The Ardennes formed out of the ashes of DC all-girl quartet Federal City 5, when Coburn Dukehart and Tina Plottel decided they didn't want to stop the rock. Coburn recruited old friend and fellow University of Wisconsinite Chris Ketcham to play guitar and Tina switched over to bass (though she still maintains a tight relationship with her Rickenbacker). Their songs have been tapped for a nostalgic, Teen Beat sound with elements of Wire (with and without the E) the Feelies, and the Wedding Present.