On the record, Browne employs a folk music sound that is informed by rock, pop, and classical elements, with baroque-inspired arrangements.

[2] Prior to his solo career, Browne was a member of the folk rock band Lorel, which was signed to Immediate Records.

Andrew Oldham, who was impressed by Browne's arrangement work for other Immediate Records acts, wanted a solo album from him.

[2] Despite its commercial failure, the album was received positively and gained attention, particularly from musicians from the respective music scenes at the time of its release.

[4] Over the decades following its release, the album drew comparisons to the works of Paul McCartney, the Moody Blues, Van Morrison and Nick Drake.