Townes Van Zandt - Delta Momma Blues

Delta Momma Blues, originally released in 1971, captures Townes Van Zandt at the height of his songwriting powers—equal parts wandering poet and sharp-eyed storyteller. This is the fourth studio album from Van Zandt and part of a new reissue series from Fat Possum in collaboration with the Van Zandt estate, restoring some of his most important work to vinyl.

Less bleak than some of his earlier recordings but no less haunting, Delta Momma Blues blends country, blues, and folk into a gentle but emotionally potent whole. Tracks like “Only Him or Me” and “Where I Lead Me” showcase his skill for introspective, rootsy songwriting, while “Nothin’” remains one of his most stark and powerful laments—later famously covered by artists like Lucinda Williams and Steve Earle.

The title track is loose, jazzy, and unusually playful for Van Zandt, while songs like “Tower Song” and “Rake” are filled with the kind of devastating lyricism that became his signature. Throughout the album, Van Zandt’s voice is plainspoken but profound, his guitar work delicate and expressive.

Presented with its original Milton Glaser cover art, Delta Momma Blues is not only a standout in Van Zandt’s catalog but also a crucial piece of American songwriting. An essential listen for longtime fans and newcomers alike.

Label: Fat Possum
Format: Vinyl