Search - Jeremy Pelt :: Wired: Live at Smoke

Modern Classic!

Evan D. Hendricks | Cabin John, MD | 10/20/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This CD justifies the critics who repeatedly named Jeremy Pelt the best up-n-coming jazz trumpeter. It is an impressive blend of acoustic and electronic trumpet (we'll get to the rest of the band in a minute). I only discovered Pelt in 2006, but became a fan because of his straight-ahead trumpet abilities -- both for technique and big-sound. As more a traditionalist, I never would have guessed that I'd be so riveted by Jeremy's electronic trumpet, but he pulls it off in a most compelling way.



Several songs (all written by Pelt) highlight cutting-edge artistry: the slow-but-powerful buildup in "Blues," the straight-ahead trumpet chops in "Suspicion," and the haunting beauty of "Cause," which introduces female vocalist Becca Stevens to the jazz world. Meanwhile, the stations are playing Pythagorus, featuring an up-tempo muted trumpet. "Beyond" is slow and sweet. Hard-charging "Scorpio" closes it out.



Hidden gems include Frank Lacrosto's piano solos (especially on "Suspicion", "Pyth", & "Beyond"), Al Street's guitar on "Blues," and solid backup by bassist Gavin Fallow and prodigy drummer Dana Hawkins.



Even a fan like me couldn't listen to parts of Pelt's previous CDs. Either I didn't like the song, or the sax solo, or the like. But I enjoyed all of "Shock Value," indicating to me that the 'up-n-comer' has arrived.



Evan Hendricks

Amateur Jazz Fan"

JAZZY EDGY AND FUNKY

K. Prousalis | drama GREECE | 06/01/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"A GREAT JAZZ LIVE RECORDING.Jazz fusion and blues elements ,improvisations ,female vocals and a brilliantly sharp trumpet playing from JEREMY PELT offers you plenty of enjoyment and excitement. The whole band REALLY gives its best in this live ."