The riot grrrl-inspired quartet began playing together in 2001, but Fitzgerald's move to San Francisco put things on hold until 2002. From there, they christened themselves the Vibration and began writing songs. Debut EP Ear to the Ground was an autobiographical tale of their experiences as a band; the independent release sold out in the U.S. and was reissued on the U.K. label Sink and Stove in 2004. The Vibration also recorded "Sweet Oil" for a split 7" with Mirah for Third Story Records that same year. Amarilla marked the Vibration's full-length debut in summer 2005, with shows alongside the Decemberists, Rilo Kiley, Mirah, Tilly and the Wall, and We Ragazzi following until the year's end. ~ MacKenzie Wilson