When I think of the truly outstanding pianists who've been part of Smooth Jazz over the years, Ohio native Kim Pensyl's name is high on that list. He's been a personal favorite since I heard his first album, PENSYL SKETCHES, VOL. 1, 20 years ago. WHEN KATIE SMILES, his 14th release, is a joyful re-introduction to Mr. Pensyl's work. Like all of his projects, it's a labor of love featuring eleven original tunes, arranged and self-produced. A look at the titles tells the story of how the music feels... "Beside the Shallow Pond," "Summer Days," "Love Comes First" and, of course, the title track. Rich, sweet, organic, uncluttered... these qualities are the essence of this man's playing. Kim puts it best, "My music is a positive light, deeply committed, and is offered with sincerity in the hope it will bring joy to others by sharing part of my life." It absolutely works that way for me! ~SCOTT O'BRIEN