Singer-songwriter Paula Frazer formed the alt-country outfit Tarnation in 1992. Though based in San Francisco, the group was signed to the British 4AD label, and their moody take on country music was heavily informed by that label's signature sparse, echo-laden sound. Frazer was the band's sole constant member on their three albums, 1993's I'LL GIVE YOU SOMETHING TO CRY ABOUT, 1995's GENTLE CREATURES, and 1997's MIRADOR. Frazer retired the name after that release, continuing as a solo artist.