Mariecar MendozaUniversity Union Hour promises to be better than ever this quarter as it kicks off this week with rockers The Ataris.
The band, most recently known for their 2003 cover of Don Henley’s “The Boys of Summer,” from their last album “So Long, Astoria,” comes to Cal Poly today as one of the last stops on their current acoustic tour before heading overseas.
“I’m totally jazzed they’re playing here,” psychology sophomore Aimee Hamilton said. “I hope people come out and support them so we can get some other good bands.”
The band’s forthcoming album, “Welcome the Night,” features a completely different side of the band, reflecting a more mature sound compared to The Ataris’ hits like “San Dimas High School Football Rules.”
But The Ataris show is just the beginning of what the ASI Events staff plans to offer for this quarter’s UU Hour.
In the past, the weekly entertainment usually featured local bands, student bands or small acts passing through town looking for exposure. While this gives Cal Poly students a chance to hear up-and- coming music, they are trying to bring in bigger acts based on recent feedback.
Nicole Stivers, student supervisor for marketing and public relations and journalism senior, said they are trying to use resources to bring in more established bands.
“We love to see students out there having a good time, and we’re excited that we’re able to do that,” she said. “We want it to be fun, even if it’s just background music while you hang out with your friends.”
She also commented that the events staff always welcomes suggestions for entertainment.
Another band appearing this quarter is The Clarks, a popular East Coast guitar rock band that has played shows nationally with John Mayer, O.A.R. and Gavin DeGraw. Resination, a local reggae band that has previously played UU Hour, will appear again in May.
ASI also welcomes other groups to use the hour as an opportunity for a variety of clubs and organizations to gain exposure or put on events. Upcoming weekly entertainment will include a Remember Week presentation, Greek Week events and a Cinco de Mayo Celebration.
UU Hour is every Thursday from 11 a.m. to noon starting today.
In the event of rain, The Ataris will play at Backstage Pizza.
For more information, visit asi.calpoly.edu/events.