It’s a well-documented fact that I have a crush on the mandolin. Lesser instrument crushes include upright bass and dobro (excuse me, “resonator guitar”), and any non-traditional band I encounter with one of these instruments instantly piques my interest. Give me a band with all three, and I’m well on my way to being in love.

Within the first few strains of The New Familiars’ song “Got This Disease,” I’m already doodling their name on my Trapper Keeper.

The folk-rock quintet from North Carolina is coming to Richmond, and bringing us their blend of Americana soul, country twang, and a driving rock and roll beat. Their originals vary from slow acoustic-rock ballads to hopping folk tunes, all embellished by tender, lush vocal harmonies. Their cover of Smokey Robinson’s “My Girl” is inspired; despite the fact that it was a fan request they initially weren’t totally happy with, it’s easily one of the best cross-genre covers I have ever heard. The fans seem to bear me out, making the song a regular in-show request and earning it a place on one side of the band’s latest release, a 7” single with their song “Mills River.” Their “My Girl,” even includes an electric guitar solo, proving the band isn’t afraid to break out of the “acoustic band” mold from time to time.
Opening for The New Familiars will be Alabama’s Act of Congress. The talented young quartet takes the sacred combination of guitar/fiddle/mandolin/bass and adds a touch of indie-pop creativity and classic singer/songwriter sensibility. If they’re not fans of Nickel Creek, then I’m Alison Krauss.

Speaking of that powerhouse of nouveau-folk, would someone please check on their mandolin player, the inimitable Chris Thile? I think Act of Congress’ mandolin player Adam Wright may have killed him and eaten his brain in order to gain his powers. Or something similar. The vocal similarity alone is uncanny.

If you like roots music at all and have two brain cells to rub together, you’ll be at The Triple at 10 p.m. this Thursday to catch this fantastic line-up before they leave town. 

UPCOMING EVENTS
What:  The New Familars
With:  Act of Congress & River City Choir
Where:  The Triple, 3306 W. Broad St.
Tickets:  $5

WEB | http://www.thenewfamiliars.com