The Huskie Den bustled with action as its stage welcomed the musical arts of an NIU student-led band, Boba Haus.
Formed in September 2023, the band was back on stage at 8:30 p.m. Friday boasting musical stylings with inspirations drawing from their individual music backgrounds, culminating in a delightful listen that made it hard not to bop your head along. With a moody tone and energetic rhythms, they synthesize a blend of multiple genres, creating something akin to alternative/beach rock.
“Music is just sounds coming together, as we are people coming together to make music,” said Nathan Nguyen, Boba Haus rhythm guitarist and junior psychology major.
Students bowled and played billiards while the band prepared themselves for the show. The multi-colored lights overhead danced across the room and tables as the pre-show music played over the speakers. Tables were moved away from the stage, allowing ample room for the crowd that would form as the show proceeded.
Students sporting smiling faces and engaging in excited conversations filled the seats as anticipation for the band built, with many wearing Boba Haus merch.
As the band took their positions, a hush fell over the audience, and people moved to take their seats and turn their chairs toward the stage. After introducing themselves, the band began playing, immediately drawing the crowd in with a quick tempo and mellow lyrical styles of NIU alum lead singer Robin Diamzon.
“We got off to a rough start with that first song, but Robin (Diamzon) was able to adjust quickly, especially for that second song,” said guitarist Natalie Tanamal, a senior finance major.
“Just nerves, just nerves,” Diamzon clarified.
Despite any mishaps in the first song, the crowd became increasingly engaged with the band as they played on.
The set list spanned a range of both popular song covers and original music, with each cover delivered in their unique style. Featuring songs from artists including Bruno Mars, The Cranberries, and Chappel Roan, the versatile group showcased tremendous talent for making any song their own while still drawing the crowd in.
Dana Tomasevic, a freshman computer science information major, came all the way from the college of DuPage to see the show.
“It’s, like, a fun experience! Like, bands just play music that’s popular, I love that,” Tomasevic said.
Ethan Darley, a junior physical education major, voiced his support and enjoyment for the show.
“You get to really feel the aura, you get to feel the emotion that comes out,” Darley said. “They do an excellent job of bringing in their audience.”
After a short intermission, the band came back on stage, immediately engaging with the audience, calling them to get on their feet, even throwing free merchandise. With a polite and conversational tone in between songs, it’s difficult to not share the joy of the band members.
“We believe the second set was more energetic,” Diamzon said. “The people are having fun, so that’s what matters the most to us.”
After sharing a snippet of a new song the band has in production, the evening ended with the crowd singing along, jumping around and waving their phone flashlights.
“It was pretty fun, despite everything that happened, the show went on and it sounded pretty great to everyone,” said drummer Gabe Chanthalangsy, a sophomore biochemistry major.
Boba Haus has no upcoming shows, but support can be shared by following them on Spotify or their social media. Make sure to check out their music video for “The Solar Song” as well. With plans of new merch and music in the works, big things can be expected from the band.
