(We are) Performance met in Manchester, England, while all three members attended university. The band members are Joe Stetch (Singer), Laura Marsden (Guitar) and Joe Cross (Drums). Laura's sister Hilary Marsden was a brief member of the band before leaving after the release of their debut album. After being dropped by their first record label, the band were asked by their new label to change their name, (then, Performance) to get away from the negativity of the band, and (We Are) Performance was born out of it.