Kim Pensyl - Eyes of Wonder (1993)

Review by Scott Yanow]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.