ArtiFakt is not a Christian band, per se, but they see the upcoming music festival in Marble Hill as an event as something that can benefit everyone, and as much more than just an evangelism opportunity.

Though they are a secular band, ArtiFakt will appear on the bill for a two-day music festival at the stage in Magnolia Park in Marble Hill Oct. 15 and 16. The festival, organized by Cory Bacon with Driven to the Cross Ministries, will raise money for a community center in Marble Hill.

As a band, ArtiFakt started a few years ago, but after a while the group called it quits. In the spring of 2011, three original members took on a new lineup and new outlook on performing. The band now features Chris Powles on lead vocals, Joey Lovell on guitar, Southwick on bass, Seth Powles on drums and Stephen Jones on guitar.

Southwick said that while they like being a local act, they are looking to take it as far as they can and play as many outside shows as possible.

"Since the end of April, we've played around 12 shows," Southwick said. "We've played Cape a few times, we've played St. Louis a few times; we actually went to Milwaukee in August to open for Queensryche at The Rave."

Southwick said the band's original music may sound heavier than the typical area act, but it's more of heavy alternative than metal.

"Our music is heavy; we definitely have a modern metal feel to our music, but Chris is a singer, so I'd say 80 percent of our stuff is singing," Southwick said. "Some of the screaming is thrown in, because it is the heavier music, but he does focus on more of the melodic vocals."

With a plate of originals, the band is ready to hit the studio, but their focus is building their live audience.

"We did just record a six song EP, which we got about a week ago," said Southwick.

"We love to have a good time, but we don't try to portray anything negative. We sing about life, about our personal experiences," Southwick said.

The band joins Consumed, With Salvation, One Way Out and Before All Falls for Oct. 15. The next day features several small church groups, Jess McDowell and the Abundant Grace Band.

Southwick said he thinks they will fit just fine in the program.

"We're not a Christian band," he said. "The main reason we're doing this is because we'd like to bring people from all different routes to this event, and also it's more of a community outreach program that he [Bacon] is trying to do."

Southwick said it's not hard to get behind Bacon for this event.

"Corey has a wide range of stuff that he wants to do, whether it be helping the homeless or helping people with addictions, or victims of abuse," Southwick said. "That's the direction we're going for. We're not out to preach to anyone; it's more like come out and be a part of a good cause, and donate to help this out."

The festival is free, but donations to the cause will be accepted. The festival starts at 4 p.m. Saturday and WHWHWEEN Sunday.