Filtering classic British pop songwriting through an eclectic alternative-rock sensibility, the London quintet Bottlefly was founded in 1997 by vocalist Mark Arnell and keyboardist Richie Wermerling. The lineup was rounded out by guitarist Lizzard, bassist Lawrence Addison, and drummer Danny Martin, all former members of a previous Arnell-led band called the Velvet Dogs. Bottlefly's eponymous self-titled debut album was released in 2000, finding the band augmenting their sound with touches of ska, psychedelia, R&B, and electronic dance music.