On September 16, 2011, Bright Eyes performed live at the Austin City Limits Festival, showcasing their distinctive blend of indie rock and folk. At this time, the band had recently released their album "The People’s Key" in February 2011, marking their first full-length studio album since "Cassadaga" in 2007. This performance was significant as it represented a resurgence for Bright Eyes, highlighting frontman Conor Oberst's evolution as an artist and his ability to connect deeply with audiences. Notably, "The People’s Key" includes themes of existentialism and personal reflection, mirroring the emotional depth found in their live performances. The ACL Fest appearance was also part of a larger effort by the band to promote the album, and it showcased the band’s dynamic stage presence, which has garnered them a dedicated fanbase over the years.