Music has a way of bringing people together, and that was on full display as Danny Frank & The Smokey Gold filled GMN Studio with their heartfelt sound ahead of their performance at Sacred Heart Music Center.

The band, led by singer-songwriter Danny Frank and banjo player Harrison Olk, started making music together in 2020, eventually adding bassist Joe Scarpellino and concert violinist Erin Aldridge of the Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra to round out their sound.

“Danny’s a prolific songwriter,” Olk shared. “We started playing music together around town, writing songs, and it all just fit.”

The band performed an emotional song, inspired by a close friend of Frank’s who has been battling a terminal illness.

“She’s a basket weaver, and about eight years ago, she decided to weave herself a casket,” Frank revealed. “The whole community has come together to help, and that inspired this song.”

Along with their upcoming show, the band has been busy in the studio, working on a new album set to release by the end of the year. To support the project, they’ll be launching a Kickstarter campaign on Valentine’s Day.

For those eager to see them live, Danny Frank & The Smokey Gold will take the stage tonight at Sacred Heart Music Center alongside Eau Claire’s Them Coulee Boys. The show kicks off at 7:30 p.m., with tickets available at the door. You can follow them on Facebook and Instagram for updates on new music and their Kickstarter launch!