The members of Domestic Problems have had no problems at all when it comes to making good music.

The sextet from Grand Rapids, Mich., is described by many as “soulful” and “energized,” similar to the Blues Brothers (the band named itself after a quote from the movie.)

Domestic Problems’ hardworking demeanor is one that exemplifies the Midwest standard, relying on friends, family and grassroots simplicity.

“I was influenced early on by James Brown, Neil Young and John Denver,” lead singer Andy Holtgreive said. “But I’d really compare us to the Barenaked Ladies. I would aspire to play like them because I think they are the best live band I’ve seen.”

Domestic Problems sounds like a rock band with a horn section, Holtgreive added.

“We sometimes come across sounding like folk, celtic rock and even some funky R & B with horns,” he said. “A lot of folks would say we’re like Blues Traveler, Dave Matthews Band or Rusted Root.”

Domestic Problems originally formed in college. Holtgreive and Bill Kenny, who plays trumpet and mandolin, first put the band together five years ago.

The two played in a talent show where they were well received and decided to explore the possibility of building a larger band.

They recruited John Niedzielski on guitar, Job Grotsky on sax, flute and clarinet, Jason Moody on both electric and upright bass and Christian Stankee on percussion.

Domestic Problems recently played at People’s Bar and Grill, opening for Why Store, where the group was a major hit. That night Domestic Problems sold over 50 CDs to a crowd that had never heard of them.

“People’s is a great club. It’s very cool there. We signed up 140 new people to our mailing list after one show,” Holtgreive said.

Domestic Problems has also played alongside such acts as Neil Young and Primus, and has appeared on the H.O.R.D.E. Tour and the “Jenny Jones Show.”

“Playing the H.O.R.D.E. Tour was a great experience,” Holtgreive said. “It was the opportunity of a lifetime, and it gave us a taste of what it’s like to be in the big leagues. Jenny Jones was a little different, being that it was a show about stripper makeovers that day.”

Domestic Problems has had the opportunity to play with many other major league bands, such as the Verve Pipe, Mighty Mighty Bosstones and Squirrel Nut Zippers. Playing with such big name acts has been beneficial to the group.

“Playing with them makes us better. It’s a great learning experience for us too,” Holtgreive said.

One thing that stands out with Domestic Problems is the group’s unique songwriting ability.

“We write about personal stuff, some serious and some stuff that makes no sense at all,” Holtgreive said.

The song “Ernie’s Tragic Love Triangle” is a prime example.

“The song has a lot of the Sesame Street characters plus Captain Kangaroo,” Holtgreive explained. “It’s a story about what would happen if Bert and Big Bird got in a fight. It’s a showdown with Ernie caught in the middle. Ernie is so upset, he laughs ’cause he’s past the point of crying. All the characters are confused by his response, but along comes the Captain to explain everything.”

On the serious side of songwriting, Holtgreive wrote a song called “James Francis” that was dedicated to the first 10 years of his father’s life.

“I’m not sure what motivates me to do it,” he said. “It’s just an innate need, I guess. Something inside me is telling me I have to do it.”

Through a large network of friends, Domestic Problems has been able to build a strong fanbase. It is Holtgreive’s hope that the band can continue to grow musically too.

“I want to do a lot more shows, tour more and at least be able to make a living at this,” he said.

Domestic Problems is playing tonight at People’s Bar and Grill at 9:30.