Following the unexpected popularity of the band's cover of Joy Division's "Love Will Tear Us Apart," the band signed to Uni Records, owned by MCA Inc. (now Universal Music). Due to Uni's insistence, Swans leader Michael Gira co-produced the album with bass guitarist Bill Laswell.
Following their surprise success with a cover of Joy Division's "Love Will Tear Us Apart," the band landed a record deal with Uni Records, which was part of MCA Inc. (now Universal Music). As a result of Uni's pressure, Swans leader Michael Gira worked alongside bassist Bill Laswell to co-produce the album.