The four young men who comprise the compelling new Christian modern rock group According top John seem like ordinary American youth. With the exception of an earring or two, standard gear for today's musicians, they somehow elude the status trappings of the typical rock ensemble. They are four guys from Georgia on a spiritual mission.

John Waller of Fayetteville is the lead singer and catalyst of the group. Jeff Billes, the drummer, is also from Fayetteville. Jason Hoard, the lead guitarist is from Griffin and is the newest and youngest member, while Ed Bunton, the bassist is from Lawrenceville.

After years of performing as a solo artist, Waller began putting together a band. "John came to my church to sing when I was in the youth group," recalls Billes of their first meeting. "That's right," waller said, "I was singing in area churches, doing a solo thing. I met Jeff about seven years ago and he started doing sound for me. He started playing the drums, and we began praying about putting a band together."

The pair auditioned for the First baptist Church of Woodstock,GA, youth evangelism outreach program known as "Big House." The guitars were out of tune and the band was a tad rusty, but the student pastor, Jeff Chandler, saw their hearts and some potential. They soon became the house band. For two years they spent Wednesday nights with the youth inWoodstock, then Sunday nights with the youth of the church they have since called home, New Hope Baptist Church in Fayetteville. The band added Bunton during that time, developing material and perfecting their craft. it wasn't long before they were in great demand throughout the entire southeast region.

About a year and a half ago, the final member, string virtuoso Jason Hoard (if it has strings, he can play it), came on board, and According to John was complete.

According to John was not a name chosen lightly. "John is the Gospel of Love," says Waller. "If we have a theme song on this project, it is "Everlasting" (John 3:16). I recorded it years ago,but wanted to have it on this album because it is about the intimacy that God desires to have with us all. We want to have an communicate that it is possible to have a close, authentic relationship with Jesus like John did. That's why we dive into the Gospel "According to John."

According to John counts as its collective musical influences some of folk and rock music's most trend-setting acts. They present the skillful story telling lyrical artistry of Peter, Paul, and Mary, the intensity of The Doors, the close harmonies of Crosby, Stills, and Nash, and the rock edge of Tonic. They also consider Steven Curtis Chapman, Steve Camp, Russ taff, and PFR as early influences.

The band will play tonight, Wednesday, Oct. 6 at 8 p.m. at the Fayette County Kiwanis Fair. Admission to the fair is $4. There is no added charge to watch the show

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