Laguardia

The origins of Laguardia trace back to Philadelphia in 2000. Bassist Michael Morpurgo (ex-Dandelion) and vocalist Joshua Ostrander, both then active in Ty Cobb, initiated side work with guitarist Lee Bernstein. Drummer Greg Lyons of Trip 66 completed the configuration, after which Laguardia operated on a full-time basis. Shows in Philadelphia and New York City followed, along with support dates for national acts such as the Brian Jonestown Massacre, while the group refined its Radiohead-friendly mix of modern rock accessibility and angular indie dynamics. Following dalliances with a few major labels, Laguardia settled on Republic/Universal and began recording its debut with expert helmer Brad Wood. Welcome to the Middle appeared in September 2003, and was supported by tours with the French Kicks and the Fire Theft.