Eric Johanson unveils “Alligator Smile”

New Orleans guitarist, singer and songwriter Eric Johanson has unveiled his new single, “Alligator Smile.” The track is the second single from his forthcoming album, The Open Bayou, due October 16 via Johanson’s Levee Ward Records.

“Alligator Smile” follows the August release of “Shake the Fever” and continues Johanson’s move toward a heavier sound while maintaining his blues and Louisiana roots. The track centers on a stripped-down power trio approach, incorporating elements of heavy rock, slide guitar and swampy grooves.

Johanson produced The Open Bayou himself, recording the album over three days while on tour with bassist Will Repholz and drummer Jake Gartenstein. Bill Skibbe, whose credits include Jack White, The Raconteurs and The Kills, mixed and mastered the record.

Throughout the album, Johanson expands on his blues foundation with fuzz guitar, slide and improvisation. The material moves between heavy rock, Louisiana-influenced grooves and more atmospheric territory while retaining the guitar-driven sound that has defined his previous work.

The Open Bayou follows Johanson’s 2023 album, The Deep and the Dirty, which reached No. 1 on Billboard’s Blues Albums chart. He followed that release with Live in Mississippi in 2025.

“Alligator Smile” arrives September 18, with The Open Bayou set for release October 16.