Straitjacket Fits emerged from the vibrant music scene of Dunedin, New Zealand, in the late 1980s and quickly became one of the most influential and critically acclaimed bands of the country's "Dunedin Sound" movement. Formed in 1986, the band was initially composed of Shayne Carter (vocalist/guitarist), John Collie (drummer), David Wood (bassist), and Andrew Brough (guitarist/vocalist). Their music was characterized by a dynamic blend of jangling guitars, melodic pop sensibilities, and a hint of psychedelia, setting them apart with their powerful and emotive live performances.

Straitjacket Fits released their debut album, "Hail," in 1988 to great acclaim, both locally and internationally, showcasing their distinctive sound that managed to be both raw and atmospheric. The band's reputation continued to grow with the release of several more albums, including "Melt" and "Blow," before they eventually disbanded in 1994. After their split, the band's influence endured, and their work continued to be celebrated; this included the 2020 reissue of "Hail," which introduced their music to a new generation and reaffirmed their status as a seminal force in New Zealand's musical heritage. Despite a brief reunion in the early 2000s, Straitjacket Fits has remained a fondly remembered name in the annals of alternative rock, with the band's legacy making an indelible impact on the genre.