New Single: EJ Mathews – Walking Down This Road
East Texas bluesman EJ Mathews makes his debut for the renowned Delmark Records with Walking Down This Road.
EJ Mathews – Walking Down This Road
Format: Digital Single
Label: Delmark Records
Release : 2026
East Texas bluesman EJ Mathews makes his debut for the renowned Delmark Records with Walking Down This Road. The single introduces an artist firmly rooted in blues tradition, while bringing a distinctive character of his own to the music.
Mathews grew up in the Piney Woods of East Texas, a region where country blues, gospel and African-American musical traditions have deep roots. He draws on that background to create a sound that combines raw blues, swampy grooves, country influences and a strong storytelling approach.
His connection with Delmark began after Julia A. Miller and Elbio Barilari saw Mathews perform at the 2026 International Blues Challenge in Memphis. His performance made a strong enough impression to lead to a collaboration with the legendary Chicago blues label.
On Walking Down This Road, Mathews keeps things deliberately stripped back. He handles vocals and acoustic guitar, joined by Steve Bell on harmonica. The sparse arrangement suits Mathews’ storytelling style, allowing the rhythm, lyrics and atmosphere of the song to take centre stage.
The single was recorded on June 8 and 9, 2026 at Delmark Records Riverside Studio, with Elbio Barilari producing. Julia A. Miller handled recording and mastering, while Barilari and Miller shared mixing duties.
With Walking Down This Road, Delmark introduces a bluesman who clearly understands where the music comes from without simply trying to recreate the past. It makes for an intriguing first introduction to EJ Mathews on his new label.
Website: https://ejmathews.com/
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