Even in Blackouts have been lauded by critics and fans alike for their musicianship and sense of innovation in bringing pop-punk to a new format.

He decided to create the world's first acoustic pop-punk band, and called it "Even in Blackouts" in reference to their capability to perform without electricity.

Once back in Chicago, Pierson set about recruiting a group of younger musicians to fill out the band, including Eldredge as lead vocalist.

The album was originally released on Pierson's own label, limited to 2,000 copies, and sold exclusively through online independent music store Interpunk.

The album featured covers of Screeching Weasel's "Hey Suburbia," Operation Ivy's "Knowledge" and Yazoo's "Only You".