Laguardia began in Philadelphia in 2000. While bassist Michael Morpurgo (ex-Dandelion) and vocalist Joshua Ostrander were playing in Ty Cobb, they began collaborating with guitarist Lee Bernstein on the side. The lineup solidified with the addition of Trip 66 drummer Greg Lyons, and soon Laguardia was a full-time operation. Gigs in both Philly and New York City followed, and the band supported national types like the Brian Jonestown Massacre while honing its Radiohead-friendly mix of modern rock accessibility and angular indie dynamics. After 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. ~ Johnny Loftus