Eric Johanson shares Mercy and Madness before The Open Bayou

Eric Johanson has shared “Mercy and Madness” ahead of The Open Bayou, due October 16. Blues Rock Review reports that the track arrived on October 9 as the album’s third single, following “Shake the Fever” and “Alligator Smile.”

A first release on his own label

The album is the New Orleans guitarist’s first release on his own Levee Ward Records. On his official website, Johanson describes a record that takes his blues roots into heavier, more psychedelic territory, with fuzz and slide guitar among its ingredients.

Johanson produced the album and handles guitars and vocals. The official release credits name Will Repholz on bass and Jake Gartenstein on drums, with Bill Skibbe mixing and mastering.

Ten tracks arriving October 16

“Mercy and Madness” is the third track on the ten-song album. The running order also includes “Till the Sun Swallows the Earth,” “Back Down in New Orleans,” “Castaway” and the title track.

CD and vinyl pre-orders are listed in Johanson’s official shop, with a digital edition available through his Bandcamp page. Both the artist’s store and Bandcamp confirm the October 16 release date.