Hobotalk, a Scottish alternative rock band, was formed in the late 1990s by singer-songwriter Marc Pilley. The group signed to Hut Records in 1998 and released their debut EP Pictures of Romance in 1999, which received positive critical response for its heartfelt sound rooted in American-style folk. Their first album, Beauty in Madness, was released in 2000 and was shortlisted for the Mercury Prize. Despite critical acclaim, the album had limited commercial success. In 2005, Hobotalk released their second album, Notes on Sunset. The band's lineup evolved over time, with notable members including Ali Petrie on keys and Klive Smith on guitar. Subsequent albums include Homesick for Nowhere in 2007 and Alone Again Or in 2008.