Downtown Sound: Nathan & Jessie

From Temecula, California, where the sun shines through the mist, Nathan Rivera and Jessie Andra Smith bring an unforgettable trilingual blend of swingin’ bluesy jazzy folk. Performing on resonator guitars and accordion, the duo creates music with a spirit of beauty, spontaneity, dance, and jazz improvisation, enriched by their dynamic male–female harmonies.

Often joined by friends Trevor Mulvey on upright bass and Blake Armstrong on drums, Nathan & Jessie deliver original songs, engaging stories from their travels, and warm interaction with the audience—making every performance a unique experience. Their love of sharing music has taken them across the globe, from Mexico, Canada, and France to New Orleans and the Pacific Northwest. Upbeat and vibrant, their tunes reflect a life steeped in culture, humor, storytelling, and the boundless joy of improvisation.

"Their personalities, both personal and musical, appear seamless. The point is, you never really know what you are going to get. And that's the great aspect of being part of their audience" 

- Larry Thompson via Echo and Buzz Local Music Publication