Willie Jones III Quartet Ft. Jeremy Pelt
Grammy-winning drummer Willie Jones III leads his quartet through an evening of hard-swinging modern jazz, featuring the acclaimed trumpeter Jeremy Pelt alongside rising stars Tyler Bullock II on piano and Mike Gurrola on bass.
Jones III is one of the most respected drummers in contemporary jazz, bringing decades of experience from his tenure with Roy Hargrove's quintet and the electrifying RH Factor, as well as collaborations with jazz legends like Sonny Rollins, Herbie Hancock, and Wynton Marsalis. His leadership style balances precision with fire — a 2010 performance review noted his "inspiring fireworks" and ability to connect with soloists "right on time with the stick tips." Through his WJ3 Records label, founded in 2000, he has released over 18 recordings showcasing his hard-bop and post-bop sensibilities, including the critically acclaimed Fallen Heroes (2021) and The Willie Jones III Sextet Plays the Music of Max Roach (2013).
Multiple DownBeat Rising Star winner Jeremy Pelt brings his preeminent trumpet voice to the quartet. Known for his work with the Mingus Big Band and collaborations with Ravi Coltrane, Jimmy Heath, and Vincent Herring, Pelt delivers both technical brilliance and emotional depth. A 2010 review described him playing "faster than Arturo Sandoval, Dizzy Gillespie or Freddie Hubbard" while maintaining microscopic detail in every bebop cadenza.
The rhythm section features Juilliard graduate Tyler Bullock II, who has worked with Samara Joy and The Roy Hargrove Big Band, and first-call bassist Mike Gurrola, a protégé of John Clayton who has performed with Eric Reed and Kenny Burrell. Together, they create what one reviewer called "a dynamite rhythm section" capable of handling everything from blazing uptempo numbers to tender ballads.
Expect a mix of original compositions, modern jazz standards, and perhaps some tribute material — Jones III has a history of honoring jazz masters through his performances, including recent tributes to Charlie Parker and Roy Hargrove.