Jeremy Pelt’s Woven: A Masterclass in Accessible Post-Bop Jazz
Jeremy Pelt’s latest album, Woven, stands as a compelling testament to his mastery of post-bop jazz. Released in 2025, the album combines intricate compositions with the emotive depth of Pelt’s trumpet playing. Known for his innovative approach to jazz, Pelt’s Woven offers a fresh take on the genre, blending traditional jazz with elements of electric Miles Davis, creating a sound that is both accessible and intellectually engaging.
A Tribute to Post-Bop Jazz
Woven is a nod to the legacy of post-bop, a genre pioneered by jazz greats like Miles Davis and John Coltrane. Pelt pays homage to these influences, infusing the album with the improvisational spirit and intricate melodies that define post-bop. However, Pelt brings his own unique touch to the genre, adding modern twists that make Woven feel fresh and exciting. The result is a collection of tracks that are rich in complexity but still approachable for listeners who may not typically gravitate toward jazz.
The Electric Miles Influence
One of the most striking elements of Woven is its connection to the electric Miles Davis era. The influence of Davis’s groundbreaking albums like In a Silent Way and Bitches Brew is evident in the album’s fusion of jazz and electric instrumentation. Pelt incorporates synthesizers, electric guitar, and bass alongside his signature trumpet, creating a layered and textured sound that pushes the boundaries of traditional jazz. This blending of acoustic and electric elements makes the album feel both timeless and contemporary.
Pelt’s Expressive Trumpet Playing
At the heart of Woven is Jeremy Pelt’s trumpet performance, which critics have praised for its emotional expressiveness. His ability to convey a wide range of emotions through his instrument is one of the album’s most captivating features. From the subtle, contemplative lines in tracks like “Resonance” to the bold, fiery flourishes in “Luminous,” Pelt’s trumpet becomes a vehicle for storytelling. His technical prowess is matched by his emotional depth, allowing him to connect with listeners on a profound level.
Engaging Compositions
The compositions on Woven are a testament to Pelt’s talent as a composer and bandleader. Each track is meticulously crafted, with complex harmonies and rhythmic patterns that keep the listener engaged from start to finish. The album’s opener, “Threads,” sets the tone with its intricate melody and shifting time signatures. Throughout the album, Pelt showcases his ability to write engaging, sophisticated music that never feels overly complicated. The compositions are accessible, yet they invite deeper exploration for those willing to dive into their nuances.
Collaborative Chemistry
Woven features an ensemble of talented musicians who complement Pelt’s vision. The collaborative chemistry between Pelt and his band is palpable, with each musician contributing to the album’s dynamic sound. The rhythm section, featuring bassist Vicente Archer and drummer Willie Jones III, provides a solid foundation that allows Pelt’s trumpet to soar. The interplay between the musicians is particularly evident on tracks like “Tapestry,” where Pelt’s soaring trumpet lines are mirrored by intricate drum patterns and bass grooves.
Track-by-Track Breakdown
The album opens with “Threads,” a meditative track that introduces the listener to the album’s blend of traditional jazz and electric elements. The trumpet leads the way, accompanied by lush keyboard textures and a steady, unhurried rhythm section. On “Resonance,” the band’s interplay intensifies, with Pelt delivering more emotive, searching trumpet lines over an evolving backdrop of harmonies. Meanwhile, “Luminous” offers a more upbeat, dynamic rhythm, with Pelt’s trumpet exchanging quick phrases with the band in a call-and-response fashion.
Balance Between Tradition and Innovation
One of the most impressive aspects of Woven is its ability to strike a perfect balance between tradition and innovation. Pelt stays true to the jazz tradition while incorporating new elements that push the genre forward. The electric guitar on “Synthesis” adds a rock-infused flavor to the track, while the inclusion of electronic effects throughout the album creates a modern edge. Pelt successfully honors the jazz greats who came before him while making a statement about where the genre can go in the future.
Improvisation as a Key Element
As with any great jazz album, improvisation plays a key role in Woven. Pelt and his bandmates are given the space to stretch out and explore within each track, creating a sense of spontaneity and excitement. The improvisational solos, particularly in “Flux” and “Echoes,” show off the band’s virtuosity, with each musician adding their own voice to the collective sound. The freedom of expression within these sections provides an added layer of depth, highlighting the unpredictable nature of jazz while maintaining a cohesive overall sound.
The Album’s Atmosphere and Mood
Woven creates an atmosphere that is both expansive and intimate. The album’s arrangements have a cinematic quality, with moments of tension and release that keep the listener on their toes. Tracks like “Tapestry” and “Silk” evoke a feeling of stillness, while others like “Luminous” and “Synthesis” burst with energy and movement. The album’s mood fluctuates, capturing the full spectrum of emotions—from introspection and melancholy to joy and exhilaration. This variety in mood is one of the reasons Woven is so engaging, offering something new with each listen.
An Album of Personal Expression
While Woven is deeply influenced by the jazz tradition, it is also a highly personal album for Jeremy Pelt. The title itself suggests a weaving together of different musical influences, emotions, and experiences, creating something unique and individual. Pelt’s trumpet playing, in particular, reflects his personal journey, with each note carrying a sense of individuality. The album feels like a personal expression of Pelt’s artistic vision, blending the technical skill of jazz with the emotional depth of a musician who is in tune with both his instrument and his audience.
The Critical Reception of Woven
Since its release, Woven has been met with critical acclaim. Jazz critics have praised the album for its engaging compositions, Pelt’s expressive trumpet playing, and the overall cohesiveness of the ensemble. Many have noted that the album is a step forward for Pelt, showcasing his growth as both a composer and a performer. Woven has been lauded for its ability to merge traditional jazz with modern elements without losing the essence of what makes jazz such a timeless genre. The album has been heralded as one of the best jazz releases of 2025, earning high praise for its innovation and emotional depth.
Pelt’s Role in the Modern Jazz Scene
Jeremy Pelt’s Woven solidifies his place in the modern jazz scene as one of the most innovative trumpet players of his generation. His ability to blend traditional jazz techniques with contemporary sounds makes him an important figure in the genre. As a bandleader and composer, Pelt has created a sound that is both rooted in the past and forward-thinking. Woven reflects his status as a boundary-pushing artist, one who continues to expand the possibilities of jazz while staying true to its emotional core.
A Standout Jazz Album of 2025
Woven stands as one of the standout jazz albums of 2025. With its engaging compositions, emotive trumpet playing, and masterful blend of traditional and modern elements, it has captured the attention of both jazz purists and newer listeners. The album’s intricate production and intricate musical dialogues make it a rewarding listen for anyone interested in the future of jazz. Whether you’re a longtime jazz enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, Woven offers a captivating listening experience that showcases the best of what jazz can offer.
Conclusion: Jeremy Pelt’s Mastery in Woven
In conclusion, Woven is a masterful jazz album that highlights Jeremy Pelt’s artistry and vision. The album blends accessible post-bop with modern influences, creating a dynamic and emotionally resonant collection of music. Pelt’s expressive trumpet playing, combined with his engaging compositions and the talented musicians around him, makes Woven a standout release in the jazz world. For both longtime fans of Pelt and newcomers to his music, Woven is a must-listen—an album that exemplifies the power of jazz to transcend time and genre.