Pres De Paris

by Ron WynnGuitarist Pierre Bensusan mixes jazz, folk, New Age, and even light fusion elements into his music. These 10 tracks recorded in the mid-'70s include originals from Bensusan, a remake of a 1960s folk tune by Bill Keith and Jim Rooney, a reworking of an Irish number, impressionistic cuts and a superb solo mandolin piece, "Lady de Nantes." Bensusan isn't an energetic or bluesy stylist; he's a lush, sentimental guitarist whose appeal comes from his soothing, delicate touch and lyrical voicings. While occasionally songs become so smooth and relaxed that they veer into easy listening, Bensusan's music has strength and character, as well as beauty.