According to Indie-Music.com, "'Accountant-Turned-Piano-Man' Mike Maimone comes on strong with his debut album, Open Mic Night, Empty Bottle Mornings. Maimone's unique blend of bluesy piano rock is frenetic and enthralling, as he pounds the keys with unparalleled energy. His voice is harsh, smoky, and distinctly his own, with a raw sound that is captivating." While Maimone wrote and produced the 11-track album in addition to his keyboards and vocals, Chicago musicians Darren Garvey and Brian Aiken played drums and bass, respectively. It was recorded and mixed at the IV Lab by Manny Sanchez (Zwan, The Hush Sound, Umphrey's McGee), and released in September 2008. Maimone performs frequently both as a soloist and with his band - featuring a rotating rhythm section of well-known Chicago musicians. In early 2009 Maimone also began playing keyboards with the Chicago band Company of Thieves, signed to Wind-Up Records. Maimone performed with the band on "Last Call" with Carson Daly in January, followed by a nationwide CD release tour for its debut, "Ordinary Riches."