In June 2009, during their performance at the Rock am Ring festival, Placebo was riding high on the release of their album "Battle for the Sun," which came out in June 2009. This record marked a significant point in their career as it was their first album since the return of drummer Steve Hewitt's replacement, and it indicated a new direction for the band. The live recording of "Special Needs," a track from their earlier album "Sleeping with Ghosts" (2003), showcases the band's characteristic blend of alternative rock and emotional lyrics, highlighting their ability to engage the audience with powerful performances. By this time, Placebo had cultivated a dedicated fan base in Europe and were recognized for their theatrical stage presence and Brian Molko's distinctive voice, both of which were evident in their performance at this prominent festival.