Pasadena orogeny over is caused by the collision of the North American Plate with other geologic structures that are attached to the Pacific Plate. This orogeny has resulted in the uplift of mostly north-south trending mountain chains, although some east-west trending uplifts are also found such as the Channel Islands and the Transverse Ranges; much of the uplift took place at the edge of basins. The Pasadena orogeny is accompanied by earthquake activity, which includes tsunami hazards. Folding accompanying the uplift of the Coast Ranges in Southern California, folding farther north at Morro Bay and the structure of the Santa Barbara Basin
What to Do When You Are Dead music and lyrics into the record's concept. The booklet was created by Rob Dobi, with art direction from Jorgensen and Asterik Studio, which also designed the booklet. Dave Hill contributed photography. "Spin" writer Will Hermes noted the album booklet's Hipgnosis-styled layout as being "an important part" of the album. Jorgensen revealed that one of the reasons Armor for Sleep signed to Equal Vision was the label's inclination to satisfy the group's creative vision. On November 11, 2004, "What to Do When You Are Dead" was announced for release and a rough mix of "Car Underwater" was made available for streaming.