To the University student body the name “Still Small Voice and the Joyful Noise” may not ring too many bells, but this Athens band is a well-established and active local act. It has taken the stage at almost every Athens venue and has participated in AthFest multiple times. This Friday the band will take the stage at the 40 Watt.

Formed by singer and guitarist Chip McKenzie and bassist Trish Scurry in 2004, the lineup of Still Small Voice and the Joyful Noise has often shifted, but is “more consistent than not,” said Scurry.

Drawing from influences such as Elvis Costello, Bob Dylan, The Band, Big Star, Radiohead and Brian Eno, the group comprises McKenzie, Scurry, guitarist Jef Whatley, keyboardist Neil Golden and drummer Mikey Dwyer.

“Our name is taken from a couple Biblical verses about the relationship between God and man, and it presents a pretty optimistic view of that relationship,” McKenzie said of the group’s unusual name, adding that the “still, small voice” symbolizes God, and man is supposed to make a “joyful noise.”

But the group is quick to point out the meaning behind their name applies more to music than to religion.

“It touches on the sacred, transcendental nature of music in general,” McKenzie said. “To us, it’s an affirmation of that positive aspect of music.”

Originating in Greenwood, S.C., Still Small Voice and the Joyful Noise settled in the Classic City because of its “nurturing music community,” Whatley said.

“The scene is constantly flowing,” Scurry said. “You can’t help but be inspired by it because it’s around you all the time.”

McKenzie said the local community gives him fresh ways to look at life and music.

“There are tons of transformative moments and so many different musicians, both local and from out of town, so your perspective shifts constantly,” he said. “It’s a good place to actively pursue music.”

As Still Small Voice’s chief songwriter, McKenzie uses his

experiences in the Athens music scene as a key inspiration for his music.

“A common theme in my songs is about growing from experiences,” he said. “That way, there’s more of a connection – a deeper understanding with a positive result. The journey is important, but the end result needs to be focused on more clearly.”

Whatley echoed McKenzie’s positive message.

“There’s a trend in music that tends to pull out and emphasize problems, but you can’t expect music alone to fix all the problems in the world,” he said.

With that in mind, Scurry offers advice she has learned through her music.

“Misery is easy and ultimately a weak way to live,” she said. “It’s easier for people to stay in that miserable state than work to get over it and move on from it.”

The band naturally channels the “joyful noise” of their music into their live performances.

“We just go out and play to the best of our ability,” McKenzie said. “Each song has its own kind of arc, where we get to that completely honest place in each song – something that’s coming straight out of us. So we try to maintain that level of sincerity and honesty throughout the show.”

Still Small Voice and the Joyful Noise will continue to promote its EP, “Love for Our Enemies,” live while

preparing to record its first full-length album, slated for release in early 2009.

The members hope their performance will indicate their positive message as well as how close the members are.

“We’re best friends and musicians,” Scurry said. “And there’s nothing more fun than being up on stage with your best friends.”

Whatley ascribes an even closer connection with each other and the Athens community.

“Our band is a family, and it comes from an even larger family of friends that have played with us,” Whatley said. “So for us, Still Small Voice highlights that aspect.”