By merging a reverb energy using the customs of obscure 60s surf-punk, the Hypnotic IV proclaimed the brand audio of hypnofonic. While it began with Sacramento, California, the four-piece of Jay Lemen (acoustic guitar), Mike Clark (bass), Tony Cale (drums) and Andy Vaughan (acoustic guitar) first met up in 1997 without the usage of a vocalist. Upon their debut EP Hypnotica! released in 1999, the addition of 16mm movies were showcased to their live set.