Kick off your shoes and dance in the grass to the rhythm of Sporty James? tunes as they launch the spring series of outdoor “Nooner” concerts. UNIQUE Programs will bring this band?s acoustic pop sound fused with a funky rhythm sound to Sacramento State University March 20.

The band is named after pimp Sporty James, on whom 1980s television detective “Hunter” relied on as a snitch whenever he needed the 411 on some neighborhood crook. Band members Steven Miller, Steve Del Rio and Brian Flint credit their unique sound to the fusion of their musical styles.

Expect the show to have a high-energy eclectic blend of acoustic pop, rock, funk and jazz influence along the lines of Dave Matthews or Train. The tunes will have you “boogying down,” as Sporty James would say, and hopefully will be accompanied by warm afternoon sun.

Miller started the band with Del Rio in 2000, performing at open mics around Sacramento trying to put together a band while Flint, who joined the band in May 2001, and Del Rio both played in a number of bands prior to the birth of Sporty James.

Unique Programs? Student Board is responsible from researching Sacramento?s local talent at clubs, coffeehouses and open mics. They find the up and coming acts, “acts that have some life to them,” said Bill Olmstead, UNIQUE coordinator, and “acts that bring diversity to the campus so we?re not hearing the same thing each week.”

If you enjoy the show and want to see more check them out at the True Love Coffeehouse (all ages), March 21 (2406 J St.) at 9 p.m. for $5 or wait until March 28 (only if you are 21 and over) and go to Old Ironsides (1901 10th Street.