If you're in Illinois, you owe it to yourself to make a pilgrimage to Iwan Ries.
That said, I agree with tradition that Carter Hall and the newish Amphora pouch line are a decent place to start.
Don't smoke the OTC that olkofri has tried, as they apparently suck. There should be some that he hasn't tried, though...
C&D has a great number of blends in bulk that could keep a new smoker entertained for a while. Those
are OTC if you go to the right counter, aka your local B&M tobacconist.
Welcome to the forum!