Shy Child was born in 2000, shortly after former college friends Pete Cafarella (synths, vocals) and Nate Smith (drums) moved separately to New York City. Pete had cut his teeth recording for avant composer Anthony Braxton as well as becoming an integral member of El Guapo (Dischord Records), and Nate had been playing drums for such revered NYC duo Touchdown. Both Nate and Pete had played together in bands before, and started playing as a synth/drums duo in Nate's bedroom, writing songs that touched upon their fascination with electronic music and their love of progressive rock. They quickly evolved into a strong live act, playing shows with both rock bands and DJ's.