The New Familiars definitely have one of the most accurate band names in a long time.

The New Familiars make rock ‘n’ roll with a country twang, a sound that is certainly familiar, especially in the Southeast. Each song utilizes a standard of the country-rock genre, whether it’s a foot-stomping banjo rhythm, a moody steel guitar line or lyrics about whisky, wine and flying three sheets to the wind.

What’s new about The New Familiars is the personality they interject in each song. Many southern rock bands fall short of capturing the southern charm they seem so desperate to convey, but The New Familiars have charm in droves. The song “Annalein” sounds like it should be played during a cattle drive across a wide open plane with lightning striking far off in the distance.

Perhaps The New Familiar’s cover of The Temptation’s “My Girl” is the best embodiment of something new and familiar. The band takes a true soul classic, adds a southern touch with a shot of moonshine and still retains the heartfelt sincerity of the original song. Although “My Girl” was not my favorite song I heard by the band, I certainly appreciate the effort they put into adding a new twist to an old classic.

Basically, The New Familiars make good music. They’re Southern, talented and have fun with their music, and isn’t that all you could really ask of from a band?
The New Familiars are playing the Strutting Duck on Jan. 29. Preview them on the band’s Web site, thenewfamiliars.com.