Whipping Boy emerged from the Dublin, Ireland music scene in the late 1980s, quickly distinguishing themselves as a band unafraid to mine the darker territories of the human experience with their lyrically intense and sonically expansive alternative rock sound. The core of the band during its most critically lauded period consisted of Fearghal McKee (vocals), Paul Page (guitar), Myles McDonnell (bass), and Colm Hassett (drums), whose chemistry enabled them to craft music that resonated on both emotional and intellectual levels. They initially caught the attention of both the public and critics with the release of their debut album, "Submarine," which showcased their distinct blend of aggression and melancholy.

However, it was their 1995 release, "Heartworm," that would become their magnum opus, earning them critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. Despite its limited commercial success at the time, "Heartworm" has since been recognized as a seminal work in the alternative rock genre, noted for its lyrical depth, sweeping emotional landscapes, and the band's ability to combine melody with dissonance in a manner that was ahead of its time. Following "Heartworm," the band experienced internal struggles and the changing tides of the music industry, leading to less frequent releases. However, the legacy of Whipping Boy - particularly that of "Heartworm," which has seen expanded re-releases - endures, with the album and the band now celebrated as influential underdogs in the story of '90s alternative rock.