As a music fan and Newmarket resident, I’ve been keeping my eye on The Lamprey River Tavern for a while now. For several months, the bar has had large signs in the window advertising an open mike on Saturday nights. Likewise, they recently added a sign touting the live jazz that accompanies their growing Sunday morning breakfast crowds. When a new banner went up this past week billing a band on Saturday, I figured it was time to poke my head in and see what was up.

The four fellows who are Those Charming Deviationists (frontman John Adams on vocals and guitar, Jim White on bass and vocals, lead guitarist Bill White and Kevin Farley on drums) tucked tightly into the corner of the old room in front of one of the huge picture windows along Main Street. Adams strummed away on his handsome Epiphone hollowbody as he leaned into the microphone and sang, backlit by the white Christmas lights. With a name like Those Charming Deviationists, you’d think their sound would be more whacked, but fans of early REM and their college radio peers would be sympathetic to their repertoire.

Bassist Jim White kicked off one of the speedier rockers of the set with a blur of fingers punching at the strings before drummer Kevin Farley joined the fray. Lead guitarist Bill White took turns using a glass slide and his capable fingers to lay down bluesy rock leads over Adams’ oft-chorused rhythm guitar work throughout the night.

A smattering of locals at the bar occasionally turned from their conversation to check out the band, and there was what appeared to be some friends and family at the tables who listened more attentively. The Tavern is in a lovely old turn of the century brick building, with high tin ceilings and a comfy neighborhood bar vibe. Old posters line the white walls along with historical photos and the state flag.

“We’re just doing this for fun,” said Adams between sets. Farley, best known as an Irish multi-instrumentalist who has worked with folks like The Makem Brothers, among others, was the surprise of the night with his appearance behind the kit. “I used to be the best drummer in my school when I was in eighth grade,” said Farley, eyes twinkling, “I’m coming out of retirement after 30 years.” This was a night of local original rock, nothing too serious. The guys all wore regular Joe clothes, and there was no irony in sight. It was refreshing.