According to a 2006 interview with Deep Water Acres , United Bible Studies formally began in 2001 or 2002 when David Colohan and James Rider met in Dublin. Colohan said that the Incredible String Band was a primary influence, while Rider also indicated Fairport Convention, Sandy Denny and John Martyn as specific inspirations. Rider then temporarily relocated to Belfast for a year and a half, during which time Colohan and kindred spirits expanded the band from simply a folk-inspired group into what Rider described as "an ever expanding musical beast." The overall emphasis of the band shifted towards improvisation based around participating members' preferred instruments and inspirations.