The San Francisco-based duo of Boy in Static began when a three-song demo caught the attention of the Notwist's Markus Acher, who signed the band to his new label Alien Transistor. The debut album Newborn (2004) soon arrived, characterized by dead-of night recording sessions, lush string arrangements, thunderous synths, and yearning vocals. In 2005, Boy in Static was introduced as a live band to worldwide audiences, supporting 13 & God (Anticon) on their US and European tours, and earning a positive review from the New York Times along the way. 2006 saw the completion of sophomore album Violet (Mush Records). Showcasing a floor-stomping dynamic stage show of Chen's viola and Ross's live electronic drumming, Boy in Static embarked on a tour of Japan with Lymbyc Systym, and two US tours. A third album, entitled Candy Cigarette, is set for release in April 2009 (Fake Four Inc & Circle Into Square). The album marks a shift in direction for Boy in Static, and also features guest contributions from Marc Bianchi (Her Space Holiday), Liz Enthusiasm (Freezepop), and Ulrich Schnauss.