Hailing from Phoenix, AZ, Dear and the Headlights is an indie rock band formed in 2005 by Ian Metzger, Joel Marquard, PJ Waxman, Chuckie Duff, and Mark Kulvinskas. The group initially started without a rhythm section but later reformed with Duff on bass and Kulvinskas on drums. They quickly gained popularity, opening for bands like The Bravery, Matt Pond PA, and Idlewild, and signed with Equal Vision Records in November 2006. Their debut album "Small Steps, Heavy Hooves" was released in February 2007, followed by "Drunk Like the Bible Times" in September 2008, expanding their fanbase with tours alongside Jimmy Eat World and Paramore. Dear and the Headlights' music resonated with a growing audience, showcasing their unique sound and energetic live performances.