“The Weight of the Sky” by Derek Wille
Album Review by New Age CD and New Age Notes Radio Staff
Myndstream/Real Music composer, producer, recording artist, and musician Derek Wille has released his new solo piano album, “The Weight of the Sky.”
For over 30 years, Derek has worked as an internationally known musician who has contributed to and produced hundreds of recordings for other artists. As well, Derek has recorded 25 of his own solo albums over the years in a variety of genres from punk rock, Latin, bebop, funk, jazz fusion to full orchestral works. Through experiencing the Los Angeles and Washington D.C. jazz scene from the inside out, he was able to effectively develop his own emotionally evocative, authentic musical voice.
His true heart seems to be with the piano, and he released his first solo piano album, “Save Me From Myself,” in 1998. Now, in early January 2026, we have this new 14-track solo piano album which is a journey through many styles, many moods and moments.
“The Weight of the Sky” is relaxed, reflective, and intentionally fashioned to “serve as a backdrop for your daily life.” The pieces are meant as an inviting accompaniment to everyday activities, whether working, resting, or just simply living. Each piece is its “own little world.”
The album opens with the sparkling “Eyes Across A Room.” The piece was written in remembrance of the moment Derek first met his wife. Twinkling piano and a romantic vibe make this very sweet.
Following is the title track which has an engaging kind of jazz feel. Lower register octaves, bringing a feeling of “heavy skies” combined with free-flowing upper keys make this quite interesting. It’s both dark and light at the same time.
My understanding is that Derek and his wife live in a home by the ocean. “Doorway To The Sea” is a lovely piece that captures the ever-changing moods of coastal living. Written in traditional jazz style with rich chords and smooth key changes, this is relaxing and reflective.
While we can’t address ever track here, here are some other observations on the album: The playful and lighthearted “Shadows On The Sidewalk” is a fun jazz “waltz.” This is upbeat with a lot of movement. “Prelude To A Farewell” seems like it might not be anything charming, but it is. Composed in a classical style, this is a lighthearted conversational duet between the right and left hands. Quiet, gentle, and a little jazzy, “Reflections On A Quiet Night” is sweetly captivating.
With its Keith Jarret vibe, “Standing In The Storm” is full of delightful movement. Very nicely done. Bittersweet, romantic, and introspective, reminiscent, perhaps, of George Winston music, “A Lifetime Ago” is melodic and enjoyable.
A favorite on this album is “The Way Back.” The piece features both simple themes and intricate passages, eventually returning simply to simplicity. As Derek says in the liner notes, “Beauty is found in the simple things.” It is. This is wonderful.
The album is definitely a “journey” with many light and dark nuances which make it quite interesting, just like life. It’s fun, and yet at the same time relaxing and tranquil. It’s introspective and contemplative, and yet light and fluffy in some places.
Derek closes the album out with “Night In Amber” which depicts in soundscape, the beautiful glowing light that streams through his studio window as the sun slowly melts into the sea. This is also a favorite with its soft, gentle, melodic flow and a perfect ending which showcases Derek’s compositional skills as well as his love of the piano. Beautiful. It’s a pretty and very peaceful sunset.
Get it here: www.derekwille.com
