The Morning Benders, an indie rock band hailing from Berkeley, California, emerged in the mid-2000s with a warm, melodic sound that captivated the indie music scene. The band was formed by frontman Christopher Chu along with Julian Harmon, Tim Or, and Joseph Ferrell, who later was replaced by Jon Chu. They made a splash with their debut album "Talking Through Tin Cans" in 2008, which established their presence and garnered them the title of "Best Indie/Alternative Album of the Year" by iTunes.

Their sound matured and gained complexity with the release of their second album, "Big Echo," in 2010, a critically acclaimed work co-produced by Grizzly Bear's Chris Taylor. The album's lush production and sophisticated songwriting helped expand their following and solidified their reputation in the indie music community. Despite releasing hit EPs such as "Grain Of Salt" and singles like "Promises" and "Dammit Anna," the band underwent a significant transformation in 2011. Changing their name to POP ETC was a watershed moment for the band, marking a departure from their indie rock roots toward a more synthesized, pop-oriented sound, reflecting their evolution and desire for artistic reinvention.