Nate Patterson, bassist for Rhode Island-based rock act The Dear Hunter, plays a Custom Four-string from First Act.

“I have been around First Act for a few years now, other members in my bands have gotten into them, but as for me, I must have just been a late comer to the First Act crew,” says Patterson. “I dig the quality that they bring, and the style that fits what I am looking for. What sets them apart is the fact that they want you to feel a custom guitar that is one of a kind.”

Patterson’s bass is made of mahogany, has a sunburst finish, is a Telecaster style body with an F-hole, a tortoise pickguard and square block inlays like a Fender Jazz bass. It also sports two humbuckers.

Not surprisingly Patterson compares the bass to a Fender Jazz but that is only in the looks department.

“Sonically its low end is not as woofy sounding. It sits so well in the mix live and recorded.” he says.

He says that the bass’ best feature is the F hole.

“I always have loved the sustain and warmth that having a sound hole really brings,” he says. “Plus, the bass' playability is so easy and smooth.”

There isn’t a thing he would change about the bass but he does anticipate picking up a couple different versions made of alternate woods.

Finally we chatted about what amp he uses with his First Act, the Ampeg V4.

“This amp is actually not a bass amp, but it's a guitar amp. That sounds funny, but it is an amp that is widely known for being used for both,” he says. “Recording and playing live, this amp does it all. Its loudness and warmth is undeniably amazing. It is an amp from the '70s and remains a sought after by players from tons of bands.”

The Dear Hunter’s latest CD, Act III Life and Death will be released soon.