Ska-punks the Pilfers emerged from the remnants of a series of noted New York City bands -- frontman Coolie Ranx served with the Toasters, trombonist Vinny Nobile tenured with Bim Skala Bim, guitarist Nick Bacon was a member of the Erratics, and bassist Anna Milat-Meyer and drummer James Blanck previously teamed in Skinnerbox. Formed in 1997 following Ranx's exit from the Toasters, the Pilfers built a loyal fanbase on the strength of a seemingly endless tour schedule including stints opening for the likes of Bad Brains, the Specials, Madness and the Mighty Mighty Bosstones, selling over 10,000 copies of their self-released eponymous 1998 debut at live shows and on the internet. Signing to Mojo Records, the Pilfers released Chawalaleng in 1999. ~ Jason Ankeny