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After the experimental rock group Test Icicles disbanded in 2006, Devonte Hynes launched Lightspeed Champion as his own folk-driven project. The new venture allowed him to focus on his love for pop melodies, a fondness that began with Hynes' childhood love of Broadway musicals and, years later, helped sweeten Test Icicles' spastic sound. After writing a batch of new material, Hynes flew to Nebraska to collaborate with Saddle Creek's resident producer, Mike Mogis. Backed by an informal band that included members of Cursive, Tilly and the Wall, and the Faint, he recorded a number of rootsy, semi-acoustic songs, several of which were later released on the Galaxy of the Lost and Tell Me What It's Worth compilations. Lightspeed Champion spent the latter half of 2007 on tour, first as an opening act for Bright Eyes and then as a headlining band. As he headed overseas in early 2008 for a European run, the debut album Falling Off the Lavender Bridge was released internationally and began ear...