting.
At Moldejazz, he presents a powerful and dynamic trio format alongside two key voices from the modern American scene. Together, they create a sound that moves between jazz, improvisation, beats, and electronic textures—always with rhythm as the driving force and core.
This will be a concert where precision meets freedom, and where groove, energy, and interplay are elevated to a level that both challenges and excites.
Line-up:
Nate Smith – drums, James Francies - piano, Josh Johnson – saxophone, electronics, Anna Butterss – bass
Concerts in our main program typically last between 60 to 90 minutes.
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