The Pickpockets are best known for being total dorks. Beyond that, the band is regarded for creating concise songs with innately agreeable melodies and lyrics that are informed by a deep-seated cynicism and a humorously passive-aggressive attitude.

The Pickpockets are inspired by the aesthetics of British and American post-punk and indie bands of the '80's and '90's - - imagine if Paul Westerberg had grown up listening to the Smiths (and the Replacements, if that would have been possible) instead of the Faces and Thin Lizzy, and you get an idea of what the Pickpockets sound like.

The band is made up of: Brian Baseggio (guitar/vocals), Allen Duarte (bass); Kiri Klawitter (vocals/keys); and Shelly Uehara (drums). They have written over an album's worth of material, and you can hear some of it on the No Heart, No Love EP, recorded in the summer of 2004.

Since forming in Chicago in late 2001, they have played at Bar Vertigo, The Big Horse, The Bottom Lounge, Lilly's, Gunther Murphy's, Phyliss' Musical Inn, Martyr's, The Mutiny, Reggie's Music Joint, South Union Arts, Undergound Lounge, and Wise Fools Pub, as well as performed during the Elbo's Room's 12 Bands in 120 Minutes.