New Single: Michael Ward with Dogs and Fishes Unleash “Animal Magic”
SAN FRANCISCO, CA — Blending the grit of the blues, the warmth of Americana, and the heart of Memphis soul, West Coast supergroup Michael Ward with Dogs and Fishes has officially released their latest single, “Animal Magic.” (Miller PR, 2026)
Recorded at the legendary Hyde Street Studios, the track serves as a sonic tribute to the deep connection between humans and the natural world.
The Supergroup Lineup
The ensemble brings together a staggering amount of musical history, featuring:
- Michael Ward: Singer, songwriter, and producer.
- Prairie Prince: Drums (The Tubes, Journey, Tom Waits, XTC).
- Chris Von Sneidern: Guitar (John Wesley Harding, Chuck Prophet).
- Richard Howell: Saxophone (Etta James, Earth, Wind & Fire).
- Marc Levine: Bass (Barry Manilow).
- Fernando DeSanjines: Percussion (Chalo Eduardo, Escola Nova).
- Joshua Raoul Brody: Keyboards (The Residents, BATS Improv).
The Philosophy Behind “Animal Magic”
For Michael Ward, the band’s name and this new single aren’t just clever metaphors. They represent a lifelong philosophy of coexistence.
The seeds for the song were planted 33 years ago when a five-month-old dog wandered into Ward’s studio in the Tenderloin. That moment sparked a decades-long partnership that redefined Ward’s view on interspecies companionship.
“All animals, when carefully considered, exhibit the commonality of just getting by in this fragile accident that is life on earth. Interspecies love, such as that between dogs and humans, is a prime and precious example of evolutionary success.” — Michael Ward
In an era of division, Animal Magic leans into oneness, reminding listeners that togetherness is an instinct, not an ideology.
Recording at a San Francisco Landmark
The single was tracked in Studio A at Hyde Street Studios, a space owned by Ward and designated as a San Francisco Legacy Business.
Formerly known as Wally Heider Studios, these rooms are the “last great temple of the San Francisco Sound.” This is the same soil that yielded landmark albums such as:
- The Grateful Dead – American Beauty
- Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young – Déjà Vu
By recording here, the band honors a legacy of analog craft and musical continuity rather than mere nostalgia.
Catch Them Live
Following the success of their album Brighter Days, the band is heading East for a rare performance at one of New York City’s most storied listening rooms:
- Location: The Bitter End, NYC
- Date: April 1st
The band continues to perform in honor of the late Drew Zingg (Steely Dan), channeling his incredible musical lineage into their forward-moving sound.
About Michael Ward with Dogs and Fishes
Since 2000, this progressive American rock band has been defined by lyrical depth and “musical telepathy.” With over two decades of performance history, the group balances deep roots with exploratory musicianship, ensuring every arrangement has room to breathe.
“Animal Magic” is out now.
SA Examiner 