In 2001 Pearson began making a series of self-produced home recordings on a four-track portastudio, citing Bruce Springsteen, Elliott Smith and Ryan Adams as key songwriting influences.
By 2004, Pearson was again eager to explore a full band sound, and so formed a four-piece rock and roll act called Dakota.
Despite offers from larger record labels, the band split in 2008 after playing support slots with The Pigeon Detectives, The Rifles and One Night Only on tour.
Pearson also formed a power-trio with Leeds musicians Mike Quarry and Dan Newsome in 2008, showcasing a more punk-driven alternative rock sound.
Australian national radio station Triple J gave Satellites airplay and the album picked up a series of positive reviews from press in these territories.
[4] Pearson played select live shows in England to support the album, and also toured with Michael Kiwanuka, Willy Mason, Chris Helme and Mark Morriss during 2011/2012.
Live dates in the USA also promoted the album, with Pearson playing shows in Knoxville, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Memphis, Nashville, New York and Washington.