The Faux Paws

The Faux Paws continue to remain unique in the acoustic music community, always on the fringes, but always memorable, and with an always growing number of die-hard fans who feel like they’ve uncovered a secret!

Is it bluegrass? Not usually. Old-time? Occasionally. Is it Celtic? Can’t quite say that. Is it Folk? Americana? Jazz? Singer-songwriter? None of the above, but members of the Paws have deep ties to all of these traditions and blend their elements effortlessly to serve whatever musical idea is being presented. 

So what can we say? This band takes risks. They’re dynamic, exciting, sincere, irreverent, infectious, and surprising. They move deftly between moods, influences and instruments but always maintaining a “groove” that pulses through the music like a heartbeat. 

A Faux Paws live show is an explosive roller coaster ride that brings the audience along. Virtuosity on the fiddle, mandolin, guitar and saxophone, with vulnerability, personal lyrics, tight 3-part harmonies, playful interplay, intricately arranged details and soaring improvisations. 

With the considerable success and praise the band has seen since coming out of the pandemic the trio of the Paws, brothers Andrew (guitar) and Noah (fiddle) Van Norstrand along with Dean Miller (sax/ banjo) decided to add a 4th “Paw” on upright bass – these days usually Felix Sartori (Peter Rowan, Twisted Pine). The addition deepens the group’s already massive sound while freeing each member up for more creative expression on their various instruments.

“[The Faux Paws] have the special sauce” – Jerry Douglas

“I can honestly say that I have never come across a harder to classify band than the Faux Paws.” – LonesomeHighway.com