You can score just about anything on craigslist these days — hookers, $5 German collectables, free TV’s and even awesome band members.



Friends since childhood, The Royal Bear founding members Robbie Luna and Tex Tage were on a mission to complete their band, so they posted an ad on craigslist.



“We almost didn’t respond to his request,” laughs Luna, in reference to The Royal Bear’s singer/songwriter, Rain Peasley’s strange reply and seemingly obsolete background.



“He was just so mysterious,” muses Luna. “You like to know a little bit about somebody, but Rain had no MySpace account, no background, all his ad reply said was, ‘You have great music, I need to audition.’”



After extensive searching with frustrating results, Luna and Tage considered Rain’s offer.

“We have a unique sound and it seems like everyone in Seattle either wants to play metal or sound like Modest Mouse,” sighs Luna.



Their decision paid off. Rain’s versatile writing style, guitar playing and keyboard pounding fit right in with The Royal Bear’s style.



Next, they just needed a drummer.



In steps Brian Coyne, another craigslist gem.



Having recently moved from Texas to work and rock, Coyne was also frustrated with the lack of like-minded musicians on craigslist. “I was trying out for bands like twice a week,” says Coyne. “They were the first band to stand out in a good way.”



Together now for two years, the Seattle band is perfecting their collective sound of pop, dance and rock. The Royal Bear’s catchy lyrics and ’80s style beats are intended to break up the sometimes dormant crowds and get people moving. With influences like Joy Division and AC/DC, The Royal Bear is sure to please even the toughest ears.



The New Frontier will be the hosts of The Royal Bear’s first Tacoma performance. Together with Paris Spleen and Basemint, The Royal Bear are excited about the upcoming show.



“I love Tacoma. I used to go to Bob’s Java Jive and sing karaoke,” chuckles Luna.



[The New Frontier Lounge, The Royal Bear, Paris Spleen, Basemint, Friday, May 1, 9 p.m., $5, 301 E. 25th St., Tacoma, 253.572.4020]