Written By: Holly Walny
Saturday evening, the Sleeping Moon Café in Winter Park was packed for Nat’Lee’s debut as the new 3300+climbing artist. As many of you know, Nat’Lee is the latest winner in 3300+Climbing’s artist development initiative, and Saturday we got to see firsthand her amazing vocal skills in action. When I opened the door to head into Sleeping Moon, I walked into Nat’Lee and her guitarist, Skarz, sound checking. Nat’Lee’s energy and voice filled the venue, and I knew it was going to be a good show.
As the artists were sound checking, the audience was settling in for what would be an
amazing show, on a Saturday Evening. Orlando alternative artist, Conflicting Motive, opened the show. Conflicting motive is the moniker used by Zachariah Cabral when performing his acoustic alt-rock. I had heard a lot about Conflicting Motive in the past, but had never seen him perform live. The intimate setting of Sleeping Moon really let Zach's talent show, and his music had the whole crowd clapping along. Myself along with the other members of 3300 were all impressed by the vocal abilities of Zach, and the catchy-ness of his songs. But it was a real treat for the audience when Zach hopped on piano for his last song to sing Coldplay’s, “Fix You,” with a very special
guest on ukulele. Needless to say,
Conflicting Motive was the perfect way to start the show, and I would suggest catching him at his next live show.
Then it was Nat’Lee’s turn. Along with her partner and guitarist, Skarz, Nat’Lee performed all of her original songs from her new EP, I Fu*king Love You. Throughout these songs, Nat’Lee took the time to explain the meaning of the songs and connect with the audience. The vulnerability Nat’Lee displayed was refreshing and came so easy for her. When looking around, I could see the smiles and even tears in the eyes of the audience. The way Nat’Lee wore her heart on her sleeve clearly translated to everyone around her, and that’s all an artist can hope to do. But along with the heartfelt moments, there were many funny ones too. The stage banter between Nat’Lee and Skarz had the crowd entertained the whole time. The two claim to have a brother and sister relationship, and attribute that to why they work so well together. The two also performed uniquely styled mash-ups and covers of popular songs such as, “Clique,” “No Scrubs,” and “Like A Bird.” At the end of the show, Nat’Lee and the audience were so overcome with emotion that half of Sleeping Moon came up to the stage to have one big group hug. Then after, Nat’Lee personally walked up to every table and introduced herself to everyone in the café.
Throughout Nat’Lee’s performance she was baring her soul for us. Whether it was through song or stage banter, Nat’Lee had us in the palm of her hand the whole time. Even when she wasn’t performing, Nat’Lee could be found chatting and working the room, getting to know the audience. It was clear to see that 3300 has found an exceptional artist with something more special than we could have ever imagined. The show was full of laughter, tears, hugs, and all around good vibes. We at 3300 cannot wait to work more with Nat’Lee and Skarz, and see how we can grow together on this project. If you would like to catch Nat’Lee firsthand, (and we suggest you do) you can catch her along with 3300+Climbing finalist, Lévie, at Backbooth on June 3rd.
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