South African rock icon Steve Louw has released his new album “Traces of the Flood” today, 15 May 2026. Produced by Kevin Shirley, the record blends rock, Americana, country-rock and blues storytelling, continuing Louw’s legacy as one of the country’s most enduring voices.
The title track “Traces of the Flood” captures the vast spirit of the Karoo, weaving themes of escape, redemption and self-discovery. Accompanied by a cinematic video, the song takes listeners on a metaphorical journey through storms, deserts, rivers and forgotten landscapes.
Critics have already praised the album as “first-class songwriting with depth and emotion” and “a solid and strong rock album with melodic finesse.”
Louw’s long-standing collaboration with Kevin Shirley (Joe Bonamassa, Beth Hart, Joanne Shaw Taylor) shines through, while his international reputation is reinforced by past collaborations with Brian May, Dave Stewart and Joe Bonamassa. His earlier band Big Sky famously toured with Rodriguez, featured in the Oscar-winning “Searching for Sugar Man.”
A member of the South African Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Steve Louw remains a vital voice in the country’s music history. “Traces of the Flood” marks another landmark chapter in his career.
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