I am skeptical that a project management tool like JIRA can be as effective in communicating status as a conversation. One huge benefit that PMs provide is making sure you are on track with the timeline. I would have to think that every time your PM is asking you for an update they are using that information to communicate with management. Having them act as a buffer can be a huge help.

I definitely feel your pain on having too many meetings. I would rather have one too many meetings than one too few meetings though. Its definitely a tricky balance to hit.