Acclaimed drummer, composer, producer, and bandleader Nate Smith returns with LIVE-ACTION, an expansive new album that showcases the full scope of his musical vision. Released digitally on August 29, 2025 via Naïve Records, with CD and vinyl editions following on September 5, the project brings together Smith’s unmistakable
Across ten tracks, LIVE-ACTION blends synthetic funk inspired by Prince, Afrobeat rhythms, jazz fusion, hip-hop-influenced pocket traditions associated with J Dilla, neo-soul textures recalling artists such as D’Angelo and Maxwell, and sophisticated large-scale arranging reminiscent of Quincy Jones. The result is a deeply modern recording that reflects Smith’s versatility not only as a drummer, but also as a composer, producer, educator, and musical architect.
The album features an impressive lineup of guest artists, including Lalah Hathaway, Michael League, Lionel Loueke, Josh Johnson, Marquis Hill, Charlie Hunter, DJ Harrison, Kiefer, Ben Williams, CARRTOONS, Jermaine Holmes, JSWISS, and säje.
One of the album’s standout early singles, “Juke Joint,” was described by Smith as “Muddy Waters meets J Dilla” and was inspired by the Ryan Coogler film Sinners. Another centerpiece, “Last Sight” featuring Josh Johnson, highlights the album’s balance between lush production, improvisational interplay, and deeply rooted groove sensibilities.
In support of the album, Smith has also presented a live configuration featuring Michael League on bass, Josh Johnson on saxophone, and James Francies on keyboards, bringing the music of LIVE-ACTION to audiences in an energetic and highly improvisational concert setting.
A deluxe 2LP edition of LIVE-ACTION released in 2026 expands the original album with additional material including “View from the Perch,” “Hop, Skip, Jump,” “Early Autumn,” “All Is Fine,” “Remains,” and instrumental versions of selected album tracks.
Following its release, LIVE-ACTION received widespread praise from listeners and musicians alike for its production quality, stylistic breadth, powerful ensemble performances, and Smith’s signature sense of groove and feel. The album later received the Grammy Award for Best Alternative Jazz Album, while the track “Big Fish” earned the Grammy for Best Arrangement, Instrumental and Vocals.
