John Roderick, the singer and songwriter, earned early comparisons to an indie counterpart of R.E.M.'s Michael Stipe. His profile as a developing talent with keen observation sharpened during his tenure in Seattle's Western State Hurricanes, and a 2000 world tour alongside Harvey Danger expanded his creative horizons even further. The Long Winters emerged as the direct result of those extensive travels. Issued by Barsuk in spring 2002, his introductory full-length The Worst You Can Do Is Harm drew contributions from associates connected to Built to Spill, the Posies, Harvey Danger, Sunny Day Real Estate, and Death Cab for Cutie. When I Pretend to Fall arrived from the Long Winters the following spring. Tucker Martine, known for work with Eyvind Kang, Wayne Horvitz, and Laura Veirs, helmed the Ultimatum EP that surfaced in fall 2005. Building on a strong appearance at the yearly South by Southwest gathering in spring 2006, Roderick delivered his third indie rock album, Putting the Days to Bed, at the end of July. The release showcased an entirely refreshed Long Winters configuration that incorporated bassist Eric Corson, drummer Nabil Ayers of the Lemons, and guitarist Jonathan Rothman, formerly of Ghost Stories. Domestic performances took place throughout the ensuing autumn.
