Giveton Gelin brings his love for jazz and his Bahamian heritage together on “ISLAND DREAMER: III OF III”, a 15-track album that gives listeners plenty to explore. The Bahamian trumpeter, composer, and Juilliard graduate blends Caribbean rhythms, jazz arrangements, and a talented group of musicians into a record that reflects his background and musical direction. The album opens with “Hurricane Dorian (a moment of silence)”, featuring Gelin on trumpet and Micah Thomas on piano. It is a thoughtful way to begin the record before “Blue Hole” brings in drums, bass, piano, and percussion. Gelin takes on several roles across the album, playing trumpet, keyboards, synthesizers, and drums, while also arranging the music. His work gives the collection a personal touch, with different instrument combinations bringing something new to each track.
“When You Cry I Cry (Footprints)” adds vocals and saxophone, while “Moun Lakay” brings together trumpet, synthesizer, piano, bass, and percussion. These tracks show the range of sounds found across the album. “Get Loose (Lucy)” introduces lead and background vocals, adding another side to the collection, while “I Solemnly Swear to Live” features pianist Jon Batiste alongside Gelin on trumpet. I especially enjoy the variety of musicians and instruments featured here. Gelin brings everything together with real care, and I like how the album gives his trumpet a central place while letting the other performers bring their own character.
“Dreamland” gives Gelin room to work with keyboards and synthesizers, while “We Speak” introduces strings alongside his trumpet. The tracklist also includes “Roy Hargrove – Level II” and “Wynton Marsalis – Level III”, acknowledging two important names in jazz. These shorter pieces sit alongside longer compositions such as “Eargasm” and “Ancestry”, which feature the full instrumental group. The closing track, “Fighting Spirit Blues”, brings Gelin together with pianist Esteban Castro, saxophonist Cosmo Lieberman, bassist Adrian D’Aguilar and the other musicians. At more than eight minutes, it gives the album a substantial final chapter. Across the 15 tracks, Gelin moves between original compositions, vocal performances, instrumental arrangements and tributes, keeping the listening experience varied.
“ISLAND DREAMER: III OF III” is a worthwhile listen for anyone who enjoys jazz with Caribbean influences and a strong connection to its creator’s roots. Follow Giveton Gelin on Instagram to keep up with his music and future projects. The album arrives on November 1, 2026, so add it to your release calendar and save your favorite tracks to your playlist when it becomes available. Share it with friends who appreciate trumpet-led jazz, revisit the songs that catch your ear, and keep supporting artists who bring their own background and perspective into the music they create.
