The album was influenced by the death of Naess's father, Arne Næss, Jr., in a mountaineering accident in January 2004.

Naess returned to London from New York City and eventually began writing and recording songs with music producer Samuel Dixon.

Naess recorded with almost no budget, asking friends to contribute, and completed the album 'Thirteen' worth of material.

Described as "a sweet and poignant collection" by New York magazine, much of the album deals with the onset of maturity.

[12] A digital download of the album available on the iTunes Store includes a bonus track featuring singer-songwriter Ryan Adams; an exclusive edition available through retailer Barnes & Noble includes two bonus tracks.