Article Contributed by Gratefulweb
Published on 2026-10-11
New Orleans guitarist, singer and songwriter Eric Johanson released “Mercy & Madness” on October 9, the third single from his upcoming album, The Open Bayou, out October 16 on his independent label, Levee Ward Records.
Following “Shake the Fever” and “Alligator Smile,” the new track offers another glimpse into a record that finds Johanson taking his blues roots down unexpected paths, with gritty grooves, adventurous guitar work, and a willingness to let the music get a little weird.
Reflecting on the new single, Johanson says, “I think a lot of people are craving some freedom from the constant noise of being connected all the time. There's this desire to get away from the screens and reconnect with something real. That's what music does for me, especially playing live. It's a chance to forget about everything else and just be in the moment.”
Recorded live with touring bandmates Will Repholz on bass and Jake Gartenstein on drums, The Open Bayou captures the spark of three musicians playing together.
The album was mixed and mastered by Bill Skibbe, known for his work with Jack White, The Raconteurs and The Kills.
Johanson's 2023 album The Deep and the Dirty reached No. 1 on the Billboard Blues Albums chart. He has been recognized by Guitar Player among its 25 Best New Blues Guitarists and by Total Guitar among its 50 Greatest Blues Guitarists of All Time.
Johanson isn't leaving his roots behind. He's finding out just how far they can reach.
The Open Bayou arrives October 16 on vinyl, CD and digital platforms, alongside Johanson's fall tour.
Listen to “Mercy & Madness”:
HERE
Watch the official video:
HERE
Pre-order The Open Bayou:
HERE
