Father Son: An Evening with Nathan and Noah East and Friends
It’s not often you get to witness a performance that feels both masterfully polished and deeply personal. “Father Son: An Evening with Nathan and Noah East and Friends” delivered exactly that when it recently rolled through Las Vegas.
Nathan East is undeniably one of the most iconic, versatile, and prolific bass players of our time. With a résumé that spans decades and genres, his musicianship has become part of the soundtrack of modern music.
Following naturally in his footsteps is his son, Noah East, an accomplished pianist and organist whose growth as a musician feels both organic and genuinely earned. Growing up in a musical household may have opened doors, but Noah has clearly put in the work to cultivate his own voice, one that’s mature, confident, and increasingly commanding.
Last year, the father-son duo released their aptly titled album, Father Son, a project that beautifully captures their musical chemistry.
In a recent conversation I had with Nathan (full interview going live in Bass Musician Magazine on April 1st), he spoke enthusiastically about taking the project on the road. When he mentioned a Las Vegas date, I immediately secured tickets.
The show took place at Myron’s at The Smith Center for the Performing Arts, one of the city’s most inviting listening rooms. The venue’s art deco ambiance and pristine acoustics make it ideal for a performance of this intimacy and sophistication. With its comfortable table seating, guests can enjoy food and beverages while remaining fully immersed in the music, a perfect setting for an evening of jazz-infused artistry.
The lineup for the evening featured Nathan on upright and electric bass, Noah on piano and Hammond B-3 organ, Donald Barrett on drums, and Michael “Nomad” Ripoll on guitar. Together, they formed a tight, well-oiled unit that impressed from the first downbeat. There was an ease on stage, an unspoken communication, that only seasoned musicians can achieve.
The set list offered a thoughtful blend of jazz standards, selections from Father Son, and songs associated with some of the biggest names Nathan has collaborated with over the years, including Stevie Wonder, Eric Clapton, and Daft Punk. The audience was treated to a seamless 90-minute performance with no intermission, just continuous, captivating music.
As expected, Nathan’s bass work was exceptional. His note choices and phrasing elevated every arrangement, serving the music with taste and authority. Noah’s virtuosity was evident throughout the night on both piano and organ, though it was on the Hammond B-3 where he truly seemed to shine. His touch, dynamic control, and tonal choices revealed a musician well beyond his years.
“Nomad” Ripoll’s guitar work was equally compelling, with several moments to stretch out and deliver expressive, fiery solos. Meanwhile, Donald Barrett’s drumming was tight, precise, and deeply musical. He drove the band with subtle power and, during his solo feature, displayed jaw-dropping technique that drew wide smiles from his bandmates and enthusiastic applause from the audience.
In the end, “Father Son” is more than a concert; it’s a celebration of legacy, mentorship, and shared passion. It’s rare to see generational artistry unfold in real time with such authenticity. This is a must-see show, and I’ll certainly be in the audience again the next time they return to Las Vegas.
You can check to see if they will be in your area by going to nathaneast.com or facebook.com/NathanEast/.
