The Hilltops, headquartered in Oxford, Mississippi, functioned as an early incarnation for both Blue Mountain and the solo endeavors of John Stirratt, known for his work with Wilco, Uncle Tupelo, and the Autumn Defense. During the closing years of the 1980s, this ensemble ranked among the top and most favored acts across the North Mississippi and Memphis area, seamlessly blending country, roots rock, and punk elements in a manner reminiscent of the Replacements had they originated in the South. These contrasting yet cohesive musical components stood out particularly through John Stirratt's inclination toward punk sensibilities, in contrast to co-leader Cary Hudson's compositions, which leaned more toward rural themes with stronger country leanings while maintaining equal rock energy. In 1989, the group put out Holler as a cassette release, followed two years afterward by Big Black River appearing on compact disc, an album that Hudson's relative would eventually issue again through the Black Dog Records imprint. Following the group's dissolution, Hudson teamed up with guitarist Laurie Stirratt—John's sibling and by then his spouse—and relocated to Los Angeles to establish Blue Mountain, prior to their return to Mississippi. Meanwhile, John Stirratt captured a full set of recordings destined for later release under the Gimmecaps name and subsequently became a member of Uncle Tupelo before transitioning to Wilco.
