No, it’s OK. You can keep it.

I’m still in awe from a performance that, 1. Happened four hours ago and, 2. Was not by Our Lady Peace. As I stood waiting for a group I had intended to see, a simple band calling themselves Company of Thieves warmed up the crowd as well as my heart.

With Genevieve Schatz on vocals, Marc Walloch on guitar, Mike Ortiz slamming the drums, Mike Miamone with the keyboard, and Bob Buckstaff slappin’ da bass, I was moved by how live performers should truly entertain a crowd. It isn’t very often that I wish for more from the opening band after they walk off the stage mainly due to the perfection of their artistic value. So, Genevieve and the gang, if you’re reading this… thank you!

Reigning from the beautiful city of Chicago, Company of Thieves proved to at least me that THEY should have been the ones headlining the show. These guys are cruising around the country promoting their first complete album titled “Ordinary Riches.” The sound provided is comparative to a mix of Sarah Bareilles, Ingrid Michaelson, Regina Spektor and AG Silver… I think. It’s pretty difficult to really compare them to other bands. All I know is that Company of Thieves is within my top favorite performers of all time. They made my night and I want you to at least have a listen to their music online. It depresses me that you will not be able to experience what I did tonight unless you catch them at a show in the future because their CD does not do them justice. Though it is a great album, having them on a stage would be my first choice. Seeing Genevieve lose herself in a river of ecstasy that was their music was really something else.

To those who know me, yes. I have indeed fallen in love with Genevieve. It is only an understatement when I say that she is a stellar performer as well as Mark, Mike (squared), and Bob.

For more info and/or a taste of their music babies, click here for their official site and here for their Myspace music page.

Written by Chris Spofford