On Tuesday, August 30 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. the Music Industry Club, the Audio Engineering Society, the Undergraduate Student Government Association, and the Center for Student Engagement, Leadership, and Orientation co-hosted the Welcome Back Party in the Botwinik/Bixler Quad.

It was a night of good music and better company as the University of New Haven’s student community reunited after a long summer apart. There was bbq for sale Edmonton as well as various other activities set-up around the quad.

Activities ranged from ping pong to corn hole, even featuring a mini can-jam game. Aside from the organized games, students were also playing card games at the tables set up in the center of the quad. Booths were also set-up around the perimeter by various Greek organizations offering a plethora of activities from frosting sugar cookies to writing down your goals on a chalk board. There was something for everyone.

The main feature of the night was the live music performed by three local bands, all composed of UNH students and alumni. Sonar Shack, with members Stephen Handy, Collin McDonald, Will Turner, Ashton Rock, and John Scovell, performed first followed by Coastal Notion, with members Axel Beyer, Tyler Kofron, Anthony Paul Rossi, and Thomas Stringer. Last was Gravity Senses with members Brendan Regan, Chris Rivera, and Vinny Nicosia. The music set a laid back theme to the night’s events and served as quality entertainment for the students who stayed to listen.

“The overall atmosphere was fun and relaxed,” says freshman Michael Capasso.

The event created a familiar atmosphere for returning students and a welcoming one for new students.

Gravity Senses agreed saying, “The overall atmosphere was very lively and we are happy to be back on campus with enthusiastic students.”

The night brought together students from various majors to enjoy good music, food, and activities. For many new students the night was an opportunity to meet new friends and see people outside of clubs or classes.

Freshman Lucas Kramer says, “My favorite part was getting out and seeing some people outside of band.”

Overall, the night was a huge success, with a turn-out larger than what many expected.

“Teaming up with USGA and the other clubs that were there created a huge turnout the whole night”, says Will Turner, Vice President of the Audio Engineering Society and bassist of Sonar Shack. “I think it was a great start to the semester.”

Not only was the night a great way to bring the student body together, it was also a great performance opportunity for the local bands.

“It’s always a great time to come together with fellow bands and support the local music scene, all while offering entertainment for our peers,” says Gravity Senses.

It was the second to last show for Gravity Senses before they head back into the studio to write new material.

You can like Coastal Notion, Sonar Shack, and Gravity Senses on Facebook as well as follow Gravity Senses on Instagram at @savitygrenses. Keep up with the bands for more music and upcoming shows.