The music on pianist
Kim Pensyl's GRP set is laidback, very melodic and unfortunately a bit of a bore despite some good moments. Harmonica great
Toots Thielemans and steel drummer
Andy Narell help out on two selections apiece, compensating for Phillip Hamilton's slightly annoying wordless vocals on three other songs but the focus is primarily on
Pensyl's piano and compositions. A talented musician,
Pensyl lacks an original musical personality and his pleasant playing (which is essentially high-quality background music) is largely forgettable. ~ Scott Yanow