Before the live recording at Pitchfork Live, Kurt Vile had released his collaborative album "Lotta Sea Lice" with Australian singer-songwriter Courtney Barnett in 2017. This album featured a blend of their distinctive styles and showcased their shared affinity for relaxed songwriting and sonic experimentation. The live performance of “Sea Lice by the Sea Side” captures the chemistry between Vile and Barnett, reflecting their mutual admiration and artistic camaraderie. Notably, Vile was already recognized for his unique guitar work and lo-fi sound which gained him a significant following within the indie music community. The collaboration not only emphasized their individual talents but also provided a platform for Vile to reach a broader audience, solidifying his position in the contemporary music landscape. This performance exemplifies Vile's versatility as an artist and his ability to merge his sound with that of another distinct voice in music.