The New Familiars formed in 2005 and immediately took to the road for years playing 150+ shows and countless festivals annually alongside of some of the industry's big players (Gregg Allman, Levon Helm, Infamous Stringdusters, Del McCoury). Pioneers and innovators of the "acoustic/americana" they've performed at festivals throughout the region like Merlefest, Floydfest, Bristol Rhythm & Roots and more with an extensive catalog of original music and interesting and unexpected covers of songs they love.
In 2010 The New Familiars were honored to open for legendary musician Levon Helm. As the drummer for The Band, Helm was extremely influential to The New Familiars and needless to say, this was a absolute dream come true for the guys.
When Levon passed away in April of 2012 the Familiars began a "Last Waltz" type of tribute show the Friday after Thanksgiving to preserve the musical legacy of Helm. With the help of The Midwood Horns and special guests to perform songs from Levon's catalogue the show has grown into an annual celebration of Levon Helm & The Band. Now in its seventh year, the Levon Helm tribute show is a fun night of singalongs and good times remembering an american icon of rock'n'roll. Past guests have boasted band members from Muddy Waters (Bob Margolin), Doc Watson (Jack Lawrence), The Black Lillies, The Mantras and more.