Which mute is emblematic of Miles Davis' trumpet style?

Miles Davis is renowned for his distinctive trumpet sound, which is deeply influenced by his use of various mutes. The plunger mute stands out as emblematic of his style for several reasons. This mute allows for a wide range of tonal colors and articulations, enabling Davis to create expressive swells and dynamic variations in his playing. The plunger mute, often manipulated with hand movements while playing, gives the trumpet a unique and vocal-like quality that is a hallmark of Davis' signature sound.

This technique creates a sense of personal expression and nuance that became a key characteristic of his work, particularly during the "cool jazz" and "modal jazz" periods. The intricate control that the plunger mute affords the trumpet player complements Davis' innovative approach to phrasing and improvisation, enhancing the emotional depth of his performances.

Other mutes, such as the cup mute and harmon mute, also contribute distinct sounds but do not capture the essence of Davis' approach as effectively. The bucket mute, while useful for certain tonal effects, does not align as closely with the defining qualities of his trumpet sound compared to the plunger mute. Thus, the use of the plunger mute is a defining aspect of Miles Davis' trumpet style.