The Used’s second studio album, In Love and Death (2004), stands as their most impactful and commercially successful release. The album’s raw emotion is underscored by the personal tragedy that unfolded during its creation, most notably the death of lead singer Bert McCracken’s girlfriend, which deeply influenced its tone and lyrics. The tension within the band—clashes between members and disagreements with their producer over the album's direction—only added to the intensity and catharsis captured in the music. In Love and Death balances the band's signature emocore sound with more experimental elements, such as piano-driven tracks that showcase each member's varied musical tastes. Despite the internal struggles, the album resonated with fans, peaking at number 6 on the Billboard 200 and selling hundreds of thousands of copies. It remains a defining moment in The Used's career, a tribute to both personal loss and creative persistence.