Drummer Ryan O'Connor and bassist Joe Lussa formed the core of punk-pop/emo hybridists the Audition in their hometown of Chicago in 2003, working with a revolving cast of early members to hone the band's sound and play shows. After recording a demo and playing some gigs with locals like the Academy Is..., the Audition caught the ear of Victory Records, and Controversy Loves Company, their full-length debut for the label, appeared in September 2005. By that point the band's lineup included O'Connor, Lussa, guitarists Seth Johnson and Timmy Klepek, and vocalist Danny Stevens. ~ Johnny Loftus, All Music Guide