Jimmy Eat World formed in Mesa, Arizona in 1993. They are associated with an array of genres, including alternative rock, indie rock and pop punk. Singer/guitarist Jim Adkins and drummer Zach Lind, who had been friends since kindergarten, joined forces with guitarist Tom Linton and bass player Mitch Porter to try their hand at music. In its early years, the band emulated the style of their punk rock influences, eventually recording and releasing three singles and a full-length on local label Wooden Blue Records.

In 1995, the band signed to Capitol Records. Around this time, bass player Mitch parted ways with the band and was replaced by Lintons friend Rick Burch. After a brief scouting for producers, the band joined up with Drive Like Jehu drummer Mark Trombino to record their debut album Static Prevails.