Diversity, diversity, diversity. How many times have we, the students of ISU, heard that we must expand our minds and diversify our nature? Well, now is the time to do just that. But worry not, this lesson in diversity isn’t taught in any class. Instead, it’s Surahoolies 101.

The north winds are bringing more than just cold weather these days. The Surahoolies, out of Minneapolis, breeze into town tonight to open for Punkinhead at People’s Bar and Grill.

What makes this band like no other is their eclectic style and international influences. The six-member group sites a Nigerian band called Fela and a Hungarian band, Muzsikas, as just a few of their many mentors.

More commonly known artists, Neil Diamond and The Grateful Dead, also play an influential role. “I could go on forever about our influences,” said Mark Hasbrouck, lead vocalist and guitarist. “We have many, many different influences.”

Beginning as just two guitars, a bass and drums, Hasbrouck and drummer Brian Heying started playing together in 1986 but soon ran into problems making the music they wanted.

“It was limiting, so we kept adding and implemented an accordion, and that’s where we are today,” Hasbrouck said.

Where they are today is currently working on a new CD, which they hope to have out by spring. “We have enough material, but we want to make sure it sounds right,” Hasbrouck explained. “Our first CD, God Forgiving, was co-produced, and the sound wasn’t where we wanted it. I mean, I like it, but there was a lot more input that we needed.”

One way The Surahoolies have managed to preserve their unique sound is by building their own studio in which they record. Without the pressure of financing studio time, they can ensure the quality and integrity of their hallmark sound.

“It’s not that elaborate. Anyone who sees it would know we’re not carpenters. But we’re still getting better at the recording thing,” Hasbrouck said. “When somebody else does your sound, the end result isn’t always good.”

Having been gigging the Midwest, The Surahoolies have found their venues just as diverse as the crowds that come to hear them. One such case occurred when the group followed an X-rated comedian.

“For some reason the audience just didn’t seem in the mood for music,” Hasbrouck joked.

But the flavorful, rhythmic groove of the Surahoolies is enough to put anyone in the mood, for a toe-tappin’ great time, that is.

You can catch the sextet made up of Hasbrouck, Heying, Deb Pflipson on accordion, flute, piccolo and percussion; Marty Wolfe playing the congas and various percussion instruments; Jim Bjorklun on violin, lead and rhythm guitar and J Ellington manning the bass tonight at People’s when they open for Punkinhead.

Showtime is 9:30 p.m. and priced at $3. An ID is required.