by Melissa Smith

Listen to the story!

If you're looking for some real home-grown music, look no further. Here's this month's "In Other News" musical highlight... Crail.

Crail is an Alaska band through and through. Each member was born and raised in the 49th state. The band currently consists of three fun-loving guys. Jared Navere is the lead vocalist and guitarist. Travis Johnson also plays guitar and can often be found teasing their drummer, Mike Baker, who's busy making jokes of his own. But beneath those grinning faces are serious and talented musicians. Last fall the group won first place in the rock category in APRN's 2003 Song of the Year Contest.

Crail formed two years ago when Jared and Travis auditioned to play at their high school graduation. They went trough several drummers before they finally discovered Mike. All three band members have common musical interests. Some of the bands they admire are Three Doors Down, Nickel Back, and the Dave Matthews Band. This common interest helps when they write their songs. From songs like "She Said," a sultry love ballad to a trippy cover of the theme song to the 80s movie "Ghost Busters."

In terms of Crail's creative process, Jared is the one who does most of the song writing while Travis pitches in. Mike follows that process up with scratching out the drums. Maybe that's why Crail's music doesn't seem to fall into a specific style. While all of their music is rock, it varies from softer melodies to harder rhythms. Most of their work is soft compared to today's punk-heavy rock scene. However as they continue composing, their songs are gradually becoming heavier.

The band has recorded one CD called "Professionally Unprofessional." They are currently working on their second album, which they say has been slow coming. Crail had to put their music on hold last year when two of the members went out of state for college. With everyone back in Alaska, the band is ready to get back into the swing of things again. However, they are having some difficulty with the lack of a bassist. They have been searching, without much luck, to fill the position.

To contact Crail about playing bass or for more information about the band, go to www.soundclick.com and do a search for Crail.