When the guys from Prarie Dog Parade and Obsydyan started contacting bands to see who wanted to play in their first-time Rising Fall Fest, most of their buds were doing metal. They knew the Benedict brothers — three-quarters of Haven — from the neighborhood more than the music, since all three bands originate in the New Castle surrounds.

Haven is conspicuously not metal, though some of their original work is close. They brought a different genre, which they call alternative/modern rock, and a sizable throng of rabid fans to the festival.

OK, maybe rabid isn’t quite accurate. Perhaps the acolyte who proselytized ad naseum for the band before they played wasn’t evincing hydrophobia, but drooling from a self-induced malady. It did seem that half the crowd was wearing Haven.

The Benedict brothers — Mike on lead guitar, Joel doing vocals and rhythm guitar, and Neal singing lead vocals and playing bass — having been working on their music since 2004. They were joined by Pat Connolly on drums a year later. Formerly of New Galilee, Pa., they now operate out of Pittsburgh, but have a loyal following here, so they play here often.

Their slobbering friend wasn’t wrong in his praise (just his manner). Their original music is interesting and thoughtful, ranging from rocking good times to angst-driven ballads; they are quality instrumentalists and good singers (no guttural shouting). The late J. Cash would have been honored by their cover of “Fulsom Prison Blues.”

Mike Benedict handily managed JamBrain’s user functions, editing the band’s profile (check it out) and scheduling several of their events (the site was designed for that purpose).

Haven’s followers aren’t there by chance or kinship. This band has what it takes musically and motivationally to make it.