Though the journey was not without its challenges, Chicago's The Walters have reunited for their debut LP ‘Good Company,’ a heartfelt record that captures their love for each other and reflects on the experiences they've encountered along the way.
Stream: ‘Good Company’ – The Walters
Change is a familiar concept for indie pop quartet The Walters.
The band has experienced breakups, reunions, and has now released their long-anticipated debut full-length album, Good Company. Their path has been one of evolution—managing personal and professional shifts while discovering how to grow both as individuals and as a group. Over ten years since they first debuted, The Walters return, stronger than ever, sharing an album that holds significant meaning for them as well as for their fans.
“Good Company is the album we’ve always aimed to create—a reflection of our journey, our friendships, and the highs and lows we encountered,” The Walters, consisting of singer/guitarist Luke Olson, guitarist Walter Kosner, bassist Danny Wells, and drummer Charlie Ekhaus, express.
“We grew up with albums; they’ve shaped us both as people and as musicians. While albums might not carry the same significance in today's music scene, they remain the most authentic representation of an artist and their era.”
Following the release of their viral single “I Love You So” in 2014, The Walters garnered nationwide interest from music fans. With such a swift rise in popularity from local favorites to a recognized band, they faced overwhelming pressure. Juggling these changes, along with touring and personal lives, ultimately took its toll, leading to the band’s breakup shortly after their performance at Lollapalooza in 2017.
“There was a lot of immaturity on our part, failing to recognize our upward trajectory and the success we were experiencing,” Olson reflects. “We just fell apart.”
However, the story of The Walters did not conclude there.
In 2021, seven years after its initial release, “I Love You So” unexpectedly went viral on TikTok—introducing The Walters to a new generation of listeners. This resurgence sparked discussions among the band members, revealing that their music still resonated with audiences, despite their hiatus.
With hits like “I Love You So” and “Sweet Marie,” The Walters recognized the impact of their music on society. The unexpected support from fans everywhere encouraged the group to give music another shot.
“There’s no way we could have made this record even a year or two ago,” Walter Kosner shares. “We needed to go through this process to finally reach a point where we could create our best music.”
Olson adds: “We’re in a healthier space now, and creativity is really flowing. Some of my favorite tracks on the album are ones written by the others. Singing them is incredibly exciting.”
As the four of them matured, they discovered what truly matters: their fans, each other, and the music.
Taking a break from music revealed to them that it was an essential part of their lives. This transformative experience brought them back to their origins and to each other. Surrounded by Good Company, one never wants to stray from the side of those they cherish. The Walters are inseparable, a pairing that feels destined. They embrace their rediscovery as a group, propelling their return to music.
The Walters tell Atwood Magazine, “Good Company reflects who we are—whether it’s played in someone’s car during a road trip or discovered in a crate of vinyl decades later. After ten years as a band, we’re proud to finally share our first full-length album.”
Deeply felt and longed for, Good Company represents the reunion fans have anticipated. The Walters didn't merely come back—they returned with intention, crafting a debut that is dreamy, nostalgic, and a rich reflection of their growth. It captures who they have become, the outcome of hard-earned growth and renewed connections. More than a comeback, this record signifies a rebirth: The Walters’ authenticity shines through each track, affirming their voice and vision as a reawakened band.
The Walters are currently on tour with half•alive during the "Persona" tour, with Good Company making its premiere alongside the reintroduction of the beloved band to both longtime fans and new listeners.
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:: stream/purchase Good Company here ::
:: connect with The Walters here ::
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The Walters © Rachel Briggs
A CONVERSATION WITH THE WALTERS
You’ve mentioned that Good Company is the type of record you’ve always wanted to release. What does it feel like to share your first LP, especially one that holds so much significance to you?
Luke Olson: It’s a bucket list achievement for us as a band. We started in 2014 and had a period of breakup. We never managed to create an album we felt was truly an album; it was mostly six
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Although the journey wasn't simple, Chicago's The Walters have reunited on their debut album, 'Good Company,' which is filled with affection for one another and serves as a reminder of the challenges they've encountered.