With the sun and the Pacific Ocean behind it, Phantom Planet will bring its brand of California-influenced rock to DeKalb.

Phantom Planet, Mates of State and Steriogram will play at 7:30 p.m. April 16 at the Holmes Student Center’s Duke Ellington Ballroom.

Known for “California,” the theme song from “The O.C.,” Phantom Planet is touring in support of its latest, self-titled album.

Earlier in the year, “Phantom Planet” peaked on the College Music Journal charts at No. 4.

While their first CD, “The Guest,” is comparable to Weezer’s “Blue Album,” their latest incorporates elements of noise rock and garage rock while maintaining pop sensibilities, said John Benson, Campus Activities Board coordinator.

“Their sound is more schizophrenic now,” Benson said.

Phantom Planet is known for its intense live acts, NIU alumna Jennifer Gembala said. Members of Phantom Planet have been known for dancing, conversing with the crowd, climbing stage equipment and stage diving, she said.

“It looks like they’re having fun when they play instead of playing because they have to,” she said.

CAB also booked Mates of State on the same bill. Since its 2000 full-length debut, “My Solo Project,” Mates of State, the husband/wife, drummer/keyboardist duo has risen to the to the tops of the indie rock music charts, Benson said.

Mates of State is a light, laid-back indie rock band that is comparable to The Postal Service and Yo La Tengo.

Benson said Phantom Planet and Mates of State are an ideal economic combination and hopes to sell more than 1,000 tickets.

“With Phantom Planet, we’re trying to bring in people familiar with MTV, the radio and Rolling Stone,” Benson said. “To balance them out, we booked Mates of State.”

Steriogram, from New Zealand, will open for Mates of State and Phantom Planet. Known for ’80s metal guitar riffs and quick rap deliveries, Steriogram is touring to support its full-length debut “Schmack!” which will be available April 20.

Tickets go on sale at the Holmes Student Center Box office March 29. Tickets cost $10 for students and $17 for general admission.