After releasing 2007's Hello, Avalanche, an engaging album that netted praise from Rolling Stone, The Village Voice, Wired, Pitchfork, Stereogum and a zillion blogs, The Octopus Project settled into a relentless touring schedule that took the band to nine countries and a handful of major music festivals. As the band members added thousands of miles to their odometer, long drives soundtracked by minimal classic composers Terry Riley and Steve Reich led to thoughts about how to expand the scope of their own endeavors. Already known for concise blasts of experimental pop and energetic stage shows, The Octopus Project wanted to create a deeper sound, a more enveloping experience.