Binghamton Underground Music Presents, otherwise known as BUMP, is a student organization at Binghamton University that seeks to bring bands and set up local venues for students in the Binghamton area.
According to Shana Elliot, a member of BUMP and a senior double-majoring in environmental studies and philosophy, politics and law, the organization books shows around campus that are free for students.
“A lot of people are looking for good music and shows to come to Binghamton. Especially since Magic City Music Hall shut down, people started going to Ithaca to see shows,” Elliot said. “We are trying to put Binghamton on the map and have good music here.”
Funded through the Student Association Programming Board (SAPB), BUMP members look to book bands that they are interested in, but they also scan their Facebook page for ideas from students who comment.
To book shows, the members of BUMP send out e-mails to bands they are interested in, deciding which ones to bring to the University based on the prices and the group’s budget.
According to Elliot, the group has spent anywhere from $500 to $2,000 on an event, but the costs of the bands are often negotiable.
Aaron Cohn, SA vice president for programming, is very supportive of BUMP, Elliot said.
“We consult [Cohn], he approves everything, makes sure the bands get paid, and everything has to be run through him,” she said.
Shows are set up primarily in the New University Union. Though they are not affiliated with Late Nite, BUMP has occasionally been featured at Late Nite events.
“We’ve done one show through Late Nite and it was pretty successful this semester. We are going to do two or three more shows with Late Nite and Underground,” Elliot said.
Also according to Elliot, BUMP has booked local bands to open for bigger names, giving the opening bands larger crowds than they are used to.
According to Rachel Casey, the president of BUMP and a junior majoring in cinema, the group usually selects indie folk bands for their shows, but is attempting to expand.
“We get a lot of real venues, not just college groups,” she said. “We have stuff in the works; right now we are trying to put together a ska show and bring bands from upstate New York.”
Elliot listed the Raincoat Company, Secret Beach and The Tins as previous bands that have played through BUMP. More up-and-coming bands include Via Audio, who performed through BUMP Sunday.
According to Elliot, BUMP has lately seen over 100 students attending concerts created through its venues. Their largest show was with the band Gregory and the Hawk, where there were approximately 250 attendees.
Their next planned event will be with River City Extension on Feb. 26, through Late Nite and the Undergrounds.
Currently comprised of 10 members, BUMP holds meetings in the Old University Union lobby at 3 p.m. on Fridays. Students are also encouraged to contact BUMP through the group’s Facebook page.
-Melissa Bykofsky contributed to this report.