“Behind The Hills” by Bernward Koch
Album Review by New Age CDs and New Age Notes Radio Staff
Music from the very accomplished multi-award-winning composer and multi-instrumentalist, Bernward Koch, is always a treat. One reason it is so is because Bernward knows how to masterfully craft a song.
In an environment where aimlessly meandering, highly synthesized, floaty ambient, as well as music with endlessly repeating phrases and not much else in terms of composition, seems to have popularity, here we have Bernward, who is a master of melody and elegant song structure. This is completely refreshing.
The 12 tracks, 40 minutes of “Behind The Hills” feature gently flowing, melodic piano, synth, guitar, flute, and light percussion are sure to soothe the soul. The music is effortlessly delicate, relaxing, rejuvenating, and sublimely de-stressing. And here is an instance where you will want to get the whole album, not just a few tracks.
The album opens with the lovely “On and On,” which has a beautiful piano melody accompanied by soft synth, strings, and sweet flute. Here, we are carried gently into the beauty of all that comes next. What I like here very much – and throughout the album – is there is actual and definitive song structure. This is truly gorgeous.
Following is the equally beautiful “Piano at Night.” This song gives us a feeling of a soft and starry moonlit night with romance floating gracefully through the air. Again, there is a structured song here, a dreamy melody with beautifully done orchestration.
A favorite is “Sleeping Flowers,” which seems like it would be just perfect for sleep, study, or simply relaxing. I find this quite soothing and peaceful.
Perhaps inspired by the hilly landscape that is around Bernward in his home country of Germany, the title track has a nice sense of mystery and intrigue. What lies beyond? We are invited, perhaps, here, to let our minds and imaginations wander to a whole different place. Love this.
Another easy favorite is “Beautiful View.” I find this exquisitely relaxing in every regard. Another thing that can be said about Bernward’s music, and the music on this album, is the attention to detail which is so masterfully incorporated. Here, we can allow ourselves to feel effortlessly expansive, and again, simply let the mind, body, and soul completely decompress. In fact, next time I get a massage, I will ask them to play this album. It’s absolutely perfect for that.
“An Old Castle” further expands the imagination as we continue to journey “behind the hills.” And this, as the journey continues, brings us to “In the Forest.” This is another delightful tune, and we feel the peace and tranquility of being enveloped by nature. Very nice.
While we can’t address every single track here, I think it’s important to note as I already mentioned, you will want to get this entire album. Some other highlights: “The Linden Tree” is a tree known for its fragrant, bee-attracting flowers and heart-shaped leaves. It is also a well-known symbol of community, healing, and love. It’s the perfect song to follow “In the Forest,” and a perfect song for the gentle loving vibe of this album.
“Nordic Hills” is another scrumptiously gorgeous track you won’t want to miss. And this exquisitely gorgeous album closes out with “Windy Weather,” which is quite uplifting and memorable, as is the whole beauty of this album. What lies “beyond the hills” seems to be a tranquility that is utterly palatable, more easily accessible than one might imagine, and remarkably enchanting in every regard. Bravo, Bernward.
Get it here: https://found.ee/bernwardkoch_behindthehills
Physical CDs are also available.
