Champaign’s own rock/reggae band, Jobu, showed their talent on Eastern’s campus Thursday at the 7th Street Underground.

Jobu’s members, Matt Hines, Andy Neel, Evan Ryan and Aaron Vanvooren originated in Carbondale during their college days at Southern Illinois University at Carbondale.

“We play to have a good time and create a good party atmosphere,” Neel said.

Jobu’s music is not the only unique thing about them. Their unusual band name, Jobu, is just as different as their music. When asked where their name originated, Neel replied, “It’s a secret,” with a smile.

Cassie Falco, a sophomore family consumer sciences major and main stage coordinator for University Board, is the event planner for Jobu’s mini-concert.

“She e-mailed me after hearing us perform and wanted us to perform, and we agreed to come to Eastern,” Neel said.

Falco has high hopes for Jobu. Falco wants everyone to enjoy this band as much as she does.

“Reggae is my favorite style of music and I think it’s important to support local music, which is why I wanted Jobu to perform,” Falco said.

The band’s reggae feel and upbeat tempo had the audience up on their feet dancing, laughing and having a good time listening to this unique band. Jobu performed their songs “All Night,” “Secret Paradise,” “2:22” and “Farrels,” which was written by Neel.

Kadija Stallings, a freshman art major, said she did not stay in her seat the entire night.

“I love reggae music, and Jobu would definitely be something I would listen to. The band is nice but the crowd could use a little work,” Stallings said.

Falco said to look out for University Board’s next event, the Globe party, coming up in January. Falco said the band that will be performing is called Indigo Sun and their genre is “Jamtronica”.

Jobu will be performing at Lamasco Bar in Evansville, Ind. on Dec. 10 to Dec. 11.

Sierra Teague can be reached at 581-2812 or [email protected].