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By Keith Davis

 Fetal Genius, a local band that has produced an album, has played at the Juice Bar, a few under 21 clubs and at personal parties.

The five-member group appears to be a pretty standard band, until you get to know them.

Derrick "Kroe" Smith, singer and guitarist, is a 21-year-old from Magnolia. He says his mentors are Ozzy Osborne, Alice Cooper and The Doors, and some day, he aspires to reach their level of greatness. When he talks about music, you can tell he’s obsessed.

Roger "Buzz" Hochstetler, guitarist, was influenced by a lot of the same musicians as Kroe. Buzz complements Kroe’s playing, providing a sense of harmony; these two were meant to play. Buzz can be found sitting around strumming cords to himself.

Nate "Nazz" Zack, a 20-year-old from Peru, is the drummer. He was quiet the day I was at their practice. He was sitting behind his drum set, his whole array of sound making devices laid out in front of him like an altar to the god of music.

With his arms raised, spinning his drum sticks in circles, he said, "I like to play." Simple and direct.

Filling out the band are bassist Shawn Cummings, a 21-old-old from Minonk, and Curt "UV" Kreshner.

Kroe labeled their style of music as metal with a heavy grunge influence.

"We’re the type of band you have to come see, especially before you listen to the CD," Kroe said.

So if you’re into their type of music, or if you just want to go out and have some fun, Fetal Genius can provide you with a great show.