Chicago's Company of Thieves

The third installment of the local music blitz comes with an interesting twist. Its not everyday that one comes across a band directed by a friend whose uncle manages the band, attends some local shows, and buys one of their CDs. Only when he looks through the CD insert does he realize one of the group members used to play guitar alongside him back in middle school. Oh yes, that's exactly what happened. I went to elementary and middle school with Marc Walloch, Company of Thieves' guitarist. He was friends with my sister and even played at her graduation party at my house back when I was in 6th grade.

Not much changed, apparently. Marc continued to pursue his talents (he was pretty damn good at guitar back then, too) and I'm glad he's finally making it big. Yes, the same guitar I mentioned before appeared on national television in their debut on Last Call with Carson Daly.

Company of Thieves is a breezy pop band with an awesome lead singer, Genevieve Schatz. Listening to her hit some of the extended notes evokes chills. Currently they are on a national tour for their latest release Ordinary Riches. Its a rockin' solid album and is getting airplay everywhere from alternative/rock stations, to MTV and Adult Swim led by lead single "Oscar Wilde." The production is flawless, as expected from working with producer Sean O'Keefe (Fall Out Boy, The Hush Sound, Motion City Soundtrack, Plain White T's.) The best touch of the record, though, has to be the harmonica on "Quiet on the Front," although runner-up in this category goes to "Under the Umbrella" in its entirety.

As surprised as I was to find out I knew one third of the band from a decade away, it didn't surprise me at all that this is what has come out of Marc's musical talents. Ordinary Riches is a definite must have for this year, it has even hit #5 on the Billboard Top Heatseekers and #162 on the Billboard 200. Keep a look out for their tour. Information is available on their website. A Chicago show is scheduled May 22nd at the Bottom Lounge. Tickets are $10 and its an all ages show!

Company of Thieves is Genevieve Schatz, Marc Walloch, and Mike Ortiz.

Company of Thieves - Oscar Wilde

Company of Thieves - Under the Umbrella