In January 1998, Neutral Milk Hotel was still riding the wave of their critically acclaimed album "In the Aeroplane Over the Sea," which was released in February of the same year. This album, characterized by its lo-fi aesthetic and profound lyrical content, has since become a seminal work in the indie rock genre. The performance of "Oh Comely" at the Knitting Factory highlights the band's unique sound and emotional intensity, elements that were being developed during the live shows surrounding the album’s launch. One interesting fact is that "In the Aeroplane Over the Sea" has often been interpreted as a narrative infused with themes of love, loss, and the impact of the Anne Frank story, which reflects the band's distinctive approach to songwriting. This period marked a pivotal moment for Neutral Milk Hotel, as they were transitioning from a relatively unknown band to cult icons within the indie music community.