The Merles performing at Luckenbach Texas in Fredericksburg, Texas on May 9, 2021, with Todd Deatherage, Mike Simms, Phil Spencer, and Matt Winegardner. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)
The Merles are an original, classic country band based out of Austin, Texas featuring Todd Deatherage, Mike Simms, Phil Spencer, and Matt Winegardner. The group strives to create an old school, traditional sound that echoes the memories of yesterday's country. With catchy choruses and danceable tunes, their influences include Bob Wills, Hank Williams, Lefty Frizzell, George Strait, and their namesake, Merle Haggard.
The Merles have garnered a following by playing honky-tonks and bars around the Texas area, often clocking in over 120 shows a year. Some of the venues they frequent are Luckenbach Dancehall, Mercer Street Dancehall, White Horse Saloon, Goodnight Charlie's, Fred's Texas Cafe, and Adair's Saloon. They have opened for such national artists as Dale Watson, Johnny Bush, Jason Boland, Bri Bragwell, Jason Eady, and Rosie Flores.
Their new EP, Middle of the Night (release date 9/22/2020), was recorded, mixed, and produced by Don Cento (Sarah Jaffe) at Centones. This recording was started pre-COVID and finished in the midst of the pandemic via remote and socially distant recording. It contains six songs about insomnia, anxiety, depression, and loneliness. An amazing cast of regulars also appears on this recording, Chris McElrath (James Hand) on guitar, Ileana Nina (Drew Fish) on fiddle, Sarah Ulloa (Rent Party) on backing vocals, and bassist Justin Filor on soaring high harmonies.
The Merles was the main act on the main stage at Luckenbach Texas. They continue across Texas with a stop at the Desert Door in Driftwood, Texas on November 21, 2021.
The Merles
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Photos by Ralph Arvesen
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