When asked to compare their music to a prominent act students would recognize, members of Seattle-based band, Ivan and Alyosha, agreed: Snoop Lion. Definitely Snoop Lion.

Perhaps a stretch, but it’s what the group, who will be in the CUB Auditorium at 7 p.m. tonight, would jokingly like the students to think if it draws them to the show.

An independent band fresh off the stage of Bumbershoot, Ivan and Alyosha offer a unique folk rock performance falling in line with the new direction Student Entertainment Board Spotlight Director, Liz Lin, intends on taking the organization.

In past years, artists such as Mac Miller, A$AP ROCKY and Macklemore have graced Washington State University’s campus.

Lin desires this year to reach other, more commonly ignored audiences that listen to musical groups such as The Lumineers or The Head and the Heart.

“I wanted something new,” Lin said. “I wanted to showcase bands that are up and coming, not mainstream.”

Since 2007, Ivan and Alyosha have released three EP’s and an album that debuted earlier this year. In 2010, they received national recognition on public radio network and six week tour across North America.

Despite their substantial growth, the group is excited about the opportunity to showcase their talent for such a youthful audience.

“We love playing for college crowds,” bass player and vocalist Pete Wilson said. “We love that we can write songs, perform them, and have an impact on people’s lives whether they are young or old.”

The general audience of the band ranges from 15 to 40 years of age. It wasn’t until recent months that younger generations began to rise within the evolving fan base.

Wilson accredits the shift, with the decision to avoid performing in only 21-and-over outlets. “Once we start doing all ages … students come out,” he said.

The anticipated outcome for the show is at least 200-300 students and community members.

“The more, the merrier,” Lin said. “A full house would be awesome.”

Any skeptical student should take advantage of Ivan and Alyosha’s live acoustic set and interview that will be featured on KZUU 90.7, the student radio station, at 3 p.m. this afternoon.

Several EP’s are also available free for legal downloading through the online webpage, noisetrade.com, and their own site ivanandalyosha.com. Single tracks, EP’s and an album are available for listening on both Spotify and Youtube.

More information on today’s performance can be found on the official SEB event page on Facebook. Doors open at 6 p.m.