Many may not know Bucky Jonson, but many know the music behind it.

The four men of the band Bucky Jonson have been the driving force behind the Grammy award-winning Black Eyed Peas for the past three years, and are now taking their step into the spotlight.The four musicians ?” Printz “The Coach” Board, George “El Cubano” Pajon Jr., Keith “Black Ice” Harris and Tim “The Dirty Flautist” Orindgreff ?” bring a different sound to the group.Each member has an expertise in various instruments and musical skills ?” including writing, vocals and producing.

Before they played the Black Eyed Peas Honda Civic Tour in Sacramento on Friday, the men described what kind of sound they will take on as they make a name for themselves apart from the popular pop group.

During the sit-down interview, Pajon said the band’s music is a “melting pot of everything with live energy.”

“It’s (the Black Eyed Peas’) ‘Pump It’ with more edge and attitude,” Pajon said. “It’s raw.”

Board, an Ohio native, has been described as the hip-hop force on his keyboard, trumpet and bass. Harris, a Chicago native, is said to bring the gospel sound to the band with his drumming and keyboard skills. Orindgreff, using woodwinds and guitars, was described as bringing in the quirky musical atmosphere. Pajon, from Los Angeles, said he brings the rock with his guitars. Everyone agreed.

Board said their music is for anyone and everyone.

“We want to reach out to people like us, people like you,” Board said. “From (age) eight to 80.”

Although music listeners everywhere don’t know Bucky Jonson, whose name derived from a wild night out when Orindgreff saved an ungrateful man named Bucky Jonson from passing out from excessive drinking, the band’s first album is complete.

The as-yet-untitled album, with vocals laid down by Board, Harris and guest artists including Jamie “Taboo” Gomez from the Black Eyed Peas, is set to come out this summer.

But the band isn’t considering taking a break from work.

As they tour with the Black Eyed Peas, which will last until May, they will be searching for a female vocalist for a second, upcoming “All-Star Album.”

The “All-Star Album” will feature top musicians from around the world with Bucky Jonson’s musical edge behind those voices, said John Mark Strahan, a publicist for Bucky Jonson and the Black Eyed Peas.

“This album is going to be the most unique and musically creative album ever produced,” Strahan said.

In terms of what the band is looking for in a vocalist, Orindgreff said they’re looking for a young woman who is open to learn.

“We’re looking for a youngish, fairly inexperienced, but wise beyond her years (vocalist),” Orindgreff said. “We’re looking for someone who can inspire us, just as we inspire her.”

And the band said the final vocalist chosen would not necessarily be limited to only being featured in the “All-Star Album.”

“Possibilities are endless,” Board said.

Board and Pajon have been with the Black Eyed Peas since 1998 and the band Bucky Jonson was formed three years ago with the addition of Harris and Orindgreff.

The band was directly involved in the production of the Black Eyed Peas’ last two albums “Elephunk” and “Monkey Business.”

Board, Pajon and William “will.i.am” Adams and Stacy “Fergie” Ferguson were nominated for “Don’t Phunk With My Heart” in the Best Rap Song of the 2005 Grammys. The year before, Pajon was one of six songwriters credited for the “Let’s Get it Started” nomination in the Best Rap Song category.Strahan said the band has contributed to the Black Eyed Peas’ success.

“Bucky Jonson’s sound is one that has given the Peas their edge… a very unique and diverse collaboration of talent,” Strahan wrote in an e-mail.

The band will be reviewing audio clips and biographies during their tour. Audition tapes can be sent to [email protected].

For more information about the band, go to the official Web site.

Nika Megino can be reached at [email protected]