Inspired by '80s new wave, '90s indie, and a healthy dose of D.I.Y. feminism, Darlington, England's We Start Fires formed when vocalist/guitarist Becky's previous group, Venus in Furs, disbanded and she began playing with keyboardist/vocalist Melissa. Once the pair connected with bassist/vocalist Nikki and drummer Ashley, they became a full-fledged band. We Start Fires first made a splash in 2002, releasing their debut EP, How to Be a Lady, on their own Head Girl label and performing frequently, including dates at that year's ~Ladyfest London. The band continued to play and record, and in 2004, their first full-length, Caught Redhanded, arrived.