Charleston-based Americana band Don Merckle & the Blacksmiths will release their debut album digitally on June 10 with a release party happening at the Sparrow on June 20. Self-described as having the Celtic edge of the Pogues and the alt-country tradition of Whiskeytown, this roots rock ‘n’ roll outfit recorded the album The Pugilist with Columbia’s Jangly Records.
In the past, Merckle made a name for himself in the Southeast on his own and with other bands like American Gun, opening for acts such as the Avett Brothers and Lucero. Now that he has the Blacksmiths by his side, Merckle is looking nowhere but forward. “I’ve recorded many albums with previous bands, but this is the first where I have put myself in the forefront. I figured it was time to put my career in my own hands and just push it as hard as I can,” Merckle says.
Don Merckle and the Blacksmiths will also play the Tattooed Moose on June 24. Physical copies of The Pugilist will be available at all live shows.
Stay cool. Support City Paper.
City Paper has been bringing the best news, food, arts, music and event coverage to the Holy City since 1997. Support our continued efforts to highlight the best of Charleston with a one-time donation or become a member of the City Paper Club.