Mike Ward Explores The Darkness and The Light in Latest Folk Album

Mike Ward is a Detroit-based BMI singer and songwriter, but as an artist, he goes by Psychosongs. “Turns out there are a lot of Mike Wards creating music,” said Ward. His nickname, Psychoward, was appropriately named after his dance moves and skills on the ice playing hockey - And so, Psychosongs was born.

Released earlier this year, Psychosongs latest album “The Darkness and the Light,” explores a life lived and all we see while looking over the past, the present and future. Regrets? Hope? Contentment? The opening song, “Our Turn to Shine,” presents a reflection of our changing world and the importance of embracing new ideas.

Mike Ward is noted for lyric-driven, simple folk songs. “The Darkness and the Light” continues in that vein, and he has assembled many new collaborators to bring it to life. This latest album was produced by Mike Gentry (Mike Gentry Music) and David Roof, engineered and mixed by David Roof (with a virtual connection to Mike Gentry) at Rooftop Recording in Grand Blanc, MI, and mastered by Ian Gorman at La Luna Recording and Sound in Kalamazoo, MI.

On the record, Mike is joined by David Roof on bass (traditional and stand up), mandolin, piano, Hammond organ and percussion. Other collaborators included Jimmy Showers who jumped in on 6 & 12 string acoustic guitars, “as well as a sweet sounding electric guitar,” explained Ward. Sara Gibson helped create a darkness with her cello and Jeff German from Granville, OH join in on electric guitar for “The Line Between Us.”

Vocally, Alison and Tessa Wiercioch provided harmonies that “brighten up your everyday,” added Ward. With additional harmonies from Dave Toennies of Border Patrol and Downtown Judy Brown. “All together, they formed a wonderful, expanded chorus for the opening and closing tracks.”

The opening song from this album, “Our Turn to Shine” is featured in a light-hearted (pun intended) video included in this article, and the proceeds from the records last song, “No Way to Live” are being directed to assist the homeless individuals through the Motor City Mitten Mission.  

To learn more about Mike Ward and Psychosongs, you can visit www.psychosongs.com/ or follow them on social media and other streaming platforms.