Getting set to unleash its first studio EP, The New Familiars will have a release party at the Visulite Theatre on Sept. 1.
The Good: Even on first listen, The New Familiars can draw the listener in and have them hooked with some serious foot-stomping beats and solid songwriting. The music helps to conjure up images of sitting on a frontporch in the countryside, knocking back a few drinks and enjoying the day. Harmonica, dobro, acoustic guitar, some drums, banjo and bass — it’s Americana with a grand heartbeat. The band couldn’t have found a better name, either. The original music definitely has a familiar feel to it. Hints of harmonica simmering in the background of “Annalein,” smooth harmonies — there’s some fine craftsmanship here.
The Bad: It’s only six songs — I wanted more.
The Verdict: There’s no reason for the Avett Brothers, or even Nickel Creek, to have so much more success than The New Familiars.
This article appears in Aug 29 – Sep 4, 2007.
