In 2017, Hot Water Music vocalist/guitarist Chris Wollard stepped away from playing live with the band in order to focus on his mental health. While the other members - Chuck Ragan (vocals/guitar), Jason Black (bass) and George Rebelo (drums) - understood and supported his decision, it did nevertheless bring the future of the band into question. After a chance encounter between Rebelo and The Flatliners' Chris Cresswell, Cresswell ended up stepping into Wollard's shoes for a performance at The Fest that year, which would eventually lead to him becoming a permanent member (with Wollard continuing to record with the band).