When it came time for the Dodos to begin writing their fifth LP, Carrier, singer/guitarist Meric Long wanted to start over. The uncertainty of the band’s trajectory as well as the passing of guitarist Chris Reimer brought about a reassessment of things within the band, and in particular Long’s songwriting. In need of a different vantage point, Long began writing words before music for the first time, enveloping himself in silence rather than sound.