Johnny Blue Skies Announces New Album 'Mutiny After Midnight'

Album set for March 13 release, marking artist's return to Atlantic Records

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Johnny Blue Skies, the performing name of the artist previously known as Sturgill Simpson, is preparing to release a new album titled 'Mutiny After Midnight' on March 13. The album, his second studio release as Johnny Blue Skies and the first with his band The Dark Clouds, will be available exclusively on physical formats including vinyl, CD, and cassette.

Why it matters

The decision to release the album solely on physical media signals a focus on dedicated fans and a curated listening experience, potentially marking a deliberate departure from the immediate accessibility of digital platforms in the current music landscape.

The details

Mutiny After Midnight was recorded at Easy Eye Sound studio in Nashville, owned by Black Keys member Dan Auerbach. Simpson described the project as an effort to 'make a dance record,' with material written during the recording sessions. The album follows Johnny Blue Skies' 2024 debut, 'Passage du Desir.' During a 2025 tour under the Johnny Blue Skies moniker, the artist reportedly experienced frustration with concert promoters who continued to advertise shows using his former name, Sturgill Simpson.

  • The album is scheduled for release on March 13, 2026.
  • Johnny Blue Skies' 2024 debut album was 'Passage du Desir'.
  • The artist reportedly experienced frustration with concert promoters using his former name, Sturgill Simpson, during a 2025 tour.

The players

Johnny Blue Skies

The performing name of the artist previously known as Sturgill Simpson.

The Dark Clouds

Johnny Blue Skies' band, with whom he is releasing the new album 'Mutiny After Midnight'.

Dan Auerbach

Member of The Black Keys, and owner of the Easy Eye Sound studio in Nashville where the new album was recorded.

Ian Cripps

Co-head of Atlantic Outpost, the label that Johnny Blue Skies has returned to for the new album.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

An artist choosing to release an album solely on physical formats is a notable decision in the current music landscape, potentially signaling a focus on dedicated fans and a curated listening experience. It also suggests a deliberate departure from the immediate accessibility of digital platforms.