Simon Ward’s musical monogram is marked by his knack for camouflaging a downhearted song within a cleverly constructed poppy tune. Oftentimes, listeners will be singing at the top of their lungs and dancing along, when they suddenly realize the rawness that courses through the lyrics, making the music all that more relatable. Unchartered waters are something familiar to any fan of Ward’s music, and that continues with Simon and the Island, his solo voyage – set for release on November 19th via Ward’s own imprint, Windsurfer Records (Canada), and Windsurfer Records / Glassnote Music (ROW).
Pre-save the album here and get a sneak peek at three of the songs now – Muse, Miss Maples, and Scared of Not Knowing.
Distinct from his work with The Strumbellas, with Simon and the Island, Ward purposefully chooses to air his songs in their raw, undressed state. The Brian Pickett produced, self-titled body of music simultaneously draws tears, inspires hope and illuminates a journey. A sliver of solace in dark times, emboldened in blind faith and brazen determination, the album is relatable, relevant, and resonant, strong and structured, honest, humble and full of heart. Delicate strings, cavernous piano, and sparingly appointed instrumentation allow doubt, reflection and resolve to flourish in this suitcase that carries nine songs waiting to be unpacked.
“These songs are about my life,” reflects Ward. “Some of them are about my struggles with mental health, some of them are love songs to my wife, who is my soul mate. This album is about being in a dark place but seeing the sliver of hope shine in. I hope it comforts and encourages others that are struggling with their own mental health that they’re not alone.”
These themes shine through particularly on the record’s lead single and album opener, Muse – a song about hope and resilience, with a proclamation of unconditional love, and the foundation one firmly finds in another. Ward promises, “Oh my god, I know you’re struggling and oh my god, I know you’ll love again. I’ll take your side. No matter what you do. You’ll be my muse.” Scared Of Not Knowingis a confessional, as Ward says “It’s about depression and being in the thick of the storm.” Miss Maples(co-produced by Brian Pickett and Brandon O’Neill), a love song, rounds out the release of the first three songs.
The visual aspects of Simon and The Island further amplify the messages found on the record. The video for Muse evokes feelings of lonely tranquility, with hypnotizing sand art by FallingInSand – watch here. The album’s artwork – created by award-winning Fenlon Falls-based artist, Lucy Manley – feels at once isolated but peaceful. Of the piece, Ward reflects “Lucy’s painting originally struck me because it reminded me of home. I loved the way the brush strokes were done and the colours she used to showcase the nature that is found in and around where I’m from. I immediately felt warm and happy when I saw it.”
One may feel they are ‘an Island’, and often, that they are there alone. Simon Ward reminds us that no matter the distance, the size of land, or measure of experience, there is always a space for retreat, reflection and renewal and a reassurance that someone out there understands what you’ve been through.
