The Weight of the Sky is the latest solo piano album from pianist, composer, performer and producer Derek Wille, a life-long musician with more than thirty years working in the music industry and more than fifty years playing the piano. Derek has contributed to and produced hundreds of recordings for other artists in addition to his very impressive output of solo and collaborative albums under his own name. Equally well-versed in jazz and classical music as well as pop and rock genres (and more!), Derek brings a unique and original voice to all that he does. He has released more than two dozen albums in the jazz, rock and solo guitar genres, and released his first solo piano album, An Approaching Storm, on the myndstream label in 2021 (and I reviewed it!). The Weight of the Sky is a collection of fourteen original piano solos in a fascinating variety of styles and approaches that flow seamlessly from one to the next.

The Weight of the Sky begins with the dreamy and magical “Eyes Across a Room,” a beautiful piece that describes the feeling of connecting with someone for the first time that you just know will become a big part of your life. The rhythmic and somewhat mysterious title track comes next and presents a fairly consistent pattern on the left hand while the right is free to dance all over the piano keyboard - fascinating! “Rhapsody in Shadow” could easily be a romantic slow dance or a soundtrack for floating gently on a fluffy white cloud without a care in the world. Derek’s home is very close to the ocean, and “Doorway To the Sea” is a smooth jazz expression of the freedom and exhilaration that come with being close to that enormous, untamable expanse of water. “Shadows On the Sidewalk” sounds very much like a tribute to Vince Guaraldi and his soundtracks for the various Peanuts TV specials and movies. Upbeat and playful, it’s sure to bring a smile! Most of “Prelude To a Farewell” is played with both hands in the upper half of the piano keyboard, light and carefree. The mood stays light through most of the piece, but there are moments that feel more serious - another fascinating study in contrasts! “The Years Between” steps up the energy level considerably, perhaps depicting how quickly time flies by - jazzy and high-energy! “Standing in the Storm” expresses a different kind of energy as well the joyful kind of rush you can get being in the midst of “nature’s fury.” “A Lifetime Ago” is a nostalgic and bittersweet look back as the left hand keeps a steady rhythm while the right hand is much more expressive and emotional. “Last Light Of the Evening” also reminds me of Vince Guaraldi’s playful side - lively and full of fun and good humor! “Night In Amber” is a warm and gentle lullaby for “kids” of any age and brings this excellent album to a peaceful close. Where’s that “repeat” button?

The Weight of the Sky is an outstanding album from the first note to the last. It is available to download and stream from Amazon and Apple Music/iTunes as well as on many streaming platforms including Spotify and Pandora. Very highly recommended!