Michael Peterson says being in a faith-based band has its drawbacks. The lead singer in the Christian rock group UnderLight says he and his bandmates are sometimes accused of being closed-minded or judgmental.

But they interpret this as a reaction to people's disappointment in church doctrine or human failings -- not in God's message.

"Some churches close people out," he said, "But Christianity is really about reaching your potential ... To be Christian, a certain structure doesn't need to be followed; you just need faith."

Derik Smith, the band's drummer, said when he tells people he is a Christian, they often assume that he's ultra-conservative. "I actually have liberal beliefs," said Smith. "But when I tell people I'm Christian, they assume I hate gay people and like George Bush ... I think people can do and believe whatever they want as long as they're not hurting anyone."

Shane Cameron, UnderLight's guitarist, has two tattoos and long hair, something he said many don't feel fits the Christian image. "People are surprised that I have tattoos. They assume that you're clean-cut," he said. "We're just trying to live our lives and do what we think is right."

Cameron said some of his musical influences include blues-based musicians, as well as the popular rock bands Tool and Creed.

Kristina Heffner, the band's bassist, said she prefers Haste the Day, a Christian group. "They stand up for what they believe in," she said, adding that Breaking Benjamin is also a favorite.

Smith, whose father is a professional musician, said he admires the work of Death Cab for Cutie, Frank Sinatra, the Foo Fighters and Radiohead, while Peterson is a fan of Tool, Creed and Haste the Day.

UnderLight has been together for about a year and Peterson said the band hopes to save up some money to record their music, a feat that will set them back about $600. "We have a demo, but it's not the best-quality recording," Smith said.

UnderLight's first live show was last year on New Year's Eve at Napa's First Baptist Church. The group plans to book more shows in the future and looks forward to getting feedback from audiences. "The band is in its beginning stages and we have a lot of ideas. We're all really close friends and have similar interests," Peterson said.

UnderLight plays occasionally at Foothill Christian Fellowship; all of the members of the band are youth group leaders there.

Heffner and Peterson are a couple; they met in a school drama class, are both into philosophy and said they enjoy long talks about life with the other band members at their favorite dinnertime hangout, Taco Bell.

When asked what he likes best about being in UnderLight, Peterson said he loves music and embraces the chance to share his faith with others.

Heffner, who became a Christian two years ago, said she enjoys the relationship and closeness the band shares. "I love getting our message out. We all have a great connection. It's something we always look forward to -- It's safe and I can tell them anything."

Smith said he values the camaraderie he shares with the other members of the band and the opportunity to share his religion with others through their music. "It's nice when you have a group that shares beliefs -- one that actually has a message."

Cameron, a self-proclaimed music lover, enjoys all art forms. "Art is an amazing way to express yourself and music is a great outlet for emotions," he said.

To learn more about UnderLight, visit www.myspace.com/underwho.