Recorded following the departure of vocalist, guitarist and primary songwriter Tim Smith, Antiphon is the first album to feature guitarist Eric Pulido on lead vocals, alongside new members Jesse Chandler (keyboards, flute) and Joey McClellan (guitar).

In November 2012, vocalist, guitarist and primary songwriter Tim Smith departed from Midlake, in the midst of recording a fourth studio album.

Following his departure, guitarist and backing vocalist Eric Pulido occupied his vacated role, noting, "We understood this band couldn’t offer Tim what he wanted... that he needed to do his own thing.

"[5] The remaining members opted to start anew, recording Antiphon in six months.

The original Antiphon was an orator in Ancient Greece who was part of an oligarchy that fought democracy.