In August 1999, during the time of the live recording at the Bizarre Festival in Cologne, Mercury Rev was continuing to build on the success of their acclaimed album "Deserter's Songs," which was released in 1998. This album marked a significant evolution in the band's sound, showcasing a blend of lush orchestration and introspective melodies that gained them wider recognition and critical acclaim. The performance recorded in Cologne exemplifies the height of this artistic phase, showcasing their experimental style and theatrical stage presence, which resonated with fans. Notably, "Deserter's Songs" included standout tracks like "Holes" and "Goddess on a Hiway," which were essential parts of their live set during this period. This recording is a vital piece that captures the band's energy during a transformative era, right before they would later move towards more expansive and varied musical explorations with subsequent albums.