This album marks a new turn for Jeff, as he decided to give up the reins and try writing and arranging with a band. Sessions for The Dead Ringers started in early 2000, Jeff brought three songs he had completed to one of their practices, for the other members to critique. The band ended up covering two of the songs and from there, the group began writing new songs for their self-titled debut album. The band continued writing and performing through-out the spring and summer of 2000. Through-out the summer of 2000, they played their new songs at their live shows until they released their debut album in September with huge sales and great reviews. Unfortunately, the success didn't last for the band. Nate left the group on New Year's Eve in 2000 to return to the Navy. Jeff & Christopher formed a new cover band called Aftershock.