In 2009, Halperin placed The Capitol Years on hiatus and began operating as "Sweet Lights", a project that would feature him performing all vocals and all instrumentation.

Early versions of Sweet Lights tracks were posted online in 2010, soon to be accompanied by a handful of videos Halperin created, mostly from borrowed footage and old home movies.

In late 2011, Highline Records signed the band and began work on the official release.

In March, 2012, Sweet Lights released his debut single, "Endless Town" on Highline Records.

As was the case during The Capitol Years, Halperin regularly performed alongside Daniel Johnston, accompanying on guitar.