Michael notes: "It was at one of these 2001 sessions that a coincidence took place. Considering several topics for use with lyrics, I chose my grandfather's emigration from Italy — as seen by another passenger, a stranger. Grandpa died the morning of July 14th. As the flight to New York City for the funeral would not leave until the next morning, and Gabe and I had already planned to record some of 'Ellis,' we did so. It was an apt two-man memorial."