Guitarist, composer, and educator Nate Jarrell (formerly of hardcore Christian bands No Innocent Victim and Born Blind) has a fluid command of the instrument, possessing a highly melodic legato style that emphasizes clean, (usually), orbital phrasing.

He appears to have absorbed some of the influences of John Scofield and Kurt Rosenwinkel, and from a harmonic standpoint, there are similarities to the under-sung Steve Khan in his playing. Jarrell has a distinctive, clean tone, and his chops are informed and confident. He can swing, and he does it in a thoroughly modern, modally informed style.

Jarrell released his album The Next Chapter in October 2011. Recorded at Dirty Boulevard studio in San Diego, the disc was engineered and mixed by saxophonist Ian Tordella. Guest players include sure-fingered bassist Harley Magsino, stuttering drum commentary from Jeanette Kangas, and pianist Ed Kornhauser.

Another Jarrell project is Duo LaRé, with mandolin virtuoso Chris Acquavella. On their 2011 CD In Other Words, they are ably assisted on several tracks by additional musicians Erdis Maxhelaku on cello, Harley Magsino on double bass, and Steve Haney on percussion.

Jarrell and drummer Jeanette Kangas, along with Kangas’ partner Suzann Gage, also operate a non-profit organization, the San Diego Center for the Arts, which brings national acts to San Diego for performances and clinics. The organization was founded by drummers Kangas and Nathan Hubbard. Jarrell came on board when Hubbard left for Arizona ( he has since returned).