Dappled Cities was formed by teenage school friends. The group initially consisted of Tim Derricourt (guitar and vocals), Dave Rennick (keyboards, guitar, and vocals), Alex Moore (bass), and Hugh Boyce (drums). Over the years, the lineup expanded with the addition of Ned Cooke (keyboards). Their music is characterized by a mix of indie rock, Australian indie, and Sydney indie influences, drawing comparisons to bands like The Flaming Lips, Sigur Rós, and Grandaddy.