Here's the methodology we'll be trying: After figuring out the reason for adventuring (never ever just meet in a tavern.) have everyone, including the DM on a blank sheet of paper write down a race, pass the sheets around the circle. Then everyone chooses a fun class for the race. Pass. Based on the race and class given to you, choose 2 backgrounds, pass. Then next person chooses 2 more backgrounds. Pile all x+1 characters in the center and everyone grabs one they like.

The players then detail the particular class features they want and the rough "theme" of the character. encourage them to imagine a moment of awesome. Then let the person who loves paperwork generate a shortlist of powers to choose from at each level.

Given that reason for adventuring is "to be heroes (i.e. to kill monsters, take their stuff, and save the town)" the party generation mechanic is wide open. To express interest, post a 4e race (or if you're interested in playing in an encounter, but not in testing the generation mechanic, state that.)

Race: Half-Elf