Behind the Hills is the seventeenth album (plus several singles) from German pianist/composer /multi-instrumentalist Bernward Koch, an artist I’ve been following and reviewing for many years - and he never disappoints! Bernward released his first album, Flowing, in 1989, and it was re-released on the Real Music label in 1997. Bernward became one of Real Music’s most prominent artists and is now releasing his music on his own Tree Tales label. It is very interesting to note that Weber State University in Ogden, Utah certified Bernward’s music as “Anti-Stress Music that is especially suitable for relaxation, meditation, yoga, chill-out, sleep problems or general stress management.” It is also used effectively by the Massachusetts Fallen Soldiers, an organization that treats US soldiers with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). While Bernward’s music is soothing and relaxing, it has plenty of substance and emotional expression that keep it consistently interesting as well as deeply moving. I have enjoyed all of Bernward’s music over the years, but I really think Behind the Hills is one of his best albums (so far!). On this album, he composed, produced and arranged the twelve tracks, and plays piano, keyboards and synthesizer. His wife, Christiane Boehm, plays flute; Moritz Koch plays electric guitar and Christoph Koch, Bernward’s brother, plays cymbals, bells and guitar on one track each. It’s a beautiful combination and I really love this album!

Behind the Hills begins with “On and On,” a gently-soothing piece for piano, flute and keyboards that sets the peaceful tone of the album - a great start! “Piano At Night” becomes a sweet lullaby for “kids” of any age. Ambient keyboard sounds give the spare piano and flute parts a touch of magic as they set the tone for a night of sweet dreams and refreshing sleep. I can’t think of too many images more peaceful or innocent than “Sleeping Flowers,” and the piece with that title conveys those images with simplicity and grace. The title track is a favorite, expressing a hint of mystery while wondering what could be “behind the hills.” Piano, flute and keyboards paint a simple yet enticing picture. “Beautiful View” is serenity set to music and brings to mind some of the “beautiful views” I’ve experienced over the years. “An Old Castle” is another favorite, expressing feelings of mystery and wonder - what stories that castle could tell! The flute is especially effective on this one. At the beginning, “Inner Treasure” has a stately, almost hymn-like quality. As it progresses, the tone of the piece softens and becomes much more flowing as the flute sometimes takes the lead with layers of keyboard sounds supporting it - another exceptionally beautiful piece! “Timeless Memory” hints at JS Bach with its slightly Baroque styling and instrumentation (piano, harpsichord, strings, etc.). The somewhat dark and mysterious quality of the music could be perfect in a movie soundtrack! The album comes to a close with the somewhat livelier and more percussive “Windy Weather,” which also includes electric guitar as well as piano, voices (no lyrics), and other light musical sounds. I really like this one, too!

Behind the Hills will be released on August 28, 2026 and is available for pre-orders now from Amazon and Apple Music/iTunes. More links will be added as they become available. VERY highly recommended!