For the past few weeks, there has been a buzz surrounding Spring Fest, and many say it hasn't been positive.
Similar to every fest in recent history, some students seem less than thrilled about the scheduled talent for the annual event, which includes acts featured on the MTV Campus Invasion Tour - Hoobastank, Lostprophets and Ima Robot.
"Hoobastank is old, and I've never even heard of the other bands," said Kayla Wilbert, an occupational therapy major.
Keeping opinions like this in mind, perhaps it is possible for the aggravated campus to uncross its haughty arms and open its defiant ears to the three bands, all on tour in support of their latest releases.
Hoobastank, a Los Angeles-based group, recently released "The Reason," the follow-up effort to their self-titled debut, which saw success with the singles "Running Away" and "Crawling." Their current single, the title track from the new album, is ranked at No. 19 on the Billboard Top 200 charts.
Similarly, Lostprophets are promoting their own sophomore record, "Start Something." The Brits' first release "The Fake Sound of Progress" gained recognition with the single "Shinobi Vs Dragon Ninja." Presently, their single "Last Train Home," clocked in at number one on the Modern Rock Track Billboard chart, with Hoobastank on their heels at number two.
Los Angeles's Ima Robot, conversely, is promoting their self-titled debut, which hit stores back in September. The band has been categorized as "new wave synthpop," being influenced by the "old" new wave of the '70s and '80s. The video for their first single, "Dynomite," has been in regular rotation on MTV2 and Muse.
Prior to the Campus Invasion Tour, Hoobastank had toured with top acts like Linkin Park and P.O.D. When promoting their first CD, Lostprophets shared the stage with Andrew W. K. and had toured with Linkin Park as well.
As an added bonus, all three bands are young and driven, which will likely guarantee an energetic and motivated show. Lostprophets, in particular, are known for their dynamic live performances, this being their third show in Buffalo in the past several years. At least audience members won't have wait for the performers while they sit down to rest in between songs, like Fat Joe did during last year's Spring Fest.
Students should be warned that the New York State Fire Code requires that the occupancy limit be strictly enforced, according to SA Entertainment. Students who are planning on gaining floor access should arrive early.
