From late 2009 to 2011 the band was in hiatus as both members undertook new projects and concentrated on their private lives. Pappalardo formed an alt-country backing group, the Wayward Gentlemen consisting of Palmer on keyboards, mandolin, violin and harmonica; Aaron Millard on drums and percussion; Lincoln Retallack on bass guitar; and Rob Sherwood on electric and slide guitars. She released her debut solo album, "The Lifeboat" (September 2009), on Plus One Records. Laura Bethall of "Maverick Magazine" noted that Pappalardo is "direct and powerful in her approach, her songs strong and captivating" providing a "eautiful collection of rock-inspired country". It includes her cover version of "Little Boxes" which was used – as well as the original and numerous other versions – on US TV series, "Weeds".