Formed in the UK in 1985, The Wedding Present initially had a bright, post-punk sound, with jangling hooks, fast drums and lovelorn lyrics. Leader David Gedge's low, conversational voice distinguished their sound and John Peel was an early champion, featuring the band on several Peel Sessions. In the 1990s, Gedge shifted the band's direction to a more emotionally raw aesthetic of American indie rock and post-hardcore, working with producers like Nirvana's Steve Albini. After a hiatus and a stint in Cinerama, Gedge returned to The Wedding Present in the 21st century.