In an effort to recruit students, the St. Thomas music department will sponsor a performance this October, featuring the up-and-coming local hip-hop group Doomtree.

The group, which is also an international record label, was formed by seven friends with different musical backgrounds and styles including rap, punk, indie rock and pop. Matthew George, chair of the university’s music department, said support of The Doomtree Zoo will help students see the St. Thomas in a different light.

“We look to expand what we do, always looking forward,” George said. “While we deal a lot with the historical aspects of music, we’re living the present and future times.”

The group started as an after-school activity and has now spawned a successful career with exposure by networks such as VH1 and publications such as Rolling Stone.

George wants to use this opportunity to get the word out about St. Thomas’ music program.

“We have lots of visibility at the event itself, and we’re frankly looking at it as a recruitment opportunity,” he said.

Some students are happy to see their school support such a high-profile group. Junior Roumany Phan said the event will be an opportunity for students to meet others and share in the band’s success.

“It’s an event that could bring the student body together.” Phan said. “I see that people enjoy seeing a new (local) band grow into a big star.”

Junior Rebekka Schrank also said the sponsorship will raise the popularity of the university, not only within the community but among students.

“I think it is important for universities to sponsor events like Doomtree because a group like that can attract such a big fan base,” Schrank said. “I think Doomtree offers something fresh and new for the university … (and) that by sponsoring groups that students enjoy, the university is setting itself up for a positive reaction.”

Noura Elmanssy can be reached at elma7206@stthomas.edu.