Todd Carey is an acclaimed in singer/songwriter rock circles for his hot-wire live performances. The follow-up to Todd’s 2007 release, Watching Waiting, reveals a more introspective, stripped down side of the guitar-driven singer/songwriter.

His partnership with hit producer Blue, is a fitting conclusion to three years of heavy touring and writing. Following a move from his hometown of Chicago, Illinois to Brooklyn, New York, he set up a studio and began recording songs he had written on tour. “I decided I needed a collaborator,” explains Todd. He reached out to Blue, whom upon hearing the songs, immediately slated Todd to begin recording.

The Mikal Blue Sessions “kind of run the course of a relationship,” Todd describes. “My last record was about the birth and the bright-eyed newness of a relationship, but this group of songs is more diverse.” “The First Day” offers an optimistic outlook of endless possibilities and reminds listeners to take time to enjoy the journey, while “Gotta Be Next to You” pines that despite the convenience of technology, it can’t replace the feeling of being in the presence of a loved one. The most contemplative song on Sessions, “After the Morning After” is one of resign, reflecting on the joy and pain of touring. It confesses that praise from fans, while appreciated, can also ring empty, particularly when life on the road affects relationships at home.