In 1992, during their performance at the Reading Festival, Pavement was riding high on the success of their debut album, "Slanted and Enchanted," which had been released earlier that year. This album marked a significant moment in the indie rock scene, capturing the attention of critics and fans alike for its lo-fi sound and innovative songwriting. The performance of "In the Mouth a Desert" at that iconic festival showcased the band’s raw energy and laid-back style, traits that helped solidify their reputation as a defining act of the 1990s indie movement. Notably, their relatively small-scale success compared to mainstream acts of the time allowed them to cultivate a loyal fanbase that appreciated their anti-commercial ethos. This appearance at the Reading Festival also contributed to the band's growing prominence in the alternative music landscape, paving the way for future albums and their eventual cult status.