Taking time out in 2012 from his other band, Richmond Fontaine, to focus on his successful writing career, Willy Vlautin also found time to write new material inspired by Austin-based singer Amy Boone. Bringing on board fellow RF member Sean Oldham on drums, the Decemberists' Jenny Conlee on keys, and Tucker Jackson on pedal steel, Vlautin created the Delines around Boone's tough but haunting and vulnerable vocal style. The group headed to Portland, Oregon with producer John Askew to record what would become the band's debut album, Colfax, released at the beginning of 2014. Following the release of the album, the group embarked on a European tour that same year. ~ Rich Wilson