
The album had a difficult conception, with the band
reportedly nearly splitting when a writing session in Portugal coincided with a
period of serious illness for Steve Hogarth’s partner and son, meaning the
vocalist was unable to contribute. After some time off from writing, they
recommenced at Peter Gabriel’s Real World studios where the writing was
unforced, and the songs started to flow. However, the delay to recording
eventually resulting in the band compiling the later additions while on their
US tour for the album – hardly ideal.